Optimizing Broiler Diets: Nutritional and Functional Benefits of Fermented Cottonseed Meal

Cottonseed meal (CSM) contains antinutritional factors limiting its use. Fermentation may improve its nutritional value. This study examined the nutritional properties of fermented cottonseed meal (FCSM) and its effects on broilers. The nutritional composition of fermented CSM and FCSM was analyzed. Subsequently, 175 AA broilers were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: a basal control diet (CON), and diets containing 6% CSM, 6% FCSM, 9% FCSM, or 12% FCSM. Fermentation significantly increased crude protein, acid-soluble protein, L-lactic acid, and gross energy of CSM (p < 0.05), while decreasing free gossypol and crude fiber content (p < 0.05). FCSM also significantly enhanced the standardized ileal digestibility of glutamate and valine (p < 0.05), but not other amino acids. In broilers, dietary inclusion of 9% FCSM increased body weight and average daily gain during the starter phase compared to the 6% CSM diet (p < 0.05). At day 21, both 6% and 9% FCSM diets significantly increased serum concentrations of IgA, IgG, and IgM compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). The 6% FCSM group demonstrated a significant enhancement in the villus height to crypt depth ratio compared to the 6% CSM diet (p < 0.05). Additionally, 6% FCSM significantly raised cecal concentrations of acetate, propionate, butyrate, and total short-chain fatty acids at 21 days (p < 0.05). In conclusion, fermentation enhances the nutritional profile of CSM by improving protein utilization and reducing antinutritional factors. Dietary inclusion of 6%-9% FCSM improves starter-phase growth performance, immune function, and intestinal health in broilers.