Fermented Chicken Feather Meal as a Potential Feed Supplement: Effects on Body Weight and Immune Function

This study investigated the impact of Lactobacillus fermented chicken feather meal on body weight and blood lymphocytes in broiler chicks. Using in vivo techniques, researchers evaluated the effects of fermented feeds on broiler chicks, utilizing Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSN20079 (LADSM) as the fermenter. Results showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in body weight of test chicks fed with mixed fermented feed, from 172g in week 1 to 1784g in week 6.. Blood lymphocyte count analysis revealed the following: Untreated control group: 152.16; Dexamethasone (200 mg/g): significant reduction to 113.82 (P<0.05); Levamisole (50 mg/g): significant increase to 273.15 (P<0.05); Chicken feather treatment (100 mg/g): increase to 271.86 (non-significant, P>0.05). The study concluded that Lactobacillus fermented chicken feather meal improved body weight and blood lymphocyte levels in broiler chicks, suggesting its potential as a feed additive for promoting healthy growth. The findings highlight the benefits of using fermented chicken feather meal as a sustainable and effective feed supplement in poultry production.