Role of acidifiers in livestock nutrition and health: A review

Supplementing pigeon grit with acidifier improves metabolism and the reproductive performance of breeding pigeons as well as the development of growth performance of squabs

1. This study evaluated the effectiveness of different types of acidifiers on reproductive performance, body weight loss and plasma biochemical indices of breeding pigeons as well as on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and plasma biochemical indices of squabs.2. In a 45 d trial, 144 pairs of European white Mimas pigeons were selected and randomly divided into three experimental groups. Three groups of pigeons were fed plain pigeon grit (NC), pigeon grit supplemented with 5% single acidifier (SAG) and pigeon grit supplemented with 5% combined acidifiers (CAG).3. Supplementing with SAG and CAG significantly increased the weight gain in male pigeons from 1-12 d of incubation. However, SAG and CAG had no significant effect on the feed intake of breeding pigeons during incubation, but significantly increased total feed intake of breeding pigeons during the lactation period. Breeder pigeons fed SAG and CAG had significantly higher egg-laying rate at 40 d. In addition, feeding SAG and CAG significantly increased growth rate and slaughter weight of squabs, but SAG reduced the diameter of pectoral muscle fibres. Biochemical indices showed that feeding SAG and CAG improved metabolism and increased the liver function of breeder pigeons and squabs.4. In conclusion, supplementing pigeon grit with acidifiers increased feed intake of breeding pigeons during lactation, protected liver function, enhanced reproductive performance and promoted the growth and development of squabs.

Research note: Protective effects of compound mycotoxin detoxifier in broiler chicken fed aflatoxins-contaminated diets

This study was planned and executed to investigate the effects of two levels of compound toxin binder (CTB) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and the ileal selected microflora population in broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into four treatments and six replicates (10 chickens per replicate). Experimental groups included; 1, negative control (NC; no aflatoxins (AFs) and no additives); 2, positive control (PC; 490 µg/kg AFs); 3, low levels of compound toxin binder (LCTB), PC + 1 g/kg available CTB (Navacidox); and 4, high levels of compound toxin binder (HCTB), PC + 2 g/kg Navacidox. Increasing body weight gain (BWG) following feeding HCTB were found compared to the PC (P < 0.05). The highest feed intake (FI) was observed in the NC (P < 0.05). Feeding broilers with AFs decreased villus height, villus width, and crypt depth compared to the NC (P < 0.05). The increasing lactic acid bacteria population in HCTB was recorded compared to the PC (P < 0.05). Among biochemistry parameters, total protein, LDL, and uric acid decreased in LCTB compared to the PC (P < 0.05). Lower concentrations of ALP, LDH, AST, and ALT in LCTB were observed compared to the PC (P < 0.05). Although total antioxidant capacity, GPx, and SOD activities were not affected by treatments (P > 0.05), the lowest catalase levels were found in HCTB (P < 0.05). In conclusion, AFs feeding impaired growth performance, biochemistry parameters, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal morphology. However, the inclusion of CTB in AFs-contaminated diets effectively mitigated the harmful effects of AFs.

Biomolecule screen identifies several inhibitors of Salmonella enterica surface colonization

Salmonella enterica is a foodborne pathogen commonly found in agricultural facilities; its prevalence, as well as increasing levels of disinfectant- and antibiotic-resistance, has significant costs for agriculture as well as human health. In an effort to identify potential new inhibitors of S. enterica on abiotic surfaces, we developed a biomolecule screen of nutrient-type compounds because nutrients would have lower toxicity in animal facilities and bacterial nutrient utilization pathways might prove less susceptible to the development of bacterial resistance. After screening 285 nutrient-type compounds, we identified ten that significantly inhibited the ability of S. enterica to colonize a plastic surface. After conducting a dose-response curve, salicylic acid was selected for further testing due to its low minimal inhibitory concentration (62.5 μM) as well as a low total inhibitory concentration (250 μM). Salicylic acid was also able to inhibit surface colonization of a wide range of bacterial pathogens, suggesting that our biomolecule screen might have broader application beyond S. enterica. Finally, we determined that salicylic acid was also able to inhibit S. enterica colonization of an organic surface on eggshells. Together, these results suggest that nutrient-type biomolecules may provide an avenue for preventing resistant bacteria from contaminating surfaces.

Specialized Feed-Additive Blends of Short- and Medium-Chain Fatty Acids Improve Sow and Pig Performance During Nursery and Post-Weaning Phase

The present study investigates the impact of supplementing diets with a synergistic blend of short- and medium-chain fatty acids (SCFAs-MCFAs) during the peripartum and lactation phases on early microbial colonization and the subsequent growth performance of newborn pigs. The experiment involved 72 sows and their litters, with a follow-up on 528 weaned pigs. Sows were fed either a control diet or a diet supplemented with SCFAs-MCFAs and the pigs were monitored for their growth performance and microbial populations. Subsequently, selected weaned pigs were allotted to an SCFAs-MCFAs diet according to the maternal diet. Results showed that SCFAs-MCFAs supplementation led to reduced backfat loss in sows and improved pig weight and uniformity at weaning (p < 0.05). Additionally, suckling pigs exhibited significant shifts in gut microbiota, including increased lactic acid bacteria and reduced Streptococcus suis populations (p < 0.05). Although there was no influence of maternal diet on pig growth after weaning, there was a modulation on bacterial populations at 7 and 35 days post-weaning. Pigs fed SCFAs-MCFAs demonstrated improved feed efficiency with notable reductions in E. coli and Streptococcus suis counts. The findings suggest that maternal dietary supplementation with SCFAs-MCFAs can positively influence both sow and pig performance, offering a potential strategy to enhance productivity and health in the commercial swine production.

Optimizing broiler growth, health, and meat quality with citric acid- assessing the optimal dose and environmental impact: Citric acid in Broiler Health and Production

The need for sustainable and safe alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters has driven researchers to explore organic acids (OAs) inclusion in broiler diets. Citric acid (CA), a notable OA, has emerged as a promising alternative due to its various physiological benefits, including improved nutrient digestibility, antioxidant properties, and enhanced weight gain. Despite the improved growth performance, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) does not seem to be consistently affected by CA inclusion. A considerable number of research papers suggest that CA can replace antibiotic growth promoters and has proved to be more effective when combined with other additives like probiotics and microbial phytase. However, despite numerous trials, the near-accurate dose remains in doubt. Dietary addition between 1.65 % and 2.65 % seems to positively affect broiler performance. Being an organic acid, CA brings no risk to the environment and does not economically burden producers. It has the capability to enhance certain meat qualities and extend shelf life. However, there is a risk of acidic stress and liver damage with excessive inclusion. This review study seeks to offer a thorough and all-encompassing summary of the present level of understanding regarding the use of CA supplementation in broiler diets by describing its impacts on growth efficiency, nutrient utilization, intestinal condition, immune response, meat quality, optimal dose, and environmental sustainability. Further research focused on determining precise dosage levels and understanding the synergistic or antagonistic effects of citric acid when combined with other feed additives is essential for optimizing broiler performance.

Preservation of agri-food byproducts by acidification and fermentation in black soldier fly larvae bioconversion

Maintaining a consistent supply of feedstock for efficient bioconversion of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) presents challenges due to the fluctuating availability of biowastes and agri-food products. To address the challenge of consistent feedstock supply for BSFL, this study investigated the influence of three preservation methods: wild fermentation, inoculated fermentation, and acidification on agri-food by-products applied over three storage durations (1, 7, and 14 days), evaluating their impact on BSFL bioconversion, and feedstock nutrient and microbiota composition. The preserved feedstocks were characterized for gross nutrient, sugar, fermentation metabolite, and bacterial community analyses. All feedstock preservation methods and storage durations had a high bioconversion rate (21-25 % dry mass) and wet larval mass (170-196 mg). Notably, 7-and-14-day acidified feedstock had a significantly higher bioconversion rate compared to fermented feedstock. Acidification preserved feedstock nutrients best with only a 10 % difference compared to initial nutrient values. Fermentation produced typical lactic acid fermentation metabolites with reducing sugar contents; however, adding a lactic acid bacterial inoculum (7 log10 CFU kg feedstock-1) had no benefit, presumably due to the high nutrient content and existing richness in lactic acid bacteria. Preservations had little influence on Enterobacteriaceae (6.2-7.5 log10 CFU g-1) in freshly harvested larvae. Future research should assess the acidification and fermentation of different BSFL feedstocks and investigate the roles of feedstock pH, organic acids, and fermentation metabolites in more detail. Therefore, this study advances toward reliable and efficient insect-based nutrient recovery from agri-food by-products within the food system.

Protective Effect of Coated Benzoic Acid on Intestinal Epithelium in Weaned Pigs upon Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Challenge

The study was designed to investigate the protective effect of dietary supplementation with coated benzoic acid (CBA) on intestinal barrier function in weaned pigs challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). Thirty-two pigs were randomized to four treatments and given either a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 3.0 g/kg CBA, followed by oral administration of ETEC or culture medium. The results showed that CBA supplementation increased the average daily weight gain (ADWG) in the ETEC-challenged pigs (p < 0.05). CBA also increased the serum activity of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), as it decreased the serum concentrations of endotoxin, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the ETEC-challenged pigs (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the CBA alleviated the ETEC-induced intestinal epithelial injury, as indicated by a reversal of the decrease in D-xylose absorption and a decrease in the serum levels of D-lactate and diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, as well as a decrease in the quantity of apoptotic cells in the jejunal epithelium following ETEC challenge (p < 0.05). Moreover, CBA supplementation significantly elevated the mucosal antioxidant capacity and increased the abundance of tight junction protein ZO-1 and the quantity of sIgA-positive cells in the jejunal epithelium (p < 0.05). Notably, CBA increased the expression levels of porcine beta defensin 2 (PBD2), PBD3, and nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf-2), while downregulating the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in the jejunal mucosa (p < 0.05). Moreover, CBA decreased the expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the ileal mucosa upon ETEC challenge (p < 0.05). These results suggest that CBA may attenuate ETEC-induced damage to the intestinal epithelium, resulting in reduced inflammation, enhanced intestinal immunity and antioxidant capacity, and improved intestinal epithelial function.

The In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Phytogenic and Acid-Based Eubiotics against Major Foodborne Zoonotic Poultry Pathogens

The aim of the study was to investigate in vitro the antibacterial activity of 8 commercial drinking water additives against major zoonotic poultry pathogens (Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria spp.). We tested two essential oil-based phytogenics (Phyto CSC Liquide B, AEN 350 B Liquid), two acid-based eubiotics (Salgard® liquid, Intesti-Flora), and four blends of essential oils and organic acids (ProPhorceTM SA Exclusive, Herbal acid, Rigosol-N and Eubisan 3000). The antibacterial activity was determined by estimating the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using a microdilution method. The MICs of the products against Campylobacter spp. ranged from 0.071% to 0.568% v/v, in which Herbal acid, a blend rich in lactic and phosphoric acids, also containing thyme and oregano oils, exhibited the highest efficacy (MIC: 0.071% v/v) against all the tested strains. The MICs of the tested products against Escherichia coli ranged between 0.071% and 1.894% v/v. Specifically, the MIC of Rigosol-N, a blend of high concentrations of lactic and acetic acid, was 0.142% v/v for both tested strains, whereas the MICs of Intesti-Flora, a mixture rich in lactic and propionic acid, ranged from 0.284% to 0.568% v/v. The MICs of the products against Salmonella Typhimurium were between 0.095% and 1.894% v/v. Specifically, the MIC of Eubisan 3000, a blend rich in oregano oil, was 0.284% v/v. The MICs against Staphylococcus aureus were between 0.142% and 9.090% v/v. The MICs of Phyto CSC Liquide B, which is rich in trans-cinnamaldehyde, were between 3.030% and 9.090% v/v, showing the highest MIC values of all tested products. Finally, the MIC values of the tested commercial products against Listeria spp. were 0.095% to 3.030% v/v. The MICs of ProPhorceTM SA Exclusive, a highly concentrated blend of formic acid and its salts, were 0.095-0.142% v/v against Listeria spp., while the MICs of AEN 350 B Liquid were between 0.284% and 1.894% exhibiting high Listeria spp. strain variability. In conclusion, all the selected commercial products exhibited more or less antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria and, thus, can be promising alternatives to antibiotics for the control of zoonotic poultry pathogens and the restriction of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.

Effects of Plant Polysaccharides Combined with Boric Acid on Digestive Function, Immune Function, Harmful Gas and Heavy Metal Contents in Faeces of Fatteners

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of plant polysaccharides combined with boric acid on digestive function, immune function and harmful gas and heavy metal contents in the faeces of fatteners. For this study, 90 healthy crossbred fatteners were selected and randomly divided into five groups: the control group was fed with a basal diet (Con); experimental group I was fed with basal diet + 40 mg/kg boric acid (BA); experimental group II was fed with basal diet + 40 mg/kg boric acid + 400 mg/kg Astragalus polysaccharides (BA+APS); experimental group III was fed with basal diet + 40 mg/kg boric acid + 200 mg/kg Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (BA+GLP); and experimental group IV was fed with basal diet + 40 mg/kg boric acid + 500 mg/kg Echinacea polysaccharides (BA+EPS). Compared with Con, the average daily gain (ADG), the trypsin activities in the duodenum and jejunum, the IL-2 levels in the spleen, the T-AOC activities and GSH-Px contents in the lymph node of fattening were increased in the BA group (p < 0.05), but malondialdehyde content in the lymph and spleen, and the contents of NH3, H2S, Hg, Cu, Fe and Zn in the feces and urine were decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with the BA, the ADG, gain-to-feed ratio (G/F), the trypsin and maltase activities in the duodenum and jejunum were increased in the BA+APS (p < 0.05), and the T-SOD activities in the spleen and T-AOC activities in the lymph node were also increased (p < 0.05), but the H2S level was decreased in the feces and urine (p < 0.05). Compared with the BA, the ADG, G/F and the trypsin and maltase activities in the duodenum were increased in the BA+GLP and BA+EPS (p < 0.05), the activities of maltase and lipase in the duodenum of fatteners in the BA+GLP and the activities of trypsin, maltase and lipase in the BA+EPS were increased (p < 0.05). Gathering everything together, our findings reveal that the combined addition of boric acid and plant polysaccharides in the diet of fatteners synergistically improved their growth performance and immune status. That may be achieved by regulating the activity of intestinal digestive enzymes, improving the antioxidant function and then promoting the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Furthermore, the above results reduce the emission of harmful gases and heavy metals in feces and urine.

Bactericidal effect of water-washing methods on Vibrio vulnificus contaminated in a raw fish Konosirus punctatus: water type, temperature, and pH

This study aimed to evaluate a method for effectively reducing Vibrio vulnificus contamination in fish based on the type of washing water and method. Texture profiles and sensory evaluations were performed to determine the effect of the developed method on the quality and preference of the samples. The selected fish sample was Konosirus punctatus, which is mainly consumed in Asian countries. Various factors that could affect the survival rate of V. vulnificus were reviewed, including water type, temperature, exposure time, organic acids, pH, and washing methods. As a result, immersion and washing with filtered water with pH adjusted to 4.0 using acetic acid showed a high bactericidal effect of 2.5 log MPN/100 g. Furthermore, this method showed no statistically significant effect on the texture and sensory characteristics of fish. The results of the present study suggest a simple and effective method for preventing V. vulnificus infection in raw fish.

Current situation, trend, and prospects of research on functional components from by-products of baijiu production: A review

In the present scenario marked by energy source shortages and escalating concerns regarding carbon dioxide emissions, there is a growing emphasis on the optimal utilization of biomass resources. Baijiu, as the Chinese national spirit, boasts remarkably high sales volumes annually. However, the production of baijiu yields various by-products, including solid residues (Jiuzao), liquid wastewater (Huangshui and waste alcohol), and gaseous waste. Recent years have witnessed dedicated research aimed at exploring the composition and potential applications of these by-products, seeking sustainable development and comprehensive resource utilization. This review systematically summarizes recent research, shedding light on both the baijiu brewing process and the bioactive compounds present baijiu production by-products (BPBPs). The primary focus lies in elucidating the potential extraction methods and applications of BPBPs, offering a practical approach to comprehensive utilization of by-products in functional food, medicine, cosmetic, and packaging fields. These applications not only contribute to enhancing production efficiency and mitigating environmental pollution, but also introduce innovative concepts for the sustainable advancement of associated industries. Future research avenues may include more in-depth compositional analysis, the development of utilization technologies, and the promotion of potential industrialization.

Effects of Bacillus licheniformis on growth performance, immune and antioxidant functions, and intestinal microbiota of broilers

Bacillus licheniformis (BL) has been widely regarded as an important growth promoter in recent years. However, its usage in animal industry still needs more foundations. The aim of our study was to study the effects of BL on the growth performance, immunity, oxidative function and intestinal flora of broilers. A total of 760 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly divided into 4 groups with 10 replicates per group and 19 broilers per replicate. The broilers in the control group (CON) were fed with basal diet. The treatment groups were supplemented with 250 mg/kg (BL250), 500 mg/kg (BL500) and 750 mg/kg (BL750) BL in the basal diet for 70 d. Results showed that BL groups significantly increased the body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG), decreased average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). In addition, the spleen and bursa indexes were higher in the BL groups than that in the CON group at d 70. BL supplementation also markedly increased the levels of immunoglobulins Y (IgY), IgA and anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10), reduced the levels of proinflammatory IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and IL-2 in the serum at 70 d in a concentration-dependent manner. Besides, BL addition significantly increased the levels of series antioxidant enzymes including total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), and decreased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum. Moreover, BL groups showed an obvious increase of isobutyric acid markedly and BL500 group significantly promoted the level of isovaleric acid in cecal contents of broilers. Finally, microbial analysis showed that BL supplementation presented visual separations of microbial composition and increased the relative abundance of p_Proteobacteria, g_Elusimicrobium, and g_Parasutterella comparing with the CON group. Together, this study inferred that dietary BL supplementation improved the growth performance, immune and antioxidant functions, changed the intestinal microflora structure and metabolites of yellow-feathered broilers, which laid a good basis for the application of probiotics in the future.

Bioconversion of cellulose and hemicellulose in corn cob into L-lactic acid and xylo-oligosaccharides

With the banning of antibiotic chemical feed additives, multi-functional bioactive feed additives have been extensively sought after by the feed industry. In this study, low-cost and renewable corn cobs were treated with liquid hot water and converted into bioactive xylo-oligosaccharides and L-lactic acid after enzymatic hydrolysis, strain activation, and fermentation under mild conditions, which achieved a full utilization of cellulose and hemicellulose in corn cobs. Simultaneous saccharification fermentation after strain activation with enzymatic hydrolysate delivered the highest conversion rate of glucose to L-lactic acid (93.00 %) and yielded 17.38 g/L L-lactic acid and 2.68 g/L xylo-oligosaccharides. On this basis, batch-feeding fermentation resulted in a 78.03 % conversion rate of glucose to L-lactic acid, 18.99 g/L L-lactic acid, and 2.84 g/L xylo-oligosaccharides. This work not only provided a green and clean bioconversion strategy to produce multi-functional feed additives but can also boost the full utilization of renewable and cheap biomass resources.

Growth performance, carcass characteristics, and blood biochemical indices of broilers affected by dietary organic acids blend's supplementation

The objective of the present study was to explore the influence of organic acids cocktail (lactic-L plus formic-F acid, LF) in broiler diets on feed utilization, growth rate, blood indices and carcass traits. A total of 300 chicks were used and allotted to five treatment groups. The rations contained 0 additives (negative control-NC), basal diet + 0.5 g Colistin® (positive control-PC); LF2, LF4 and LF6: basal diet + 2, 4 and 6 cm3 LF/kg diet, respectively. There were no differences in feed consumption and feed conversion due to LF treatments at all ages except FI at 1-2 wks of age which was significantly affected by gradual levels of LF (p < 0.05). All carcass traits were statistically significant (p < 0.05) differed due to LF treatments. The alterations in urea, creatinine total protein, globulin and albumin in addition to the activity of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in broiler chicks were significantly different when compared to controls. Malondialdehyde (MDA) slightly decreased with an increase in the level of formic plus lactic. Based on our results, the highest and middle levels (6 and 4 cm3 LF/kg diet) are recommended for the best performance and health aspects of broilers.

Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of a Formulation Containing Ascorbic Acid and Eudragit FS 30D Microparticles for the Controlled Release of a Curcumin-Boric Acid Solid Dispersion in Turkey Poults Infected with Salmonella enteritidis: A Therapeutic Model

The selection of components within a formulation or for treatment must stop being arbitrary and must be focused on scientific evidence that supports the inclusion of each one. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to obtain a formulation based on ascorbic acid (AA) and Eudragit FS 30D microparticles containing curcumin-boric acid (CUR-BA) considering interaction studies between the active components carried out via Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to minimize antagonistic effects, and comprehensively and effectively treat turkey poults infected with Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis). The DSC and FTIR studies clearly demonstrated the interactions between AA, BA, and CUR. Consequently, the combination of AA with CUR and/or BA should be avoided, but not CUR and BA. Furthermore, the Eudragit FS 30D microparticles containing CUR-BA (SD CUR-BA MP) showed a limited release of CUR-BA in an acidic medium, but they were released at a pH 6.8-7.0, which reduced the interactions between CUR-BA and AA. Finally, in the S. enteritidis infection model, turkey poults treated with the combination of AA and SD CUR-BA MP presented lower counts of S. enteritidis in cecal tonsils after 10 days of treatment. These results pointed out that the use of an adequate combination of AA and CUR-BA as an integral treatment of S. enteritidis infections could be a viable option to replace the indiscriminate use of antibiotics.

Salmonella Control in Fattening Pigs through the Use of Esterified Formic Acid in Drinking Water Shortly before Slaughter

The presence of Salmonella in pig feces is a major source of abattoir and carcass contamination, and one of the main sources of human salmonellosis. This study assessed whether using a form of esterified formic acid (30% formic acid) in drinking water (10 kg/1000 L) 5 days before slaughter could be a helpful strategy to mitigate this public health issue. Thus, 240 pigs from three Salmonella-positive commercial fattening farms were selected. From each farm, 40 pigs were allocated to a control group (CG) and 40 to a treatment group (TG). At the abattoir, fecal samples from both groups were collected for Salmonella detection (ISO 6579-1:2017) and quantification (ISO/TS 6579-2:2012). Salmonella was present in 35% (95% IC = 29.24-41.23) of the samples collected. The prevalence was significantly higher in the CG than in the TG (50% vs. 20%; p < 0.001). In all farms, the TG showed a lower percentage of shedders than the CG. A random-effects logistic model showed that the odds of shedding Salmonella were 5.63 times higher (95% CI = 2.92-10.8) for the CG than for the TG. Thus, the proportion of pigs shedding Salmonella that was prevented in the TG due to the use of this form of organic acid was 82.2%. In addition, a Chi-squared analysis for trends showed that the higher the Salmonella count, the higher the odds of the sample belonging to the CG. These results suggest that adding this type of acid to drinking water 5 days before slaughter could reduce the proportion of Salmonella-shedding pigs and the Salmonella loads in the guts of shedder pigs.

Effects of Amazake Produced with Different Aspergillus on Gut Barrier and Microbiota

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. To explore the preventive effects of dietary foods on IBD, we evaluated the effects of the traditional Japanese fermented beverage "Amazake" on gut barrier function in this study. Black koji Amazake (BA) derived from Aspergillus luchuensis MEM-C strain and yellow koji Amazake (YA) derived from Aspergillus oryzae were made in this study, and their nutrients were analyzed. Mice with mild gut barrier dysfunction induced by Western diet were administered with 10% of each Amazake for two months. Mice gut microbiota were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. BA contained a higher amount of isomaltooligosaccharides, citric acid, and ferulic acid than YA. The animal data revealed that BA significantly induced the expressions of antioxidant factors and enzymes such as NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nfr2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO1), and superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD-2). The gut barrier protein, occludin, and fecal immunoglobulin A (IgA) were also significantly enhanced by BA. Furthermore, the levels of serum endotoxin and hepatic monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) were decreased in both the BA and YA groups. In gut microbiota, Lachnospiraceae was increased by BA while Akkermansia muciniphilia was increased by YA. Black koji Amazake contained a higher amount of isomaltooligosaccharides, citric acid, and ferulic acid than yellow koji Amazake and contributed to protecting gut barrier function to reduce endotoxin intrusion and inflammation.

Investigation of the Effect of Three Commercial Water Acidifiers on the Performance, Gut Health, and Campylobacter jejuni Colonization in Experimentally Challenged Broiler Chicks

This study investigated the effect of three commercial water acidifiers on the performance, gut health, and C. jejuni colonization in experimentally challenged broiler chicks. A total of 192 one-day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308^®) were randomly allocated into 6 treatment groups with 4 replicates according to the following experimental design: group A, birds were not challenged and received tap water; group B, birds were challenged and received tap water; groups C, D, E, and F, birds were challenged and received tap water treated with 0.1% v/v SPECTRON^®, with 0.1-0.2% v/v ProPhorce™ SA Exclusive, with 0.1-0.2% v/v Premium acid, and with 0.1-0.2% v/v Salgard^® Liquid, respectively. The continuous water acidification evoked undesirable effects on broilers' performance and to an increased number of birds with ulcers and erosions in the oral cavity and the upper esophageal area. ProPhorce™ SA Exclusive and Premium acid significantly reduced the C. jejuni counts in the crop, whereas Salgard^® Liquid significantly reduced the C. jejuni counts in the ceca of birds. At slaughter age, only Premium acid significantly reduced C. jejuni counts in the ceca of birds. All the tested products ameliorated the changes induced by C. jejuni infection in the pH in the ceca of birds. It can be concluded that besides the effectiveness of the tested products in controlling C. jejuni in broilers, their continuous application evoked undesirable effects on broilers' performance, leading to the need to modify the dosage scheme in future investigations.

Effects of dosing non-toxigenic Clostridia on the bacterial populations and immunological responses in the intestinal tract of lactating dairy cows

Understanding the effects of dosing non-toxigenic Clostridia to cows is rare and has received little attention so far. In the present study, a total of eight lactating dairy cows were divided in two groups: control (n = 4) or Clostridia challenged (oral supplementation of five diverse strains of Paraclostridium bifermentans, n = 4). Bacterial communities were analyzed by qPCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the buccal mucosa as well as digesta and mucosal samples of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from rumen to rectum (10 compartments), as well as fecal samples. Transcriptomic analysis of barrier and immune-related gene expression was performed on rumen, jejunum, and liver samples. We observed increased microbial populations with the Clostridial challenge in the buccal tissues and the proximal GI tract (forestomach), correlating with Clostridial loads in the feed. Otherwise, there were no significant differences in microbial populations (p > 0.05) throughout the distal part of the GI tract. The NGS approach, however, revealed that the Clostridial challenge changed the relative abundance of gut and fecal microbiota. In particular, in the challenge group, no Bifidobacterium was observed in the mucosa-associated microbiota and abundance of Pseudomonadota increased in the feces. These results indicated potential adverse effects of Clostridia to cow health. In general, immune responses to the Clostridial challenge were weak. However, transcriptional analysis revealed the down-regulation of junction adhesion molecule encoding gene (-1.44 of log₂ fold-change), which might impact intestinal permeability.

Isolation and Characterization of Jumbo Coliphage vB_EcoM_Lh1B as a Promising Therapeutic Agent against Chicken Colibacillosis

Colibacillosis in chickens can cause the death of young stock, decrease weight gain and lead to significant economic losses. Currently, antibiotic therapy is the main method of treatment of infected animals, but unchecked use of antibiotics has led to widespread antibiotic resistance among microorganisms. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternative methods of treating bacterial infections that are fully consistent with the One Health concept and introduce them into practice. Phage therapy meets the specified requirements perfectly. This study describes the isolation and characterization of the lytic jumbo phage vB_EcoM_Lh1B and evaluates its potential use in controlling antibiotic-resistant E. coli infection in poultry. The complete phage genome is 240,200 bp long. Open reading frame (ORF) prediction shows that the phage genome does not contain genes encoding antibiotic resistance and lysogeny factors. Based on phylogenetic and electron microscopic analysis, vB_EcoM_Lh1B belongs to the group of myoviruses of the Seoulvirus genus of the Caudoviricetes class. The bacteriophage has good resistance to a wide range of pH and temperatures and has the ability to suppress 19 out of 30 studied pathogenic E. coli strains. The biological and lytic properties of the isolated vB_EcoM_Lh1B phage make it a promising target of further study as a therapeutic agent against E. coli infections in poultry.

Nutrigenomic profiling of reduced specification diets and phytogenic inclusion effects on critical toll-like receptor signaling, mitogen-activated protein kinase-apoptosis, and PI3K-Akt-mTOR gene components along the broiler gut

The effects of concurrent reduction of dietary metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) levels combined or not with the dietary inclusion of a phytogenic feed additive (PFA) were studied using a nutrigenomics approach. In particular, the expression of 26 critical genes relevant for inflammation control (TLR pathway), cellular apoptosis (MAPK pathway) cell growth and nutrient metabolism (PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway) was profiled along the broiler intestine. Two dietary types (L and H) differing in metabolizable energy and crude protein levels (L: 95% and H: 100% of optimal Cobb 500 recommendations for ME and CP requirements) supplemented or not with PFA (- or +) and their interactions (L-, L+, H-, H+) were evaluated. There were only 3 total interactions (mTOR, IL8, and HRAS P < 0.05) between diet type and PFA inclusion indicating limited concurrent effects. Diet type, L upregulated genes related with inflammation mainly in the jejunum, ileum, and cecum (P < 0.05) and MAPK pathway in the ileum and cecum (P < 0.05). Moreover, diet type L negatively affected the expression of genes related to PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway mainly in duodenum and cecum (P < 0.05). On the other hand, PFA inclusion downregulated (P < 0.05) genes related with TLR signaling pathway (TLR2B, MyD88, TLR3, IL8, LITAF) along the intestine and MAPK pathway genes (APO1, FOS) in jejunum (P < 0.05). Finally, PFA supplementation regulated nutrient sensing and metabolism in the cecum in a manner perceived as beneficial for growth. In conclusion, the study results highlight that the reduced ME and CP specifications, especially in the absence of PFA, regulate inflammation, apoptosis and nutrient metabolism processes at homeostatic control levels that hinder maximizing the availability of dietary energy and nutrients for growth purposes. Inclusion of PFA helped to adjust the respective homeostatic responses and control to levels supporting broiler performance, especially at reduced specification diets.

Effects of Dietary Probiotics and Acidifiers on the Production Performance, Colostrum Components, Serum Antioxidant Activity and Hormone Levels, and Gene Expression in Mammary Tissue of Lactating Sows

The aims of this study were to test the effects of dietary probiotics and acidifiers on the production performance, colostrum components, serum antioxidant activity and hormone levels, and gene expression in the mammary tissue of lactating sows. Four treatments were administered with six replicates to 24 lactating sows. The control group (GC) received a basal diet, while the experimental groups received a basal diet with 200 mL/d probiotics (GP), 0.5% acidifiers (GA), and 200 mL/d probiotics + 0.5% acidifiers (GM), respectively. Compared with the GC, (1) the average weight of the piglets on the 21st day of lactation in the GM was higher (p < 0.05); (2) the colostrum fat ratio increased significantly (p < 0.05); (3) the malondialdehyde levels in GP and GM were lower (p < 0.05) on the 11th day; (4) on the 1st, 11th, and 21st days, the prolactin in GP and GM increased (p < 0.05); (5) on the 21st day, the relative expression levels of the prolactin receptor and fatty acid synthase were increased (p < 0.05). In summary, the basal diet mixed with 200 mL/d probiotics + 0.5% acidifiers could improve the production performance, colostrum components, serum antioxidant activity, and hormone levels of lactating sows.

Detection of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and Clostridia in the Aetiology of Neonatal Piglet Diarrhoea: Important Factors for Their Prevention

This study aimed to research the involvement of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and C. difficile or C. perfringens type C in the aetiology of neonatal piglet diarrhoea in Greece and to identify preventive factors for them. A total of 78 pooled faecal samples were collected randomly from 234 suckling piglets (1-4 days of age) with diarrhoea from 26 pig farms (3 piglets × 3 litters × 26 farms = 234 piglets = 78 faecal pool samples). The collected samples were initially screened for the presence of E. coli and C. difficile or C. perfringens via cultivation on MacConkey and anaerobic blood agar, respectively. Subsequently, the samples were pooled on ELUTE cards. From samples tested, 69.23% of those in the farms were ETEC F4-positive, 30.77% were ETEC F5-positive, 61.54% ETEC were F6-positive, 42.31% were ETEC F4- and E. coli enterotoxin LT-positive, 19.23% were ETEC F5- and LT-positive, 42.31% were ETEC F6- and LT-positive, while LT was found in 57.69% of those in the farms. C. difficile was involved in many cases and identified as an emerging neonatal diarrhoea etiological agent. Specifically, Toxin A of C. difficile was found in 84.62% and Toxin B in 88.46% of those in the farms. Antibiotic administration to sows in combination with probiotics or acidifiers was revealed to reduce the detection of antigens of ETEC and the enterotoxin LT of E. coli.

Effect of Dietary Organic Acids and Botanicals on Metabolic Status and Milk Parameters in Mid-Late Lactating Goats

The microencapsulated mixture of organic acids and pure botanicals (OA/PB) has never been evaluated in goats. The aim of this study was to extend the analysis to mid-late lactating dairy goats, evaluating the effects of OA/PB supplementation on the metabolic status, milk bacteriological and composition characteristics, and milk yield. Eighty mid-late lactating Saanen goats were randomly assigned to two groups: one group was fed the basal total balanced ration (TMR) (CRT; n = 40) and the other was fed a diet that was TMR supplemented with 10 g/head of OA/PB (TRT; n = 40) for 54 days during the summer period. The temperature-humidity index (THI) was recorded hourly. On days T0, T27, and T54, the milk yield was recorded, and blood and milk samples were collected during the morning milking. A linear mixed model was used, considering the fixed effects: diet, time, and their interaction. The THI data (mean ± SD: 73.5 ± 3.83) show that the goats did not endure heat stress. The blood parameters fell within the normal range, confirming that their metabolic status was not negatively influenced by OA/PB supplementation. OA/PB increased the milk fat content (p = 0.04) and milk coagulation index (p = 0.03), which are effects that are looked on as favorable by the dairy industry in relation to cheese production.

Effects of dietary organic acid and pure botanical supplementation on growth performance and circulating measures of metabolic health in Holstein calves challenged by heat stress

To evaluate the effects of heat stress environmental conditioning and dietary supplementation with organic acid and pure botanicals (OA/PB) on growth in dairy calves, we enrolled 62 bull (noncastrated) and heifer calves in a study with a completely randomized design. Calves were assigned to 1 of 5 groups (n = 11 to 14/group): (1) thermoneutral conditions (TN-Con), (2) HS conditions (HS-Con), (3) thermoneutral conditions and pair-fed to match nutrient intake with HS-Con (TN-PF), (4) HS with low-dose OA/PB [75 mg/kg of body weight (BW); 25% citric acid, 16.7% sorbic acid, 1.7% thymol, 1.0% vanillin, and 55.6% triglyceride; HS-Low], or (5) HS with high-dose OA/PB (150 mg/kg of BW; HS-High). Supplements were delivered as a twice-daily bolus via the esophagus from wk 1 through 13 of life; all calves, including those on the control treatments, received an equivalent amount of triglyceride used for microencapsulation. Calves were raised in TN conditions from birth until weaning. After weaning, calves (62 ± 2 d; 91 ± 10.9 kg of BW) were transported to a new facility and remained in TN conditions [temperature-humidity index (THI): 60 to 69] for a 7-d covariate period. Thereafter, calves remained in TN or were moved to HS conditions (THI: diurnal change 75 to 83 during night and day, respectively) for 19 d. Clinical assessments were performed thrice daily, BW was recorded weekly, and blood was sampled on d 1, 2, 3, 8, 15, and 19. Upon experiment completion, calves from HS-Con and TN-Con were euthanized, and hot carcass and visceral organ weights were recorded. The mixed model included calf as a random effect; treatment, day, hour (when appropriate) as fixed effects, and the interactions of treatment × day and treatment × hour (when appropriate). Rectal and skin temperatures and respiration rates were greater in HS-Con than in TN-Con. During heat stress exposure, dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), and gain to feed (G:F) were lower in HS-Con relative to TN-Con. Comparing HS-Con and TN-PF, ADG and G:F were similar. Plasma fatty acid concentrations were elevated in TN-PF compared with HS-Con and TN-Con. Despite tendencies for increased aspartate aminotransferase, HS conditions did not overtly influence liver and inflammation markers. Liver weights were lower in HS-Con relative to TN-Con. During the first week of heat exposure, DMI was greater for HS-Low relative to HS-Con. Supplementation of OA/PB at low and high levels had a similar G:F to HS-Con. We conclude that reductions in DMI accounted for production losses during HS conditioning and that dietary OA/PB supplementation was not able to improve growth performance in heat-stressed calves.

Fermented Chinese Herbal Medicine Promoted Growth Performance, Intestinal Health, and Regulated Bacterial Microbiota of Weaned Piglets

To investigate the effects of fermented Chinese herbal medicine on growth performance, diarrhea rate, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health of weaned piglets, and to provide the theoretical basis for applying fermented Chinese herbal medicines to weaned piglet production, a total of 162 weaned and castrated piglets at 25 days of age (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, half male and half female) with an initial body weight of 7.77 ± 0.03 kg were randomly divided into the following three groups according to the principle of similar body weight: basal diet (CON) group, basal diet + 3 kg/t fermented Chinese herbal medicine (LFHM) group, and basal diet + 5 g/kg fermented Chinese herbal medicine (HFHM) group. Each group underwent six replicates and there were nine piglets in each replicate. The experiment lasted 24 days, i.e., 3 days for preliminary feeding, and 21 days for the experiment. From Day 1 of the experiment, the piglets were observed and recorded for diarrhea each day. As compared with the CON group, the results indicated: Following the addition of fermented Chinese herbal medicine, the piglets in the LFHM and HFHM groups increased final weight (FW); average daily feed intake (ADFI); average daily gain (ADG) (p < 0.01); apparent digestibility of crude protein (CP) (p < 0.05); as well as chymotrypsin, α-amylase, and lipase activities (p < 0.01). In addition, α-amylase activity in the LFHM group was higher than that in the HFHM group (p < 0.05); chymotrypsin activity in the LFHM group was lower than that in the HFHM group (p < 0.05); as compared with the CON group, the LFHM and the HFHM increased villus height (VH) and crypt depth (CD) in piglet jejunum; isovaleric acid concentration with the HFHM was higher than those with the CON and the LFHM (p < 0.05), but butyrate concentration with the HFFM was lower than those with the CON and the LFHM (p < 0.05). The high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing of intestinal microbiota results showed that the LFHM and the HFHM affected the microbial α diversity index in weaned piglet colon (p < 0.01). In conclusion, fermented Chinese herbs can improve the growth performance of weaned piglets by promoting the secretion of intestinal digestive enzymes, changing intestinal microbial diversity, regulating the contents of intestinal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), promoting intestinal health, and improving nutrients digestibility.

Evaluation of Liquid Organic Acids on the Performance, Chyme pH, Nutrient Utilization, and Gut Microbiota in Broilers under High Stocking Density

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of organic acids (OAs) in starter broilers and to investigate whether supplemental OAs could alleviate the high stocking density (HSD) stress condition in grower broilers. A total of 408 1-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were assigned into two groups without or with liquid OAs in the starter phase. In the grower phase, each group in the starter phase was divided into a normal stocking density and an HSD. The OA dose was 0.16% at the starter and grower phases. The results showed that at the starter phase, OAs decreased the chyme pH in gizzard and duodenum and increased the activities of chymotrypsin and α-amylase in the duodenal chyme (p < 0.05). In the grower phase, an HSD decreased the growth performance and the ether extract digestibility (p < 0.01). The supplementation of OAs decreased the chyme pH in the gizzard, proventriculus, and duodenum and increased the lipase and α-amylase activities (p < 0.05). The supplemental OAs increased the dry matter and total phosphorous digestibility and the contents of acetic acids, butyric acids, isovaleric acids, and valeric acids (p < 0.05). For cecal microbial compositions at the genus level, an HSD decreased the relative abundance of Blautia, Norank_f__norank_o__RF39, and Alistipes, while supplemental OAs increased the relative abundance of Norank_f__norank_o__RF39 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, although there were no interaction effects between OAs and stocking densities in the present study, it was clear that the supplementation of OAs has beneficial effects on the chyme pH, enzymes activities, and nutrient digestibility in broilers, while an HSD existed adverse effects on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and gut microbiota balance in grower broilers.

The effect of acidifier supplementation on egg production performance and intestinal histology of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

BACKGROUND

Acidifier are substances with antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, performance and health benefits that are frequently employed in feed acidification, especially in poultry diet. Meanwhile, the most important factor for acidifier efficiency is the proportion of different acids in the final product.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of a commercial acidifier on egg production and histology of the small intestine in laying Japanese quail.

METHODS

One-hundred and sixty female quails at 15 weeks of age were divided into four groups and fed basal diet supplemented with different levels of acidifier (0, 1, 2 and 3 gr acidifier/kg of basal diet) for 8 weeks. Egg production, egg quality attributes and body weight (BW) were measured every 2 weeks. Histology of the small intestine and bacterial population of cecum as well as pH of crop, duodenum, jejunum, ileum and cecum contents were also investigated at the end of the experiment.

RESULTS

Feed conversion ratio (FCR), yolk height, shell thickness, pH of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum; duodenum, villus width (VW), villus height (VH), crypt depth (CD); jejunum VH, VW and ileum VH to CD ratio (VCR) were linearly improved by the increasing levels of acidifier supplementation (P < 0.05). Duodenum VH increased in a linear and quadratic manner in response to increasing levels of acidifier. Egg weight, yolk diameter, jejunum CD, ileum CD, ileum VW, duodenum CD and jejunum VCR quadratically improved by grading levels of acidifier (P < 0.01). BW, albumen height, Haugh unit, ileum VH and ileum VCR were cubically enhanced (P < 0.05). Acidifier supplementation enhanced egg production, FCR, jejunum, ileum and cecum pH and VH, CD and VW of duodenum and jejunum, compared to the control group (P < 0.05); however, dietary acidifier did not affect egg mass, gizzard pH, ileum VH and bacterial count of the cecum (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, as calculated, the supplementation of 1 and 2.6 g acidifier per kg of diet was associated with beneficial effects on egg production and quality, gastrointestinal tract pH and histology of the small intestine in laying quails.

The effects of feeding benzoic acid and/or active dry yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on fatty acid composition, sensory attributes, and retail shelf-life of beef longissimus thoracis

Fifty-nine Angus-cross steers (492 ± SD 36 kg) were arranged in a randomized complete block design and assigned to the following dietary treatments for the final 106 days of the finishing phase: no supplementation (CON), 0.5% benzoic acid (ACD), 3 g/steer/d active dry Saccharomyces cerevisiae (YST), or both [0.5% benzoic acid and 3 g/steer/d S. cerevisiae (AY)]. Steers were slaughtered at a commercial facility where longissimus thoracis (IMPS #107 Beef Rib) samples were retrieved and evaluated for fatty acid composition, sensory attributes, and shelf-life during a simulated retail display period. Data (N = 57) were analyzed using dietary treatment as a fixed effect, blocking weight at the beginning of the study as a random effect, and steer as the experimental unit. Muscle pH and proximate composition (moisture and intramuscular lipid) for longissimus samples were not different (P ≥ 0.39) among dietary treatments. Most fatty acid profile values and calculations were not different among dietary treatments (P ≥ 0.10); however, the n-6:n-3 ratio differed (P = 0.01), with ACD samples having lower n-6:n-3 compared with CON and YST samples while AY samples were intermediate and not different from other dietary treatments. The trained sensory panel did not detect differences among dietary treatments (P ≥ 0.23) for juiciness, beef flavor intensity, or off-flavor intensity; however, they did score AY samples as chewier than ACD samples with CON and YST samples intermediate and not different from other dietary treatments. Yet, tenderness was not different when scored by trained panelists (P = 0.10) or measured instrumentally (P = 0.21). Total color change tended to differ (P = 0.09) during the 12-d simulated retail display period with AY samples experiencing less color change compared with YST samples, while CON and ACD samples were intermediate and not different from other dietary treatments. Lipid oxidation (as measured with TBARS) tended to differ (P = 0.08) following the 12-d simulated retail display period with ACD and AY samples experiencing lower levels of oxidation compared with CON, while YST samples were intermediate and not different from other dietary treatments. Overall, these results suggest there were no negative impacts on meat quality when finishing steers were supplemented with either benzoic acid or S. cerevisiae, and there may even be advantages for fatty acid composition and oxidative stability when steers were supplemented with benzoic acid.

Multifarious feed additives on lamb performance on Kuwait farms

Background and Aim

A change in the livestock feeding strategy is of utmost importance for the stability of animal health and sustainable livestock productivity to overcome the problem of subsiding the environmental effects of sheep production. Supplementing dietary feed with safe and efficient additives provides optimal animal performance and maximizes productivity. This study aimed to assess the effects of adding various feed additives to lamb rations for optimizing feed efficiency in weaned lambs for meat production in Kuwait.

Materials and Methods

The feed additives, namely, ammonium chloride, urea, algae, fishmeal, and humic acid, were investigated on the physical performance of lambs for their effect on body weight, length, height, and waist length. The total feed consumption rate and feed efficiency were also measured. Each treatment comprising five healthy lambs was randomly allocated into six treatments comprising 30 lambs. The six treatments were the basal ration supplemented with ammonium chloride (50-100 g/day/head), urea (30 g/day/head), fishmeal (35 g/day/head), algae (Spirulina platensis) powder (50 g/day/head), humic acid (2.5 g/day/head), control group with only basal ration. The study was conducted for around 27 months and the data were recorded once in 2 weeks.

Results

The results indicated a positive elevation in the physique of lambs with all tested additives, showing an affirmative insignia for lamb fattening. The growth parameters in terms of augmented length, height, and waist length of lambs' bodies amplified significantly with ammonium chloride and fishmeal supplement, while the other additives reported a non-significant increment. The feed consumption was significantly elevated for ammonium chloride, algae, and fishmeal supplementation, while humic acid was recorded the least. Concerning feed efficiency of young lambs, fish meal and ammonium chloride were reported best, followed by urea. In contrast, algae and humic acid exhibited a non-significant effect on feed efficiency.

Conclusion

This study exposed noteworthy influence on a lamb body's performance with the addition of fish meal and ammonium chloride in lamb rations, trailed by urea and algae.

Current Development and Future Application Prospects of Plants-Derived Polyphenol Bioactive Substance Curcumin as a Novel Feed Additive in Livestock and Poultry

Curcumin (CUR) is a kind of natural orange-yellow phenolic compound mainly extracted from the stems and roots of turmeric plants and other species in the genus Curcuma, furthermore, it is also the most important active ingredient exerting pharmacological functions in turmeric. In recent years, CUR has been frequently reported and has attracted widespread attention from scholars all over the world due to its numerous biological functions and good application prospects, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant and providing lipid-lowering effects, etc. In addition, adding a certain dose of CUR to livestock and poultry feed is important for animal growth and development, which plays a key role in animal metabolism, reproduction, immunity and clinical health care. This review aims to summarize, based on the published papers and our own observations, the physical and chemical properties and the biological functions of the plant-derived bioactive ingredient CUR, especially regarding the latest research progress in regulating intestinal health as well as its current development and future application prospects in livestock and poultry as a novel feed additive, so as to provide theoretical and practical references for the further study of the application of CUR as a novel feed additive and a potential new antibiotic substitute, thereby improving the research field of plant-derived bioactive ingredients and promoting the healthy development of livestock and poultry.

Effect of Supplementation with the Combination of Se-Enriched Lentinula edodes Mycelium, Exogenous Enzymes, Acidifiers, Sodium Butyrate and Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticle Feed Additives on Selected Parameters in Calves

During the initial months of calves’ lives, the young animals are exposed to bacterial and viral infections, and during this period, crucial physiological changes take place in their organisms. Offering calves feed additives that will have a beneficial influence on their organisms and improve their growth while reducing the morbidity rate is the optimal task of feeding. This is the first study to investigate the effect of experimental supplementation for calves with the combination of two feed additives—one containing Lentinula edodes enriched with selenium (Se), and the second containing pancreatic-like enzymes, fat-coated organic acids, sodium butyrate, and silicon dioxide nanoparticles—on the serum Se concentration, selected immune parameters, and the average daily gains in the calves. During the study, the serum Se concentration was examined by means of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and the immunoglobulin and cytokine concentrations with ELISA assays. The white blood cell (WBC) count with leukocyte differentiation was examined with the use of a hematological analyzer, and the percentages of subpopulations of T lymphocytes and monocytes, phagocytic activity, and oxidative burst of monocytes and granulocytes with the use of a flow cytometer. The average daily gains of the calves were also evaluated. In summary, the supplementation of the experimental calves with the combination of two feed additives resulted in significantly higher serum Se concentrations, and the immune systems of the calves were not suppressed while the examined feed additives were being delivered. Although not statistically significant, some positive effects on the calves were seen: a tendency towards the improvement of some of the immune parameters evaluated, and a tendency for higher average daily gains in the calves.

Heat stress develops with increased total-tract gut permeability, and dietary organic acid and pure botanical supplementation partly restores lactation performance in Holstein dairy cows

To evaluate the effects of heat stress (HS) conditions and dietary organic acid and pure botanical (OA/PB) supplementation on gut permeability and milk production, we enrolled 46 multiparous Holstein cows [208 ± 4.65 dry matter intake (DMI; mean ± SD), 3.0 ± 0.42 lactation, 122 ± 4.92 d pregnant, and 39.2 ± 0.26 kg of milk yield] in a study with a completely randomized design. Cows were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: thermoneutral conditions (TN-Con, n = 12), HS conditions (HS-Con, n = 12), thermoneutral conditions pair-fed to HS-Con (TN-PF, n = 12), or HS supplemented with OA/PB [75 mg/kg of body weight (BW); 25% citric acid, 16.7% sorbic acid, 1.7% thymol, 1.0% vanillin, and 55.6% triglyceride; HS-OAPB, n = 10]. Supplements were delivered twice daily by top-dress; all cows not supplemented with OA/PB received an equivalent amount of the triglyceride used for microencapsulation of the OA/PB supplement as a top-dress. Cows were maintained in thermoneutrality [temperature-humidity index (THI) = 68] during a 7-d acclimation and covariate period. Thereafter, cows remained in thermoneutral conditions or were moved to HS conditions (THI: diurnal change 74 to 82) for 14 d. Cows were milked twice daily. Clinical assessments and BW were recorded, blood was sampled, and gastrointestinal permeability measurements were repeatedly evaluated. The mixed model included fixed effects of treatment, time, and their interaction. Rectal and skin temperatures and respiration rates were greater in HS-Con and HS-OAPB relative to TN-Con. Dry matter intake, water intake, and yields of energy-corrected milk (ECM), protein, and lactose were lower in HS-Con relative to HS-OAPB. Nitrogen efficiency was improved in HS-OAPB relative to HS-Con. Compared with TN-Con and TN-PF, milk yield and ECM were lower in HS-Con cows. Total-tract gastrointestinal permeability measured at d 3 of treatment was greater in HS-Con relative to TN-Con or TN-PF. Plasma total fatty acid concentrations were reduced, whereas insulin concentrations were increased in HS-Con relative to TN-PF. We conclude that exposure to a heat-stress environment increases total-tract gastrointestinal permeability. This study highlights important mechanisms that might account for milk production losses caused by heat stress, independent of changes in DMI. Our observations also suggest that dietary supplementation of OA/PB is a means to partly restore ECM production and improve nitrogen efficiency in dairy cattle experiencing heat stress.

Evaluation of the acid-binding capacity of ingredients and complete diets commonly used for weanling pigs

Some ingredients bind more acid in the stomach than others which can increase gastric pH in weaned pigs causing decreased protein digestion and allow pathogenic micro-organisms to proliferate. Our objective was to measure acid-binding capacity at a pH of 4 (ABC-4) of common nursery ingredients and determine additivity in diets. Ingredient categories included: cereal grains, vegetable proteins, animal proteins and milk, vitamin premixes and minerals, amino acids, and fiber sources. A 0.5-g sample of each ingredient was suspended in 50 mL of distilled deionized water and titrated with 0.1-N hydrochloric acid. Sample ABC-4 was calculated as the amount of acid in milliequivalents (meq) required to lower 1 kg to a pH of 4. Cereal grains were found to have lower ABC-4 compared to other ingredients. Vegetable proteins had higher ABC-4 with more variation than cereal grains. Soybean meal (SBM) had an ABC-4 of 602 ± 28.2 meq. Soy protein concentrate and enzymatically treated soybean meal (ESBM) had higher ABC-4 compared to SBM while fermented soybean meal (FSBM) was lower. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) had the highest ABC-4 among all ingredients with values of 21,863 ± 598.7 and 18,384 ± 769.7 meq, respectively. Following ingredient analysis, a series of diets were analyzed to determine additivity by comparing the differences between calculated and analyzed ABC-4 value. All diets analyzed had lower ABC-4 than calculated values; however, analyzed ABC-4 increased along with calculated values across diets. The first series of diets were arranged in a 2 × 5 factorial consisting of increasing CaCO3 with or without ZnO. There was a ZnO × CaCO3 interaction (P = 0.020) for difference between calculated and analyzed ABC-4. Within the interaction, differences between calculated and analyzed ABC-4 increased (linear, P < 0.001) as CaCO3 increased in diets without ZnO, but not in diets with ZnO. The second series of diets analyzed consisted of different levels of SBM with either FSBM or ESBM included at 5% of the diet. Differences between calculated and analyzed values were not different between treatments (P = 0.640). In conclusion, perfect ABC-4 additivity in diets was not found due to lower analyzed than calculated values; however, analyzed ABC-4 still increased as calculated values increased. This data suggests diet ABC-4 can be adjusted through selection of ingredients but more feeding trials are needed to determine its impact on pig performance.

Insights in the Development and Uses of Alternatives to Antibiotic Growth Promoters in Poultry and Swine Production

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics has contributed to the rise and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. To address this global public health threat, many countries have restricted the use of antibiotics as growth promoters and promoted the development of alternatives to antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine and animal farming. In food-animal production, acidifiers, bacteriophages, enzymes, phytochemicals, probiotics, prebiotics, and antimicrobial peptides have shown hallmarks as alternatives to antibiotics. This review reports the current state of these alternatives as growth-promoting factors for poultry and swine production and describes their mode of action. Recent findings on their usefulness and the factors that presently hinder their broader use in animal food production are identified by SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat) analysis. The potential for resistance development as well as co- and cross-resistance with currently used antibiotics is also discussed. Using predetermined keywords, we searched specialized databases including Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Antibiotic resistance cannot be stopped, but its spreading can certainly be hindered or delayed with the development of more alternatives with innovative modes of action and a wise and careful use of antimicrobials in a One Health approach.

Effects of coated sodium butyrate on performance, egg quality, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health of laying hens

This study determined the effects of coated sodium butyrate (CSB) on production performance, egg quality, nutrient digestibility, and intestinal health of laying hens. We divided a total of 800 Lohmann laying hens, aged 51 wk, into 4 treatment groups: 0 (CON), 300 (CSB1), 500 (CSB2), and 800 (CSB3) mg/kg of CSB. Each group comprised 20 birds, with 10 replicates set. A 12-wk monitoring process was conducted for each laying hen. Compared to CON, dietary supplementation of CSB did not affect the average daily feed intake or the egg weight. The CSB3 group demonstrated a linear increase in the production performance (P < 0.05), with decreased feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). CSB2 and CSB3 exhibited markedly elevated egg mass (P < 0.05). The CSB supplementation markedly enhanced the yolk color (P < 0.05). CSB1 improved the digestibility of dry matter (P = 0.029). No significant differences were observed among dietary treatments in the duodenal morphology (P > 0.05). The three dosages of CSB reduced the crypt depth (P < 0.05) in the jejunum, whereas CSB3 exhibited an increase in the villus height (VH; P = 0.048). The CSB3 group showed a markedly elevated ileal VH (P = 0.011). CSB supplementation significantly increased the butyric acid content in the cecum (P = 0.009). The hens fed on the 800 mg/kg CSB diet showed a significant increase (P = 0.029) in butyric acid content in the ileum. The CSB3 group showed an elevation in microbial diversity (P < 0.05). Additionally, at the phylum level, the CSB3 increased the enrichment of Bacteroidetes, the CSB2 increased Firmicutes, and the abundance of Deferribacteres was increased in CSB2 and CSB3 groups (P < 0.05). An enrichment of Muribaculaceae (family) was observed in the CSB3 group. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of CSB improved production, yolk color, intestinal morphology, butyrate content, and microbial composition in laying hens.

Effect of Two Feed Additives-One Multicomponent Based on Nanosilica and the Second Containing Mycelium of Lentinula edodes Fortified with Selenium-On Production Parameters and Histological Analysis of Calves' Duodenum and Abdominal Rumen

With this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of two multicomponent feed additives given to animals from 10 to 70 d with milk replacer on the production parameters of reared calves: serum selenium level and histology of duodenum and rumen. The first additive was based on nanosilica (3000 mg) containing pancreatic enzymes (protease (18 mg), lipase (45 mg)), a mixture of fat-coated organic acids (2000 mg) (fumaric, malic, citric, and sorbic acids), and sodium butyrate (10,000 mg) (nanosilica/E/OA/SB), whereas the second was based on the mycelium of L. edodes (7 g) enriched in selenium (0.058 mg/g d.w.) (L. edodes/Se). The study was conducted on 18 male crossbred Holstein dairy calves from birth to 70 days of age, which were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups (six animals in each). From each group, three animals were sacrificed at 70 days of age, and histological analysis of the digestive tract (abdominal rumen and small intestine) was performed. It was observed that the additives used did not have any effect on growth performance and hematological or biochemical parameters. However, higher levels of selenium were found in serum in the calves fed with modified L. edodes mycelium on days 35 and 70 (44.33 and 51.33 µg/L in the control group and 132 and 93 µg/L in the L. edodes/Se group, respectively; p < 0.001). Moreover, we noticed lower average daily milk replacer intake at 35−42 d, which increased significantly from 42 to 70 d in the animals receiving L. edodes/Se.

Prospects of organic acids as safe alternative to antibiotics in broiler chickens diet

Genetically, modern broilers are fast-growing birds which attain the market age at the age of 5 weeks. To maintain optimum production, antibiotics have been commonly included in the diets as growth promoters. However, due to the increase in antimicrobial resistance, their uses have been banned worldwide. To keep the optimum level of production and health in broiler industry, the use of alternative growth promoters such as probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and organic acids has been proposed. Chemically, organic acids are weak acids and only partially dissociate. They are considered safe and have been used for preservation of food for centuries. Nowadays, organic acids have been reported for antibacterial, immune potentiating, and growth promoters in broilers. In this review, the effects of dietary inclusion of organic acids on growth, nutrient digestibility, intestinal integrity, immune system, and antibacterial activity in broilers are discussed.

Effects of acid-hydrolyzed soybean meal on growth performance, jejunal morphology, digestive enzyme activities, nutrient utilization, and intestinal microbial population in broiler chickens

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of soybean meal (SBM) treated with acetic or citric acids on growth performance, microbial population, digestive enzyme activities, nutrient digestibility, and jejunal morphology in broiler chickens. A total of 350 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed into 7 experimental groups with 5 replicates per each. Experimental treatments were diets containing untreated SBM (control) and SBM treated with two acid sources and their concentrations including 5, 10, and 15% acetic acid (A1, A2, and A3) or 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75% citric acid (C1, C2, and C3). Results showed that trypsin inhibitors and lectins as the main SBM anti-nutrients significantly reduced in acid-treated SBM compared with untreated SBM (P < 0.05). During 1-24 days, body weight gain increased in chicks fed the C2 diet (P < 0.05). Feeding of the C2 diet increased feed intake compared with A1, A2, and C3 groups (P < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio improved in chicks fed with C2, C3, and A2 diets compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The greatest villus length, villus length to crypt depth ratio, and villus surface area were observed in the C2 diet (P < 0.05). A significant increase in protease and lipase activity was found in broilers which received a C2 diet compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Broiler chickens fed with the C2 diet had a higher organic matter and crude protein digestibility than the chicks which received the control diet (P < 0.05) and dry matter digestibility was the lowest in broilers fed with the A3 diet (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the acid hydrolyzing process had a beneficial effect on the nutritional value of SBM. In addition, data showed that acid-hydrolyzed SBM had the potential to exert positive influences on growth performance, jejunal morphology, and nutrient utilization in broiler chickens.

Potential Applications of Essential Oils for Environmental Sanitization and Antimicrobial Treatment of Intensive Livestock Infections

The extensive use of antibiotics has contributed to the current antibiotic resistance crisis. Livestock infections of Salmonella spp, Clostridium spp. and E. coli antimicrobial-resistant bacteria represent a public threat to human and animal health. To reduce the incidence of these zoonoses, essential oils (EOs) could be effective antibiotic alternatives. This study aims at identifying EOs safe for use, effective both in complementary therapy and in the environmental sanitization of intensive farming. Natural products were chemo-characterized by gas chromatography. Three S. Typhimurium, three C. perfringens and four E. coli strains isolated from poultry and swine farms were used to assess the antimicrobial properties of nine EOs and a modified GR-OLI (mGR-OLI). The toxicity of the most effective ones (Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cz; Origanum vulgare, Ov) was also evaluated on porcine spermatozoa and Galleria mellonella larvae. Cz, Ov and mGR-OLI showed the strongest antimicrobial activity; their volatile components were also able to significantly inhibit the growth of tested strains. In vitro, Ov toxicity was slightly lower than Cz, while it showed no toxicity on G. mellonella larvae. In conclusion, the study confirms the importance of evaluating natural products to consolidate the idea of safe EO applications in reducing and preventing intensive livestock infections.

Effect of chemical and biological preservatives and ensiling stage on the dry matter loss, nutritional value, microbial counts, and ruminal in vitro gas production kinetics of wet brewer's grain silage

This study evaluated the effects of chemical and biological preservatives and ensiling stage on spoilage, ruminal in vitro fermentation, and methane production of wet brewer's grain (WBG) silage. Treatments (TRT) were sodium lignosulfonate at 10 g/kg fresh WBG (NaL1) and 20 g/kg (NaL2), propionic acid at 5 g/kg fresh WBG (PRP, 99%), a combination inoculant (INO; Lactococcus lactis and Lactobacillus buchneri each at 4.9 log cfu/fresh WBG g), and untreated WBG (CON). Fresh WBG was treated and then ensiled for 60 d, after which mini silos were opened and aerobically exposed (AES) for 10 d. Data were analyzed as a RCBD (5 blocks) with a 5 TRT × 3 stages (STG; Fresh, Ensiled, and AES) factorial arrangement. Results showed that Ensiled PRP-treated WBG markedly preserved more water-soluble carbohydrates and starch than all other Ensiled TRT (P<0.001). Dry matter losses of Ensiled PRP-treated WBG were 48% lower than all other Ensiled TRT (P=0.009) but were not different than CON in AES (P=0.350). Due to its greater concentration of digestible nutrients, PRP-treated AES was less aerobically stable than CON (P=0.03). Preservation was not improved by INO, NaL1 or NaL2 but the latter prevented the increase of neutral detergent fiber across STG (P=0.392). Apparent in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) decreased only in Ensiled CON, INO and NaL1 relative to Fresh WBG and AES NaL2 had greater IVDMD than all other AES TRT (P≤0.032). In vitro ruminal fermentation of Fresh WBG resulted in a greater methane concentration and yield than the other STG (P<0.033). In conclusion, PRP was the most effective at preserving WBG during ensiling but failed to improve aerobic stability under the conditions tested.

Sows fed with synergistic blend of short- and medium chain organic acid has a carryover effect on post-weaning growth rate

This study investigated the effect of a synergistic blend of free and buffered organic acid (FMP) on the performance of piglets born to sows supplemented with a blend of short- and medium-chain organic acids (SGG) during the late gestation and lactation period. A total of 150 multiparous sows (n = 50/treatment, Landrace × Yorkshire) were blocked (2.4 parity) and assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: CON - corn-soybean meal-based basal diet, SGG-Low − CON+ 1.5 kg/ton SGG, and SGG-High − CON + 3kg/ton SGG. During weaning, 600 piglets (6.72 ± 0.5kg) which weaned from sows supplemented with 3 levels of SGG were allocated to 2 weaner diets (Control and FMP - 3kg/ton) following 3 × 2 factorial arrangement. Supplemental effects on performance were measured at d0–d21 and d 21–42, and the entire period. Pigs fed with FMP and born to sows supplemented with SGG-High gained more weight and ate more (p < 0.05) compared with those in the CON group in both phases, and with SGG-Low in the second phase. Over the entire post-weaning period, piglets born to sows supplemented with SGG-Low and SGG-High had a higher average daily gain (ADG) and body weight (BW) (p < 0.05). Regardless of sow treatment, pigs fed with an FMP diet had higher ADG (p < 0.001), BW (p = 0.045), and a lower feed conversion ratio (p = 0.033). Also, feeding FMP diets reduced the fecal Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens counts at d42. The current study indicates that sows fed SGG supplement had a positive carry-over effect on the post-weaning growth rate, and FMP supplement enhances the growth performance and reduced the number of C. perfringens and E. coli. Thus, the application of 3 kg/ton of SGG in sows’ diet and subsequent feeding of piglets with FMP would be an effective strategy to improve growth rate and reduce pathogenic bacteria in post-weaned piglets.

Potential Role of Protocatechuic Acid as Natural Feed Additives in Farm Animal Production

Restriction on using antibiotics in animal feed that generates demand for antibiotics alternatives in animal breeding. Providing safe food to humans free from the residual effects of antibiotics is a great challenge to animal producers and food-producing industry owners. Medicinal plants and their extracts as feed supplements have been used to promote the growth and health of farm animals for centuries. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a phenolic compound that originated from natural plants. For years, the health-promoting role of PCA has been becoming an attraction of research in nutrition and pharmacy. Thus, it can be used as an active natural feed additive while synthetic antibiotics are illegal to use in animal breeding. However, the practical application of PCA in view of dosages in animal nutrition, together with its mode of action on animal health, is not well known. In this regard, this review study has explored the mode of action of PCA and the feasibility of using those compounds in animal nutrition. This review study concludes that phenolic-rich protocatechuic acid as a natural feed additive may be useful in enhancing antioxidant status, immune function, antimicrobial, intestinal health and growth performance of farm animals.

Meta-analysis of the effects of chemical and microbial preservatives on hay spoilage during storage

A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of chemical (50 articles) and microbial (21 articles) additives on hay preservation during storage. Multilevel linear mixed-effects models were fit with response variables calculated as predicted differences (Δ) between treated and untreated samples. Chemical preservatives were classified into five groups such as propionic acid (PropA), buffered organic acids (BOA), other organic acids (OOA), urea, and anhydrous ammonia (AA). Moderators of the models included preservative class (PC), forage type (FT; grass, legumes, and mixed hay), moisture concentration (MC), and application rate (AR). Dry matter (DM) loss during storage was affected by PC × FT (P = 0.045), PC × AR (P < 0.001), and PC × MC (P = 0.009), relative to the overall effect of preservatives (-0.37%). DM loss in PropA-treated hay was numerically reduced to a greater extent in grasses (-16.2), followed by mixed hay (-1.76), but it increased (+2.2%) in legume hay. Increasing AR of PropA resulted in decrease in DM loss (slope = -1.34). Application of BOA, OOA, PropA, and AA decreased visual relative moldiness by -22.1, -29.4, -45.5, and -12.2 percentage points, respectively (PC; P < 0.001). Sugars were higher in treated grass hay (+1.9) and lower in treated legume hay (-0.8% of DM) relative to their untreated counterparts (P < 0.001). The application of all preservatives resulted in higher crude protein (CP) than untreated hay, particularly urea (+7.92) and AA (+5.66% of DM), but PropA, OOA, and BOA also increased CP by 2.37, 2.04, and 0.73 percentage points, respectively. Additionally, preservative application overall resulted in higher in vitro DM digestibility (+1.9% of DM) relative to the untreated hay (x¯=58.3%), which increased with higher AR (slope = 1.64) and decreased with higher MC (slope = -0.27). Microbial inoculants had small effects on hay spoilage because the overall DM loss effect size was -0.21%. Relative to untreated (x¯=4.63% DM), grass hay preserved more sugars (+1.47) than legumes (+0.33) when an inoculant was applied. In conclusion, organic acid-based preservatives prevent spoilage of hay during storage, but their effectiveness is affected by FT, MC, and AR. Microbial inoculants had minor effects on preservation that were impaired by increased MC. Moreover, legume hay was less responsive to the effects of preservatives than grass hay.

Farm characteristics affecting antibiotic consumption in pig farms in England

BACKGROUND

Pig production has been highlighted as one of the highest users of antibiotics amongst livestock, with several studies suggesting a variety of approaches to antibiotic reduction. We aimed to investigate links between antibiotic use (defined as total amount of critically (CIA) and non-critically important antibiotics, and as mg per kg of pig on farm), production stages present on farm (Breeder-Finisher, Nursery-Finisher, and Finisher), and pig farm characteristics using farm data collected through national recording systems in Great Britain for 2017 & 2018. Providing enrichment within pig pens may reduce the need for antibiotics by enhancing both pig welfare and resilience to infection; this was one of the hypotheses addressed by this paper.

RESULTS

The amount of antibiotic used, expressed as mg/kg, reduced between 2017 and 2018 for Breeder-Finisher farms, but not for Nursery-Finisher or Finisher farms. Breeder-Finisher farms were more likely to use CIA compared with other production stages. Larger farms were more likely to use CIA, but farm size had no effect on mg/kg of antibiotic used. As the proportion of pens containing straw increased, the total use of antibiotics decreased for Breeder-Finisher, but not for Nursery-Finisher or Finisher farms. As the proportion of pens containing straw increased, the probability of using CIAs also decreased. Farms with a higher proportion of finisher pens with an outdoor space had a lower use of non-critical antibiotics and lower probability of use of CIA. Farms with a higher proportion of pens with automatically controlled natural ventilation (ACNV) had lower total use of antibiotics, although ACNV had no effect on the probability of using CIA.

CONCLUSIONS

We quantified the influence of farm characteristics on the consumption of antibiotics in pig farms in England. Our findings support the hypothesis that farm characteristics have an influence on antibiotic use within a system and suggest that this reflects the balance of effects on both animal resilience and disease challenge. Consistent with our hypothesis, provision of straw was associated with reduced antibiotic use. We also demonstrate the value of using secondary databases, although further structural improvements are required to facilitate effective database combination and ensure maximum information benefits can be realised.

A pilot study on the effect of a novel feed additive containing exogenous enzymes, acidifiers, sodium butyrate and silicon dioxide nanoparticles on selected cellular immune indices and body weight gains of calves

Introduction

The rearing of calves is a difficult period for farmers due to health problems to which the animals are prone this time. Since the use of antibiotics as growth promoters has been forbidden, various innovative feed additives have been tested in many countries around the world.

Material and Methods

In this study, experimental (E) calves were supplemented with a novel feed additive consisting of the pancreatic-like enzymes protease and lipase, a fat-coated mixture of organic fumaric, malic, citric and sorbic acids, sodium butyrate and silicon dioxide nanoparticles. Control (C) calves received feed without additive. During the supplementation, white blood cell (WBC) counts with leukocyte differentiation, percentages of B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes and their subpopulations, phagocytic activity and oxidative burst of circulating monocytes and granulocytes were examined. Body weight (b.w.) gains of the calves were also monitored.

Results

The WBC counts in the E and C calves were within the reference ranges throughout the study. In the analysis of the percentages of the lymphocyte subpopulations, phagocytic activity and oxidative burst, no statistically significant differences were reported between the E and C groups. However, higher average daily body weight gains were obtained for the E calves.

Conclusion

The study revealed that the examined feed additive did not modulate the immune response of the calves significantly. The tendency to higher daily average b.w. gains in the E calves than in the C calves suggests a beneficial effect of this feed additive.