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ORIGINAL PAPER
Impact of high temperature-humidity index on meat quality and
economic benefits in broilers
1
Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Genetics and Physiology Division, 712009 Tainan, Taiwan
2
Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Animal Products Processing Division, 712009 Tainan, Taiwan
3
Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Technical Service Division, 712009 Tainan, Taiwan
Publication date: 2025-04-02
Corresponding author
J. Anim. Feed Sci. 2025;34(2):224-233
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Elevated ambient temperature has a major impact on chicken
growth; however, its effects on meat quality closely related to fresh food
consumption and processing costs are less frequently discussed. This study
investigated the effects of two microclimate temperature–humidity index (THI)
levels on breast meat quality and the economic performance of broilers. Chickens
were assigned either to a high THI (THI-H) or low THI (THI-L) group, with each
group consisting of 60 male and 60 female Ross 308 broilers, stratified into
6 pens based on hatched chick weight. Body weight, feed intake, and survival
rate were recorded to evaluate rearing efficiency and economic outcomes.
Meat samples (n = 24) from 35-day-old chickens were subjected to quality and
chemical composition analyses. The results showed that the THI-H group was
characterised by a significantly higher (P < 0.05) meat toughness, firmness,
cooking loss percentage, colour lightness, and fat content, while significantly
lower (P < 0.05) water-holding capacity, pH 24 h post-slaughter, and protein
content. The THI-L group showed better performance with respect to the broiler
index and total benefit, suggesting that a high-THI environment, indicating heat
stress conditions for broilers, negatively affects both meat quality and profitability.
The study emphasises the need to consider both quality and economic factors
when developing strategies to mitigate the effects of heat stress in broilers.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Authors would like to thank the members of the laboratory for their contribution to the entire experimental process related to animal husbandry and data collection.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The Authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
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