Impact Factor (2025): 6.9
DOI Prefix: 10.47001/IRJIET
Ochratoxins
are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium fungi,
often contaminating staple grains such as corn, wheat, and barley. These toxins
pose significant health risks through dietary exposure. This study aimed to
assess the effects of ochratoxins on the growth and development of broiler
chickens, especially in the context of the ongoing global food crisis. We evaluated
key growth parameters, including body weight, feed intake, feed conversion
ratio, and mortality rate, using 30-day-old chicks separated into three (3)
different groups including the control. The chicks were administered feeds
contaminated with ochratoxins at concentrations of 0 ml, 0.6 ml, and 1.2 ml.
Our analysis showed that as the concentration of ochratoxins increased, there
was a notable decrease in weight gain and feed intake, accompanied by a
deterioration in the feed conversion ratio and an increase in mortality rate.
Specifically, significant variations (p<0.05) were observed across all
parameters, with the highest concentrations of ochratoxins (0.6 ml and 1.2 ml)
leading to adverse effects on the growth performance of the broiler birds. Mortality
rates were recorded at treatment levels of 0.6 ml and 1.2 ml, highlighting the
detrimental impact of higher ochratoxin levels on broiler health and
productivity.
Country : Nigeria
IRJIET, Volume 8, Issue 9, September 2024 pp. 119-130