The effects of vitamin D3 on leg abnormalities in broilers

Area of Science:

• Animal Nutrition
• Poultry Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Vitamin D3 (D3) is crucial for calcium and phosphorus metabolism in poultry.
• Determining optimal D3 levels is essential for broiler growth, bone development, and preventing skeletal issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain the D3 requirement for normal broiler chick growth and bone calcification.
• To establish the D3 requirement for deficient chicks.
• To evaluate the effects of high D3 supplementation on bone metabolism and leg abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• Broiler chicks were fed diets with varying D3 levels (0-20,000 IU/kg).
• Growth, feed intake, feed conversion, and mortality were monitored.
• Serum and bone parameters (calcium, phosphorus, ash, breaking strength) were analyzed.
• Skeletal abnormalities were recorded.

Main Results:

• D3 levels below 200 IU/kg significantly reduced body weight, feed conversion, and bone calcification.
• The optimal D3 level for growth and bone ash was determined to be 400 IU/kg.
• Repleting deficient chicks required 300-400 IU/kg of D3.
• High D3 intake (1,500-20,000 IU/kg) did not adversely affect bone metabolism or leg health.

Conclusions:

• The recommended dietary vitamin D3 (D3) level for broiler chicks is 400 IU/kg for optimal growth and bone mineralization.
• Vitamin D3 deficiency significantly impairs broiler performance and skeletal integrity.
• Excessive vitamin D3 supplementation within the tested range is safe and does not induce skeletal abnormalities.