Preliminary study on using fermented skim milk in poultry rations

80 (4 X 20) four-month-old cockerels were fed the following rations for six weeks: Group 1 = corn and green berseem, group 2 = corn, green berseem, and skim milk, groups 3 and 4 = corn, green berseem, and fermented skim milk. Feeding was ad libitum in groups 1 to 3, and 80% of the group 3 standard in group 4. The live weight increased in all groups during the experimental period. In group 4 it was higher at the end of the experiment than that of groups 1 to 3. But the difference was statistically not significant. The amount of starch units required per unit of live weight increase during the experimental period was 9.76 (group 1) 11.00 (group 2), 10.72 (group 3), and 9.66 (group 4). The visceral fat weights were higher in groups 2 and 3 (not significant). 40 (2 x 20) four-week-old ducklings were fed a commercial ration (group 5) or 65% of this ration supplemented with 35 ml of fermented skim milk (group 6). There were no significant differences in the live weight gains. The amount of starch units required per unit of live weight increase was 2.89 (group 5) and 3.61 (group 6).