Growth Progression and Hematobiochemical Dynamics in Broiler Chickens Treated with Antibiotic, Probiotic, and Acidifier

Background: Supplementation of feed additives for the acceleration of weight gain is a recent trend in poultry farming. Among these, antibiotics, probiotics, and acidifiers are commonly administered to improve weight gain and health status. Understanding their specific effects on growth and hematobiochemical parameters is essential for optimizing broiler production. Aim: This research aimed to investigate the effects of antibiotic, probiotic, and acidifier treatments on growth progression and hematobiochemical alterations in broilers. Methods: Eighty 12-day-old broiler chicks were randomly divided into four groups: Group A (control), Group B (antibiotic-treated), Group C (probiotic-treated), and Group D (acidifier-treated). The respective feed additives were administered to groups B, C, and D, while group A received a standard diet without additives. Body weights were recorded weekly until day 33, and blood samples were collected on the final day for hematological and biochemical analysis. Results: The results suggested a significant increase in body weight for all treatment groups compared to the control group across all observation days. The antibiotic-treated group showed a substantial increase in the total erythrocyte count (TEC), hemoglobin (Hb), and packed cell volume (PCV) than the other groups. The total cholesterol level was significantly reduced in the probiotic and acidifier-treated groups, and the triglyceride level was remarkably decreased in the acidifier-treated group. Furthermore, High-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were significantly increased in the acidifier-treated group while decreased in the antibiotic-treated group. However, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was significantly inclined in all the treated groups. Additionally, the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was notably elevated in the antibiotic and acidifier-treated groups, while all treatment groups showed a significant increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level compared to the control. Conclusion: Supplementation with antibiotic, probiotic, and acidifier significantly enhanced weight gain in broilers compared to the control group. Among the treatments, antibiotics notably improved hematological parameters, while probiotics and acidifiers positively influenced lipid profiles. Overall, these feed additives showed beneficial effects on growth and selected biochemical parameters, with varying impacts on hematological values.