Análisis químico del agua con espinaca (spinacia oleracea) y su estudio de mercado en pollos de engorde.

Abstract

This research focused on the market study of broiler chickens fed with water enriched with spinach extract. The objective was to evaluate consumer acceptance regarding skin pigmentation, the prices they would be willing to pay, and the perceived benefits of using spinach extract in chicken feed. Sensory surveys and analysis tools were applied to determine the viability of different treatments with spinach extract at 5%, 10%, and 15%. In addition, it sought to identify consumer preferences and their willingness to pay a differentiated price for products with improved characteristics. The study was carried out in the El Carmen canton, specifically in the El Carmen Market Wholesalers Association, where the 15 partners who are dedicated to the sale of chickens participated. The results showed that 100% of the sellers consider skin pigmentation important in the consumer purchasing decision. Likewise, 53.33% of respondents prefer chickens with yellow skin and 60% would be willing to pay a differentiated price of $1.30 per pound. In a sensory survey conducted with 15 consumers outside the market, 60% chose label "B" (10% spinach extract) as the most attractive for its appearance, while label "C" (15% extract) stood out for having the best flavor during tasting. Cochran's formula was also used to determine a representative sample size, obtaining a total of 254 people surveyed. These data allow for a deeper analysis of the acceptance and economic viability of using spinach extract in broiler chicken feed, highlighting the potential of this approach to meet market demands and improve the competitiveness of local producers who manage chicken consumption at the slaughter stage.