The effects of feeding diets with ensiled maize grain on the production efficiency and meat characteristics of broiler ducks

Abstract Introduction Alternative methods of duck feeding can be good solutions for reducing production costs on small farms. Ensiled corn grain is a good source of energy that can be used in the rearing of broiler ducks. This research investigated productivity effects and meat quality parameters in experimental broiler ducks provided this material as feed portions. Material and Methods Broiler ducks were divided into a control group (CON) and two experimental groups (CSMIX and CD+SG). In the CSMIX group, birds were fed a commercial diet mixed with ensiled corn grain in a ratio of 80:20. In the CD+SG group, the commercial diet was limited, and ensiled corn grain was ad libitum . Results The highest body weight and weight gain were found in the CSMIX group. A lower feed intake was found in the control and CD+SG group than in the CSMIX group throughout the rearing. A higher final feed conversion ratio characterised ducks from the experimental groups and a higher pectoral muscle and total muscle weight than the CD+SG group was noted in carcasses of ducks from the CON group. In the pectoral and leg muscles of the CON and CSMIX groups, the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids was higher than in these muscles of the CD+SG group. Conclusion Duck feeding with ensiled corn grain (80:20) could be a feeding strategy for small farms because it yields favourable growth parameters, carcass composition and high polyunsaturated fatty acid content in meat, and reduces feed costs.