Effect of non-ionising radiation on body weight and growth of the gastro-intestinal tract in broilers.

1. The effect of time dose microwave radiation (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 s at a wave frequency of 2,450 MHz and a density of 406 mW/sq cm) on body weight and growth of the gastro-intestinal tract was studied in commercial broilers. 2. In general, the observed effects increased in a linear fashion with the microwave dose. 3. Birds exposed to 40 or 50 s were significantly heavier at 8 weeks than non-treated birds. 4. The microwave treatments caused an increase in weight and a decrease in length of the whole gastro-intestinal tract. 5. The regions of the gastro-intestinal tract were affected differently: the largest effects being recorded in the duodenum, small intestine and rectum.