Evaluating the Prebiotic Effects of Fermented Cocoyam Peel and Fish Meal on Broiler Chick Performance

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0600

The use of antibiotics in poultry production has led to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant threat to human health. The need for alternative feed additives to promote growth and health in broiler chicks is urgent. Fermented cocoyam peel and fish meal blend has shown potential as a prebiotic, but its effects on broiler chicks' performance are unknown. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of fermented cocoyam peel mixed with fish meal as a chicken additive for healthy broiler chicks. The fermenter, designated isolate M, was identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSM20079 based on cultural, morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics (100% 16S rRNA gene identity). The mixture of cocoyam peel and fish meal, fermented by this strain, was incorporated into the diet of broiler chicks, and its effects on growth performance, organ weights, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and hematological indices were evaluated using in vivo techniques. Results showed that body weights of chicks in the test group were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the control group from week 2 to week 6. The FCR of the test group was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of the control group from week 3 to week 6, indicating better feed efficiency. Organ weights (liver, kidney, lungs, and heart) were not significantly affected by the inclusion of the feed additive (p > 0.05). Haematological indices, including white blood cell count and lymphocyte percentage, were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the test group compared to the control group, while all values remained within normal ranges, indicating no adverse health effects. This study suggests that the mixture of cocoyam peel and fish meal, fermented by Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSM20079, has potential as a probiotic feed additive for broiler chicks, improving growth performance and blood indices without any adverse effects on organ weights.

Journal of Agriculture, Food Technology and Sustainability

Evaluating the Prebiotic Effects of Fermented Cocoyam Peel and Fish Meal on Broiler Chick Performance