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Objective: The aim of this study was to assess weight gain and meat quality in New Zealand rabbits supplemented with foliage from Ramon tree (Brosimum alicastrum), cocoite (Gliricidia sepium), and moringa (Moringa oleifera).
Design/methodology/approach: Fifteen weaned New Zealand rabbits were randomly allocated to one of the following treatments: T1, balanced feed plus fresh B. alicastrum foliage; T2, balanced feed plus fresh G. sepium foliage; and T3, balanced feed plus fresh M. oleifera foliage. Treatments were evaluated using a completely randomized design with five replicates per treatment. The study variables included foliage intake, balanced feed intake, live weight, hot and cold carcass weight, carcass yield, and sensory evaluation (odor, flavor, taste, and residual aftertaste). Results: The highest intake of G. sepium (8.9 g dry matter [DM] day⁻¹) was associated with the lowest balanced feed intake (60 g day⁻¹). In contrast, supplementation with M. oleifera, together with balanced feed intake, resulted in greater live weight and higher hot and cold carcass yields. Moreover, meat from rabbits receiving M. oleifera obtained the highest scores in the sensory analysis. Limitations on study/implications: Reducing feeding costs may enhance the efficiency of rabbit production systems and increase the overall output of high-quality meat. Findings/conclusions: The findings suggest that foliage supplementation may represent a viable alternative for rabbit production under tropical conditions.