How to Use Moringa to Reduce the Volume of a Broiler Feed Intake

Moringa oleifera grows in tropical areas from South America and South Asia to East Africa and the Pacific Rim. This tree is also known as the drumstick, horseradish or clarifier tree. Nutritionally versatile, this tree packs most of its vitamins and amino acids in its pods before they reach the extent of their growth. The roots, leaves, flowers and bark are edible and healthful. Because it has proven to be well-digested by cattle and to have consequential protein levels, scientific research now investigates its efficiency as a component in poultry feed, including that of broiler chickens. One study by Cornell University scientists demonstrated appreciably reduced feed intake by chicks supplemented with moringa leaf powder. While studies are ongoing, producers may see benefit from adding this element to their feed mixes.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure that your existing feed mix contains 20 to 22 percent protein. Confirm that any lessening of intake is due to the moringa itself, and not just from the addition of an adequate protein source.

    • 2

      Begin the broilers on a feed regimen containing 20 percent sunflower seed meal. Do not include moringa leaf powder at this time. Prepare 30 to 50 pounds of feed per week for 10 broilers up to six weeks old. Diminish rations to 20 pounds from six weeks to the point at which the chickens are ready for slaughter.

    • 3

      Buy the moringa leaf powder from online health food distributors or from a local dealer in organic and natural supplements.

    • 4

      Reduce the sunflower seed meal to 15 percent of the mix, adding the moringa oleifera leaf powder as a substitute for the remaining five percent. Keep all other components at fixed ratios. Observe intake for one week.

    • 5

      Increase the moringa composition to 10 percent, decreasing the sunflower seed meal accordingly. Record any changes regarding intake volume over the next week.

    • 6

      Repeat the augmentation of moringa leaf powder by an additional five percent, and reduce the sunflower seed element proportionately. Record the intake results and weigh each bird to make sure their flesh has increased sufficiently.