Abstract

Background and Aim: Gamma-oryzanol, a bioactive compound derived from rice bran, is recognized for its antioxidant and metabolic regulatory properties. This study evaluated the effects of dietary gamma-oryzanol supplementation on laying performance, egg quality, blood health, and follicular development in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica).

Materials and Methods: A total of 216 12-week-old laying quails were randomly assigned to six groups receiving gamma-oryzanol at 0 (control), 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 g/kg of diet for 7 weeks. Feed intake, egg production, feed conver­sion ratio, egg quality traits, hematological and biochemical parameters, and ovarian follicular characteristics were mea­sured. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance and Duncan’s post hoc test.

Results: Gamma-oryzanol at 0.2 g/kg significantly increased egg production (98.69%) compared to the control (86.80%). Supplementation at 0.3–0.5 g/kg improved eggshell thickness and yolk index (p < 0.05). Red blood cell counts were signifi­cantly higher at 0.4 g/kg, indicating enhanced erythropoiesis. Other hematological and biochemical parameters remained unchanged. A significant increase in small white follicle count and F3 follicle diameter was observed at 0.5 g/kg, indicating improved follicular development.

Conclusion: Gamma-oryzanol supplementation at 0.2–0.5 g/kg enhanced laying performance, egg quality, and ovarian fol­licle development without adverse hematological or biochemical effects. The compound shows potential as a safe and functional feed additive to support productivity and reproductive efficiency in commercial quail production.

Keywords: antioxidant feed additive, egg quality, follicular development, gamma-oryzanol, Japanese quails, laying performance.