Effects of Amino Acid Supplementation in Low-Crude Protein Diets on Growth Performance, Footpad Health, and Economics of Hubbard Broilers Raised in a Deep-Litter System

This study evaluated the effects of reduced crude protein (CP) diets supplemented with amino acids on the growth performance and profitability of Hubbard colored broilers. Three isocaloric finisher rations were formulated with 19%, 17%, and 15% CP, with the CP-reduced diets supplemented with methionine, lysine, threonine, and tryptophan. A total of 120 broilers were randomly assigned to these three treatments with four replicates each. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in final weight, total weight gain, and average daily gain. Broilers fed reduced CP diets (17% and 15%) exhibited superior growth performance compared to those on the 19% CP control. Furthermore, reduced CP treatments significantly decreased the incidence of footpad dermatitis and increased net profit and return on investment. These findings suggest that lowering CP levels with amino acid supplementation offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable strategy for broiler production.