Integrating dietary supplementation with poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) seed meal: effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and faecal microbiota in broilers

The study investigated the effects of supplementing broiler diets with poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) seed meal (PSM) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, faecal microbiota, and blood profiles. A total of 250 unsexed 1d old broilers were allocated to five distinct treatment groups. PSM was incorporated into the diets at varying levels: 0% (PSM0), 5% (PSM5), 10% (PSM10), 15% (PSM15), and 20% (PSM20). The findings indicated that growth performance, including weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR), was significantly improved (P<0.05) in the PSM20 group compared to the control. However, carcass weight experienced a notable decrease (P<0.05) in the PSM20 group. Regarding nutrient digestibility, PSM supplementation led to reduced crude protein digestibility. Nevertheless, apparent metabolizable energy and ash content were significantly enhanced (P<0.05) in the PSM15 and PSM20 groups. Notably, faecal microbiota also experienced substantial improvement (P<0.05) in the PSM20 group. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that incorporating poppy seed meal at a rate of 20% in broiler diets enhances growth performance, improves nutrient digestibility, and positively influences faecal microbiota composition.