Carcass Characteristics and Economic Performance of Anadolu–T and Cobb500 Broilers

This study involved broiler chicks from two genotypes, Anadolu–T and Cobb500, sourced from parent flocks of the same age (32 weeks). A total of 240 chicks were distributed into four replicates per genotype, with 30 birds in each replicate (2 genotypes × 4 replicates × 30 chicks). The birds were fed three commercial diets starter, grower, and finisher provided by a commercial feed supplier. Post-slaughter, carcasses were chilled at 4 °C for 24 hours, and excess surface moisture was removed. Heads, feet, and visceral organs were excluded before the carcass was dissected into standard commercial parts (breast, thigh, wings, back, neck, and abdominal fat). These parts were weighed and their proportions calculated relative to cold carcass weight. Water holding capacity (WHC) of thigh and breast muscles was also assessed, alongside economic performance metrics. Cobb500 broilers showed significantly greater carcass weights and higher carcass yield percentages than Anadolu–T. While sex influenced carcass yield and internal organ ratios, no significant interaction between genotype and sex was observed. Furthermore, Cobb500 exhibited heavier cut-up parts and higher breast yields, although genotype had minimal impact on thigh and neck proportions relative to live weight. Abdominal fat weight and proportion were significantly affected by genotype, with Anadolu–T broilers exhibiting higher abdominal fat deposition than Cobb500. Genotype had a significant effect on WHC, with the Anadolu–T genotype exhibiting higher overall water holding capacity (WHC) values than Cobb500. Despite higher production costs, Cobb500 outperformed Anadolu–T in economic efficiency. These findings highlight the significant influence of genotype on both carcass traits and economic returns in broiler production, emphasizing the importance of genetic selection to optimize meat yield and profitability.