Dietary cyanide effect on performance and serum testosterone of growing male pigs.

Abstract

48 growing male pigs were fed cyanide in different doses (0, 250, and 500 mg/kg) and its effect was determined on their growth performance and serum testosterone content. The rations were balanced as regards the energy and protein content. Increased cyanide additions had a significant influence on the weight gain, feed intake, as well as the feed and protein efficiency of the animals. Examination of the pancreas showed histological changes following high cyanide additions. Dietary cyanide levels of 500 mg/kg did significantly affect the serum testosterone level. A non-significant correlation (r = -0.22) existed between the daily cyanide intake and serum testosterone.