Corncob‐Based Diet With Enzyme Blend Improves Body Weight, Feed Efficiency and Breast Yield of Sasso Broiler Chickens

ABSTRACT

Background

Owing to the high cost of grains and protein, poultry nutritionists need to consider alternative feed sources from non‐conventional, agro‐industrial by‐products to feed poultry.

Objective

This study investigated the effects of ground corncobs (GCC) with additives as an alternative fibre source for broiler diet.

Methods

Three hundred sixty 3‐week‐old dual‐purpose chicks (Sasso X44) were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments, having 6 replicates with 15 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Four experimental diets were formulated: C0 (Control/Basal diet), C1 (10% GCC), C2 (10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme), C3 (10% GCC diet with 0.5% flaked oyster mushroom, FOM).

Results

At the end of the experimental period, it was revealed that apart from blood platelet counts, which were significantly low (p < 0.05) in the additive‐supplemented diets, GCC and its supplementation with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM had no influence (p > 0.05) on haematological parameters. Birds fed the C0, C2 and C3 diets were more efficient (p < 0.05) in feed conversion in comparison to those fed the raw 10% GCC diet at Week 12, with the final body weight of the C2 group significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the raw GCC group. Breast yield was heavier in the birds of the C2 group compared to the raw GCC group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

It is therefore beneficial to supplement corncob diets with multi‐blend enzymes and flaked oyster mushrooms since their inclusion did not have any negative influence on the blood parameters, in addition to improving feed efficiency and body weight.

Supplementing a 10% corncob‐based diet with a multi‐blend enzyme improved feed efficiency, body weight and breast yield of Sasso broiler chickens without adverse effects on blood parameters, offering a cost‐effective alternative feed strategy.

1. Introduction

Nutrition is one of the most crucial factors in livestock management, considering its significant contribution to overall production costs and its significance in determining the performance of the business. Nevertheless, the bioavailability of the nutrients supplied is even more crucial (Ajayi and Iyayi 2014). Over the years, there has been an increase in the demand for maize, which has resulted in competition between humans and livestock. This has warranted researchers to find alternate sources of ingredients to help mitigate the competition (Alshelmani et al. 2013, 2021, 2024). Corncobs are either thrown away as waste or used as a source of energy for cooking in West Africa (Ajayi and Ajao 2020). Its low costs and availability could render it an alternative to maize as an energy source in monogastric feeding in addition to reducing problems associated with pollution and feed costs (Donkoh et al. 2003; Oke et al. 2007; Ajayi and Ajao 2020). The dry matter content of corncob has been found to range between 88.5% and 90.8%, crude protein between 1.7% and 3.8%, crude fibre between 28.6% and 45.7% and ash between 1.3% and 7.7% (Donkoh et al. 2003; Akinfemi 2010). However, the fibre content of corncob is relatively high (Busari et al. 2013). Corncob is an organic material consisting of lignocellulose and other extractives, which makes it prone to microbial degradation, just like other organic plant wastes. Apart from this, it also possesses some anti‐nutrients, which could impede the digestion process of ingested feed.

There have been more options for the use of corncobs in monogastric nutrition owing to the adoption of biotechnology techniques, particularly fermentation and enzyme additions (Adeyemi and Familade 2003). Exogenous enzymes can be added to poultry diets to increase the nutritional value of corncob (Bedford 2003). Exogenous enzymes are employed in chicken diets to improve the digestibility of feed ingredients and dramatically lower the incidence of wet droppings, which may be caused by non‐starch polysaccharides (Gao et al. 2007). Mushrooms have enormous properties that help the performance of birds, which include enzymatic properties and, therefore, could be used as exogenous enzymes (Chang and Wasser 2018). Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus), a common edible mushroom, has been shown to possess anti‐bacterial, anti‐tumour, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐viral properties in addition to natural antioxidant properties (Adams et al. 2019; Kumar 2020). Hassan et al. (2020) also wrote that it is an additive and could promote the performance of birds due to the numerous bioactive substances. The Sasso chicken is a slow‐growing, dual‐purpose breed which has a unique meat quality characteristic and has been suggested as a viable substitute for commercial broilers in the tropics, in addition to a favourable market and consumer response (Ndlovu et al. 2024). It was, therefore, hypothesized that the haematological, growth and carcass performance of Sasso broilers will be enhanced when corncob diets are incorporated with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked oyster mushroom (FOM) (as an enzyme). This study was therefore aimed at assessing the effect of GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM on the growth, carcass performance and the haematological indices of Sasso broilers.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area

The study was carried out at the AYODELE poultry farm located in Badja village (Avé prefecture), Togo. The Avé prefecture has Guinean subequatorial weather with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The main rainy season spans from March to the middle of July and the minor one, from the middle of September to the middle of November (Seme et al. 2015).

2.1.1. Bird Husbandry and Experimental Design

Three hundred sixty unsexed (males and females) 21‐day‐old dual‐purpose broiler chicks (Sasso X44) were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments, having 6 replicates with 15 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. The treatments included four experimental diets: The chicks were weighed individually and randomly placed in their respective treatment open‐sided poultry pens. The experiment lasted for 9 weeks (3–12 weeks of age) with the birds having access to feed and water ad libitum with 12 h of light, with a temperature range of 26°C–29°C and relative humidity ranging between 75% to 89%. The multi‐blend enzyme, Keminzyme Plus P, used for this study, is a commercial product from Kemin Industries in South Africa. Its active ingredients include xylanase (20,000,000 U/kg), β‐glucanase (2,350,000 U/kg), cellulase (4,000,000 U/kg), phytase, which is used for the degradation of non‐starchy polysaccharides (NSPs), α‐amylase (400,000 U/kg) and protease (850 U/kg), which is used to enhance the activity of endogenous digestive enzymes. The FOM was obtained from a commercial producer (Immaculate Gold Enterprise, Accra, Ghana). Experimental birds were vaccinated at designated stages against Gumboro (Zoetis, Poulvac*, Bursaplex*Live Virus, Marysville, Kansas), Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis disease (Zoetis, B1 Type, B1 Strain, Mass. & Conns. Type, Live Virus, Marysville, Kansas). They were raised on a floor littered with wood shavings of 4–6 cm thickness with a stocking density of 10 birds/m². Vaccination of birds and prophylaxis were administered as recommended for the Sasso breed.

2.1.2. Chemical and Proximate Analysis

Chemical analysis was conducted on the raw GCC for selected anti‐nutrients (tannins, saponins, oxalates and phytates), non‐starch polysaccharides including cellulose, lignin and acid detergent fibre). ADF, neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and proximate analysis were conducted on the treatment diets with the AOAC (2006) method. Tannin and saponin levels in the GCC were determined by the method described by Obadoni and Ochuko (2002), whilst the oxalate and phytate were determined by the Reddy and Love (1999) method.

2.1.3. Experimental Rations

The NRC (1994) guidelines required for broiler finisher diets were followed in the formulation of the experimental diets. Diets were formulated to be both iso‐caloric and iso‐nitrogenous. The feed composition and proximate analysis results are presented in Table 1.

TABLE 1.

Ingredients and nutritional composition of experimental diets incorporated with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM and GCC.

Ingredients (%)	C0	C1	C2	C3
Maize	55.00	54.00	54.00	54.00
Fish meal	3.00	3.00	3.00	3.00
Soyabean meal	22.00	23.00	23.00	23.00
Wheat bran	15.00	5.00	5.00	5.00
Ground Corncob	−	10.00	10.00	10.00
Oyster shell	3.00	3.00	3.00	3.00
Dicalcium phosphate	1.10	1.10	1.10	1.10
Vitamin premix	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25
Methionine	0.10	0.10	0.10	0.10
Lysine	0.25	0.25	0.25	0.25
Salt	0.30	0.30	0.30	0.30
Multi‐blend enzyme	−	−	+	−
Mushroom	−	−	−	+
Total	100	100	100	100
Nutrient composition
Dry matter	87.16	87.21	87.41	86.03
Ash content	8.51	6.32	6.98	4.37
Crude protein	20.16	21.23	21.67	19.31
Ether extract	4.50	4.20	3.48	3.42
Crude fibre	4.92	3.75	5.45	4.70
Lysine	1.41	1.32	1.30	1.32
Methionine	0.64	0.52	0.52	0.53
Nitrogen Free Extract	61.91	63.90	63.53	68.20
Metabolizable energy (kcal/kg)	3255	3388	3256	3354

Note: Each 1 kg of Vitamin premix contains, Vitamin A—15,000,000 U, Vitamin D3—5,000,000 IU, Vitamin E—80,000 mg, Vitamin K3—3,000 mg, Vitamin B1—3,000 mg, Vitamin B2—10,000 mg, Vitamin B5—16,000 mg, Vitamin B6—4,000 mg, Vitamin B12—25,000 mcg, Niacin—70,000 mg, Folic Acid—2,500 mg, Biotin—150,000 mcg, Antioxidant—270 mg. C0 (basal broiler diet C1 (10% GCC diet), C2 (10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme), C3 (10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM),

Abbreviations: −, no supplementation; +, supplementation (Multi‐blend enzyme = 0.05%; Mushroom = 0.5%).

2.1.4. Measurements and Data Collection

2.1.4.1. Growth Performance

Feed intake was recorded daily from the feed served and the feed leftover, and the average daily feed intake was recorded for each replicate. A single feed based on NRC (1994) broiler finisher diet requirements was offered throughout the trial based on the recommended feeding regime for the strain in our research facility. During the experiment, the average daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined for 4–8 weeks and 9–12 weeks periods. At the end of each week, birds from each replicate were weighed individually, and the average body weight of the group was recorded. The average daily weight gain and FCR were calculated using the formula corrected for mortality:

$$Averagedailyweightgain=\frac{weeklyweightgain}{7}$$

$$FCR=\frac{feedintake}{weightgain}$$

2.1.4.2. Carcass and Internal Organ Parameters

At 8 weeks, one bird from each replicate was selected based on the average body weight of the group and humanely sacrificed by severing the jugular vein after being fasted for 12 h with free access to water for internal organs evaluation. This procedure was repeated at the end of the experiment (12 weeks) for carcass evaluation. These carcasses were used for carcass analysis, internal organ weights and morphometric measurements. The carcasses were de‐feathered and eviscerated. They were cut up into different portions (breast, back, thigh, drumstick, both wings, neck and abdominal fat) according to the procedure described by Abidah and Nooraida (2017), with some modifications made. The weights of the dressed carcass, carcass cuts and abdominal fat were expressed as a percentage of the fasted live weight as indicated:

$$Cut-uppart\left(\%\right)=\frac{weightofcut-uppart}{fastedliveweight}\times 100$$

$$Dressed\left(\%\right)=\frac{Dressedweight}{fastedliveweight}\times 100$$

The liver, gizzard, heart and spleen were carefully removed, and the weight of each replicate was expressed as a percentage of the live weight.

$$Relativeorganweight\left(\%\right)=\frac{Organweight}{fastedliveweight}\times 100$$

The small intestine was divided into its segments: duodenum (from the gizzard to entry of the bile and pancreatic ducts), jejunum (from the entry of the ducts to the yolk stalk) and ileum (from the yolk stalk to the ileocecal junction). The weights and the length of the small intestine segments, the ceca and the colon were recorded. The lengths were taken by vertically suspending the segment on a hook in order to facilitate the measurement using a tape measure.

2.1.4.3. Haematology and Serum Biochemistry

At the end of the 8th and 12th weeks, six birds from each treatment group were randomly selected for haematological and serum biochemical analyses. Two sets of 5 mL blood samples were collected from the left‐wing vein of each bird using sterile syringes and needles. One set of blood samples was collected into 5 mL vacutainer tubes containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for the determination of haematological parameters. The second set was collected into plain gel tubes and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 min to obtain serum for biochemical analysis. Haematological parameters were determined using an automatic veterinary haematology analyser (Prokan PE‐7080, Shenzhen Prokan Electronics Inc., China). Serum biochemical parameters were analysed by the colourimetric method using a semi‐automatic chemistry analyser (Mindray BA‐88A, Guangzhou Medsinglong Medical Equipment Co. Ltd., China).

2.1.5. Statistical Analysis

Data obtained on haematology, serum biochemistry parameters, growth performance, carcass parameters, internal organ weights and morphometric measurements were subjected to a one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedure of Minitab Statistical Software Version 19.0 (Minitab, LLC, NY, US, 2019). All significantly different means were tested at a significance level of p < 0.05 using Tukey's pairwise comparisons of the same statistical software.

3. Results

3.1. Chemical Analysis of Ground Corncob and FOM

The chemical analysis of ground corncob (Table 2) revealed that the fibre fractions present were 36.92% and 5.30% for cellulose and lignin, respectively. The ADF and NDF were 42.02% and 78.40%, respectively. The selected anti‐nutrients analysed included tannin (3227 ppm), saponin (1236 ppm), phytate (3288 ppm) and oxalate (616 ppm).

TABLE 2.

Analysed chemical composition of ground corncob (GCC).

Parameter	Composition
Acid Detergent fibre (%)	42.02
Neutral Detergent fibre (%)	78.40
Cellulose (%)	36.92
Lignin (%)	5.30
Tannin (ppm)	3227
Saponin (ppm)	1236
Phytate (ppm)	3288
Oxalate (ppm)	616

3.2. GCC Diet Supplemented With Multi‐Blend Enzyme or FOM on the Growth Performance of Sasso Broilers

The growth performance of Sasso broilers fed GCC supplemented with or without multi‐blend enzyme or FOM (P. ostreatus) is summarized in Table 3. At the end of 8 weeks, it was found that the daily feed intake of birds fed the C0 diet was statistically higher (p < 0.05) than those fed the C3 diet. Meanwhile, at the end of 12 weeks, it was observed that the daily feed intake of birds fed the C0 diet was significantly lower (p = 0.03) compared to those fed the C1 and C3 diets. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were, however, observed in all the treatments for body weight gain during Weeks 8 and 12. The body weight did not differ at Week 8 but was significantly higher (p = 0.042) for C2 birds compared to the C1 group at Week 12. At Week 8, the FCR did not differ across all the treatment groups, but the birds fed the C0, C2 and C3 diets were more efficient (p = 0.005) in feed conversion in comparison to those fed the C1 diet at Week 12.

TABLE 3.

GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom and their effect on the growth performance of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
Grower phase
Initial body weight (g)	286.11	289.23	285.74	283.89	3.73	0.561
Daily feed intake (g)	88.90a	85.62ab	85.23b	83.54b	1.21	0.003
Daily weight gain (g)	28.24	27.22	26.46	28.19	0.68	0.055
Feed conversion ratio	3.15	3.15	3.16	3.03	0.09	0.454
Body weight (g)	1076.90	1051.50	1023.30	1073.20	20.0	0.059
Finisher phase
Daily feed intake (g)	150.12b	159.80a	156.49ab	157.61a	2.51	0.009
Daily weight gain (g)	36.17	35.11	36.96	37.48	1.12	0.209
Feed conversion ratio	4.15b	4.56a	4.24b	4.21b	0.10	0.005
Body weight (g)	2050ab	1997b	2126a	2018ab	43.1	0.042

Note: Means with different superscripts (a–c) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C1, 10% GCC diet; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; p value, probability value; SEM, Standard error of mean.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

3.3. Carcass Traits and Internal Organ Characteristics of Sasso Broilers Fed GCC Diet Supplemented With Multi‐Blend Enzyme or FOM

The influence of the incorporation of GCC and supplementation of multi‐blend enzyme or FOM in the diet of broilers on carcass traits is presented in Table 4. At the end of the experiment, birds fed the C2 diet had a live weight significantly heavier (p = 0.043) than birds fed the C1 diet. In terms of % breast weight, birds fed the C2, C3 and C0 diets had comparable weights, which were significantly different (p = 0.003) from those fed the C1 diet. The % abdominal fat weight was, however, highest for the C2 group, which was significantly different (p = 0.019) from the C0 group. Birds fed the C1 diet obtained a %wing weight, which was statistically superior (p = 0.026) to that of the C2 group. Percent shank weight was highest for the C1 group, which was significantly different (p < 0.0001) from all the other treatment groups.

TABLE 4.

Effect of GCC supplemented with or without multi‐blend enzyme and flaked mushroom on the carcass characteristics of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
Live weight (g)	2050.00ab	1997.30b	2125.90a	2017.60ab	43.10	0.043
% Dressed weight	76.47	75.99	75.46	75.12	0.924	0.499
% Breast weight	21.82a	19.88b	22.14a	21.43a	0.525	0.003
% Neck weight	6.15	5.55	5.89	5.92	0.208	0.068
% Wing weight	8.80ab	9.15a	8.33b	8.87ab	0.239	0.026
% Shank weight	3.43b	4.18a	3.18b	3.07b	0.188	< 0.0001
% Abdominal fat weight	0.78b	1.49ab	2.76a	1.77ab	0.549	0.019
% Drumstick weight	10.41	10.67	10.10	11.77	0.632	0.084
% Thigh weight	10.01	9.81	10.11	10.06	0.219	0.573
% Back weight	15.25	15.79	15.43	14.93	0.450	0.316

Note: Means with different superscripts (a and b) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C0, basal broiler diet; C1, 10% GCC diet; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; p value, probability value; SEM, Standard error of mean.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

The organ weights of Sasso broilers fed 10% GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom during the experimental period are shown in Table 5. It was revealed that, at 8 weeks old, the gizzard weight obtained by the C0 group was significantly lower (p < 0.0001) than that of the C1 and C3 diets. The weight of the liver was significantly heavier (p = 0.014) in the C2 group compared to the C3 group. The heart and spleen were not affected (p > 0.05) by the inclusion of GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom. At the end of the trial, the C0 group again obtained a significantly lower gizzard weight (p < 0.0001) compared to all the GCC treatment groups. The weight of the heart of the C1 birds was significantly heavier (p = 0.007) than that of C0 and C2, but concerning the liver and spleen, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05).

TABLE 5.

GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom and their effect on organ weights of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter (%)	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
8 Weeks
Full gizzard	3.73c	4.94a	4.20bc	4.45ab	0.214	< 0.0001
Empty gizzard	2.77c	3.75a	2.96bc	3.49ab	0.198	< 0.0001
Heart	0.56	0.57	0.61	0.55	0.055	0.685
Liver	2.30ab	2.43ab	2.62a	2.15b	0.130	0.014
Spleen	0.21	0.17	0.18	0.15	0.026	0.185
12 Weeks
Full gizzard	1.98b	3.54a	3.13a	3.45a	0.193	< 0.0001
Empty gizzard	1.45b	2.76a	2.37a	2.61a	0.146	< 0.0001
Heart	0.41b	0.54a	0.43b	0.45ab	0.032	0.007
Liver	1.49	1.60	1.44	1.54	0.104	0.516
Spleen	0.16	0.13	0.14	0.16	0.026	0.472

Note: Means with different superscripts (a–c) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C1, 10% GCC diet; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; p value, probability value; SEM, Standard error of mean.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

3.4. Effect of GCC Diet Supplemented With Multi‐Blend Enzyme or FOM on Haematological Indices of Sasso Broilers

Haematological indices were analysed, and the results are presented in Table 6. At the end of 8 weeks, GCC and its supplementation with either multi‐blend or mushroom supplementation did not affect the platelets, MCH, WBC, haemoglobin, RBC, haematocrit and MCV concentrations. However, at 12 weeks old, the birds fed with the C0 diets recorded significantly higher (p = 0.012) counts of blood platelets compared to those in the C2 and C3 groups. At this stage, all the other haematological parameters were not affected (p > 0.05) by the inclusion of either multi‐blend enzymes or flaked mushrooms.

TABLE 6.

Effect of GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom on the haematological indices of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
8 Weeks
Platelet (103/µL)	3.50	3.00	5.10	2.80	0.894	0.079
MCH (pg)	28.40	27.89	26.57	27.61	0.918	0.276
WBC (103/µL)	23.89	23.23	18.27	30.97	5.54	0.192
Haemoglobin (g/dL)	6.93	6.92	6.34	6.62	0.231	0.064
RBC (106/µL)	2.45	2.48	2.40	2.40	0.090	0.694
Haematocrit (%)	28.97	29.09	27.93	28.71	1.12	0.733
MCV (fL)	118.47	117.20	116.86	119.74	2.51	0.657
12 Weeks
Platelet (103/µL)	4.40a	3.40ab	2.30b	2.40b	0.620	0.012
MCH (pg)	29.61	30.36	29.60	30.59	0.695	0.386
WBC (103/µL)	23.70	27.80	34.0	13.64	9.48	0.223
Haemoglobin (g/dL)	7.02	7.23	7.15	7.17	1.27	0.643
RBC (106/µL)	2.37	2.40	2.42	2.35	0.096	0.904
Haematocrit (%)	29.77	31.20	30.36	28.99	1.00	0.201
MCV (fL)	125.59	130.65	125.55	123.65	2.78	0.113

Note: Means with different superscripts (a and b) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C0, basal broiler diet; C1, 10% GCC; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; MCH, mean corpuscular haemoglobin; MCV, mean cell volume; p value, probability value; RBC, red blood cells; SEM, standard error of mean; WBC, white blood cells.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

3.5. Effect of GCC Diet Supplemented With Multi‐Blend Enzyme or FOM on the Serum Biochemistry of Sasso Broilers

Table 7 shows the serum biochemical parameters of broilers fed a GCC diet supplemented with a multi‐blend enzyme and FOM. At the end of 8 weeks, serum triglycerides of birds fed the C0 diet were statistically lower (p = 0.032) than those fed the C1 diet. Birds fed the C0 had significantly higher (p = 0.013) HDL cholesterol compared to those fed the C1 and C2 diets. The albumin concentration of birds fed the C0 and C3 diets was significantly higher (p = 0.010) than those fed the C2 diet. Total protein in serum was higher in birds (p = 0.009) fed the C1 and C3 diets compared to the C2 diet. Serum globulin concentration was significantly higher (p = 0.006) in birds fed the C1 diet compared to the C0 and C2 diets. The VLDL concentration was significantly lower (p = 0.032) in the C0 group than in the C1 group. However, total cholesterol was not affected (p > 0.05) by the inclusion of GCC or its supplementation with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom. At the end of the experimental period (Week 12), the total cholesterol was lowest in birds fed the C0 diet, which was significantly different (p < 0.0001) from birds that were fed the C1 and C2 diets. HDL cholesterol content was statistically higher (p < 0.0001) in birds fed the C1 and C2 diets compared to the C0 and C3 diets. The albumin content was significantly higher (p = 0.030) in birds given the C2 diet compared to those given the C1 diet. Serum triglyceride, total protein, globulin and VLDL concentrations were, however, not influenced (p > 0.05) by the addition of GCC and its supplementation with either multi‐blend or flaked mushroom.

TABLE 7.

Multi‐enzyme and flaked mushroom as supplements in GCC diet and their effect on the serum biochemistry parameters of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter (g/L)	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
8 Weeks
Total cholesterol	1.06	0.97	0.92	0.98	0.061	0.184
Triglyceride	0.18b	0.25a	0.22ab	0.23ab	0.023	0.032
HDL cholesterol	1.07a	0.93b	0.92b	0.94ab	0.045	0.013
Albumin	11.74a	11.29ab	9.49b	12.08a	0.711	0.010
Total protein	31.08ab	33.93a	28.75b	34.25a	1.56	0.009
Globulin	19.34b	22.64a	19.26b	22.17ab	1.04	0.006
VLDL	0.035b	0.050a	0.043ab	0.046ab	0.005	0.032
12 Weeks
Total cholesterol	0.96c	1.14a	1.06ab	1.02bc	0.034	< 0.0001
Triglyceride	0.24	0.21	0.26	0.23	0.020	0.157
HDL cholesterol	0.89b	1.07a	1.03a	0.95b	0.024	< 0.0001
Albumin	11.74ab	11.00b	12.60a	12.37ab	0.499	0.030
Total protein	31.19	31.40	30.37	31.83	1.800	0.872
Globulin	19.45	20.31	17.73	19.46	1.650	0.480
VLDL	0.047	0.042	0.051	0.045	0.004	0.157

Note: Means with different superscripts (a and b) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C0, basal broiler diet; C1, 10% GCC; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; p value, probability value; SEM, Standard error of mean; VLDL, very low‐density lipoprotein.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

3.6. Effect of GCC Supplemented With Either Multi‐Blend Enzyme or FOM on the Intestinal Measurements of Sasso Broilers

In Table 8, the results of the effect of GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom on the intestinal measurements of Sasso broilers have been presented. It was revealed that all sections of the small intestine, except the duodenum, were affected by the inclusion of GCC with either multi‐blend enzyme or flaked mushroom supplementation. At the end of 8 weeks, the length of the entire small intestine, jejunum and ileum was significantly shorter (p < 0.0001; 0.002) in the birds fed the C0 diet than in all the birds fed the other treatment diets. The colon length was statistically longer (p = 0.022) for birds fed the C2 diet compared to those fed the C1 diet. At the end of 12 weeks, it was, however, observed that the small intestine of birds fed the C1 diet had the longest length (p = 0.005), which was significantly different from the length obtained by the birds fed either the C2 or C3 diets. The duodenal and jejunal lengths were statistically superior (p = 0.022; 0.039) in the birds given the C1 diet to birds fed the C2 diet. The birds fed the C0 and C1 diets had significantly longer ileum lengths (p = 0.010) than that of birds fed the C3 diet. The colon length was the longest (p = 0.037) for birds fed the C3 diet, which was statistically different from the C2 diet.

TABLE 8.

Effect of GCC supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM on the intestinal measurements of Sasso broilers.

	Treatments
Parameter (cm)	C0	C1	C2	C3	SEM *	p value **
8 Weeks
Small intestine	139.80b	167.94a	164.40a	170.09a	5.28	< 0.0001
Duodenum	26.28	25.41	28.20	27.13	1.95	0.538
Jejunum	55.51b	73.51a	66.33a	69.59a	2.86	< 0.0001
Ileum	53.16b	64.30a	64.53a	68.21a	3.33	0.002
Colon	4.85ab	4.72b	5.34a	5.16ab	0.194	0.022
12 Weeks
Small intestine	143.02ab	154.73a	133.85b	133.08b	5.64	0.005
Duodenum	26.81ab	30.91a	26.08b	27.53ab	1.47	0.022
Jejunum	51.91ab	59.44a	50.19b	52.45ab	3.07	0.039
Ileum	59.04a	58.66a	52.55ab	47.10b	3.48	0.010
Colon	5.26ab	5.72ab	5.03b	6.00a	0.33	0.037

Note: Means with different superscripts (a and b) within a row are significantly different from each other at p < 0.05.

Abbreviations: C0, basal broiler diet; C1, 10% GCC diet; C2, 10% GCC diet with 0.05% multi‐blend enzyme; C3, 10% GCC diet with 0.5% FOM; p value, probability value; SEM, Standard error of mean.

^*Pooled standard error of means.

^**Probability.

4. Discussion

The chemical composition of the ground corncob showed a higher percentage of NDF and a lower lignin percentage. The anti‐nutrients present in the GCC were tannin, saponin, phytate and oxalate. There were higher levels of tannin, and phytate and oxalate levels were low. The values of cellulose and lignin found in this present study were far below those reported by Olaniyi et al. (2014), which were 52.22% and 24.30%, respectively. Additionally, Olaniyi et al. (2014) reported higher values of phytate (10700 ppm) and lower values of oxalate (320 ppm) and tannin (50 ppm) than their corresponding values found in this study. However, Olaniyi et al. (2014) did not find saponin as an anti‐nutrient in their corncob, as was found in the present study, but rather their analysis revealed the presence of cyanide. The neutral detergent fibre and cellulose values reported in this study are higher than those reported by Akinfemi (2010), but the lignin and acid detergent fibre values were lower. It has been established that the composition of corncob is influenced by several variables, including the stage of maturity, variety, soil type, method of production and climate (Szyszkowska et al. 2007). Immature corncobs have higher crude protein and starch and lower NDF, ADF and DM than mature corncobs (Szyszkowska et al. 2007). Furthermore, the method of processing, either mechanical or chemical, may affect the nutrient composition of the corncob. According to De Vries et al. (2012), processing minimizes the NSP fraction's particles and solubilizes some of its constituents, causing the polysaccharides recovered in the CF, NDF and ADF fractions to vary before and after treatment.

Feed consumption was reduced in the additive‐supplemented groups throughout the present study. The FCR was poorer in the raw GCC group than in the other treatment groups. At the end of the experiment, body weight was improved in the enzyme‐supplemented group compared to the raw GCC group. The improved body weight and FCR in the multi‐blend enzyme‐supplemented group can be attributed to the functional activity of the enzyme. Because poultry cannot develop the enzymes necessary to hydrolyse NSPs of grain cell walls, these NSPs remain intact and cause lower feed efficiency (Choct et al. 1995). Dietary changes to combat the negative effects of NSPs include the addition of preparations of beneficial exogenous enzymes. Enzymes break down NSPs, reduce intestinal viscosity and enhance gut function to increase the absorption of nutrients (Amerah 2015). Ravindran (2013) indicated that enzymes allow the integrity of the plant cell wall to be compromised, resulting in the release of nutrients that were previously contained by the cell wall. Additionally, the addition of FOM, which contains high‐quality protein, essential amino acids and bioactive substances such as β‐glucans, polysaccharides and antioxidants, was anticipated to enhance development and nutrient utilization (Jarial et al. 2024). Mushrooms have gut‐health‐promoting and immunomodulatory qualities that can affect how nutrients are absorbed and metabolized (Khan et al. 2024). According to Raza et al. (2009), broiler diets containing 6% crude fibre had considerably higher BW when enzymes were added. Wheat and barley diets with multi‐enzyme supplements result in a considerable increase in BW when compared to diets without enzymes (Kalantar et al. 2015; Zeng et al. 2015). The BW and BW gain of broiler chicks were relatively increased by the addition of locally produced enzymes to their feed (Zamani et al. 2017). Ajayi and Ajao (2020) incorporated corncob meal supplemented with or without enzyme at the levels of 25 and 50% in the diets of Arbor Acre broiler chickens and reported no significant differences in feed intake, weight gain and FCR within 28 days. Similarly, Khonyoung et al. (2017) found no significant effect of fermented corncob powder on feed intake, weight gain and FCR of Marshall Chunky male broiler chickens at 50 and 250 ppm within 49 days. Additionally, Donkoh et al. (2003) reported no significant influence on feed intake and weight gain when ground corncob was incorporated into the diets of broiler chickens at 50 and 75 g/kg for 56 days. Oke et al. (2007) showed no influence on feed intake but an improved weight gain when dietary fermented corncob (fermented for 5, 7, 15 and 20 days) was added to the diets of Ross 308 broiler chickens within 5 weeks. Tsado et al. (2019) also observed improved body weight, FCR and weight gain at both starter and finisher when locally produced cellulase and pectinase hydrolysed corncob was fed at 5%, 10% and 15% to Arbor Acre broiler chickens for 56 days. On the contrary, in laying hens, Adeyemi and Familade (2003) reported decreased hen‐day egg production and FCR with increasing levels of dietary corncob at 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% in the diets of 50‐week‐old Black Harco laying hens for 8 weeks. The varying results could be attributed to the source and the processing and treatment techniques, and more importantly, the varying anti‐nutrients of the corncob. In another study, Toghyani et al. (2012) recorded an improved body weight and FCR relative to the control in chicks during the starter phase when 20 g/kg of mushroom was supplemented in the diet of Ross 308 birds. However, Fard et al. (2014) reported a reduction in body weight when Ross 308 birds were supplemented with 2% oyster mushroom wastes for 42 days. In the same vein, Hassan et al. (2020) indicated no significant changes in body weight and FCR of Ross 308 birds when oyster mushroom waste was supplemented at 2% in the diet for 42 days. Overall, the results of this study on growth parameters are in part consistent with other research, highlighting the fact that the impact of GCC and mushroom supplementation varies depending on their inclusion rates, enzyme synergy and processing techniques. While uneven results could be related to differing chemical composition and digestibility of the fibre substrates utilized, the positive benefits might be the result of better nutrient release, improved gastrointestinal function and decreased anti‐nutritional effects.

The addition of ground corncob with or without enzyme and mushroom supplements in the diet did not affect dressing percentage, percentage thigh, percentage back, percentage drumsticks and percentage neck weights. However, percentage breast weight was lower in the raw corncob group than in the other treatment groups, with heavier percentage wing and shank weights than the enzyme‐supplemented group. This shows that using GCC‐based diets in place of some traditional components did not have a negative impact on muscle growth or overall carcass composition. However, because of the high fibre content and lack of enzyme supplementation, the birds fed the raw corncob diet had lower breast weight, which may be explained by decreased nutritional digestion and energy availability. By encasing protein and carbohydrate in indigestible cell wall components, fibre can inhibit the absorption of nutrients (Holland et al. 2020). This can reduce the accessibility of nutrients for muscle accretion, especially in the breast area, which is heavily reliant on the availability of amino acids and dietary energy (Selle et al. 2023). Abdominal fat was more profound in the enzyme‐supplemented group than in the control group. Dietary fibres are usually recognized as having anti‐nutrient factors, and they adversely influence nutrient digestion and energy use. Interest in fibre fermentation in the colon has recently become popular (Rose et al. 2007). Colonic bacteria convert indigestible dietary constituents into end products through fermentation, providing substrates and energy for animals and possibly improving gut health (Rinttilä and Apajalahti. 2013). In broiler chickens, abdominal fat deposition is inversely correlated with higher fibre contents (Khempaka et al. 2009). Lai et al. (2005) found that dietary fibre‐reduced hepatocyte apoptosis in rats, which resulted in reduced abdominal fat deposition. A similar result was found in broilers, that the dietary fibre significantly reduced abdominal fat (Bhuiyan et al. 2021; Cui et al. 2022). In a similar study, the dressing percentage was higher in the control group than in the 50% corncob meal inclusion, but the breast, wing and drumsticks yield did not differ (Ajayi and Ajao 2020). Khonyoung et al. (2017) reported no significant effect of fermented corncob powder on the carcass traits of broiler chickens. Besides, Donkoh et al. (2003) showed no significant impact on the carcass yield of broiler chickens fed ground corncob diets. However, Tsado et al. (2019) observed improved carcass traits compared to the control when a cellulase and pectinase‐hydrolysed corncob diet was fed to broiler chickens. Mushroom supplementation at 20 g/kg in the diet of Ross 308 birds did not influence carcass traits over 42 days (Toghyani et al. 2012).

The health of birds is severely impacted by the imbalance between the weight of organs and body weight (Murawska 2017). The liver is known to be the location for protein and carbohydrate metabolism and control, whereas the spleen is understood to be a secondary lymphoid organ that is principally in charge of producing and storing lymphocytes (B) in birds (Deerenberg et al. 2002). Liver weight was not affected at Week 8; however, at Week 12, the enzyme‐supplemented group had a heavier liver than the FOM‐supplemented group. Throughout the entire study, spleen weight was not affected by the incorporation of dietary fibre. In the present study, gizzard weight was lower in the control and enzyme‐supplemented groups than in the raw GCC group at 8 weeks, but at Week 12, it was lowest in the control group. Heart weight did not differ at Week 8, but became heavier in the raw GCC group than in the control and enzyme‐supplemented groups. The gizzard is the only mechanical feed processor in a bird's digestive system. The size and structure of the grit, fibre and the diet's nutritional content directly influence the gizzard's muscularity (Takasaki and Kobayashi 2020). This suggests that the increased dietary fibre of corncob in the diets resulted in a larger gizzard compared to the control group, which had less fibre added in the diet. Tsado et al. (2019) observed a heavier gizzard when the enzyme was added to the corncob diet for broilers. In contrast to this, Donkoh et al. (2003) and Khonyoung et al. (2017) observed no significant effect of ground corncob and fermented corncob powder on the internal organ weights of broiler chickens, respectively.

Concerning the effect of the incorporation of corncob in the diet of birds on haematological indices, considerable studies have not been done. The incorporation of GCC in the diet of broilers with or without multi‐blend enzyme and FOM did not influence haematological parameters, except for blood platelets at Week 12. The groups that were supplemented with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM had reduced blood platelet levels. The physiological functions of the enzyme and mushroom supplements may be linked to the observed decrease in platelet counts in these groups. By improving nutritional digestibility and gut microbial balance, enzyme supplementation can alter blood parameters and systemic metabolism. In a similar vein, mushrooms contain a number of bioactive substances with immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties, including polysaccharides, phenolics and β‐glucans (Jarial et al. 2024). Through enhanced oxidative balance and immunological modulation, these substances may limit excessive platelet formation or aggregation, hence influencing hematopoietic function (Masselli et al. 2020; Li et al. 2024). Instead of a pathological deterioration, the lower platelet count in these groups may be the result of a better controlled haematological response. Donkoh et al. (2003) reported no significant impact on the haematological indices of broilers when ground corncob was added to the diet at the levels of 25, 50 and 75 g/kg within 42 days. It can be inferred that the addition of corncob to the diet does not influence the immune status of birds in terms of blood indices, including WBC, RBC and MCV. It is unclear whether the reduction in the blood platelets is due to the supplementation of the feed additives (multi‐blend enzyme and FOM).

The serum biochemical parameters at the end of the study revealed a higher level of total cholesterol and HDL in the raw GCC and enzyme‐supplemented group. The higher levels of HDL and total cholesterol might be a sign of better lipid mobilization and metabolism brought on by enzymatic activity that improves food digestibility. As the digestion of complex carbohydrates and fibres in the GCC are improved, enzymes might increase the absorption of fatty acids and cholesterol precursors, thus raising blood cholesterol levels (Ros 2000). Due to HDL's role in reverse cholesterol transport and tissue lipid oxidation prevention, a contemporaneous rise in HDL cholesterol rather than LDL cholesterol indicates a more favourable lipid profile (Ouimet et al. 2019). However, albumin was high in the enzyme‐supplemented group compared to the raw GCC group. At Week 8, higher total protein was recorded in the raw GCC and FOM groups. AL‐Zubaidi et al. (2019) reported high levels of total protein when Ross broiler chickens were fed with maize cob treated with Aspergillus niger at 3 and 5 g/kg diet for 42 days, but albumin values did not differ from the control group. In contrast, the incorporation of maize cob treated with A. niger revealed a decreasing trend in the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL as the level of addition increased in the diet of Ross broiler chickens, but HDL was not influenced (AL‐Zubaidi et al. 2019). According to Kannan et al. (2005), the activity of corn‐like decomposers in raising the number of lactic acid bacteria and lowering intestinal pH by creating lactic acid and uric acid may be responsible for the drop in cholesterol levels. These acids impede steroid uptake in the GIT by acting on steroid adhesion. Bile acids primarily function to support the digestion and absorption of fats and fat‐soluble vitamins (Bell et al. 1999). This lessens the bile's acidity, which in turn encourages cholesterol's ability to produce yellow acids. It can be inferred that this significant function and activity of the corn‐like decomposers were not effective in the present study in reducing the cholesterol level. The differences might be due to differences in environment, cultivars and also the processing method used. However, Donkoh et al. (2003) reported no significant impact of a ground corncob on the serum biochemical parameters when it was added to the diets of broiler chickens. Mushroom supplementation at 20 g/kg reduced serum triglycerides but did not affect all other blood metabolites measured when Ross 308 birds were fed for 42 days (Toghyani et al. 2012).

The supplementation of enzymes in the diet was advantageous as it improved feed utilization in the gut. Apart from duodenum length at 8 weeks, the small intestine and its segments and the colon showed statistical differences at both Weeks 8 and 12. This present finding shows that the incorporation of corncob and its supplementation with either multi‐blend enzyme or FOM has a profound influence on the GIT of the birds in terms of length. In general, as bird's age, their small intestines' absorptive ability depends more on their overall villi surface area than it does on their increased weight and length (Wijtten et al. 2012). This implies that the length of the intestine may not have impacted absorption and assimilation in the gut. Thus, cell multiplication and thickening could be the cause of the intestine's increased length as found in the dietary fibre groups at Week 8. The present findings disagree with the findings of Khonyoung et al. (2017), who reported no influence on the relative intestine morphometry of birds fed diets containing fermented corncob powder.

Conclusion

In summary, the supplementation of multi‐blend enzymes and FOM in a ground corncob‐based diet at 10% improves feed efficiency, body weight and breast yield. Furthermore, the inclusion of ground corncob and its supplementation with multi‐blend enzyme or flaked oyster mushroom produced inconsistent effects on the serum biochemical profile of broilers. While certain lipid and protein fractions showed significant variations among treatments at specific periods, the overall response pattern did not indicate any adverse effect on the birds’ metabolic health.

Author Contributions

Koranteng Achiamaa Asafu‐Adjaye: formal analysis, investigation, methodology, validation, visualization, writing – original draft. Adjei‐Mensah Benjamin: data curation, validation, writing—original draft, writing – review and editing. Darko Okyere Joycelyn: methodology, resources, software, visualization. Agbehadzi Koblah Richard: data curation, investigation, methodology, validation, writing – original draft. Ansong Okai Maxwell: conceptualization, investigation, methodology, project administration, visualization, writing – review and editing. Ziema Bumbie Gifty: conceptualization, investigation, methodology, resources, software, visualization, writing – original draft. Gbogbo Koffi Apeti: conceptualization, methodology, supervision, validation, writing – review and editing. Hamidu Jacob Alhassan: formal analysis, investigation, supervision, validation, visualization, writing – original draft.

Ethics Statement

The study was conducted following the guidelines of the Canadian Council on Animal Care (2009) and the recommendations of the Animal Ethics Committee of the University of Lomé provided animal care guidelines, which were keenly followed for this study with the reference number, ref: 008/2021/BC‐BPA/FDS/UL.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Koranteng, A. A.‐A. , Adjei‐Mensah B., Darko J. O., et al. 2026. “Corncob‐Based Diet With Enzyme Blend Improves Body Weight, Feed Efficiency and Breast Yield of Sasso Broiler Chickens.” Veterinary Medicine and Science 12, no. 1: e70721. 10.1002/vms3.70721

Data Availability Statement

All data used is available and can be provided upon reasonable request.