Blood profile and liver histopathological analysis of broiler chickens fed dried cashew apples (Anacardium occidentale L.)

Abstract

This study utilized a total of 210 one-day-old chicks to evaluate the blood profile and liver histopathology of Ross 308 broiler chickens fed diets containing Dried Cashew Apples (DCA). The chicks were allocated into seven treatment groups, each consisting of three replicates of 10 birds. The experimental design used a (2 x 3) +1 augmented factorial in a completely randomized arrangement. Diet 1 was the control (maize-soybean meal-based), while diets 2, 3, and 4 contained 10%, 20%, and 30% DCA without enzyme supplementation. Diets 5, 6, and 7 contained 10%, 20%, and 30% DCA with exogenous microbial enzyme supplementation. Data on haematological indices, serum biochemical indices, and liver histology were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 25, with means separated by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test of the same statistical package at p < 0.05. The results indicated that DCA inclusion, with or without enzymes, significantly influenced all haematological parameters except MCV, showing lower PCV, Hb concentration, and RBC counts in DCA groups compared to the control. Enzyme supplementation at 20% DCA increased PCV, while at 10% and 30% DCA, it decreased Hb concentrations and increased WBC counts at 30% DCA, with varying effects on neutrophils and lymphocytes. Serum biochemistry showed that DCA inclusion affected all parameters except AST, with the highest ALT values in birds on 10% DCA without enzymes and the lowest in the control group. Enzyme supplementation significantly influenced AST, ALT, TP, globulin, albumin, urea, and creatinine levels, particularly at 20% DCA. Liver histology showed no lesions in control birds but varying degrees of necrosis, inflammation, atrophy, and congestion in DCA-fed birds, worsening with higher DCA and enzyme levels. In conclusion, broilers can tolerate 10% DCA in their diet, but higher levels lead to physiological stress, necessitating careful consideration of DCA inclusion levels to maintain bird health and welfare.