Effects of enzyme supplementation and fermentation in canola-based diets on growth performance, intestinal viscosity and histomorphology in broiler chickens during the finisher phase.

This study evaluated the effects of dietary enzyme treatment and fermentation on the performance, intestinal morphology, and nutrient digestibility of broilers fed canola meal at different inclusion levels during the finisher phase. A total of 900 male Hubbard broilers were assigned to diets containing untreated, enzyme-treated, or fermented canola meal at 6%, 12%, and 18% inclusion levels. Results showed that enzyme and fermentation treatments significantly improved feed intake (FI) in the early growth phases, particularly at 6% and 12% inclusion, while higher inclusion (18%) negatively impacted FI. Weight gain (WG) was significantly enhanced at lower canola levels, with enzyme-treated and fermented groups outperforming untreated birds, particularly in the finisher phase. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) improved at 6% and 12% inclusion, while the 18% level resulted in lower efficiency. Fermentation significantly increased apparent metabolizable energy (AME), with the highest values observed at 12% inclusion. Intestinal viscosity was reduced in fermented groups, while untreated and enzyme-treated birds exhibited higher viscosity, particularly at 18% inclusion. Histomorphological analysis revealed increased villus height and surface area in fermented and enzyme-treated birds. These findings indicate that 6% and 12% canola meal inclusion, combined with enzyme treatment or fermentation, optimizes broiler growth and nutrient utilization at finisher phase.