Effects of dietary inclusion of fermented cottonseed meal on growth, cecal microbial population, small intestinal morphology, and digestive enzyme activity of broilers

An investigation into the influence of fermented cottonseed meal on the productive performance, egg quality, and gut health in laying hens

The present study investigates the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with either cottonseed meal (CSM) or fermented cottonseed meal (FCSM) on the productive performance, egg quality, blood biochemistry parameters, gut bacterial population, and small intestinal morphology of laying hens. A total of 648 Hy-Line W36 laying hens aged 40 weeks were randomly assigned to 9 treatments, with 6 replicates each and 12 birds per replicate. The feeding trial lasted 12 weeks. The treatments consisted of a control diet based on corn and SBM, as well as 8 experimental diets in which 7.5, 15, 22.5, and 30% of the SBM in the control diet was replaced with either CSM or FCSM. Laying hens fed diets with different levels of FCSM had higher egg production and egg mass than those fed with CSM diets at weeks 46 to 51 (P < 0.05). Diets containing FCSM also significantly improved the feed conversion ratio at weeks 40 to 45 and 46 to 51 (P < 0.05). Eggshell strength was significantly greater in birds fed diets containing FCSM than those fed other dietary treatments at 51 weeks of age (P < 0.05). Hens fed diets containing FCSM had higher calcium and lower cholesterol in serum than those on other diets (P < 0.05). Replacing SBM with FCSM decreased the egg yolk cholesterol content (P < 0.05). Additionally, feeding diets containing different levels of FCSM increased villus height and villus height to crypt depth in the jejunum (P < 0.05). Diets containing FCSM also reduced pH and coliform population in the ileum, and ceca and increased lactic acid bacteria count in the crop and ceca (P < 0.05). Overall, the present data showed that including FCSM in the diet of laying hens can positively affect productive performance compared to CSM. Moreover, substituting SBM with FCSM, can improve eggshell quality, promote gut health, and reduce egg yolk cholesterol concentration.

The Impact of Essential Amino Acids on the Gut Microbiota of Broiler Chickens

The research involving the beneficial aspects of amino acids being added to poultry feed pertaining to performance, growth, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio is extensive. Yet currently the effects of amino acids on the gut microbiota aren't fully understood nor have there been many studies executed in poultry to explain the relationship between amino acids and the gut microbiota. The overall outcome of health has been linked to bird gut health due to the functionality of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) for digestion/absorption of nutrients as well as immune response. These essential functions of the GI are greatly driven by the resident microbiota which produce metabolites such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate, providing the microbiota a suitable and thrive driven environment. Feed, age, the use of feed additives and pathogenic infections are the main factors that have an effect on the microbial community within the GIT. Changes in these factors may have potential effects on the gut microbiota in the chicken intestine which in turn may have an influence on health essentially affecting growth, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. This review will highlight limited research studies that investigated the possible role of amino acids in the gut microbiota composition of poultry.

Different levels of single-strain probiotic (Bacillus subtilis) with proteolytic enzyme (serratiopeptidase) can be used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in broiler

In the current study, the proteolytic enzyme (serratiopeptidase) was used to enhance the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) probiotic as a growth promotor in broiler chicken. The effects of serratiopeptidase on the efficacy of different levels of B. subtilis as a growth promotor in broiler chicks were evaluated regarding growth performance traits, villus histomorphometric characterization, and intestinal microbiota count. Day-old broiler chicks (n = 120) were allocated into 4 groups having 3 replicates/group. In the control group (C), the basal diet was kept without supplementation. In treatment groups (P100, P150, and P200), the basal diet was supplemented with 100, 150, and 200 mg probiotics, respectively besides 30 mg proteolytic enzyme in the 3 treated groups for 4 wk. The performance parameters were significantly affected by the supplementation of serratiopeptidase to the B. subtilis treatment groups. Feed intake (FI), body weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and dressing percent were significantly improved in the treatment groups as compared to the control group. Significantly, the lowest feed intake was recorded for the P200 group. The highest body weight gain and dressing percentage were recorded for the P200 group. An improved FCR was recorded in the P200 group (1.7) as compared to the control group. The different levels of B. subtilis supplemented with serratiopeptidase revealed significant improvements (P<0.05) in the morphology of the intestine by showing increases in villus height and width and crypt depth of the small intestine. The microbial count revealed that E. coli and salmonella colonies were significantly reduced in the P200 group as compared to the control and other treatment groups. In conclusion, the supplementation of B. subtilis with serratiopeptidase as a growth promoter in broiler chicks significantly improved the overall performance, and intestinal health and reduced microbial load contributing to optimizing the performance of broiler chickens. The greatest improvement was observed in the P200 group fed with B. subtilis as a probiotic and serratiopeptidase enzyme (200 mg:30 mg).

Effects of fermented rapeseed meal on performance, intestinal morphology, the viscosity of intestinal content, phosphorus availability, and egg quality of laying hens

Fermented rapeseed meal has the potential to partial replace soybean meal in feed mixtures for poultry without a negative impact on the health condition and performance of birds. This is due to the fact that the fermentation process can reduce the amount of antinutritional factors, improve the use of nutrients and impart probiotic properties to rapeseed meal. Therefore, this study was undertaken to investigate the effect of fermented rapeseed meal on the performance, egg quality, intestinal morphometry, the viscosity of intestinal content and total phosphorus availability. A total of 108 Lohmann Brown laying hens at 26 wk of age were used in the 90-day study. All hens were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups, with 12 replicates (cages) each, as follows: control group received no rapeseed meal, the URSM group received 3% unfermented rapeseed meal and the FRSM group received 3% fermented rapeseed meal. In the case of performance, egg traits, sensory evaluation of eggs, the viscosity of intestinal content and the availability of total phosphorus, if the distribution was normal, a 1-way analysis of variance was performed. If the distribution was not normal, the Kruskal-Wallis test was performed. In the case of histomorphometric evaluation of the intestine, if the distribution was normal, the Student t test for independent samples was performed. If not, a Mann-Whitney U test was performed. The performed analyses showed that the supplementation of fermented rapeseed meal had no negative effect on the performance of birds and the quality of eggs. Fermented rapeseed meal was also associated with improved histomorphometric parameters of the small intestine compared to the group receiving unfermented rapeseed meal in the feed. Laying hens from FRSM group were characterized by significantly lower viscosity of intestinal content (P < 0.05) compared to URSM group. Phosphorus in FRSM group was significantly more available to the birds (P < 0.05) compared to URSM group. These results suggest that supplementation with fermented rapeseed meal may be beneficial, especially in times of unstable prices of soybean meal and problems with its availability.

The Effects of Fermented Feed on the Growth Performance, Antioxidant Activity, Immune Function, Intestinal Digestive Enzyme Activity, Morphology, and Microflora of Yellow-Feather Chickens

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of fermented feed on growth performance, antioxidant activity, immune function, intestinal digestive enzyme activity, morphology, and microflora of yellow-feather chickens. A total of 240 one-day-old female yellow-feathered (Hexi dwarf) chickens were randomly divided into two treatment groups, with six replicates per group and 20 chickens per replicate. The control group (CK) received a basal diet, whereas the experimental group was fed a basal diet of +2.00% fermented feed (FJ). The trial lasted for 22 days. Compared with the CK, (1) the growth performance was not affected (p > 0.05); (2) immunoglobin a, immunoglobin g, immunoglobin m, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6 were affected (p < 0.05); (3) liver superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase were higher (p < 0.05); (4) trypsin activity in the duodenum and cecal Shannon index were increased (p < 0.05); (5) the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota in cecum was increased (p < 0.05); (6) the abundance of dominant microflora of Bacteroides as well as Clostridia UCG-014_norank were increased (p < 0.05). In summary, the fermented feed improved the growth performance, antioxidant activity, immune function, intestinal digestive enzyme activity, morphology, and microflora of yellow-feather chickens.

Investigating the modulatory effects of Moringa oleifera on the gut microbiota of chicken model through metagenomic approach

Introduction

This study aimed to assess the effects of supplementing chicken feed with Moringa oleifera leaf powder, a phytobiotic, on the gastrointestinal microbiota. The objective was to examine the microbial changes induced by the supplementation.

Methods

A total of 40, one-day-old chickens were fed their basal diet for 42 days and then divided into two groups: SG1 (basal diet) and SG2 (basal diet + 10 g/kg Moringa oleifera leaf powder). Metagenomics analysis was conducted to analyze operational taxonomic units (OTUs), species annotation, and biodiversity. Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing was performed for molecular characterization of isolated gut bacteria, identified as Enterococcus faecium. The isolated bacteria were tested for essential metabolites, demonstrating antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities.

Results and discussion

The analysis revealed variations in the microbial composition between the control group (SG1) and the M. oleifera-treated group (SG2). SG2 showed a 47% increase in Bacteroides and a 30% decrease in Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Tenericutes compared to SG1. TM7 bacteria were observed exclusively in the M. oleifera-treated group. These findings suggest that Moringa oleifera leaf powder acts as a modulator that enhances chicken gut microbiota, promoting the colonization of beneficial bacteria. PICRUSt analysis supported these findings, showing increased carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in the M.oleifera-treated gut microbiota.

Conclusion

This study indicates that supplementing chicken feed with Moringa oleifera leaf powder as a phytobiotic enhances the gut microbiota in chicken models, potentially improving overall health. The observed changes in bacterial composition, increased presence of Bacteroides, and exclusive presence of TM7 bacteria suggest a positive modulation of microbial balance. The essential metabolites from isolated Enterococcus faecium bacteria further support the potential benefits of Moringa oleifera supplementation.

Effects of nonantibiotic growth promoter combinations on growth performance, nutrient utilization, digestive enzymes, intestinal morphology, and cecal microflora of broilers

Given the ban on antibiotic growth promoters, the effects of nonantibiotic alternative growth promoter combinations (NAGPCs) on the growth performance, nutrient utilization, digestive enzyme activity, intestinal morphology, and cecal microflora of broilers were evaluated. All birds were fed pellets of two basal diets-starter (0-21 d) and grower (22-42 d)-with either enramycin (ENR) or NAGPC supplemented. 1) control + ENR; 2) control diet (CON, basal diet); 3) control + mannose oligosaccharide (MOS) + mannanase (MAN) + sodium butyrate (SB) (MMS); 4) control + MOS + MAN + Bacillus subtilis (BS) (MMB); 5) control + MOS + fruit oligosaccharide (FOS) + SB (MFS); 6) control + FOS + BS (MFB); 7) control + MOS + FOS + MAN (MFM); 8) control + MOS + BS + phytase (PT) (MBP). ENR, MOS, FOS, SB, MAN, PT, and BS were added at 100, 2,000, 9,000, 1,500, 300, 37, and 500 mg/kg, respectively. The experiment used a completely random block design with six replicates per group: 2400 Ross 308 broilers in the starter phase and 768 in the grower phase. All NAGPCs significantly improved body weight gain (P < 0.01), utilization of dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein (P < 0.05), villus height and villus height/crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.01), and decreased the feed conversion ratio (P < 0.01) at d 21 and 42. MMS, MMB, MFB, and MFM duodenum trypsin, lipase, and amylase activities increased significantly (P < 0.05) at d 21 and 42. On d 21 and 42, MMS, MMB, and MBP increased the abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroides whereas MMB, MFB, and MBP decreased the abundance of Proteobacteria, compared to ENR and CON. Overall, the NAGPCs were found to have some beneficial effects and may be used as effective antibiotic replacements in broilers.

Clostridium autoethanogenum protein inclusion in the diet for broiler: Enhancement of growth performance, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation of the new single-cell protein Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) on growth performance, plasma biochemical indexes, liver histology, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota in Cobb broilers. According to the randomized block experimental design, 960 Cobb broilers (1d old) were divided into six treatments with eight replicates of 20 birds each. Six isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated with different contents of CAP (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5%) to replace soybean meal (SBM). The results showed that the addition of CAP did not influence liver health when it exceeded 2%. The protein metabolism markers and feed conversion rate increased (P < 0.05), significantly improving the growth performance. When the content of CAP was greater than 4%, it could promote lipolysis without affecting lipogenesis, decreasing the abdominal fat rate. There was no significant difference in MDA between these groups (P = 0.948). The increase of SOD and GSH-Px indicated the enhancement of antioxidant response. Alpha diversity did not significantly differ between groups (P > 0.05). Inclusion of 4% or less CAP led to the increase in beneficial microbiota, the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid (P < 0.05), and the concentration of primary bile acids such as cholic acid and goose deoxycholic acid (P < 0.05). While the concentration of secondary bile acids such as taurocholic acid and taurine goose deoxycholic acid was decreased (P < 0.05). These results illustrated that the CAP had a high potential for application in poultry nutrition. In terms of improving growth performance and antioxidant capacity and reducing fat deposition rate, 4% CAP content is recommended.

The effect of fermented rapeseed meal on production performance, egg quality, and hatchability in broiler breeders after peak production

1. This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with different levels of rapeseed meal (RSM) or fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) on performance, egg quality and hatchability in broiler breeders.2. RSM was fermented with Bacillus subtilis and Aspergillus niger for 25 d. A total of 140 Ross 308 broiler breeder hens (52 weeks old; 20 per treatment, four hens per cage replicate) were assigned to seven dietary treatments in a completely randomised design involving a control (maize-SBM diet) and a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, consisting of two types of meal (RSM and FRSM) and three replacement levels (33%, 66% or 100%) for SBM, with one cockerel housed within each cage replicate for 12 weeks.3. Fermentation increased the population of lactic acid bacteria and crude protein and decreased pH, dry matter, crude fibre and anti-nutrients in FRSM meal compared to RSM (P < 0.05).4. Body weight gain and egg weight were not affected by RSM or FRSM. Feeding FRSM compared to RSM increased egg production and egg mass (P < 0.05). FRSM or RSM at the level of 100% significantly decreased egg production and egg mass compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Neither types of meal nor levels of replacing significantly affected egg quality variables except eggshell strength. Yolk colour in all experimental treatments was significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.05). By increasing the level of RSM or FRSM in the diet, hatching rate and chicken weight decreased (P < 0.05).5. Microbial fermentation improved the nutritional value of RSM which could be used to replace SBM with RSM or FRSM at levels lesser than 66% as a suitable protein alternative for broiler breeders.

Supplementing the early diet of broilers with soy protein concentrate can improve intestinal development and enhance short-chain fatty acid-producing microbes and short-chain fatty acids, especially butyric acid

Background

Research on nutrition in early-life commonly focuses on the maturation of the intestine because the intestinal system is crucial for ensuring continued growth. To explore the importance of early nutrition regulation in animals, soy protein concentrate (SPC) was added to the early diet of broilers to investigate its effects on amino acid digestibility, intestinal development, especially intestinal microorganisms, and broiler metabolites. A total of 192 one-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) male broilers were randomly assigned to two experimental treatments with 8 replicates of 12 birds. The control group was fed a basal diet (control), and the treatment group was fed a basal diet supplemented with 12% SPC (SPC12) during the first 10 d (starter phase). From d 11 to 21 (grower phase) and d 22 to 42 (finisher phase), a basal diet was fed to both treatment groups.

Results

SPC reduced the pH value and acid-binding capacity of the starter diet (P < 0.05, d 10); SPC in the early diet enhanced the gizzard weight (P < 0.05, d 10 and d 42) and the ileum weight (P < 0.05, d 10) and decreased the weight and length of the jejunum (P < 0.05, d 10) and the relative length of the duodenum and jejunum (P < 0.05, d 10). At the same time, SPC enhanced villus height (P < 0.05, d 10) and muscle thickness in the jejunum and ileum (P < 0.05, d 10) and increased the number of goblet cells in the duodenum (P < 0.05, d 10). Meanwhile, SPC increased the Chao1 index and the ACE index (P < 0.05, d 10) and altered the composition of caecal microflora at d 10. SPC also increased the relative abundance of Alistipes, Anaerotruncus, Erysipelatoclostridium, Intestinimonas and Flavonifractor bacteria (P < 0.05, d 10). At the same time, the concentrations of caecal butyric acid and total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were also increased in the SPC12 group (P < 0.05, d 10).

Conclusions

In summary, the results showed that supplementing the starter diet of broilers with SPC has a significant effect on the early development of the intestine and the microflora.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40104-022-00749-5.

Rumen Fermentation and Microbiome Responses to Enzymatic Hydrolysate of Cottonseed Protein Supplementation in Continuous In Vitro Culture

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of enzymatic hydrolysate of cottonseed protein (ECP) on the kinetic of gas production, rumen fermentation characteristics, and microbial diversity in continuous in vitro culture with a single factorial design of supplementation with various concentrations of ECP or yeast culture. Treatments were control (without supplementation, CON), supplementation with 10 g/kg Diamond-V XP yeast culture of substrate (XP), and supplementation with 6, 12 and 18 g/kg ECP of substrate (ECP1, ECP2, ECP3), each incubated with 30 mL of buffered incubation fluids and 200 mg of fermentation substrate in graduated glass syringes fitted with plungers for 48 h. Compared with the CON treatment, supplementation of XP yeast culture increased the cumulative gas production at 12 and 24 h, the concentration of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) concentration at 24 and 36 h, the concentration of microbial protein (MCP) concentration at 24 and 48 h, the molar butyrate proportion at 12, 24, and 48 h, the molar valerate proportion at 48 h, and the ratio of non-glucogenic to glucogenic acids (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON treatment, the concentration of MCP and the molar propionate proportion at 12 h were higher in the ECP1 treatment (p < 0.05); the cumulative gas production at 2, 4, and 12 h, the concentration of NH3-N at 36 h and the molar valerate proportion at 48 h were higher in the ECP2 treatment (p < 0.05); the cumulative gas production at 2, 12, and 48 h, the concentration of NH3-N at 12 and 36 h, the concentration of MCP at 12, 36, and 48 h, the molar butyrate proportion at 12 and 48 h, and the molar valerate proportion at 48 h were higher in the ECP3 treatment (p < 0.05). Compared with the CON treatment, supplementation with XP yeast culture significantly altered the relative abundance of the phyla Firmicutes, Kiritimatiellaeota, and Proteobacteria, while supplementation with ECP had minimal effect on bacterial diversity. The prediction of bacterial functions showed that the main gene functions of rumen bacteria are associated with carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and membrane transport. The findings of this study suggest that ECP can be used as a superior feed ingredient for ruminants, the suitable level of ECP was 18 g/kg in vitro experiment.

Insights into the Gut Microbial Communities of Broiler Chicken Fed Black Soldier Fly Larvae-Desmodium-Based Meal as a Dietary Protein Source

The utilization of insect-based diets to improve gastrointestinal function and gut health in poultry is gaining global attention as a promising feed additive. The objective of this study was to determine the optimal inclusion level of the full-fat black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) and Desmodium intortum (DI) in broiler chicken diets and to evaluate their impact on the microbial community in the gut. The bacterial communities were characterized using Oxford nanopore sequencing of the full-length bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Four dietary treatments, T1 (25% DI + 75% BSFL), T2 (50% DI + 50% BSFL), T3 (75% DI + 25% BSFL) and T4 (100% fishmeal + 0% DI + BSFL), were fed to the broiler chickens for a period of 42 days. Out of the 395,034 classified reads analyzed, the most predominant phyla identified across all the four dietary treatments were Firmicutes (94%), Bacteroidetes (3%), and Proteobacteria (2%). The T1 diet showed the highest alpha diversity and richness according to the Chao1 and Shannon indices. Beta diversity assessment revealed a significant influence of diet on the abundance of the microbiome. There was an increase in beneficial lactic acid bacteria with increasing inclusion of BSFL in the diets. Our findings strongly support the inclusion of BSFL into poultry diet as a promising protein source to reshape the gut microbiota for improved gut health, immune response, and food safety.

Fermented Cottonseed Meal as a Partial Replacement for Soybean Meal Could Improve the Growth Performance, Immunity and Antioxidant Properties, and Nutrient Digestibility by Altering the Gut Microbiota Profile of Weaned Piglets

The study investigated the impact of fermented cottonseed meal (FCSM) on growth performance, immunity and antioxidant properties, nutrient digestibility, and gut microbiota of weaned piglets by replacing soybean meal with FCSM in the diet. The experimental piglets were fed with either the soybean meal diet (SBM group) or fermented cottonseed meal diet (FCSM group) for 14days after weaning. The digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), gross energy (GE), amino acids and nitrogen was higher in the FCSM diet than those in the SBM diet (p<0.05). The piglets in the FCSM group showed greater growth performance and lower diarrhea rate than those in the SBM group (p<0.05). The concentration of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and antioxidase, intestinal and hepatic antioxidase were increased and the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum was decreased in those piglets in the FCSM group compared to those piglets in the SBM group (p<0.05). The piglets in the FCSM group had a higher concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) in their ileum and cecum and a higher Simpson index of ileum than piglets in the SBM group (p<0.05). The relative abundance of Lactobacillus and [Ruminococcus]_torques_group in ileum and Intestinibacter, norank_f_Muribaculaceae, unclassified_o_Lactobacillales and [Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group in cecum were enhanced in piglets fed with the FCSM diet, whereas the relative abundance of Sarcina and Terrisporobacter were increased in piglets fed with the SBM diet. Overall, FCSM replacing SBM improved the growth performance, immunity and antioxidant properties, and nutrient digestibility; possibly via the alterant gut microbiota and its metabolism of weaned piglets. Graphical AbstractFermented cottonseed meal as a partial replacement for soybean meal could improve the growth performance, immunity and antioxidant properties, and nutrient digestibility by altering the gut microbiota profile of weaned piglets. SBM, soybean meal; FCSM, fermented cottonseed meal.

Effect of lactic acid bacteria and yeast supplementation on anti-nutritional factors and chemical composition of fermented total mixed ration containing cottonseed meal or rapeseed meal

Objective

This study aimed to determine the appropriate supplementation level of lactic acid bacteria (LAB; Lactobacillus plantarum and Bacillus clausii), yeast (Saccharomyces cariocanus and Wickerhamomyces anomalus) for degrading free gossypol and glucosinolate in the fermented total mixed ration (TMR) containing cottonseed meal (CSM) or rapeseed meal (RSM), to improve the utilization efficiency of these protein sources.

Methods

For LAB, L. plantarum or B. clausii was inoculated at 1.0×10⁸, 1.0×10⁹, 1.0×10¹⁰, and 1.0×10¹¹ colony-forming unit (CFU)/kg dry matter (DM), respectively. For yeast, S. cariocanus or W. anomalus was inoculated at 5×10⁶, 5×10⁷, 5×10⁸, and 5×10⁹ CFU/kg DM, respectively. The TMR had 50% moisture and was incubated at 30°C for 48 h. After fermentation, the chemical compositions, and the contents of free gossypol and glucosinolate were determined.

Results

The results showed that the concentration of free gossypol content was reduced (p<0.05), while that of the crude protein content was increased (p<0.05) in the TMR containing CSM inoculated by B. clausii (1×10⁹ CFU/kg DM) or S. cariocanus (5×10⁹ CFU/kg DM). Similarly, the content of glucosinolate was lowered (p<0.05) and the crude protein content was increased (p<0.05) in TMR containing RSM inoculated with B. clausii (1×10¹⁰ CFU/kg DM) or S. cariocanus (5×10⁹ CFU/g DM).

Conclusion

This study confirmed that inclusion of B. clausii with 1.0×10⁹ or 1.0×10¹⁰ CFU/kg DM, or S. cariocanus (5×10⁹ CFU/kg DM) to TMR containing CSM/RSM improved the nutritional value and decreased the contents of anti-nutritional factors.

Performance, Serum Biochemical and Immunological Parameters, and Digestive Enzyme and Intestinal Barrier-Related Gene Expression of Broiler Chickens Fed Fermented Fava Bean By-Products as a Substitute for Conventional Feed

Improving the nutritional quality of unconventional feed ingredients such as fava bean by-products can enhance their utilization by broiler chickens. Hence, the quality of fermented fava bean by-products (FFB), in addition to growth, nutrient digestibility, digestive enzyme, and intestinal barrier-related gene expression, and serum biochemical and immunological parameters were evaluated in response to different levels of FFB. A total of 500 1-day-old broiler chicks (46.00 ± 0.388 g) were allocated to five groups with 10 replicates each (100 chicks per treatment). The first group was fed a corn-soybean diet (control diet), and the other four groups were fed a diet containing 5, 15, 25, and 35% FFB for 38 days. Birds fed 25% FFB exhibited maximum body weight gain (increase by 12.5%, compared with the control group) and the most improved feed conversion ratio. Additionally, birds fed FFB at 15, 25, and 35% showed improved dry matter and crude protein digestibility. Moreover, birds fed FFB at 25 and 35% exhibited a decrease in ileal pH and an increase in fiber digestibility (p < 0.05). Upregulation of digestive enzyme genes (AMY2A, PNLIP, and CCK) was observed in groups fed with FFB. The most prominent upregulation of genes encoding tight junction proteins (claudin-1, occludin, and junctional adhesion molecules) in the duodenum was observed in chicks fed 25 and 35% FFB (increase of 0.66-, 0.31-, and 1.06-fold and 0.74-, 0.44-, and 0.92-fold, respectively). Additionally, the highest expression level of enterocyte protective genes [glucagon-like peptide (GLP-2), mucin-2 (MUC-2), and fatty acid-binding protein (FABP-6)] was detected in duodenum of chicks fed high levels of FFB. Substitution of corn-soybean diet with FFB had an inhibitory effect on cecal pathogenic microbes (Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens) and increased beneficial microflora (Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium), especially at high levels. Additionally, an increase was observed in IgM and lysozyme activity, with no effect on IgA in all groups fed FFB. All levels of FFB decreased cholesterol levels. Based on our results, we concluded that substitution of corn-soybean diet with FFB can improve the growth rate and nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens, enhance their intestinal barrier functions, and increase the number of beneficial microorganisms. Using FFB at 25% had a positive effect on the growth performance of broiler chickens, and it could be utilized in poultry farms.

The potential mechanistic insights and future implications for the effect of prebiotics on poultry performance, gut microbiome, and intestinal morphology

Prebiotics may modify the biological processes in the chickens' gastrointestinal tract to improve poultry performance and health. Prebiotics are natural feed additives that offer many economic advantages by decreasing mortality rates, increasing growth rates, and improving birds' feed efficiency. Prebiotic action potentially affects the degradation of indigestible dietary compounds, the synthesis of nitrogen components and vitamins, and simplifies the removal of undesirable elements in the diet. Prebiotics could also induce desirable gut microbiome modifications and affect host metabolism and immune health. It is worth mentioning that gut bacteria metabolize the prebiotic compounds into organic compounds that the host can subsequently use. It is important to limit the concept of prebiotics to compounds that influence the metabolism of resident microorganisms. Any medicinal component or feed ingredient beneficial to the intestinal microecosystem can be considered a prebiotic. In this review, the impacts of prebiotics on the gut microbiome and physiological structure are discussed, emphasizing the poultry's growth performance. The current review will highlight the knowledge gaps in this area and future research directions.

The effect of fermented and raw rapeseed meal on the growth performance, immune status and intestinal morphology of broiler chickens

We evaluated the effect of fermented and raw rapeseed meal (FRCM and RRSM) on the growth performance, carcass traits, serum biochemical indexes, immune status and intestinal morphology of broilers. A total of 420-day-old Arbor Acre male broilers were randomly assigned to a 1 + 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with one basal diet group, two rapeseed meal (RSM) varieties (FRCM and RRSM) and three addition levels (5%, 10% and 15%) for a duration of 42 days. FRSM significantly increased the ADG and ADFI of broilers during the 22-42 days and 1-42 days (p < 0.05) growth periods compared with RRSM groups. No significant difference was observed in ADG and ADFI between broilers fed FRSM in different dietary levels and control diets (p > 0.05), but broilers fed diet with 15% RRSM showed significantly lower ADG, ADFI and spleen index (p < 0.05). Both FRSM and RRSM in different dietary levels affected the anti-oxidation function of broilers, including a significant increase in the serum contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p < 0.05), and a significant decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05). Fermentation tends to increase the villus height of duodenum (p = 0.09), and significantly increased the villus height and V/C ratio of duodenum (p < 0.05) in birds. The duodenum villus height was the highest in the 5% FRSM group and lowest in birds of 5% RRSM group. A 10% level significantly increased the duodenal V/C ratio in both FRSM and RRSM birds. The results indicated that FRSM could be used to supplemented in broilers diet to improve the production performance and maintain good health. FRSM can be added to broilers diet at 10% without adverse effect on growth performance or immune function.

Impact of Fermented or Enzymatically Fermented Dried Olive Pomace on Growth, Expression of Digestive Enzyme and Glucose Transporter Genes, Oxidative Stability of Frozen Meat, and Economic Efficiency of Broiler Chickens

The use of dried olive pomace as complementary energy sources in poultry feed is still limited due to its low protein and high fiber contents. Bioconversion of olive pomace through solid-state fermentation with or without exogenous enzymes is considered as a trial for improving its nutritional value. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fermented olive pomace with or without enzymatic treatment on the growth, modulations of genes encoding digestive enzymes and glucose transporters, meat oxidative stability, and economic efficiency of broiler chickens. A total of 1400 day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to seven dietary treatments with 10 replicates of 20 birds/replicate. Treatments included control (basal corn-soybean diet) and other six treatments in which basal diet was replaced by three levels (7.5, 15, and 30%) of fermented olive pomace (FOPI) or enzymatically fermented olive pomace (FOPII) for 42 days. The highest body weight gain was observed in groups fed 7.5 and 15% FOPII (increased by 6.6 and 12.5%, respectively, when compared with the control group). Also, feeding on 7.5 and 15% FOPII yielded a better feed conversion ratio and improved the digestibility of crude protein, fat, and crude fiber. The expression of the SGLT-1 gene was upregulated in groups fed FOPI and FOPII when compared with the control group. Moreover, the expression of the GLUT2 gene was elevated in groups fed 7.5 and 15% FOPII. By increasing the levels of FOPI and FOPII in diets, the expression of genes encoding pancreatic AMY2A, PNLIP, and CCK was upregulated (p < 0.05) when compared with the control. Fat percentage and cholesterol content in breast meat were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) by nearly 13.7 and 16.7% in groups fed FOPI and FOPII at the levels of 15 and 30%. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents in breast meat were significantly increased in groups fed 15 and 30% FOPI and FOPII when compared with the control group and even after a long period of frozen storage. After 180 days of frozen storage, the inclusion of high levels of FOP significantly increased (p < 0.05) the levels of glutathione peroxide and total superoxide dismutase and meat ability to scavenge free radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Furthermore, the highest net profit and profitability ratio and the lowest cost feed/kg body gain were achieved in groups fed 7.5 and 15% of FOPII, respectively. The results of this study indicated that dietary inclusion of 15% FOPII could enhance the growth performance and economic efficiency of broiler chickens. Moreover, a higher inclusion level of FOPI or FOPII could enhance the quality and increase the oxidative stability of frozen meat and extend the storage time.

Effects of Dietary Yucca Schidigera Extract and Oral Candida utilis on Growth Performance and Intestinal Health of Weaned Piglets

Weaning piglets experienced the transformation from breast milk to solid feed and present the proliferation of pathogens, the presence of diarrhea, poor growth performance and even death. Plant extracts and probiotics have certain potential in improving animal growth performance, antioxidant capacity and immune function. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of dietary yucca schidigera extract (YSE) and oral Candida utilis (CU) on growth performance and intestinal health weaned piglets. According to a 2 × 2 factorial design with the main factors being CU (orally administered 1 mL of 0.85% saline with or without CU; fed basal diet with or without 120 mg/kg YSE), forty 28 d healthy weaned piglets were randomly allocated into four groups of 10 barrows each: (1) piglets fed basal diet and orally administered 1 mL of 0.85% saline (CON); (2) piglets fed basal diet and orally administered 1 mL 1 × 10⁹ cfu/mL C. utilis in 0.85% saline (CU); (3) piglets fed the basal diet containing YSE (120 mg/kg) and orally administered 1 mL of 0.85% saline (YSE); (4) Piglets fed the basal diet containing 120 mg/kg YSE and 1 mL 1 × 10⁹ cfu/mL C. utilis in 0.85% saline (YSE+CU). This study lasted 28 days and evaluated the effects of dietary YSE and oral CU on growth performance, immunity, antioxidant function, ileal morphology, and intestinal microflora in weaned piglets. Dietary YSE increased ADG, the spleen and lymph node indexes, serum GLU, BUN, T-SOD, T-AOC, CAT concentrations, ileal villus height and villus height/crypt depth, jejunal occludin, and β-definsin-2 concentrations and ileal occludin concentration in weaned piglets (P < 0.05); decreased the diarrhea rate and mortality, rectal pH and urine pH, the BUN and MDA concentrations, crypt depth (P < 0.05); improved the diversity of cecal microflora. Orally CU increased ADG, and ADFI, the T-SOD, T-AOC, and CAT activity, ileal villus height, villus height/crypt depth, jejunum occludin, and β-definsin-2 concentrations (P < 0.05); reduced the diarrhea rate and mortality, urine pH, the BUN and MDA concentrations, crypt depth (P < 0.05); improved the diversity of cecal microflora. Dietary YSE and orally CU increased the T-SOD, T-AOC, and CAT activity, villus height/crypt depth, jejunal occludin concentration; reduced the diarrhea rate of weaned piglets by 28%, gastric pH, ileal pH, cecal pH and urine pH, MDA, crypt depth; improved the diversity of cecal microflora. YSE and CU could improve the growth performance, reduce the diarrhea rate, improve intestinal health, and increase the diversity and abundance of cecal microflora in weaned piglets and expected to be used as antibiotics alternative feed additives in the production of weaned piglets.

Fermented Rapeseed Meal as a Component of the Mink Diet (Neovison vison) Modulating the Gastrointestinal Tract Microbiota

Fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) was used in the diet of American mink (Neovison vison). An advantage of this product is its prebiotic and functional properties, which can modify the bacterial microbiota of the GIT. A control group and three experimental groups were formed, with 60 animals in each group. The control group received a basal diet and the experimental groups received a diet with a 2%, 4% or 6% of FRSM as a replacement of extruded wheat. Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y was used to ferment the rapeseed meal (RSM). The study was conducted on mink from the age of 16-17 weeks until slaughter. Changes in the microbiota were analysed in samples of the animals' faeces and intestinal contents. The analyses included determination of the total number of bacteria and fungi, the number of coliforms and Escherichia coli, the total number of anaerobic Clostridium perfringens, and the presence of Salmonella spp. In animals receiving 4% and 6% FRSM (groups II and III), the content of microscopic fungi and the number of C. perfringens bacteria was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower than in the animals from the control group (group 0). A decrease in E. coli was observed in all experimental groups (I, II and III), although these differences were not statistically significant. The inclusion of FRSM in the feed ration did not affect the number of lactic acid intestinal bacteria. Analysis of the results obtained from the stool samples showed that the inclusion of FRSM in the ration did not significantly affect the number of microorganisms in each group. However, as in the case of the intestinal contents, in these samples there was a decrease in the total number of C. perfringens in the experimental groups (I, II and III), with a simultaneous increase in the number of mesophilic bacteria in relation to the control. There was no detection of Salmonella bacteria in any of the analysed material.

Changes in the Microbial Composition of the Cecum and Histomorphometric Analysis of Its Epithelium in Broilers Fed with Feed Mixture Containing Fermented Rapeseed Meal

This study examined the influence of fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) on the intestinal morphology and gut microflora of broiler chickens. Limited information is available on the effects of FRSM on the intestinal morphology and the gastrointestinal microbiome population of animals. First, 48 21-day Ross 308 broilers were placed in metabolic cages and randomly assigned to four experimental groups. Group I birds were negative controls and received no additive. Group II birds were positive controls and received a 3% addition of unfermented rapeseed meal. Group III birds received a 3% addition of rapeseed meal fermented with the Bacillus subtilis 67 bacterial strain. Group IV birds received a 3% addition of rapeseed meal fermented with the B. subtilis 87Y strain. After 23 days of experimental feeding, the contents of the birds’ ceca were collected for microorganism determination. The histomorphology of the broilers’ ceca was also determined, and beneficial changes were found in the histology of the broilers’ ceca with the additives. Moreover, these materials inhibited the growth of pathogens and significantly stimulated the growth of probiotic bacteria. These results suggest that the addition of 3% FRSM has a potential probiotic effect and can be used as a material in feed for broilers.

In Vitro Evaluation of a Phage Cocktail Controlling Infections with Escherichia coli

Worldwide, poultry industry suffers from infections caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. Therapeutic failure due to resistant bacteria is of increasing concern and poses a threat to human and animal health. This causes a high demand to find alternatives to fight bacterial infections in animal farming. Bacteriophages are being especially considered for the control of multi-drug resistant bacteria due to their high specificity and lack of serious side effects. Therefore, the study aimed on characterizing phages and composing a phage cocktail suitable for the prevention of infections with E. coli. Six phages were isolated or selected from our collections and characterized individually and in combination with regard to host range, stability, reproduction, and efficacy in vitro. The cocktail consisting of six phages was able to inhibit formation of biofilms by some E. coli strains but not by all. Phage-resistant variants arose when bacterial cells were challenged with a single phage but not when challenged by a combination of four or six phages. Resistant variants arising showed changes in carbon metabolism and/or motility. Genomic comparison of wild type and phage-resistant mutant E28.G28R3 revealed a deletion of several genes putatively involved in phage adsorption and infection.

Intestinal Development and Histomorphometry of Broiler Chickens Fed Trichoderma reesei Degraded Date Seed Diets

A study was conducted to investigate the impact of degraded date pits (DDP) on the development and morphology of the intestine in broilers. Trichoderma reesei was used to produce the DDP using a solid-state degradation method. One hundred and eighty broilers were divided into six treatments in triplicate groups of 10 chicks each. The dietary treatments were: positive control with corn-soy basal diet, negative control with corn-soy basal diet + 20% oxytetracycline at 0.05%, corn-soy basal diet + 10% DDP, corn-soy basal diet + 0.2% mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS), corn-soy basal diet + 0.2% mannose and corn-soy basal diet + 0.1% mannose for 6 weeks. The results indicate that a 10% DDP diet increased the activities of the pancreatic enzymes, the villus length, and the villus/crypt ratio, and decreased the crypt depth of the intestine. In conclusion, when compared to oxytetracycline and MOS, DDP can be used as a replacement for antibiotic growth promoters for broilers while improving gut development and intestinal health.

Energy and protein utilisation by broiler chickens fed diets containing cottonseed meal and supplemented with a composite enzyme product

1. The present study examined the potential of new-generation microbial enzymes to improve the utilisation of energy and protein of cottonseed meal (CSM)-containing diets, with the aim of increasing its inclusion level in broiler chickens diets. 2. Four hundred and eighty, one-day-old Ross 308 male broilers were used to assess the utilisation of energy and protein by broiler chickens fed diets containing four graded levels of CSM - none, low (4, 8, 12%), medium (5, 10, 15%) or high (6, 12, 18%) in the starter, grower, and finisher phases, respectively, supplemented with 100 mg/kg of a composite enzyme product (xylanase and β-glucanase). 3. Inclusion of CSM improved (P < 0.01) apparent metabolisable energy (AME), with further improvement (P < 0.001) seen in the enzyme-supplemented diets. Inclusion of CSM reduced (P = 0.002) the metabolisable energy intake (MEI), but this was increased (P < 0.05) with enzyme supplementation. 4. Enzyme addition increased (P < 0.001) the net energy of production (NEp), while heat production (HP) decreased (P < 0.001) with CSM inclusion. More energy was retained as fat (P < 0.05) and protein in birds fed diets with the enzyme, but this was reduced (P < 0.029) by CSM. 5. There was an increase (P < 0.05) in efficiencies of ME use for energy, lipid and protein retention, with higher CSM levels. The enzyme improved (P < 0.013) efficiency of ME use for lipid retention. 6. Feeding diets containing CSM to the broilers enhanced (P < 0.05) protein intake (PI) and protein efficiency ratio (PER). Positive effects (P < 0.05) of enzyme were observed on protein gain (PG) and net protein utilisation (NPU). 7. Results obtained from this study suggested that nutrient utilisation of diets containing CSM by broiler chickens can be improved by enzyme supplementation.

Impact of Dietary Supplementation of Lactic Acid Bacteria Fermented Rapeseed with or without Macroalgae on Performance and Health of Piglets Following Omission of Medicinal Zinc from Weaner Diets

The feeding of medicinal zinc oxide (ZnO) to weaner piglets will be phased out after 2022 in Europe, leaving pig producers without options to manage post-weaning disorders. This study assessed whether rapeseed meal, fermented alone (FRM) or co-fermented with a single (Ascophylum nodosum; FRMA), or two (A. nodossum and Saccharina latissima; FRMAS) brown macroalagae species, could improve weaner piglet performance and stimulate intestinal development as well as maturation of gut microbiota in the absence of in-feed zinc. Weaned piglets (n = 1240) were fed, during 28-85 days of age, a basal diet with no additives (negative control; NC), 2500 ppm in-feed ZnO (positive control; PC), FRM, FRMA or FRMAS. Piglets fed FRM and FRMA had a similar or numerically improved, respectively, production performance compared to PC piglets. Jejunal villus development was stimulated over NC in PC, FRM and FRMAS (gender-specific). FRM enhanced colon mucosal development and reduced signs of intestinal inflammation. All fermented feeds and PC induced similar changes in the composition and diversity of colon microbiota compared to NC. In conclusion, piglet performance, intestinal development and health indicators were sustained or numerically improved when in-feed zinc was replaced by FRM.

Solid-state fermented plant protein sources in the diets of broiler chickens: A review

Protein sources are the second most important component in poultry diets. Due to the fluctuation in price of soybean meal (SBM) and persistent increase in feed prices, nutritionists have been exploring alternative protein sources. Replacement of SBM with alternative protein sources in poultry diets could reduce human-livestock competition for soybean and support the production of more animal protein. However, the use of alternative protein sources is limited to low inclusion due to the presence of anti-nutritional factors (ANF) such as glucosinolates (rapeseed meal), gossypol (cottonseed meal), non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) in lupin flour, high fibre (palm kernel cake), total phenolic contents and phytic acid (canola meal) known to impair animal performance, nutrient digestibility and feed utilization. As a processing technique, solid-state fermentation (SSF) has been researched for a long time in the food industry. An important objective of SSF is the production of enzymes, organic acids and other metabolites of economic importance. In recent times, SSF has been employed to enhance nutrient bioavailability, inhibit gut pathogenic bacteria and reduce ANF in plant protein sources resulting in improved nutrient digestibility, thereby improving performance and gut health of broiler chickens. Unlike pigs, there is still a dearth of information on feeding solid-state fermented feed ingredients to broiler chickens. This review aims to describe the nutritional value of the solid-state fermented products of rapeseed meal, canola meal, cottonseed meal, palm kernel cake and lupin flour on performance and intestinal health of broiler chickens.

Synergistic effects of fermented soybean meal and mannan-oligosaccharide on growth performance, digestive functions, and hepatic gene expression in broiler chickens

This study investigated the effects of fermented soybean meal (FSBM) with or without mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS) prebiotic on growth performance, digestive functions, and hepatic IGF-1 gene expression of broiler chicken. A total of 480 day-old male broiler chickens were fed with 4 experimental diets for 6 wk. Experimental diets included corn-soybean meal diet (CON); corn-soybean meal diet + MOS prebiotic [0.2%, ActiveMOS; Biorigin, Brazile]; corn-FSBM diet [soybean meal (SBM) was totally replaced by FSBM]; and corn-FSBM + MOS prebiotic (MIX). Replacing dietary SBM with FSBM with or without MOS improved body weight gain and feed efficiency for the total grow-out period. However, the addition of MOS to the FSBM diet exhibited a greater body weight gain than other experimental diets. Villus height and villus height to crypt depth of the duodenum and jejunum were increased by feeding FSBM, MOS, and MIX diets. The ileal crude protein and energy digestibilities, as well as the activities of intestinal amylase and protease, and pancreatic protease, were improved by replacing SBM with FSBM, with or without MOS. The concentration of plasma 3-methylhistidine was reduced by FSBM and MOS, and synergistically by their combination. The MOS and FSBM diets upregulated the hepatic IGF-1 gene expression. However, there was an evident synergistic effect of FSBM supplemented with MOS in the upregulation of the hepatic IGF-1 gene expression. The outcomes of the current study indicate the FSBM and MOS had the potential to improve growth performance, hepatic IGF-1 expression, and intestinal morphology of broilers. Overall, the fermented products could be considered as functional feed that exhibits probiotic effects and the synergistic effects of prebiotics added to the fermented feeds may further improve the growth performance and gut health and functionality in broiler chicken.

Inclusion of fish waste silage in broiler diets affects gut microflora, cecal short-chain fatty acids, digestive enzyme activity, nutrient digestibility, and excreta gas emission

A study was conducted to determine the impacts of dietary inclusion of fish waste silage (FWS) substituting soybean meal (SBM) on the performance, gut microflora, cecal short-chain fatty acid, apparent ileal digestibility (AID), digestive enzyme activity, and excreta noxious gas emission in broiler chickens. A total of 720-day-old male broilers (Cobb 500) were randomly allocated to 3 dietary treatments with 12 replicates each accommodating 20 birds for 42 d. Birds received diets as follows: a corn-SBM-based diet (CON) and 2 diets that replaced SBM with FWS at 60 g/kg (FWS60) and 120 g/kg (FWS120). During the entire period, replacing SBM with FWS60 and FWS120 increased body weight gain and decreased feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). The lowest pH values in the crop, proventriculus, duodenum, ileum, and ceca were observed in birds fed diets containing FWS60 and FWS120 (P < 0.05). Likewise, birds fed FWS60 and FWS120 had lower numbers of coliform and E. coli and higher Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus count in the ceca than those fed CON (P < 0.05). Feeding FWS60 and FWS120 diets increased cecal butyrate and lactic acid contents (P < 0.05). Birds fed FWS120 diets had greater intestinal amylase and protease activity than birds fed CON (P < 0.05); however, no significant differences were recorded between the treatment groups for digestive enzymes activity in the pancreas. The use of both levels of FWS in broiler diet increased AID of crude protein and ether extract (P < 0.05). The lowest excreta ammonia concentration was recorded in birds fed FWS120 diet (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the inclusion of FWS in broiler diets could improve the performance by enhancing gut function, derived from the improved digestive enzyme activity and nutrient digestibility, as well as by elevating the population of beneficial bacteria and short-chain fatty acid contents. Therefore, the biological silage can be considered as a promising option for recycling and recovery of fish wastes and effectively be used in broiler diets.

Determination and prediction of the apparent and standardized ileal amino acid digestibility in cottonseed meals fed to growing pigs

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the chemical composition and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA) in cottonseed meals (CSM) and to develop prediction equations for estimating AA digestibility for growing pigs based on the chemical composition and AA content of CSM. 10 CSM were collected from 10 provinces in China. 11 barrows (initial body weight: 34.4 ± 1.9 kg), fitted with an ileal T-cannula, were allotted to 6 × 11 Youden square with 6 periods and 11 diets. The diets included one N-free diet and 10 CSM test diets containing 40% CSM as the sole source of AA. The nitrogen-free diet was used to measure the basal endogenous losses of CP and AA. The AID and SID for crude protein (CP), Lys, Met, Trp, and Thr among the 10 CSM differed (p < 0.05). With R² values exceeding 0.30, significant linear regression equations for CP, Lys, and Thr were obtained. The best fit equations for predicting the AID and SID of Lys were: AID of Lys = 82.94-0.65 neutral detergent fiber, with R²  = 0.44, residual standard deviation (RSD) = 4.03 and p = 0.04; and SID of Lys = 135.34-1.01 neutral detergent fiber + 34.27 Thr - 58.06 Trp - 84.93 Met, with R²  = 0.90, RSD = 1.42 and p = 0.01. In conclusion, the results of AID, SID and prediction equations could be used to evaluate the digestibility of CSM in growing pigs.

Recent advances in fermented feeds towards improved broiler chicken performance, gastrointestinal tract microecology and immune responses: A review

Previously, fermentation has been associated with methods that improve the nutritional value of unconventional feed ingredients for broilers. In recent decades, the fermentation process has been employed to produce functional feeds that have the potential to improve broiler gastrointestinal tract microecology, health and production performance. Some of the functional ingredients found in fermented feed include lactic acid bacteria (LAB), lactic acid and other organic acids, and appear to play major roles in determining the beneficial effects of fermented feed on broiler gut health and performance. Unlike the pig, the available literature on broiler fermented feed is still rather limited. This review describes recent advances in the use of fermented feed (on the basis of conventional and unconventional feed ingredients) in broilers. Similarly, this review also shows that additional research is necessary to exploit fermented feed as a viable food source in broiler nutrition.

Effect of cottonseed oil and ferrous sulfate in broiler diets on intestinal morphometry at 42 days of age

ABSTRACT The aim of the study was to evaluate the intestinal morphometry of broilers at 42 days of age fed diets containing different levels of cottonseed oil, with and without addition of ferrous sulfate. A total of 560 male Ross chickens were used in a completely randomized design with a 4×2 factorial arrangement and five replications with 14 birds. The cottonseed oil levels tested were 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%. At 42 days of age, one bird per replicate was collected for morphometric. Analyzed variables were villus height, crypt length and muscle wall thickness. The statistical analysis was performed using SAS, P=0.05. In the duodenum and ileum, there was no significant effect of interaction between the treatments. In the jejunum, only the length of the crypt, the treatment with cottonseed oil 2%, more ferrous sulfate resulted in lower values; however, the same oil content without ferrous sulfate led to a greater length, which was also observed in the treatment with 4% oil plus ferrous sulfate. Inclusion of cottonseed oil in broiler diets at 42 days of age does not impair their intestinal morphology. Supplementation with ferrous sulfate at these levels is unnecessary, since no improvement was observed in the intestinal morphometric.

Fermented soybean meal exhibits probiotic properties when included in Japanese quail diet in replacement of soybean meal

This study was conducted to investigate and compare the effect of dietary probiotic mixture (PM) and organic acid (OA) mixture with fermented soybean meal (FSBM) on performance, crop, and ceca microbiota, small intestine morphology, and serum lipid profile in Japanese quails. A total of 800 day-old Japanese quails was randomly allotted to 5 treatments with 8 replicate pens of 20 birds each, for 35 days. The experimental diets consisted of a control corn-soybean meal diet and 4 test diets: 1) control diet + 0.1% PM; 2) control diet + 0.2% OA mixture; 3) control diet + the combination of both PM and OA; and 4) an additives-free diet in which the soybean meal in the control diet was replaced with FSBM. The results indicated that in starter and the entire rearing periods, FSBM, PM, and PM+OA diets had significantly lower FCR compared to control or OA diets (P < 0.05). Birds in the FSBM group gained higher weight than control and OA birds (P < 0.05; 1 to 35 d). At d 21 and 35, birds fed the control diet showed significantly lower numbers of lactic acid bacteria in the crop, while coliforms were higher in the cecal content compared to the other diets (P < 0.05). At d 21, the villus height and villus height to crypt depth ratio in the duodenum and jejunum of birds fed PM, PM+OA, and FSBM diets were greater than in other treatments (P < 0.05). The serum concentrations of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of birds fed PM, PM+OA, and FSBM diets were significantly lower than birds in control and AO groups (P < 0.05). The results obtained herein suggest that FSBM exhibits probiotic properties and, when used in substitution of SBM in Japanese quail diet, can improve growth performance, balance of desirable gastrointestinal microbiota in crop and ceca, small intestinal morphology, and serum lipid profile-likewise, a probiotic supplement.

Chemical composition, energy, and amino acid digestibility in 7 cottonseed co-products fed to growing pigs

The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition, DE and ME contents, and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of AA in 7 cottonseed co-products fed to growing pigs. The 7 cottonseed co-products were: cottonseed meals (solvent extracted) with CP level of 46%, 50%, and 55% (46CSM, 50CSM, and 55CSM), cottonseed protein with CP level of 50% and 55% (50CSP and 55CSP), fermented cottonseed meal (CSMF), and expelled cottonseed meal (CSME). The DE and ME contents of the 7 test ingredients were measured using 48 crossbreed barrows (BW: 44.1 ± 4.2 kg) and 8 diets (including a corn-soybean meal basal diet) in a completely randomized design. The AID and SID of AA of the 7 test ingredients were determined using 7 crossbreed barrows (initial BW: 67.4 ± 8.5 kg) in a 6 × 8 Youden square design with 6 periods and 8 diets (including one N-free diet). The DE and ME values of the 7 cottonseed co-products varied from 12.72 to 15.63 MJ/kg and 12.24 to 14.83 MJ/kg, respectively. Among the 7 cottonseed co-products, 55CSP and CSME had the greatest (P < 0.05) ME and DE values compared to the other cottonseed co-products. In addition, 55CSP had the greatest (P < 0.05) AID and SID of all the AA tested except for Gly and Pro. In contrast, 46CSM or 55CSM had the lowest (P < 0.05) AID and SID of all the AA tested except for Gly and Pro. The 55CSP also had the greatest (P < 0.05) concentrations of standardized ileal digestible CP and all the AA tested except for Gly and Pro. In conclusion, the chemical composition, energy, and AA digestibility of cottonseed co-products with different processing techniques varied widely. Based on the energy and AA digestibility, cottonseed protein with CP level of 55% is a better dietary ingredient for growing pigs compared with the other cottonseed co-products.

Effect of antibiotic withdrawal in feed on chicken gut microbial dynamics, immunity, growth performance and prevalence of foodborne pathogens

Development of antibiotic resistance in foodborne pathogens, Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter, is a public health concern. Public demand to reduce the use of sub-therapeutic antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in poultry feeding has resulted in greater adoption of antibiotic-free poultry production systems. There is a need to understand the effects of AGP removal from poultry feed on gut microbiota and its impact on prevalence of foodborne pathogens. The effect of antibiotic withdrawal from poultry feed on gut microbial community, host performance and immunity, and prevalence of Salmonella and Campylobacter was evaluated. Birds were raised on three phase diets (starter [d0-22], grower [d23-35] and finisher [d36-42]) with and without bacitracin dimethyl salicyclate (BMD). At early growth stage, bird performance was improved (P ≤ 0.05) with BMD treatment, whereas performance was better (P ≤ 0.05) in control group (no BMD in the feed) at the time of commercial processing. Acetate and butyrate production was affected (P ≤ 0.05) by age, whereas propionate production was affected (P ≤ 0.05) by both the treatment and age. The bacterial communities in the cecum were more diverse (P ≤ 0.001) and rich compared to the ileal communities, and they shifted in parallel to one another as the chicks matured. Differences in diversity and species richness were not observed (P > 0.05) between the BMD-fed and control groups. Comparing all ages, treatments and diets, the composition of cecal and ileal bacterial communities was different (P ≤ 0.001). Inclusion of BMD in the feed did not affect the bacterial phyla. However, predictable shift in the ileal and cecal bacterial population at lower taxonomic level was observed in control vs BMD-fed group. Cytokines gene expression (IL-10, IL-4, IFN-γ, beta-defensin, and TLR-4) was affected (P≤ 0.05) in the BMD-fed group at early stages of growth. The prevalence of foodborne pathogens, Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. showed higher abundance in the ilea of BMD-fed chicks compared to control group. Overall, this study provided insight of the impact of AGP supplementation in the feed on gut microbial modulations, bird performance, host immunity and pathogen prevalence. This information can assist in designing alternative strategies to replace antibiotics in modern poultry production and for food safety.

Fermented rapeseed meal is effective in controlling Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infection and improving growth performance in broiler chicks

The aim of present experiment was to assess the effects of fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) on Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) colonization and growth performance in broiler chicks. Two hundred forty day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were divided into six experimental treatments with four replicates and 10 birds per each. The treatments were including two positive and negative controls which birds received a basal corn-soybean diet as well as four others which birds received the diets that rapeseed meal (RSM) or FRSM was replaced with soybean meal at 50 and 100% levels. All chicks except the negative control birds were challenged orally with 10⁵ CFU of S. Typhimurium at 3days of age. Results showed that birds were fed FRSM had significantly greater lactic acid bacteria populations and lesser S. Typhimurium colonization in ileal and cecal sections compared to others (P<0.05). The less percentage of liver and bursa of fabricius was belonged to negative control group. At 10day, feeding chicks with diet containing FRSM, but not RSM, significantly decreased the organ invasion by S. Typhimurium (P<0.05). Heterophil to lymphocyte ratio was significantly lesser in chicks were fed FRSM compared to those fed RSM or positive control (P<0.05). Birds were fed FRSM had significantly higher weight gain and better feed conversion ratio compared to those birds were fed RSM (P<0.05). The findings of present experiment concerning positive effects of feeding FRSM on reducing S. Typhimurium and improving growth performance show that this processed protein source can be considered as a nutritional effective strategy to control Salmonella contamination in broiler chicks.

Effect of feeding cottonseed meal on some hematological and serum biochemical parameters in broiler birds

Aim:

The study was undertaken to find out the effect of feeding cottonseed meal (CSM) on performance of hematological and serum biochemical parameters in broiler birds.

Materials and Methods:

A 6-week biological trial was carried out with 432-day-old Cobb 400 broiler chicks distributed to nine experimental diets with six replicates, each containing eight chicks. The experimental diets were formulated based on total amino acids (BTAA) or based on digestible amino acids (BDAA) with or without iron supplementation with two levels of CSM (2% and 4%) and control diet based on maize – soybean. The whole blood was subjected to hematological studies. The serum samples were analyzed for protein fractions and lipid profiles.

Results:

The packed cell volume (PCV) value, red blood cell (RBC) numbers, and hemoglobin (Hb) were lower in iron unsupplemented CSM BTAA or BDAA diets than the control (33.86-35.54 vs. 36.41%, 2.78-2.87 vs. 2.98 × 10⁶/μl, and 10.30-10.70 vs. 10.88%). Supplementation of iron in CSM diets improved the PCV, RBC numbers, and Hb, and the values were comparable to the control. White blood cell numbers, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), and MCH concentration values were comparable to the control. The erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) was poor in birds fed diets containing up to 4% CSM BTAA or CSM BDAA without iron supplementation (32.02-32.57 vs. 28.77%). Supplementation of iron improved the EOF. The serum cholesterol level did not change with or without iron supplementation.

Conclusion:

This study suggested that feeding of CSM BTAA or BDAA up to 4% level voiding iron supplementation lowers the hematological parameters, whereas supplementation of iron did not alter serum protein fractions and cholesterol profile; however, it had lowered some hematological parameters, which was rectified by iron supplementation.