ABSTRACT
The aim of this research was to evaluate the productive and economic performance of the inclusion of increasing levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25%) of buriti residue (Mauritia flexuosa, Mart) in the feed of light commercial laying hens. The experiment lasted 84 days, divided into 4 periods of 21 days, and used 144 Hissex White laying hens aged 23 weeks. The buriti residue was included in the feed as an energy source. The experimental design was completely randomised, consisting of six treatments and four replications, each of six birds. The data were analysed using polynomial regression. Cumulative feed consumption showed significant differences (P<0.05), with the level of 5.74% displaying greater accumulated consumption and the level of 4.48%, the economic optimum for consumption, with a reduction of up to BRL 11.26 in the cost of feed production. Feeding costs and the cost of production showed significant differences (P <0.05), demonstrating a directly proportional relationship where, as the levels increase, food costs increase along with production costs. Significant differences (P<0.05) were seen for gross revenue and profitability index, with better results found at the lower inclusion levels. Buriti residue can be used as an additive in feed for commercial laying hens without causing an increase in the price of the feed or loss of gross revenue. However, up to a level of 25%, there was an increase in feed consumption and production costs, and a drop in profitability.
Key words:
Feed; Production costs; Profitability; Alternative food