Feed supplementation with vermi-humus and earthworm (Eisenia foetida) powder on broiler productivity

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of earthworm meal (EW) and vermi-humus (VH) in broiler diets. A total of 225 day-old male broilers were divided into 5 treatment groups with 3 repetitions of 3 birds each. The treatment groups were: T1 – control (no EW or VH; T2 − 1.0% EW and 0% VH; T3 − 1.0% EW and 1.0% VH; T4 − 1.0% EW and 1.5% VH; and T5: 1.0% EW and 2.0% VH. The birds received (EW) and (VH) for 14 d, and after this period, they received the common diet. The birds were reared for 42 d and, at 42 d, one representative broiler chicken per pen, close to the average body weight, was selected for blood sampling using a sterile needle and heparinised vacuum tube. Performance data, blood results, immunity, ileum morphology and microbiota, the relative weight of carcass components and gastrointestinal organs, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and breast and thigh meat quality were evaluated. EW and VH had a positive effect on the immune response of broilers, as well as producing a reduction in the aerobic bacteria in the birds’ intestines.