Synergistic benefits of olive pomace and multi-enzyme supplementation on fattening rabbit health and performance.

Introduction: Disposing of agricultural and forestry waste through incineration, as is common in current waste management practices, exacerbates environmental pollution. The olive oil industry produces substantial byproducts, including olive pomace (OP). Finding more cost-effective and environmentally friendly uses for these byproducts can help reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, and promote a circular economy. This study evaluated the physiological response of rabbits, including metabolic parameters, digestive enzyme activities, and caecal fermentation characteristics, to diets partially substituted with yellow corn, OP, and/or a multi-enzyme complex (Kemzyme, KE). Methods: A total of 120 New Zealand white rabbits were divided into four groups (30 rabbits each). The control group (CON) received a basal diet, the olive pomace group (OP) had 10% olive pomace added to their feed, while the enzyme group (KE) received 0.5% Kemzyme and the combination group (OP+KE) obtained both supplements. Results: Body weight increased significantly more in the OP+KE and KE groups compared to the other groups ( Discussion: These findings indicate that supplementing rabbit diets with Kemzyme, either alone or alongside olive pomace, effectively improves metabolic parameters, digestive enzyme activities, and intestinal morphology. This represents a sustainable advancement in rabbit nutrition, integrating agricultural byproducts with enzyme technology.