Effect of Prunus mahaleb L. Supplementation in Carcass and Internal Organ Indicators of Broiler Exposed to Oxidative Stress

Abstract

The experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of late dietary inclusion of Mahaleb Seeds Powder (MSP) (Prunus mahaleb L.) in the feed in carcass indicators and some internal organs of broiler chickens exposed to oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) added to drinking water. A total of (80) (Ross 308) broiler chicks aged (22) days, were used in the experiment, which lasted from (22 to 42) days of age. Birds were randomly assigned to four groups (20 birds each) as follows: a negative control group (T1) (no H₂O₂ or MSP), a positive control group (T2) receiving (0.5% H₂O₂ in water), group (T3) receiving (0.5% H₂O₂ in water and 0.5% MSP in feed), and group (T4) receiving (0.5% H₂O₂ in water and 1% MSP in feed). Carcass traits were measured, including dressing percentage and the relative weights of major parts (breast, thigh, drumstick, and wing), as well as the relative weights of the liver, heart, and spleen. The results showed no significant differences (P>0.05) in most carcass traits, except for the relative thigh weight, which improved significantly (P<0.05) in groups (T3) and (T4), with a more pronounced improvement in (T4). A significant decrease (P<0.05) in relative heart weight was observed in group (T4), along with a significant improvement (P<0.05) in relative spleen weight in group (T3).