Abstract

This study was undertaken to contribute to the search for alternative ways to improve poultry feed. The objective was to evaluate the effects of incorporating roasted cowpea seed meal as a protein source in broiler feed. The experiment was conducted for 56 days with 120 Dutch Blue hybrid chicks divided into three batches of 40 chicks. These batches were each subdivided into two sub-batches of 20 chicks corresponding to two replicates. These batches received three feed treatments consisting of a control (R0) containing roasted soybeans and two rations (R1, R2) containing roasted cowpea seeds incorporated at 7 and 14%. The results showed that these three feeds resulted in good weight gain, better feed conversion and low mortality. The chicks showed better growth performance with (R0). Roasted soybeans and roasted cowpea seeds appear to be interesting feedstuffs for broilers since the 7 and 14% rates gave good weight growth performance comparable to that of roasted soybeans. We suggest the use of roasted cowpea at rates between 7 and 14% since they are locally available and significantly cheaper than soybean. The continuation of this study on the blood profile, a very important aspect of feeding, should be considered.

Key words: Parkia biglobosa, chicken, food, growth performance.