Copper Sulfate and Cupric Citrate Supplementation Improves Growth Performance, Nutrient Utilization, Antioxidant Capacity, and Intestinal Microbiota of Broilers

This study investigated the effects of copper sulfate and cupric citrate on broilers, using 360 Ross 308 broilers divided into 5 groups. Over 42 days, it was found that cupric citrate supplementation improved average daily gain and increased the digestibility of crude protein and energy. Cupric citrate also reduced Lactobacillus and Escherichia coli concentrations in the intestinal tract and increased pH levels in the duodenum and jejunum. Additionally, copper supplementation enhanced the activities of serum Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase and ceruloplasmin, indicating improved antioxidant capacity. Overall, cupric citrate positively influenced growth performance and nutrient utilization in broilers.