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Effect of grain particle size on performance. 2. Grain texture interactions
Poultry Science
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Diet particle size significantly impacts broiler performance and gut development. Medium particle sizes improve growth, while fine particles reduce performance and alter gut pH and weight, affecting nutrient absorption.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Poultry Nutrition
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
Background:
- Feed particle size is a critical factor in broiler nutrition.
- Understanding particle size effects on broiler performance and gut development is essential for optimizing feed formulations.
- Previous research has explored various feed processing methods, but specific impacts of grain particle size on broiler gut morphology and function require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of different grain particle sizes (corn, wheat, sorghum) on broiler performance from hatch to 21 days of age.
- To determine the impact of particle size on the physical characteristics (weight, content) and pH of broiler gastrointestinal organs.
- To assess the relationship between dietary particle size and feed intake post-deprivation.
Main Methods:
- Diets were formulated using corn, wheat, or sorghum, ground and sieved into coarse, medium, and fine particle size fractions.
- Broiler performance was evaluated from hatch to 7 days and 7 to 21 days of age.
- Gastrointestinal organ weights, contents, and pH were measured at 7 and 21 days of age. Feed intake was assessed after overnight feed deprivation.
Main Results:
- Broiler performance was highest with medium particle size diets, intermediate with coarse, and lowest with fine particle sizes, irrespective of grain type.
- Gizzard weight and content increased with particle size, while duodenum weight and content were highest with fine diets at 21 days.
- Gizzard pH decreased with increasing particle size, whereas small intestinal pH increased. Corn and wheat diets also showed specific effects on gut morphology.
Conclusions:
- Dietary particle size significantly influences broiler growth performance, with medium particle sizes being optimal.
- Particle size affects the development and pH of the gastrointestinal tract, impacting nutrient digestion and absorption.
- Optimizing grain particle size in broiler diets is crucial for enhancing performance and gut health.