Meta-analysis of dietary supplementation with hemp products (Cannabis sativa L.) in broiler chicken: performances, blood profiles, intestinal morphology, and meat physicochemical parameters

Abstract

The results showed that dietary hemp products reduced plasma triglycerides (SMD = - 2.263; P < 0.01), cholesterol (SMD = -1.239; P < 0.05), and low-density lipoprotein (SMD = - 5.711; P < 0.01), whereas the plasma high-density lipoprotein (SMD = 3.193; P < 0.01) and jejunal villus height (SMD = 4.536; P < 0.01) were increased. However, broiler performances (average daily feed intake, body weight, feed conversion ratio) and meat physicochemical parameters (pH, lightness, redness, yellowness, crude protein, and ether extract) were not significantly affected. Therefore, the study indicated that dietary hemp products in broiler chicken could improve blood profiles and gut health, suggesting their potential as an alternative feedstuff in broiler production.