Growth performance of broilers fed with coconut apple as primary feed ingredient

Abstract

The rising cost of commercial feed poses a persistent challenge to the economic sustainability and profitability of poultry production. This study addresses the general topic of sustainable broiler nutrition by specifically investigating the efficacy of coconut apple (Haustorium), an agricultural by-product, as a primary feed ingredient in broiler diets. While previous research has explored various coconut by-products in poultry diets, a critical gap remains regarding the scientific validation and optimal inclusion level of the soft, nutrient-dense coconut apple as a primary component. The rationale for this research is to fill this empirical gap, providing farmers with a strategy to reduce production costs and efficiently utilize agricultural waste. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used, involving eighteen-day-old broilers assigned to two dietary treatment groups: T1 (Commercial Feed) and T2 (Coconut Apple-based Feed I), replicated three times over a 35-day feeding trial. Data were collected on final live weight, average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), and feed cost per kilogram of gain. The main findings indicate that coconut apple is tolerable without detrimental effects on growth. Although the FCR was marginally higher in T2, the critical finding was the economic viability: the coconut apple-based diets resulted in a slightly higher cost (₱38.60/kg) compared to the commercial feed (₱38/kg). These results signify that coconut apple is a viable primary feed ingredient, offering a scientifically-backed pathway for enhanced profitability and promoting a circular economy within the poultry sector.