The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) supplementation on haematological

parameters and carcass characteristics in crossbred pigs. Twenty-four crossbred pigs (75% Large White Yorkshire × 25% Desi) with an average initial body weight of 20 kg were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments with six animals in each treatment. All the experimental diets were iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric containing moringa leaf meal at 0% (T1), 5% (T2), 7.5% (T3) and 10% (T4) in the rations and were offered for a period of five months until to reach approximate body weight of 80 kg. Blood samples collected at the end of the grower phase were analyzed for haematological indices. While, slaughter of animals was conducted at approximate body weight of 80 kg to study carcass characteristics. Results indicated that inclusion of MOLM in crossbred pig diets had no significant (P>0.05) effect on haematological parameters and all the values were within normal physiological ranges. Carcass traits such as pre-slaughter weight, dressing percentage, carcass length, loin-eye area, total meat weight, bone weight, and meat-to-bone ratio did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the treatments. However, back fat thickness decreased and liver weight decreased linearly (P<0.05 and P<0.01 respectively) with increasing levels of MOLM, indicating reduced fat deposition and hypocholesterolemic effects. These findings suggest that Moringa oleifera leaf meal can be safely incorporated up to 10% in the rations of crossbred pigs without adverse effects on blood profile and carcass yield, while contributing to leaner pork production.

Highlights

• Moringa leaf meal can be included upto 10% level in diet of pigs
• Moringa feeding results in lean meat production in pigs.