Comparative Study of Performances of Broilers Under Purchased Feed Product and Homemade Feed Product

Abstract

Broiler chickens are among the most widely farmed animals in the world, and this type of poultry plays a significant role in meeting the global demand for animal protein (The Human League (THL), 2023). Researchers developed homemade feed product consisting of mung bean, peanut, ginger, eggshell, and garlic, and compared its effectiveness on broiler performances with a commercially purchased feed, and was conducted over 45 days using a true experimental design to assess differences between the two feed types and their result on broilers’ performances, including height, weight, feather condition, activity, and agility. Over the course of six weeks, the researchers produced six batches of homemade feed, and observed the broilers. The results indicated that while the broilers performed better on the commercial feed, the homemade feed was still effective, as it met the broilers\' standard requirements for height, weight, feather condition, activity, and agility. Homemade feed was able to maintain its qualities for the entire 45-day observation period. In conclusion, the researchers recommend that future studies employ more advanced equipment, such as a high-powered blender, to improve the quality of homemade feed. Additionally, they suggest examining the effects of higher temperatures (above 35°C) on the feed ingredients to further enhance the product\'s performance.

Introduction

Broiler chickens are raised globally for meat due to their rapid growth (mature in ~7 weeks), driven by genetics and nutrition. However, poor diet—especially excessive carbohydrates—can lead to metabolic issues and sudden death. Feed quality is essential for optimal growth and health.

In the Philippines, particularly in Central Luzon, broiler farming is a vital industry. This study compares the effectiveness of homemade feed products (HMFP) versus purchased feed products (PFP) in broiler development, focusing on height and weight growth over six weeks.

Methodology:

• Research Design: True experimental quantitative method.

• Tools Used: Observational checklist to systematically monitor growth metrics.

• Groups: Two groups of broilers (HMFP and PFP), observed weekly for height and weight.

Results:

1. Height Comparison:

• Week 1 to 6: Both PFP and HMFP broilers showed consistent height growth.

• PFP Broilers: Slightly taller on average; reached ~33–35 cm by Week 6.

• HMFP Broilers: Also within the standard range, though generally slightly shorter.

• Statistical Result: One-way ANOVA revealed significant height differences (p = 0.001), with PFP broilers outperforming HMFP in height.

2. Weight Comparison:

• Week 1 to 6: Both groups met USDA weight standards.

• PFP Broilers: Averaged higher weights by Week 6 (~3.1–3.3 kg).

• HMFP Broilers: Slightly lower (~2.9–3.3 kg), but still within the standard range.

• Both feeds supported healthy weight gain, but PFP had a marginal edge in growth rate.

Conclusion

The homemade feed product showed positive effects on the height, weight, feather development, activity, and agility of the broilers. This indicates that homemade feed can be effective in supporting the overall health and performance of broilers, offering a viable alternative to purchased feed under the right conditions. There was a significant difference between homemade and purchased feed products in terms of broiler height, feather development, and agility. However, there was no significant difference in the weight of the broilers, suggesting that both feed types are equally effective in promoting weight gain but may differ in other performance areas, such as physical development and mobility. Additionally, the researchers recommend that future studies assess the specific nutritional components of each ingredient in homemade feed to better understand their effectiveness for broilers. Economic analyses are also crucial to determine the cost-effectiveness of homemade feeds for smallholder farmers, taking into account their impact on feed conversion efficiency and overall productivity.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Yamson, John Andrei J., Torres, Meriely Yette B., Cayabyab, Jamillo S., Gould, Mysie A., Olivo, Princess Angel G., Pedazo, Anna Xercina S., Basco, Kate S., Guarin, Vi Briza E.. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.