Effects on feed consumption and egg production of coffee bean seed (Cassia obtusifolia) fed to White Leghorn hens

Abstract

Coffee bean seed (Cassia obtusifolia) was ground and mixed in the feed at levels of 2,5, and 10% and fed to White Leghorn hens. Feed consumption and egg production were reduced by all three although more so at 5 and 10%. Feed consumption and egg production had not returned to control levels four weeks after the adulterated feed was suspended, though the response was more pronounced in the younger birds. The semitendinosus and pectoralis superficialis muscles were pale and edematous at postmortem examination of the birds, being most pronounced at the 5 and 10% levels.