Citrus waste utilization in poultry rations

Citrus waste as a by-product of the citrus processing industry is abundantly available in Pakistan. The dried, powdered citrus peel is a potential source of some valuable nutrients for poultry. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate citrus peel for inclusion in broiler's ration. In the first experiment two levels (5 and 10%) of citrus peel inclusion in the diet were tested. In a 5-week feeding trial with broiler chicks it was observed that up to 5% level of inclusion, citrus peel gave similar results with control groups. The citrus peel feeding did not influence organ weights. There was a significant (P > 0.05) reduction in the blood cholesterol level with citrus peel feeding. Reduction in triglycerides and glucose concentration was statistically non-significant. In a second experiment on broilers, three levels (5, 7.5 and 10%) of citrus peel inclusion were tested. The final weight per chick, and weight gain were significantly (P > 0.05) improved up to 7.5% inclusion. Blood cholesterol level was significantly reduced with citrus peel inclusion in the diet. Pectin present in the citrus peel seems to have played a role in cholesterol level reduction.