Production Efficiency and Utility Features of Broiler Ducks Fed with Feed Thinned with Wheat Grain

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The production of broiler ducks on farms (incl. small-scale farms) can be carried out using various feeding and maintenance systems. During times of increasing feed prices and many challenges, a solution is sought that will result in efficient production. Owing to the high cost of complete feed, partial replacement with a wheat grain (10–40%), often from the farm’s resources, could reduce these costs. In this study, we found no adverse effects on the production performance or on the quality characteristics of meat. Moreover, an increased profit was shown according to analysis of the potential sales of duck carcasses, which is the essence of production with changes and challenges faced by producers in the agri-food market. ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the production efficiency (economics), growth, and meat quality of ducks fed with feed partially replaced with wheat. A total of 200 ducks were reared for 49 days. Each group consisted of 50 ducks (5 pens with 10 birds). For slaughter, 10 birds per group were chosen. The control group (C) was provided with a complete feed. In the experimental groups, from 42 to 49 days, the feed was replaced with wheat grains at the level of 10% (W10), 20% (W20), or 40% (W40). In the W20 and W40 groups, the cost of feed was reduced. In the W40 group, the profit per 1 kg carcass was increased by PLN 3.34 (more than 24% higher than the C group profit). A higher percentage of pectoral muscles and intramuscular fat was observed in the W20 group, with lower water content. A lower water-holding capacity (WHC) was observed in the duck leg muscles in group W40. The muscles from the W20 group had higher protein, collagen, and water content, and the fat was highest in the W40 group. A lower toughness of cooked meat was observed in the W20 group, and lower shear force in the pectoral muscles of groups C and W40. Thinning feed with wheat grains could represent an alternative to conventional feeding of broiler ducks, owing to reduced feed costs, with no negative impact on utility features, including growth, except the share of pectoral muscle and water absorption traits.