Effects of dietary dried distillers’ grains with solubles and NSP enzyme supplementation on growth performance, intestinal morphology, immunity, and economic efficiency in broilers

Abstract

Introduction This study evaluated the effects of incorporating varying levels of dried distillers’ grains with solubles (DDGS) and non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) enzymes into broiler diets to assess their impact on growth performance, immune function, intestinal histomorphology, and economic efficiency. Methods A total of 240 one-day-old broiler chicks (Avian 48; initial weight 51.57 ± 4.6 g) were randomly assigned to eight dietary treatments (30 birds each). The treatments consisted of four DDGS inclusion levels (0, 5, 10%, or 20%) provided either with or without NSP enzyme supplementation. Results Growth performance indicated that moderate DDGS inclusion (5–10%) with enzymes improved body weight gain and feed conversion ratio during the starter and grower phases, whereas 20% DDGS without enzymes led to poor performance. While most serum biochemical parameters remained unaffected ( p > 0.05), triglycerides and globulin increased significantly ( p < 0.05) in enzyme-supplemented groups. Furthermore, enzyme-supplemented groups showed significantly higher IgA and IgM levels, alongside higher white blood cell counts and H/L ratios at 5% and 10% DDGS levels. Histological examination demonstrated improved villus height and crypt structure in enzyme-supplemented diets, while 20% DDGS without enzymes negatively affected gut morphology. Discussion/Conclusion Economically, the 5% DDGS diet with enzymes achieved the lowest cost and highest net profit, whereas the 20% DDGS group without enzymes recorded the poorest economic return. In conclusion, incorporating DDGS at 5–10% with enzyme supplementation enhances growth performance, immune stimulation, and intestinal health in broilers without compromising physiological functions.