STEVIA (Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni) Extract: A Natural Alternative in Broilers Nutrition

Abstract

The aim was to evaluate Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) extract (SE) effects on performance productive and gut health variables in broilers from 1 to 15 days old. SE from Stevia leaves was added to broilers diet (0.5% to 1%). Seventy-five Ross male broilers (1 to 15 days old) were distributed into T1: commercial type, without SE, T2: T1 plus 0.5% SE, T3: T1 plus 1% SE. Performance productive were measured as Average Daily Weight Gain (g/broiler/day), Average Daily Consumption Feed (g/broiler/day) and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR). At 15 days of age, all the broilers were dissected, gut removed and processed for histomorphometric study. In gut was measured VH/CD Ratio. Results: FCR was better (P ? 0.05) in T3 and T2 than T1. In gut, VH/CD ratios showed T2 < T3 < T1 (P ? 0.05). Goblet cells number and mucus layer height were increased in broilers receive SE, especially in T2 and plasmatic cells number increased in T3. Conclusion: SE (0.5% to 1%) enhanced gut histomorphometric variables, improved gut health, mainly when SE is added at 0.5% in the broiler diet from 1 to 15 days old. It was reflexed in a better FCR in both groups received this phytobiotic.