Synergistic and individual actions of nanoemulsified vegetable oil and betaine as natural growth promoters on broiler performance, serum proteins, lipid profile, and safety enzymes

Abstract

This study evaluates the effects of betaine (Betafin®; BET) and soybean oil nano-emulsion (Magic Oil®, NEPO) and their combination (NEPO+BET) as natural drinking water supplements on broiler chickens during the finisher phase. A trial was conducted using 320 Ross 308 broilers divided into four groups: control (no NEPO, no BET), NEPO only (1 mL/L water), BET only (1 g/L water), and their combination (both together; NEPO+BET). Growth performance parameters were assessed at 21, 28, and 35 days, with serum biochemical analyses performed at day 35. Results indicated that NEPO and BET individually improved growth rate and feed efficiency without increasing feed intake and improved metabolic indices, such as reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, risk of hypercholesterolemia ratio, creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase compared with control, while the combined treatment (NEPO+BET) yielded the most pronounced effects. Thus, NEPO+BET treatment significantly gave the best FCR, albumin, globulin, triglycerides, and very-low-density lipoprotein values (p < 0.05) compared to other groups, suggesting synergism in enhancing feed efficiency, enhancing protein metabolism and lipid homeostasis. BET independently lowered serum glucose. Liver and kidney function markers remained within normal ranges, indicating the safety of these additives. These findings support the use of NEPO+BET as effective growth promoters in poultry nutrition through improved nutrient utilization. Future studies should explore the molecular mechanisms involved and the long-term implications of their use in commercial poultry production.