Effects of Supplemental Melon Peel Powder on Laying Performance, Egg Quality and Antioxidant Capacity of Layer Quails

This study aimed to investigate the effects of melon peel powder (MPP) as a supplement on the performance and egg quality of Japanese quails. Melon peels are by-products of melon production and are rich in polyphenolic compounds and carotenoids that can improve quail performance and egg quality. The study was conducted over six weeks using 120 female Japanese quails with comparable body weights, aged 42 days. MPP was provided to the group diets at inclusion levels of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0%, and 2.0%. The study indicated that MPP supplementation did not improve laying performance, external egg quality parameters, albumen index, yolk index, Haugh unit, or yolk cholesterol levels. However, MPP supplementation improved the internal quality of eggs, as shown by the higher yolk color score and higher yolk carotenoid levels. The antioxidant capacity of eggs was also improved by MPP supplementation. In conclusion, MPP supplementation in laying quail diets positively affected egg internal quality and egg yolk antioxidant status. A 2.0% dietary supplementation of MPP is recommended for laying quails. Further studies will be needed to understand the effects of MPP on metabolism and blood biochemical traits in poultry.