The potential hepato-renal toxic effects of glutamate and sulfite sodium in broiler chickens

Abstract

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) and sulfite are frequently used as flavor enhancer and most applied as food additives in modern nutrition globally. This study was planned to investigate the toxic effect of MSG on liver and kidney when administered to broiler chickens during the growth period. Forty, day-old, unsexed Ross broiler chicks, assigned into 4 groups: (10 chicks each), fed on standard diet mixed with 0.75g of MSG/kg (group A), sodium metabisulfite 3.5g/kg (group B), 0.75g MSG + 3.5g sulfite /kg (group C) and control group (group D). Oxidative stress indicators malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were determined. Liver and kidney function testes for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme and creatinine metabolite were examined. Histopathology of liver and kidney tissues were conducted in all exposed groups. The results indicated increase in the levels of serum ALP, creatinine, MDA and SOD in all exposed groups in comparison with control. Disturbance in hepatic architecture with hydropic changes in hepatic cells with congestion of the interstitial blood vessels and necrobiosis of renal tubular epithelium were also registered.