Response surface models to predict broiler performance and elaborate economic analysis

Abstract

The study was carried out with the aim of elaborating surface models response through broiler performance data recovered from literature in order to predict performance and develop economic analysis. Three hundred and twenty eight studies published between 2005 and 2009 were retrieved using the systematic literature review method. Average weight gain and feed intake data were collected from twelve studies that fulfilled the pre-established inclusion criteria, and surface models response were adjusted with metabolizable energy, environmental temperature, and slaughter age as independent variables. The models for weight gain (R2 = 0.88) and feed conversion (R2 =0.87) were accurate, precise, and not biased. There was no interaction between metabolizable energy and environmental temperature on weight gain and feed intake. Age and temperature showed interaction for weight gain and feed conversion, whereas the interaction between age and metabolizable energy was detected only for weight gain. It was possible to elaborate economic analysis to determine maximum profit, as a function of the variables that were included in the model, in different market situations proposed by changes in broiler and feed prices. Surface models response are effective to predict broiler chickens performance and allow the development of economic analysis to optimize profitability according to market prices.