In the quest to find sustainable and effective alternatives to antibiotics in poultry production, researchers have turned to an unlikely candidate: Kratom, a plant native to Southeast Asia. A recent study published in the *Journal of Agriculture and Food Research* (or *Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Research* in English) has shed light on the potential of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) leaf extract as a phytogenic feed additive for broiler chicks. The research, led by Niparat Sritharet from the Department of Agricultural Technology at Thammasat University in Thailand, offers promising insights into the future of poultry farming.
The study evaluated the effects of Kratom leaf extract on various aspects of broiler production, including growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood parameters. Ninety-six male Ross 308 broilers were divided into four groups, each receiving different levels of Kratom extract in their feed: 0 (control), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg. The results were intriguing. “We found that supplementation with 100 mg/kg of Kratom tended to increase final body weight, average daily gain, and feed intake,” Sritharet explained. However, higher supplementation levels of 150 mg/kg showed a reduction in these parameters, although the differences were not statistically significant.
One of the most compelling findings was that Kratom supplementation did not adversely affect the feed conversion ratio, meat quality, carcass traits, or blood parameters. This suggests that Kratom could be a viable alternative to antibiotics in broiler feed additives. “Our results indicate that Kratom leaf extract does not negatively impact the overall health and growth of broilers,” Sritharet noted. This is a significant step forward in the search for natural and effective feed additives that can support sustainable poultry production.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the poultry industry continues to face pressure to reduce antibiotic use, the need for effective and safe alternatives has never been greater. Kratom, with its potential to enhance growth performance without compromising meat quality or animal health, could become a game-changer. “This study opens up new possibilities for the use of phytogenic feed additives in poultry production,” Sritharet said. “It’s an exciting development that could shape the future of the industry.”
The study, published in the *Journal of Agriculture and Food Research*, provides a solid foundation for further research into the use of Kratom and other phytogenic feed additives. As the agricultural sector continues to innovate, the findings from this research could pave the way for more sustainable and efficient poultry farming practices. The journey towards a more sustainable future for poultry production has taken a significant step forward, thanks to the groundbreaking work of Sritharet and her team.