INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Uric acid and urea compose the nitrogen in the animal manure. After excretion, urea and
uric acid are liquefied to ammonia, which can be gone astray through volatilization. Ammonia
secretions, on the other hand, from animal manure to the atmosphere can cause numerous altered
problems, extending from human health to production problems to environmental difficulties.
Thus, exposure can lead to poor animal performance and adverse impacts on health.
Based from a study on probiotic drinks for animals, it shows great effects on the digestive
system and metabolism of the animals. This research caused an increase in the growth and
strength of animals with the use of lactobacilli drinks for fighting cocks. The researchers then
connect the possibility of using coconut juice based on the facts that coconut water can also help
in the digestion of foods and metabolism of animals.
The above information urged the researchers to do a feasibility study on the effects of
mixing coconut water and lactobacilli drink to lessen the ammonia (foul smell) and nitrogen
content of chicken manure thus protecting the health of people and the community in contact
with the manure every day.
Statement of the Problem
The study is mainly focused on the use of mixed coconut water and lactobacilli shirota
strain as chicken drink to reduce the foul odor from ammonia emission and nitrogen content of
the chicken manure.
The study specifically sought to answer the following questions:
1. How can coconut water and lactobacilli help in reducing foul odor from ammonia
emission in the chicken manure?
1

2. Will the mixed coconut water and lactobacilli help in lowering the pH level of the
chicken manure?
3. Compare the chicken manure of experimental and controlled set-ups of chickens in
their nitrogen content.
Hypothesis

HA - There is significant difference between experimental chicken manure and

controlled chicken manure in terms of its foul odor from ammonia emission and

nitrogen content.
HO There is no significant difference between experimental chicken manure
and controlled chicken manure in terms of its foul odor from ammonia emission
and nitrogen content.

Significance of the Study

Modern broiler and layer farm development has resulted in the production and
accumulation of enormous amounts of poultry manure (litter and feces). Disposal of this manure
is of significant environmental concern. Environmental pollution caused by nitrogen occurs in
two ways, as ammonia in the air or as nitrate in soil or ground water. This ammonia release
contributes to odor, area wide acid rain and nitrogen enrichment of the ground water. Ammonia
emission in the air and nitrate contamination of groundwater is generated from decomposition of
nitrogenous compounds in poultry manure, principally uric acid and undigested protein.
With the utilization of this chicken drink, the coco-lacto drink, chicken manure will be
free from foul odor, ammonia in the atmosphere will be lessened, so as the nitrogen content of
chicken manure, thus, preventing environmental pollution.

To the businessmen, their poultry business will be more productive in a way that they will
not worry about the affected people in their community regarding their business.
To the animals, this study will work on their organ systems which will be healthier than
the usual.
To the economy, the research will give the people more opportunities in the agricultural
industry.
Scope and Limitations
The investigative research study was mainly focused on the possibility of using mixed
coconut water and lactobacilli shirota strain as chicken drink in reducing the ammonia level (foul
odor) and nitrogen content of chicken manure. No other variables were observed.
The researchers used 1 L of coconut water with 13.8 grams of sugar, preheated at 55C
before mixing with the 80 mL lactobacilli drink. There were no other proportions used.
The mixed drink should be refrigerated or kept in a cool place not greater than 20 0C to
lengthen the coco-lacto drink shelf life.
The researchers only tested the drink to 10 chickens per set-up for the first
experimentation then 50 chickens per set-up for the second experimentation on an industrial
setting.
The effect of the coco-lacto drink was compared to only one set-up of controlled chicken
manure.
The chicken manure had undergone testing such as: sensory evaluation, acidity test, and
nitrogen content analysis only. No other tests were done on the chicken manure.
The research was conducted and observed for six months only.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Probiotics
According to Yan F. Polk (2006), in his study on Probiotics as functional food in the treatment
of diarrhea, The bacteria making up our intestinal flora play a vital role in the digestive system and
without them our digestive system would not function correctly. Factors such as diet, stress, ageing
and antibiotics may upset its balance. Many foods can help to improve the balance of bacteria in our
digestive system.
Based on the report of a Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Evaluation of Health and
Nutritional Properties of Probiotics in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria
(2001), Probiotics are foods that contain live beneficial bacteria that help to improve the overall
balance of bacteria in the digestive system. The majority of probiotic bacteria used in food production
are lactic acid bacteria such as species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.
Based on an article entitled Good For Your Gut from the Inside Matters magazine written by
Tania O Brien (ed.), Probiotics are found in a number of different sources including fermented milk
drinks (such as Yakult), yoghurts, capsules and powders. They are available at supermarkets and health
food stores throughout the country.
Based on the Yakult Product Information (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yakult), There are
approximately 6.5 billion bacteria in each bottle of Yakult. Provided the product is stored correctly,
this number is consistent throughout the product shelf life. That means that Yakult contains sufficient
4

bacteria which are proven to reach the intestines alive.

Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain

Based on the Yakult Company Profile (Pharmaceutical Divison), This particular strain
of Lactobacillus casei was chosen from a number of potential strains by Dr. Minoru Shirota in the
early 1930's and subsequently named in his honor. The genus name "Lactobacillus" refers to the
bacteriums ability to ferment sugars to product lactic acid (Lacto) and its distinctive rod shape
(bacillus). The species name "casei" is Latin for cheese. The Shirota strain is exclusive to Yakult
products worldwide.

Lactic Acid
As stated in the Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactic_acid#cite_note-lindinger-10),
Lactic acid, also known as milk acid, is a chemical compound that plays a role in various biochemical
processes and was first isolated in 1780 by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele. Lactic acid is a
carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C3H6O3. Lactic acid is found primarily in sour milk
products, such as koumiss, laban, yogurt, kefir, and some cottage cheeses. The casein in fermented
milk is coagulated (curdled) by lactic acid. Lactic acid is also responsible for the sour flavor of
sourdough breads. This acid is used in beer brewing to lower the wort pH in order to reduce some
undesirable substances such as tannins without giving off-flavors such as citric acid and increase the
body of the beer. Some brewers and breweries will use food grade lactic acid to lower the pH in
finished beers.
Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Water
The following nutritional benefits of coconut water were stated on the journal entitled
5

Coconut Water written by Lita Lee, Ph. D., The coconut water is a refreshing drink with an
electrolyzed (ionic mineral) content similar to human plasma. It is a popular natural sports drink for
oral rehydration and has a unique nutritional profile which provides many healing nutritional
properties which are discussed in this article.
Coconut water contains a complex blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates,
antioxidants, enzymes, health enhancing growth hormones, and other important nutrients. Because
its electrolyte (ionic mineral) content is similar to human plasma, it has gained international acclaim
as natural sports drink for oral rehydration. As such, it has proven superior to commercial sports
drinks. Unlike other beverages, it is completely compatible with the human body, in so much that it
can be infused directly into the bloodstream. In fact, doctors have used coconut water successfully
as an intravenous fluid for over 60 years.
The following medical and clinical researches on coconut water were based on the article
entitled Coconut Cures: Preventing and Treating Common Health Problems with Coconut by Fife,
B. (2011, September 3).
Published medical research and clinical observation have shown that coconut water:

Makes an excellent oral rehydration sports beverage - replaces electrolytes from exercise, heat
stress and illness

Natural isotonic beverage contains the same level of electrolytes found in human blood

Has 15 times the amount of potassium as most sports and energy drinks (264 mg vs. 12.5 mg /
100 ml)

Reduces problems for infants suffering from intestinal disturbances

6

Cardio protective: helps regular blood pressure (due to high potassium); improves circulation

Reduces swelling in hands and feet

Prevents abnormal blood clotting

Aids in kidney function including those with kidney stones; Nutritional support for those
with urinary tract/bladder problems

Helps balance blood sugar in diabetics

Improves digestion

Reported by some people to reverse cataracts

Contains nutrients that feed friendly gut bacteria

Helps relieve constipation or diarrhea

Possesses anti-aging properties

Nutritional support for healthy skin: restores strength and elasticity to skin; reduces age
spots; reduces wrinkles and sagging

Regulates the functioning of the intestine which promotes smoother, more hydrated skin

Enhances healing of wounds and lesions

Contains potent antioxidants

Nutritionally supports immune function

Provides nutrients important in preventing osteoporosis

Problems Associated with Animal Manures

The problems associated with animal manures were stated on the research paper entitled
Effects of Manure Amendments on Environmental and Production prepared by P. A. Moore, Jr.,

University of Arkansas, et. al.. The authors stated that, A large proportion of the nitrogen in
animal manure is present as uric acid and urea. Shortly after excretion, uric acid and urea are
hydrolyzed to ammonia, which can be lost via volatilization. While ammonia emissions from
animal manure are dependent on several factors, manure pH has the largest effect. Ammonia
emissions from animal manures to the atmosphere can cause several different problems, ranging
from human health to production problems to environmental problems. Ammonia levels can
reach high concentrations inside animal rearing facilities during the cooler months of the year,
since ventilation of these facilities is minimized to avoid high heating costs. Both humans and
livestock are sensitive to high levels of ammonia; exposure can result in poor animal
performance and negative impacts on health.
Moreover, they added that the biggest environmental concern with respect to animal
manures is currently phosphorus runoff, since is it normally the limiting nutrient for
eutrophication. Eutrophication has been identified as the biggest water quality problem in United
States surface waters. Since manure typically has a low nitrogen-to-phosphorus ratio, it causes a
buildup in soil phosphorus, which may lead to high phosphorus runoff. However, even when soil
test P levels are not high, phosphorus concentrations in runoff water can be high. The majority
8

(80-90%) of phosphorus in runoff from pastures fertilized with manure is in the soluble form,
which is the form most readily available for algal uptake. In fact, research has shown that the
dominant variable affecting P runoff is the soluble phosphorus concentration in the manure
In addition to the above problems, tens of millions of people are reported to have cases of
microbial food-borne illness each year. One source of food-borne illness is meat contaminated
with pathogens, such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and Listeria. These organisms are often
present in manure of poultry and livestock. Although food-borne illnesses pose the greatest risks
to humans from pathogens derived from animal manures, water quality can also be affected.

Effects of Manure Amendments

The research study of P. A. Moore and et. al. on animal manure, also determine several
different types of manure amendments that have been used to control ammonia emissions,
including clays, organic carbon amendments, microbial inhibitors, enzyme inhibitors, acids and
acid salts. Since manure pH is the variable that has the largest effect on volatilization, the most
common amendments used for ammonia control are acids. Weak acids, such as propionic and
lactic acid, have been shown to reduce pH and lower ammonia emissions. Likewise, strong acids,
such as sulfuric, nitric and phosphoric acid have been shown to be very effective in controlling
ammonia loss from manure. The problems with these acids are difficulty in handling
(particularly strong acids) and increased phosphorus runoff for phosphoric acid. The most
common manure amendments in the poultry industry are dry acids, such as aluminum sulfate,
ferrous sulfate and sodium bisulfate. However, ferrous sulfate is no longer used, since it has
caused toxicity catastrophic mortality in commercial broiler houses. One of the most effective
(and cost effective) manure amendments for ammonia control is aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3

14H2O), commonly referred to as alum. Alum additions to poultry litter have been shown to
reduce ammonia emissions by 99% in lab studies, resulting in much higher total nitrogen in
alum-treated litter than normal litter. This increased nitrogen content in litter has been shown to
result in significantly higher yields by crops. Studies conducted in commercial broiler houses
with alum show that the addition of this compound to manure reduces the pH significantly for
the first four weeks, resulting in a reduction in ammonia emissions by 75%. This reduction in
atmospheric ammonia has been shown to result in improved weight gains, better feed conversion
and lower propane use.
They stated that there is little research that has been conducted with manure amendments
with the purpose of reducing nitrate leaching. The only method reported in the literature was to
slow the conversion of ammonia to nitrate through the addition of nitrification inhibitors, such as
nitrapyrin [2-chloro-6(trichlormethyl)- pyridine], to manure to slow the nitrification process.
Another problem with adding basic compounds to manure would be the increase in ammonia
emissions that would be caused by increasing pH.
And lastly the authors cited many manure amendments, such as acids, affect survival and
reproduction of many different types of microorganisms, including pathogens. The effects of
alum and sodium bisulfate amendments to broiler litter on Campylobacter and Salmonella
colonization frequencies and populations have indicated that high rates of alum were 100%
effective in controlling Campylobacter colonization on chickens. Although alum was not as
effective at controlling Salmonella; alum treatments were significantly better than sodium
bisulfate for Salmonella control at all times

Evaluation of the nitrogen content in poultry manure

10

P. A. Moore also stated that, Proper estimation of the nitrogen (N) content of poultry
manure and proper manure handling are necessary to ensure that application rates minimize
emissions from the manure and nitrate leaching into the cropland. Uric acid and undigested
proteins are the two main N components in poultry manure that cause ammonia emissions and
nitrate leaching in the ground water. The ammonia that is applied to cropland may be 50 to 90%
of total N, depending upon the way the manure has been stored or treated. Ammonia and
hydrogen sulphide contents have been proven to be useful alternative measures of

odour

reduction. The order of importance in influencing ammonia formation is : litter pH >

temperature > moisture content. Total fixation of ammonia was achieved below pH 4 and
temperatures down 10C are necessary to have a negative effect on degradation and
volatilisation. Adsorbants such as sawdust and straw enable the capture some of the readily
available N and enable the microbial population to start immobilizing N. The organic fraction
of poultry manure had a C/N ratio that varied from 1 to 27:l. Most of the N (approximately 60 70%) excreted in poultry manure is in the form of uric acid and urea. Total N, total Kjeldahl N
(TKN), organic N, ammonium, nitrate and nitrite are significantly correlated with the amount
of N mineralised as well as the fraction of organic N mineralised during incubation. Some
useful equations are: Inorganic N (IN) = ammonium + nitrate + nitrite; Total N (TN) = TKN +
nitrate + nitrite; Organic N = TKN - ammonium or TN - (ammonium + uric acid) or TN - IN;
Available N (AN) = Inorganic N + 0.4 x organic N; Predicted available N (PAN) = 80%
Inorganic N + 60% Organic N. Recently Jungbluth et al. (2001) reported that there is a third
nitrogenous compound (N,O) that is harmful to the environment although data about N,O
emissions from animal houses are lacking because of the difficulties in measuring very low
N,O concentrations. The concentrations of N (protein and non-protein nitrogen - NPN), calcium

11

(Ca) and phosphorus (P) in poultry wastes are higher than in the wastes of other species, so the
value of poultry wastes as a source of these nutrients provides more incentive for the
utilization of this resource for plants and animals (Fontenot et al., 1983). Uric acid is the majority
of the NPN and is converted to ammonia, which is assimilated, by both plants and ruminants.
Differences in feed, feed conversion by different species of animals, age of the animals, type of
bedding material and water intake all affect the total nitrogen (TN) contents and N forms in
animal manure (MAFF, 1994). Manure types or manure from the same species of animals on
different diets have not clearly been distinguished. And since excessive application of poultry
manures into some cropping systems has resulted in ammonia emissions and nitrate
contamination of ground water, better characterization of the forms and amounts of N in animal
manure and a means of predicting organic N mineralisation is needed. Mineralisation from
organic forms to mineral forms of N is a prerequisite for plant uptake.
Nitrogen sources
According to P. A. Moore Jr. of University of Arkansas in his study, Uric acid and
undigested proteins are the two main N components in poultry feces, representing 70 and 30% of
the TN, respectively (Groot Koerkamp, 1994). The proportion of uric acid and fecal undigested
feed N can be highly influenced by animal diet. Factors increasing fecal N output include usage
of low-digestible feedstuffs; presence of antinutritive factors such as various fibre sources,
trypsin and chymotrysin inhibitors; lectins; phenolic compounds; and tannins (Baidoo, 2000;
Nahm, 2002). Absorbed amino acids that cannot be used for protein deposition are broken down,
and the N, in the form of uric acid in poultry, is excreted in the faeces. Amino acids are the
building blocks of protein. The various proteins in muscle, vital organs, bone, blood and other
tissues and fluids of the body consist of 20 primary amino acids. Chickens must receive
12

sufficient levels of essential amino acids in their diet for protein synthesis to occur at an optimal
rate.
It was stated also in the paper that the use of crystalline lysine and methionine in
poultry diets has been a common practice for many years. While many of the other essential
amino acids have been available, their cost has restricted their use in practical diets. This,
however, is changing as a result of biotechnology, new fermentation technologies and other new
technological advances. The price of these amino acids has decreased in recent years and they
are now being used to a limited extent in poultry diets. In one study, when dietary crude protein
was lowered from 17 to 13% for 24-week-old laying hens, faecal N excretion was reduced as
much as 34% without affecting egg production (Summers, 1993). Several researchers (Moran, Jr.
and Bushong, 1992; Moran, Jr., 1994) have shown that reducing the dietary protein content to 10
and 15%, while maintaining the required essential amino acid levels within each age period for
broilers, will reduce litter N content (percent dry matter) approximately 24% without impairing
weight gain. However, for various reasons (e.g., costs, time for research and development)
implementation is limited or impossible in a short time. Moreover, N-excretion cannot be totally
prevented by those methods.

The process of N loss

Based on the researchers of the study, In animal manure, N is found as both ammonia
and organic N. With manure storage pits or anaerobic lagoons, the organic N conversion to
ammonia results in volatilisation and loss of N ammonia into the air. This ammonia release
contributes to odour, area wide acid rain and N enrichment of the ground water. Depending on
13

how the manure has been stored or treated, up to 50 to 90% of the total N found in the manure
applied to cropland may be in the form of ammonia (Miner et al., 2000) Application of manure to
cropland or to the soil results in a change from an anaerobic to an aerobic environment.
Ammonia, present partially in the form of ammonium, is temporarily immobilized in the soil
by the attraction to the negatively charged soil particles. Aerobic bacteria then initiate the
process of conversion of ammonia to nitrite and then nitrate. When water moves downward
through the soil, nitrate is carried with the water and concentrates in groundwater. Ammonia
emission in the air and nitrate contamination of groundwater are generated from decomposition
of nitrogenous compounds in poultry manure, principally uric acid and undigested protein. The
decomposition of uric acid is described and was simplified by Vogels and Van der Drift (1976),
that undigested proteins change to ammonia as well as other chemicals. This decomposition
process requires the presence of water and oxygen, while ammonia and carbon dioxide are
products of the degradation process. Microorganisms commonly found in manure produce the
enzymes uricase and urease, which are specific to this reaction. Uric acid may also be degraded
by anaerobic microorganisms along other pathways, but these anaerobic pathways are much
slower than aerobic pathways. Temperature, pH and moisture content influences the degradation
of uric acid and proteins. The last steps of the degradation of uric acid depend on urease activity,
pH and temperature. Dry and liquid poultry manures have been shown to have degradation rates
of 8 and 40% per day, respectively (Burnett and Dondero, 1969), while a rate of 20% per day
has been reported for litter under optimal conditions (35C pH 9) (Elliot and Collins, 1982).
Decomposition of organic nitrogenous materials, or degradation, is kinetically very slow by nonbiological means and therefore microorganisms are required to mediate this reaction. At
temperatures above 30C, this process is known as composting and it requires aerobic conditions

14

(de Bertolde et al., 1983; Miller, 1989). When sufficient water and oxygen are available in dry
poultry manure, composting will take place. Relatively large amounts of organic material can be
lost due to the degradation process and volatilisation of water vapour and carbon dioxide. When
oxygen is absent, degradation is called rotting or fermentation (Groot Koerkamp et al., 1990).
When anaerobic conditions are present such as in wet slurry, many gaseous compounds may be
released. Some examples of these gases include ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen
sulphide and volatile fatty acids. N was mainly bound in organic forms in aerobic manure while
about two-thirds of the N in anaerobic manure was in the ammonium form (Kirchmann and
Witter, 1989). Painter (1977) gave a review of microbial transformations of inorganic N. Three
main processes were indicated in this review. 1) The fixation of dinitrogen resulting in ammonia
production (aerobic or anaerobic), 2) Ammonia can be converted to nitrite and subsequently
nitrate through nitrification (autotrophic or heterotrophic). Autotrophic nitrification is thought
to be more important, but oxygen must be available. This lowers the ammonia concentration. 3)
Microorganisms can utilize nitrate for their N source (assimilation - synthesis of N), or for their
oxygen (dissimilation). Ammonia is generally preferred to nitrate for assimilation, since nitrate
must first be reduced to ammonia for this process. In dissimilation, the end products can be
nitrite, nitric acid, nitrous oxide or dinitrogen. When the last three products are formed, the
process is called denitrification. The conditions must be anaerobic or nearly so, for dissimilation.
There still needs to be more research into this mechanism of N loss and the potential
environmental impact of N from poultry manure. Manure odours are never pure samples of one
odorant, but certain a mixture of many different odorants. Even though individual odorants may
be below the detection level, they may be smelled. Odorant volatility may be used to divide
compounds in the same chemical family into three odour notes (Hamilton and Arogo, 1999). The

15

odour chord may be divided into the highly volatile compounds of the top notes (e.g., hydrogen
sulphide and ammonia), the persistent compounds of the base notes [e.g., organic acids, phenolic
compounds, indole and skatole, organic sulphides (5 carbons) and dust-borne odorants] and the
compound with medium volatility of the middle notes [e.g. aldehydes, alcohol, ketones, amines,
mercaptans and organic sulphides (2 to 4 carbons)]. Ammonia and hydrogen sulphide have
been the two constituents most commonly measured odours, and volatile fatty acid
concentrations also have been used as a surrogate (Miner et al., 2000). Most researchers seem to
agree that none of the volatile fatty acids is a major constituent of odour from poultry facilities,
but the removal or reduction in ammonia and hydrogen sulphide concentrations has frequently
been proven as a useful measure of odour reduction.

Factors that affect the content of N in poultry manure

The factors that affect the content of nitrogen in poultry manure were also stated,
Animal for plant uptake, mineralisation of N from organic forms to mineral forms is necessary.
The N fertilizer value of a manure is calculated by adding its inorganic N contents and the
mineralisable organic N fraction. Factors that influence this total N content of manure include
differences in feed, feed conversion by different animal species, age of animal, bedding material
and water intake (MAFF, 1994). pH, temperature and moisture contents are important for better
management of poultry manure. Elliott and Collins (1982) reported that the order of
importance in influencing NH, formation of poultry manure was: litter pH > temperature >
moisture content. Hydrolysis of uric acid and undigested protein in the poultry manure plays a

16

major role in determining the rate of ammonia formation (Giddens and Rao, 1975). Since
the behaviour of most volatile compounds depends upon pH, the loss of ammonia and volatile
fatty acids from cattle and poultry manure was studied as a function of pH (Derikx et al., 1994).
Their results indicated that above pH 8 all ammonia was volatilised and below pH 5 all volatile
fatty acids evaporated. They said that total fixation of ammonia was achieved below pH 4 and
the amount of acid or alkali needed to obtain the desired pH varied strongly between the
various kinds of manure. It was shown that by reducing slurry pH, ammonia volatilisation can be
prevented and ammonia loss can be reduced by the addition of aluminium chloride, ferric
chloride, aluminium sulphate, calcium chloride and other chemicals to the slurry. However, due
to the common duct for urine and feces elimination in poultry, N contents of poultry manure are
generally higher than those for other livestock manure. And the N content in poultry manure
decreases with time after the manure is excreted, which influences the manure application rate
recommended. The pH of the litter and uric acid degradation are important properties that will
affect the NH, production and volatilisation processes, litter pH rises with litter use. The pH of
the litter depends strongly on the age and number of birds grown on it. Typically, new sawdust
and wood shavings have pH values in the 5 to 6.5 range (Turnbull and Snoeyenbos, 1973). The
hydrolysis reactions result in elevated pH levels that facilitate NH, volatilisation (Reynolds and
Wolf, 1987). The N in poultry manure can be conserved by either inhibiting the hydrolysis of
uric acid to NH, or by reducing NH, volatilization.

17

METHODOLOGY
A. Materials and Equipment
Materials like one liter of coconut juice (5 pieces of coconut), 80 ml. of
lactobacilli drink (one bottle of the commercialized probiotic drink, Yakult) and 13.8
grams of sugar were prepared for the experiment. A casserole where the coconut water
would be placed and heated, a clean cloth to cover the heated coconut juice, containers
for the mixed solution, disposable gloves, thermometer and syringe were also needed by
the researchers. Twenty bounty-bred chickens were bought by the researchers at a store
for the first experimentation and 100 chickens were used from poultry for the second
experimentation.
B. General procedures

18

Using a casserole, one liter of coconut water and 13.8 grams of sugar were heated
up to 55C until steam was visibly rising, then was placed on a sterilized container then
80 mL lactobacilli drink were mixed for about 2 to 3 minutes. The coco-lacto drink was
then cooled and kept in a cool and dry place with temperature not exceeding 20 0C
,refrigerated it, to maintain the shelf life of the drink.
For the first experimentation, done at the researchers home, the coco-lacto drink
was given to the experimental chickens labeled Treatment A and distilled water was given
to chickens on Treatment B as the controlled. Each chicken on Treatment A was given 5
mL of coco-lacto drink forcibly, three times a day until they were adapted to the taste of
the drink. Chickens from Treatment B were given 5 mL of distilled water, three times a
day. The experimentation lasted for 45 days until harvest days came.
The researchers performed the second experiment at a poultry site, same
procedure were done, but this time, to 100 chickens, fifty chickens for treatment A and
another fifty chickens for the treatment B. The experimentation last for 38 days until the
harvest day.
The chicken manure were then collected and tested for their acidity. Two grams of
chicken manure was tested for its acidity using the pH meter every day. Sensory
evaluations were done to test the foul odor of the chicken manure from Treatment A and
B. The chicken manure was tested for its nitrogen content at the DOST Laboratory.

19

CONCEPTUAL PARADIGM

Gathering of the materials

Heating of the collected
coconut water with sugar

Mixing of the heated coconut

water and lactobacilli

Cooling and storing of the

coco-lacto drink

Intake of the coco-lacto

drink to the chickens

Collection of the
Chicken Manure
Acidity Test pH
level
(Ammonia)

Testing

Comparing and analyzing

the results of the test

20

Nitrogen Content of
the manure

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The researchers used 1L of coconut water, 13.8 grams of sugar, and 80 mL of lactobacilli
as the formulation of the coco-lacto drink. The coco-lacto drink was given to the chickens on the
experimental set-up and distilled water to chickens on the controlled set-up, so as to compare
results on the effectivity of reducing ammonia (foul odor) and nitrogen content of chicken
manure
Table below shows the comparison:
Sensory evaluation was conducted by researchers to evaluate the effectivity of the cocolacto drink to the reduction of the foul odor from ammonia emission to the chicken manure. Ten
respondents evaluated the chicken manure. Using t-test, the researchers found out that there was
a significant difference on the reduction of ammonia emission (foul odor) on the chicken manure
between controlled and experimental set-up.
Table 1. Sensory Evaluation on the Odor (Ammonia Emission)
Chicken Manure

Odor of the Chicken

Manure- Ammonia
Emission
(Average)

Interpretation

Controlled

1.4

Dislike very much

(Very undesirable odor)

Experimental

4.5

Like very much

(no odor at all)

Descriptive Equivalent of Average Weighted Points

4.50-5.00- like very much (no odor at all)
21

3.50-4.492.50-3.491.50-2.491.00-1.49-

like moderately (very slight foul odor)

neither like nor dislike (slightly foul odor)
dislike moderately (undesirable odor)
dislike very much (very undesirable odor)

Table 2. Analysis of Variance to test the hypothesis

(Controlled Chicken
Manure)
X1

(Experimental
Chicken Manure)
X2

X12

X12

16

25

16

25

16

25

25

25

16

X12 = 22

X22 = 198

X1TOTAL = 14
n1 = 10
X1 = 1.4

X2

= 45

TOTAL

n2 = 10
X 2 = 4.4

t computed value 11.20 > t tabular value 2.101 = reject Ho

Since the t computed value of 11.20 which is greater than t tabular value of 2.101
at 0.05 level of significance 18 degrees of freedom, the null hypothesis is rejected, in
favor of the research hypothesis.

22

This means that there is significant difference between controlled and

experimental chicken manure in terms of its foul odor from ammonia emission of the
chicken manure.

Table 3. Comparison of the pH Level of Controlled and Experimental Chicken Manure

Every day, chicken manure was tested for its pH level. The following are the average pH
level of the chicken manure every after 5 days.
pH Level of the Experimental

pH Level of the Controlled

Chicken Manure

(X1)
8.40
8.28
8.65
8.79
8.51
8.59
8.35
8.73
8.81
8.69
X1 = 85.8
n1 = 10
X1 = 8.58

Chicken Manure

X12
70.56
68.56
74.82
77.26
72.42
73.79
69.72
76.21
77.62
75.52
X12 = 736.48

(X2)

X22

7.78
60.53
7.13
50.84
6.69
44.76
6.80
46.24
6.72
45.16
7.17
51.41
6.50
42.25
6.62
43.82
6.77
45.83
6.76
45.70
X2 = 68.94
X22 = 476.54
n2 = 10
X2 = 6.894

t computed value 12.71 > t tabular value 2.101 = reject Ho

Since the t computed value of 12.71 which is greater than t tabular value of 2.101
at 0.05 level of significance 18 degrees of freedom, the null hypothesis is rejected, in
favor of the research hypothesis.

23

This means that there is significant difference between controlled and

experimental chicken manure in terms of its acidity thus lowering ammonia emission of
the chicken manure.

24

Table 4: Comparison on the Nitrogen Content between Controlled and Experimental

Chicken Manure Based on DOST Chemical Analysis
25

Chicken Manure

Crude Protein

Nitrogen-Content

Controlled

6.62 %

1.06 %

Experimental

5.51 %

0.88 %

The table shows that the experimental chicken manure has lower nitrogen-content
compared to the controlled chicken manure. This proves that the coco-lacto is an effective
drink that lessens the nitrogen on the chicken manure.

CONCLUSIONS

26

Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were made by the
researchers:
1. After the sensory evaluation and t-test, the researchers found that there is
significant difference between the experimental and the controlled chicken
manure in terms of the reduction of foul odor from ammonia emission on the
manure.
2. After the acidity test and t-test, the researchers found that the acid level of the
experimental chicken manure was lower than the controlled manure thus
proving that the coco-lacto drink lowers the acidity of the chicken manure that
resulted to lower ammonia emission.
3. Based on the DOST chemical analysis on the nitrogen content of the
experimental and controlled chicken manure, the researchers found that cocolacto drink for chicken can be an effective way to reduce the nitrogen content
of the chicken manure, thus can lower the ammonia emission on air and the
nitrate content which is one of the pollutants of the soil.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings of the study, these were the following recommendations given by the
researchers:
1. The process of preparing the coco-lacto drink is very simple but further research on
other ratios and proportions and its effects to the nitrogen content are suggested.
2. Since the researchers observed the effectivity of the coco-lacto drink lasted only for 6
months and two trials only, it is suggested that continuous observation on the shelf
life and effectivity of the coco-lacto drink should be observed.
27

3. Since the researchers do not have enough money to finance the other testing and
chemical analysis of the project, such as ammonium nitrogen NH4-N and the total
nitrate-nitrogen NO3-N analysis, it is recommended that these analysis should be
conducted at the DOST laboratories.
4. Since the researchers focused only on the effect of the coconut water and lactobacilli
drink to reduce the ammonia and nitrogen content on the chicken manure, it is
recommended by the researchers that it is tested on different animal manures such as,
hogs, cows, carabaos, goats, and other livestock animals.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The researchers extend their warmest appreciation and gratitude to the following people:
To Mrs. Emerlie Santos, their Adult sponsor, for guiding them and giving them
information and equipments needed for the experiment;
To Mr. Crisanto Baluyot who helped them improved their research paper;
To Ms. Liza Bantay and Mrs. Anna Bellie Morales for giving them the guidance
regarding Statistics;
To Mr. Frederick De Guzman for coming along with the researchers to conduct their
experiments;
To Mr. Vincent Santos, English teacher, who helped them in grammar checking;

28

To Mr. & Mrs. Malcolm Velasquez, owner of Yeye Poultry, who allowed them to go to
the poultry and let them do the research in their poultry;
To Mr. Pablito Pontella, a caretaker for assisting them in the poultry;
To Dr. Jano Jay Badana, a veterinary doctor who supervised them in doing the
experimentation;
To Ms. Diana Cecilia Z. Estrella and Ms. Catalina D. Cruz, of the DOST Region 3, for
the suggestions and assisting them in the manures chemical analyses.
To their parents who were very supportive in their research;
To their classmates who gave them moral support and financial assistance;
And most especially to God, who gave them the wisdom in order for them to accomplish
the research.

The Researchers

BIBLIOGRAPHY
P. A. Moore, Jr., University of Arkansas, Effects of manure amendments on environmental and
production problems, Retrieved January 20, 2012,
from http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/waste_mgt/natlcenter/whitepapersummaries/effects.pdf

Fife, B. (2011, September 3).Coconut Cures: Preventing and Treating Common Health Problems with
Coconut. Files, Retrieved February 19, 2012, from http://www.piccadillybooks.com/coconutcures.htm

29

Lee, L., Ph. D, Coconut water article Retrieved January 20, 2012 from
http://www.litalee.com/shopexd.asp?id=388

Yan F, Polk DB (November 2006). "Probiotics as functional food in the treatment of diarrhea".
Report of a Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Evaluation of Health and Nutritional
Properties of Probiotics in Food Including Powder Milk with Live Lactic Acid Bacteria
(October 2001) Retrieved February 19, 2012 from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probiotic#cite_note-FAO.2FWHO-0
Yakult Company Profile: Pharmaceutical Division Retrieved February 19, 2012 from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yakult Retrieved February 19, 2012
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactic_acid Retrieved February 19, 2012
O Brien, Tania. Good For Your Gut. Inside Matters Magazine. Summer 2011: 1-2., Retrieved
Yakult Product Information Retrieved February 19, 2012 from
http://www.yakult.com.au/product01.htm / (2012, February 19)

APPENDIX A

30

Preparation of the Coco-lacto drink

Preparation and storage of the coco-lacto drink

Oral intake of the coco-lacto drink

31

Evaluation of the odor of the experimental and the controlled chicken manure

Acidity test of the chicken manure

The chickens in the industrial setting

32

APPENDIX B
Questionnaire Checklist
(A)
Dear_________________
,
Attached herewith is a questionnaire checklist that you are
requested to accomplish in relation to our investigatory project .The
Feasibility Study on the Effectivity of Mixed Coconut Water and Lactobacilli as
Drink for Chickens to reduce the Ammonia and Nitrogen Content of Chicken
Manure.

PART I
Direction: Please read and answer the needed information asked for and
write the response on the blanks provided.
Name:____________________________________________
Age:___________________
Occupation:________________________________________
Position:________________

PART II
How do you find the odor of the experimental chicken manure compared to
the controlled chicken manure? Please answer the appropriate items. The
rating scale below will guide you.
Numerical Scoring Guide in Odor Test (ammonia content)
5- like very much (no odor at all)

33

4- like moderately (very slight foul odor )

3- neither like nor dislike (slightly foul odor)
2-dislike moderately (undesirable odor)
1- dislike very much (very undesirable odor)
Descriptive Equivalent of Average Weighted Points
4.50-5.00- like very much (no odor at all)
3.50-4.49- like moderately (very slight foul odor)
2.50-3.49- neither like nor dislike (slightly foul odor)
1.50-2.49- dislike moderately (undesirable odor)
1.00-1.49- dislike very much (very undesirable odor)

Sensory Evaluation Test: Assign the Appropriate Sensory Evaluation

Chicken Manure

Scores

Experimental
Controlled

Signature of the Respondent: _____________________

34

APPENDIX C
Sensory Evaluation of the Ten Evaluators
Numerical Scoring Guide in Odor Test (ammonia content)
5- like very much (no odor at all)
4- like moderately (very slight foul odor )
3- neither like nor dislike (slightly foul odor)
2-dislike moderately (undesirable odor)
1- dislike very much (very undesirable odor)
Descriptive Equivalent of Average Weighted Points
4.50-5.00- like very much (no odor at all)
3.50-4.49- like moderately (very slight foul odor)
2.50-3.49- neither like nor dislike (slightly foul odor)
1.50-2.49- dislike moderately (undesirable odor)
1.00-1.49- dislike very much (very undesirable odor)
Number of Respondents

Scores
(Controlled Chicken Manure)

Scores
(Experimental Chicken
Manure)
4

10

35

Average= 1.4

Average = 4.5

Computations of t-test
Table of the t-test for the experimental and the controlled chicken manure to prove the difference
between the manure in terms of their odor.
(Controlled Chicken
Manure)
X1

(Experimental
Chicken Manure)
X2

X12

X22

16

25

16

25

16

25

25

25

16

X12 = 22

X22 = 198

X1TOTAL = 14

X2

= 45

TOTAL

SS1 = X12 (X1)2

n1
= 22 (14)2
10
= 22 19.6
= 2.4

SS2 = X22 (X2)2

n2
2
= 198 (45)
10
= 198 202.5
= 4.5

t =

X1 - X2
SS 1+ SS 2 1
1
(
)( + )
n 1+ n 1 2 n1 n 2

t =

+ .1

( 0.378 )( 0.2 )

1.4 4.5

36

+3.1

2.4+ 4.5
1 1
)( + )
10+102 10 10

- 3.1

6.9
)(0.1+0.1)
18

t computed value > t tabular value

= reject Ho
11.20 > 2.101 = reject Ho

For every day, chicken manure was tested for its pH level. The following are the average pH
level of the chicken manure every after 7 days.
pH Level of the
Controlled chicken
Manure (X1)

X12

pH Level of the
Experimental Chicken
Manure (X2)

X22

8.40

70.56

7.78

60.53

8.28

68.56

7.13

50.84

8.65

74.82

6.69

44.76

8.79

77.26

6.80

46.24

8.51

72.42

6.72

45.16

8.59

73.79

7.17

51.41

8.35

69.72

6.50

42.25

8.73

76.21

6.62

43.82

8.81

77.62

6.77

45.83

8.69

75.52

6.76

45.70

X2 = 68.94

X22 = 476.54

X1 = 85.8

X1 = 736.48

n1 = 10
X1 = 8.58

n2 = 10
X2 = 6.894

SS1 = X12 ( X1)2

n1
= 736.48 (85.8)2
10
= 736.48 736.164
= 0.32

SS2 = X22 ( X2)2

37

N2
= 476.54 (68.94)2
10
= 476.54 475.27
= 1.27

t =
=

X1 - X 2

1 +
SS1 + SS2
8.58 16.89
n1 +0.32+1.27
n1 2
1

(
=

(
=

18
1.69
1.59
18

)(

n1 n2

)(

0.2

10

1
10

t computed value > t tabular value

= reject Ho
12.71 > 2.101 = reject Ho

1.69
0.1329

= 12.71
This means that there is significant difference in the acidity level between
experimental and controlled chicken manure that affect the ammonia emission in the
atmosphere.

38