Análisis químico del agua con achiote y su estudio de mercado en pollos de engorde.

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the viability of marketing broiler chickens using natural pigments, specifically annatto paste (Bixa orellana), in the canton of El Carmen. The study analyzed its acceptance in the local market and the impact on the perception of both merchants and consumers. Different concentrations of annatto extract in the drinking water (5%, 10%, 15% and control without annatto) were analyzed to determine its effect on the appearance, texture and flavor of the chicken. A survey applied to the 15 members of the Association of Wholesale Poultry Farmers of the El Carmen market revealed that 93% consider that pigmentation influences marketing and 80% prefer to purchase chickens with yellow skin. In a sensory test, 47% of consumers highlighted the fresh and attractive appearance of chicken treated with annatto extract, while 58% identified the treatment with 10% extract as the most pleasant in texture and flavor. On the other hand, a survey of 382 consumers, calculated using the Cochran formula, showed that 95% would be willing to purchase chickens enriched with natural pigments, and 92% positively valued skin color as a visually attractive aspect. This market analysis provides valuable information for poultry producers, allowing them to incorporate natural pigments such as annatto to meet consumer demands, improve product perception and open new opportunities in the poultry sector.