Evaluation of sun-dried pawpaw (Carica papaya) leaf meal and Its effect on the growth performance of broiler chickens

Abstract

Indigenous leafy vegetables are underutilized source of minerals and vitamins in sub-South Africa. However, they could play a vital role in addressing household food insecurity and malnutrition challenges. Paw-paw leave is a highly nutritious but underutilized. It is consumed by some communities in Africa. This study was undertaken to evaluate the nutritive profile of paw- paw leaf meal (PLM) and its effects on the growth performance of broiler chickens. Nutrients profile analysis of the leaf meal was carried out and the nutrients profile established. Ninety six (96) - two weeks-old (Anak) chickens with average initial weight of 205. 12 ± 2.28g were used in a 56 days feeding trial. The chickens were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment was replicated three times having eight chickens per replicate. T1 (Control) contained 0% PLM while T2, T3 and T4 contained 5, 10 and 15% PLM, respectively. Data were generated on feed intake, weight gain and feed conversion ratio. All data generated were subjected to One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).Mean values were separated using Least significant difference (LSD).The result showed that PLM contain crude protein (25.30%). Crude fiber (8.86%), ether extracts (0.81%), ash (8.88%), Nitrogen- free extract (43. 82%) and moisture (12.33%).There was no significantly (P>0.05) difference in all the parameters studied except total and daily feed intake. It is concluded that the supplementation of PLM up to 15% optimal level is quite adequate to enhance growth without any deleterious effect on the chickens and therefore recommended for poultry farmers