The role of olfaction in oil preference in the chicken.

TitleThe role of olfaction in oil preference in the chicken.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1996
AuthorsMabayo, R. T., Okumura J., Hirao A., Sugita S., Sugahara K., & Furuse M.
JournalPhysiology & behavior
Volume59
Issue6
Pagination1185-8
Date Published1996 Jun
KeywordsAnimals, Chickens, Diet, Food Preferences, Male, Oils, Olfactory Bulb, Olfactory Nerve, Smell, Triglycerides, 嗅觉生理
Abstract

The role of olfaction on the preference of diets containing 20% medium-chain (MCT) or long-chain triacylglycerol (LCT) was investigated in the chicken. Olfactory bulbectomized, sham-operated (Sham) or intact (Intact) birds were offered a choice between LCT or MCT diet and food intake was measured over a short time period. Intact and Sham groups showed a significant preference for LCT over MCT diet, but olfactory-bulbectomized chickens lost the preference for LCT over MCT. The bilateral cutting of the olfactory nerves confirmed the results taken in olfactory bulbectomy. It is concluded that olfaction plays a major role in the preference of diets containing MCT or LCT in chickens.
Alternate JournalPhysiol. Behav.