Effect of including biochar in broiler diets on
fattening and slaughter performance and
emissions of greenhouse gases and odour

Biochar is made from plant material by heating at high temperatures in a low-oxygen environment, and has been used in agriculture since ancient times because of its positive effect on soil fertility. In feed for livestock, biochar is also allowed, and there are numerous reports about positive effects on performance, feed efficiency and manure quality. In this study, the inclusion of 5–10 g biochar/kg feed in diets for fast-growing broilers was tested, and data on animal performance, meat quality and both gaseous and olfactory emissions were collected. The inclusion of biochar did not affect broiler performance, except for differences in proportion of breast fillet and meat quality that were most likely related to a slight dilution of the amino acids in the diet because of the biochar. Emissions of NH₃, N₂O and CH₄ were not reduced, but a tendency towards reduced olfactory emissions was found. Based on these results, under Austrian and Central European conditions biochar cannot be recommended as a measure to improve broiler performance and reduce emissions. However, the use of biochar is still relevant due to its proven positive effects on soil fertility, and the application already in the feed is one possible way to introduce it in the agricultural nutrient cycle.