ISSN : 2663-2187

Assessment of Fungal Contamination in Poultry Feed and Evaluation of Antifungal Potential of Pomegranate Peel Extracts for Feed Preservation

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Ashok kumar L, Shiyamala Ganesan, Yuvarani Muthusamy, Janaki Sabaathi, Suja M, Ling Shing Wong, Kumar Krishnan, Prakash Balu
ยป doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.12.2024.3169-3179

Abstract

The present study investigated feed samples collected from poultry and cattle farms for moisture, protein, and fat content. Fungal isolates were also enumerated, with Aspergillus flavus being the most predominant. Toxin production potential and presence of aflatoxin genes in A. flavus were evaluated using PCR. Additionally, the antifungal activity of pomegranate peel extracts was examined. Moisture content ranged from 8.95% to 10.47%, while protein content varied between 17.14% and 25.11%. Fat content ranged from 0.84% to 2.41%. A. flavus dominated the fungal population, raising concerns about aflatoxin contamination. Phytochemical analysis of pomegranate peel extracts revealed various bioactive compounds. The extracts exhibited substantial antifungal activity against A. flavus. These findings highlight the importance of effective management strategies to control fungal contamination in animal feed and suggest pomegranate peel extracts as potential natural preservatives.

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