Project Abstract

This project aims to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of the nutritional profiles of wild and domesticated poultry species. Poultry, a crucial component of the global food system, has undergone significant changes in production and consumption patterns over the past century. While the domestication of poultry has enabled increased availability and accessibility of this valuable protein source, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of domestication on the nutritional quality of poultry products. The importance of this project lies in the need to understand the complex interplay between the domestication process and the nutritional properties of poultry. Historically, wild poultry species have been recognized for their unique and potentially superior nutritional profiles, with claims of higher levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and beneficial fatty acids. However, the extent to which these nutritional differences are maintained in commercially-reared domesticated birds remains a subject of ongoing debate and research. By conducting a comparative analysis of the nutritional profiles of wild and domesticated poultry species, this project aims to provide valuable insights that can inform consumer choices, guide sustainable poultry production practices, and contribute to the overall understanding of the impact of domestication on food quality. The study will encompass a range of poultry species, including chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the trends and patterns observed across the poultry family. The project will employ a multifaceted approach, combining laboratory analyses, field observations, and literature reviews. The nutritional profiles of the selected poultry species will be assessed through detailed chemical analyses, measuring the concentrations of macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and bioactive compounds (antioxidants and phytochemicals). These analyses will be conducted on samples obtained from both wild and domesticated populations, ensuring a robust and reliable dataset. In addition to the laboratory analyses, the project will also incorporate field observations and interviews with poultry farmers, hunters, and other stakeholders. This qualitative component will provide valuable contextual information about the rearing and feeding practices, as well as the cultural and traditional knowledge associated with wild and domesticated poultry species. The findings of this project will have significant implications for various stakeholders, including consumers, health professionals, policymakers, and the poultry industry. The comparative analysis of nutritional profiles will inform consumer decision-making, allowing individuals to make more informed choices about the types of poultry products they purchase and consume. Additionally, the results may inform the development of sustainable poultry production practices, with the potential to enhance the nutritional quality of domesticated poultry while preserving the ecological balance. Overall, this project represents a critical step in understanding the complex relationship between domestication and the nutritional properties of poultry. By bridging the gap between scientific research and practical applications, the findings of this study will contribute to the ongoing efforts to promote food security, public health, and environmental sustainability in the poultry industry.

Project Overview