Altering the proportion of rye to maize in the grain fraction of practical broiler rations: Effect on live performance, litter moisture, dressing yield, and carcass quality1

Abstract

A study was made using a commercial strain of broiler chick (1 day to 9 weeks of age) and common starting and finishing rations, on the effects that various proportions of rye have on live performance and litter quality. All rations were maintained isocaloric by the appropriate addition of tallow. It was ascertained that rye could comprise up to 25 per cent of the grain component without adverse effects when compared to those birds fed the control ration even though litter moisture was significantly increased. Increases in the percentage of rye to more than 25 per cent of the grain fraction resulted in progressively poorer live performance, dressed yield and carcass quality.