Poultry Judging Practice Test

Which of the following best describes the use of the gizzard in poultry?

1. It acts as a storage organ.

2. It grinds food.

3. It absorbs nutrients.

4. It serves as a protective layer for the heart.

The correct answer is: It grinds food.

The gizzard plays an essential role in the digestive system of poultry, primarily functioning as a muscular organ that grinds food. This grinding process is crucial because poultry do not have teeth to chew their food. Instead, they consume small stones or grit that assist the gizzard in breaking down fibrous materials and seeds, allowing for better digestion and nutrient absorption as the food passes through the digestive tract. This mechanical breakdown is vital for the efficient processing of feed, particularly in birds that consume tough and coarse foods.