Influence of Black and Coriander Seed Powders on Growth Performance, Feed Efficiency, and Economic Evaluation of Broiler Chickens

This study evaluated the effects of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) seed powders as natural growth-promoting feed additives on Ross 308 broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted using a CRD design with four treatments and three replications, from August 12 to November 17, 2022, at a local farm in Sharana, Paktika Province, Afghanistan. Parameters measured included feed intake, live body weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and economic value. The results showed that supplementation with black cumin and coriander seed powder significantly improved broiler performance. Feed intake, live body weight, and weight gain increased, while FCR decreased. Economically, significant differences were observed among treatments, with Treatments 2 and 4 performing the best. T4 (2% black cumin + 2% coriander) achieved the highest feed intake (1019 g), live body weight (1641.8 g), weight gain (544.4 g), lowest FCR (1.87), and highest benefit–cost ratio (BCR =1.12 AFN). LSD analysis revealed no significant difference between T2 and T4. However, T4 was considered optimal as it not only enhanced performance but also improved the nutritional quality of broiler meat and yielded a high economic return. Based on these findings, T4 is recommended as the most effective dietary supplementation strategy. Future studies are suggested to explore the effects of higher inclusion levels of black cumin and coriander seed powder on other broiler breeds over varying durations.