Project Abstract

This project aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the nutritional profiles and growth performance of broiler chickens raised in organic and conventional poultry farming systems. The growing demand for organic and sustainably-produced food has led to an increasing interest in understanding the potential differences between these two production methods, particularly in the realm of poultry farming. Poultry is a significant source of protein, vitamins, and minerals in the human diet, and understanding the nutritional quality of poultry products is crucial for ensuring food security and promoting public health. Organic poultry farming has been touted as a more environmentally-friendly and ethically-sound alternative to conventional methods, but the scientific evidence on the comparative nutritional profiles and growth performance of organic and conventional broilers remains limited and, at times, inconclusive. This project aims to address this knowledge gap by conducting a rigorous and systematic comparison of the nutritional profiles and growth performance of broiler chickens raised in organic and conventional farming systems. The study will involve collecting data from multiple organic and conventional poultry farms, analyzing the nutrient content of the chickens' meat and eggs, and evaluating the growth rates and feed conversion ratios of the birds. The project will employ a combination of laboratory analysis, on-farm observations, and statistical modeling to achieve its objectives. Nutrient analysis will be conducted using advanced techniques, such as high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, to determine the levels of key vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients in the poultry products. Growth performance will be assessed through regular weighing of the birds, feed intake monitoring, and calculation of feed conversion ratios. The findings of this project will have important implications for both consumers and producers. By providing a comprehensive and comparative analysis of the nutritional profiles and growth performance of organic and conventional broilers, the project will help consumers make informed choices about the poultry products they purchase. Additionally, the insights gained from this study may inform best practices in organic and conventional poultry farming, potentially leading to improvements in product quality, sustainability, and animal welfare. Furthermore, the project will contribute to the broader scientific understanding of the impacts of organic and conventional farming practices on the nutritional quality of poultry products. The results may also have implications for the development of policies and regulations related to organic certification and labeling, as well as the promotion of sustainable and ethical food production practices. In conclusion, this project represents a crucial step in the ongoing effort to understand the potential differences between organic and conventional poultry farming systems. By conducting a rigorous and comprehensive analysis of nutritional profiles and growth performance, the project aims to provide valuable insights that will benefit consumers, producers, and policymakers alike, ultimately contributing to the advancement of sustainable and nutritious food systems.

Project Overview