Four hundred male Cobb chicks were used in an experiment to study the effects of different dietary levels of garlic and copper on the performance, carcass characteristics and serum and tissue cholesterol levels of broiler chicks. The experimental period was comprised between the first 21 days of age of the birds. A completely randomized design was used in a factorial 3 × 3 with the following levels: garlic (0, 1.5, and 3.0%) and copper (0, 125, and 250 mg/kg of ration), in the form of copper sulfate. Two slaughters were realized, the first at 21 days, and the second at 42 days of age of the chicks. Samples of blood and tissues were collected to the determination of fatty acids and cholesterol. The results showed that the supplementation of garlic and copper in the diets may be done without great effects on the performance of the birds and it can result in reduction on serum and cholesterol tecidual of the broilers.
alternative product; broiler performance; cholesterol; fat; food; poultry production
