This study evaluated the quality of different chicken-based protein sources for animal feed. Using a special method involving roosters with removed ceca (part of their digestive system), we measured how well the proteins from 4 types of chicken products were digested. The 4 protein sources tested were spray-dried chicken protein hydrolysate, spray-dried chicken meat, spray-dried chicken broth, and chicken meal. Our results showed that spray-dried chicken meat had the highest digestibility for most amino acids, making it the most efficient source of protein among those tested. Spray-dried chicken protein hydrolysate also showed good digestibility. Chicken broth had the lowest digestibility, indicating it might be a less effective protein source for animal nutrition. The findings suggest that the type of chicken-based protein used in animal feed can significantly affect nutritional quality. These insights can help in selecting better ingredients for pet foods and livestock feed, ensuring better animal health and growth.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.