An Evaluation of comparative effects of feeding synthetic and herbal choline on broiler performance, nutrient balance and serum activities

An experiment in broiler chickens was conducted to evaluate comparative efficacy of herbal and synthetic choline on body weight, weight gain, FCR, nutrient balance serum activities and economic benefit for 35 days on deep litter. A significant (P<0.05) increase in body weight gain (110, 181 & 149 g) was observed in synthetic and herbal fed groups. The findings also recorded significant (P<0.05) improvement in FCR (1.93, 1.88 & 1.90) in choline supplemented broilers when compared with low choline diet fed (control) birds. The results indicated significant (P<0.05) elevation in serum glucose levels (212.6 223.4 mg/dl) and notable reduction in serum cholesterol levels in herbal choline incorporated broilers. The herbal choline added birds noted enhanced nutrient retention and boosted overall economy of broiler raising. [Veterinary World 2008; 1(10.000): 306-309]