Investigating the effects of dietary supplementation with Moringa leaf powder and vitamin C in aflatoxin B1-exposed broilers

Abstract

This study investigates the use of Moringa Leaf Powder (MLP) and Vitamin C in the diets of broiler chickens exposed to Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) to enhance performance and health. Two hundred one-day old Cobb 500 broiler breed chicks were divided into four diet groups: CON (no AFB1, no MLP), AFB (0.2 mg AFB1 per kg of feed), AFV (0.2 mg AFB1 with 200 mg vitamin C), and AFM (0.2 mg AFB1 with 500 mg MLP). Supplementation with MLP and vitamin C led to improved broiler performance, with AFM and AFV groups exhibiting higher body weight gain, similar or lower feed intake, and better feed conversion ratios compared to AFB. Mortality rates were lower in AFM and AFV, and dressing percentages and liver weights were higher. Haematological parameters showed significant improvements in AFM and AFV compared to AFB. MLP and vitamin C reduced serum cholesterol levels and normalised liver enzymes. MLP improved kidney function. Using 200 mg kg^-1 vitamin C or 500 mg kg^-1 Moringa oleifera powder as dietary supplements for broiler chickens exposed to aflatoxin B1 is recommended for improved productivity and health.