Abstract:
Objective of this study was to determine whether adverse effects of diets containing high levels of rice bran (RB) on
growth performance of broiler chicken could be overcome by supplemental citric acid (CA) and multi enzyme (ME)
alone or in combination. Giving a completely randomized design in 2 x 2 x2 factorial arrangement, 168 broiler chicks
in 56 floor pens received one of eight broiler finisher diets adlibitum during day 21-42. Treatment factors were two
dietary RB; (15 or 30% ), CA; (0 or 2% ) and ME; (0 or 1000 FTU/kg) levels. RB (30% ) did not reduce either the weight
gain or live weight. In general, inclusion of CA and ME alone or in combination, did not correct the adverse effects of
30% RB on feed intake. There was a significant (p<0.05) RB x ME x CA interaction on feed intake and FCR. At 15%
dietary RB level, inclusion of CA to enzyme free diet increased the feed intake significantly. Meanwhile, at 30% RB,
inclusion of CA to a ME free diet significantly reduced the feed intake. There were significant two-way interactions on
crop and gizzard pH. At 15% RB, birds fed diet with CA and ME, gave significantly better FCR compared to other three
diets of that RB levels. At 30% RB, diet without ME but with CA, gave significantly lower FCR compared to other dietary
combinations at same RB level. Financial analysis also showed a significant R Bx ME XCA interaction. A tl5 % R B ,
combination of CA and ME was the best option. Birds fed ME free diet with 30% RB and 2% CA gave the lowest feed
cost per kg of live weight gain. It was concluded that Citric acid (2% ) in diets having 30% RB does not have adverse
effects on growth performance, and minimizes the feed cost per kg of live weight gain.
