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Zahid S, Usman M, Ishaq HM, Haider MF, Saleem MM, Elahi U, Hussain M, Latif HRA, Saleem K, Ahmad S, Ebeid TA. Impact of different range areas on behavior, welfare, and performance of Naked Neck chickens. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:227. [PMID: 39095552 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-04079-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different environmental enrichment tools on behavior, welfare, productive performance, and egg quality traits of Naked Neck chickens. A total of 1080 Naked Neck female chickens (30 weeks old) were used in the present study. A completely randomized experimental design, with 3 treatments having 4 replicates of 90 birds each, was applied. Treatments consisted of 3 different range areas A (121.9 m2), B (152.4 m2), and C (190.5 m2). Behavior (walking, feeding/foraging, sitting, aggressiveness wing flapping, perching, dust bathing, and range use), welfare (foot pad dermatitis, lameness, gait score, and feather pecking), productive performance (egg weight, egg production %, egg mass, and feed intake), egg quality traits (morphometry, egg weight, shell, albumen, and yolk characteristics) were evaluated. There was no influence (P > 0.05) of different range area on bird's behavior, and egg quality traits except walking and rang usage. The range area C promoted productive performance including egg weight, egg production %, egg mass and feed intake, but it did not influence welfare traits. It might be concluded that Naked Neck chicken when reared in free range with different range enrichments did not reveal any difference regarding behavioral parameters, egg morphometry, and egg quality traits. The range area within minimum length and effectively used environmental enrichments (perching and dust bathing area) should be used for backyard poultry to obtain ideal performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Zahid
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Usman
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ishaq
- Department of Livestock and Poultry Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | | | - Mian Mubashar Saleem
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Narowal, Pakistan
| | - Usman Elahi
- Faculty of Agriculture & Veterinary Sciences, Superior University, 17-KM Main Raiwind Road, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Murrawat Hussain
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Rao Abdul Latif
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Kinza Saleem
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Ahmad
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Tarek Amin Ebeid
- Department of Animal and Poultry Production, College of Agriculture and Food, Qassim University, Buraydah, 51452, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh, 33516, Egypt
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Greene ES, Ardakani MA, Dridi S. Effects of an herbal adaptogen feed-additive on feeding-related hypothalamic neuropeptides in chronic cyclic heat-stressed chickens. Neuropeptides 2024; 106:102439. [PMID: 38788297 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2024.102439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Heat stress (HS) is a global serious issue in the poultry industry with numerous adverse effects, including increased stress, depressed feed intake (FI), poor growth performance and higher mortality. Herbal adaptogens, plant extracts considered as stress response modifiers, are metabolic regulators that improve an organism's ability to adapt to and minimize damage from environmental stresses. Previously, we showed that herbal adaptogen supplementation increased FI and body weight (BW) of broiler (meat-type) chickens reared under HS conditions. Therefore, we hypothesized that these effects may be mediated through modulation of hypothalamic feeding-related neuropeptides. Male Cobb 500 chicks were reared in 12 environmental chambers with three diets: a corn-soybean-based diet (C) and two herbal adaptogen-supplemented diets at 500 g/1000 kg (NR-PHY-500) and 1 kg/1000 kg (NR-PHY-1000). Broilers in 9 chambers were exposed to chronic cyclic HS (35 °C for 8 h/day) from d29 to d42, while 3 chambers were maintained at 24 °C (thermoneutral, TN) for all 42 days. Hypothalamic samples were collected on d42 from each group, both before the onset of HS (Pre-HS) that day and after 3 h of HS (post-HS). Hypothalamic expressions of neuropeptide Y (NPY) receptors Y4 and Y7, Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), orexin receptor 1 (ORXR1), melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC4R, and MC5R), visfatin and neurosecretory protein GL (NPGL) genes were significantly upregulated by adaptogen supplementation. The hypothalamic expression of MC2R was affect by period, with a significant upregulation during post-HS phase. There was a significant period by treatment interaction for hypothalamic orexin and adiponectin expression. The hypothalamic expression of NPY, Y1, Y2, Y5, Y6, proopiomelanocortin (POMC), cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART), agouti-related peptide (AgRP), ORXR2, AdipR1/2, MC3R, and ghrelin was not affected by diet supplementation nor by HS exposure. In conclusion, these findings suggest that in-feed supplementation of adaptogen might improve FI and growth via modulation of hypothalamic feeding-related neuropeptides in heat-stressed broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Greene
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Maryam Afkhami Ardakani
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Sami Dridi
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States.
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Mogre J, Adzitey F, Teye G, Birteeb P. Cattle transporters' attitudes, indigenous knowledge, and current practices towards animal welfare, occupational well-being, and operational challenges: A survey of five regions in Ghana. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27317. [PMID: 38500988 PMCID: PMC10945195 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Ghana is a significant cattle producer in Africa with an estimated cattle population of 3 million in 2020 [1]. The role of transporters in linking farms to markets and slaughterhouses is crucial in the livestock value chain. However, cattle transportation subjects the animals to high levels of stress, compromising their welfare, and transporters face challenges such as long working hours and harsh conditions. The objective of this study was to explore current practices, indigenous knowledge, and operational risks pertaining to animal welfare among transporters. The study was conducted in five regions connected by the N16, N10, and N6 Highway, the primary route for cattle transportation from the Ghana-Burkina Faso border to the coastal capital of Accra. A total of 78 transporters participated in the study. Out of the 78 participants in this study, the majority of transporters were young adults (56.5%) with secondary school education (45.9%) and 0-5 years of experience (37.2%). The average distance and time for transporting cattle was 528 km and 18 h, respectively. The transporters highlighted significant challenges encountered during cattle transport, including feed and water shortage, particularly prominent during the dry season (32.1%), as well as the occurrence of diseases and mortality, particularly high during the rainy season (41%). Furthermore, vehicular breakdowns were a common issue reported by transporters, with a substantial majority (88.5%) experiencing breakdowns during their last 10 trips. The results showed that most transporters (84.7%) had limited knowledge of animal welfare and had not received any formal education on livestock transportation. Instead, they gained experience as assistants on other trucks before becoming drivers. The findings of this study highlight the need for improved welfare standards for cattle during transportation and formal training programs for transporters in animal welfare and livestock transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.W.S. Mogre
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Animal Research Institute, P. O. Box AH 20, Achimota-Accra, Ghana
| | - F. Adzitey
- University for Development Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Sciences, Department of Animal Science, P.O. Box TL 1882, Tamale, Ghana
| | - G.A. Teye
- University for Development Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Sciences, Department of Animal Science, P.O. Box TL 1882, Tamale, Ghana
| | - P.T. Birteeb
- University for Development Studies, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Sciences, Department of Animal Science, P.O. Box TL 1882, Tamale, Ghana
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Jiang S, Fu Y, Cheng HW. Daylight exposure and circadian clocks in broilers: part I-photoperiod effect on broiler behavior, skeletal health, and fear response. Poult Sci 2023; 102:103162. [PMID: 37924580 PMCID: PMC10654592 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine effects of various daylight exposure during the 24-h light-dark (L-D) cycle on growth performance, skeletal health, and welfare state in broilers. Environmental photoperiod and related circadian clock, the 24-h L-D cycle, are important factors in maintaining productive performance, pathophysiological homeostasis, and psychological reaction in humans and animals. Currently, various lighting programs as management tools for providing a satisfactory environmental condition have been used in commercial broiler production. Four hundred thirty-two 1-day-old Rose 308 broiler chicks were assigned to 24 pens (18 birds/pen). The pens were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 thermal and lighting control rooms, then the birds were exposed to (n = 6): 1) 12L, 2) 16L, 3) 18L, or 4) 20L at 15 d of age. Lighting program effects on bird body weight, behavioral patterns, bone health, and stress levels were evaluated from d 35 to d 45, respectively. The birds of 12L as well as 16L groups, reared under short photoperiods close to the natural 24-h L-D cycle, had improved production performance, leg bone health, and suppressed stress reaction compared to the birds of both 18L and 20L groups. Especially, 12L birds had heavier final body weight and averaged daily weight gain (P < 0.05), higher BMD and BMC with longer and wider femur (P < 0.05), lower H/L ratio (P < 0.05), and more birds reached the observer during the touch test (P < 0.05) but spent shorter latency during the tonic immobility test (P < 0.05). Taken together, the data suggest that supplying 12 h as well as 16L of daily light improves performance and health while decreasing stress levels in broilers, making it a potentially suitable approach for broiler production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Jiang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Animal Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yuechi Fu
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Heng-Wei Cheng
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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Milchevskaya V, Bugnon P, Ten Buren EBJ, Vanhecke D, Brand F, Tresch A, Buch T. Group size planning for breedings of gene-modified mice and other organisms following Mendelian inheritance. Lab Anim (NY) 2023; 52:183-188. [PMID: 37488410 PMCID: PMC10393774 DOI: 10.1038/s41684-023-01213-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Colony management of gene-modified animals is time-consuming, costly and affected by random events related to Mendelian genetics, fertility and litter size. Careful planning is mandatory to ensure successful outcomes using the least number of animals, hence adhering to the 3R principles of animal welfare. Here we have developed an R package, accessible also through an interactive public website, that optimizes breeding design by providing information about the optimal number of breedings needed to obtain defined breeding outcomes, taking into account specific species, strain, or line properties and success probability. Our software also enables breeding planning for balanced male-to-female ratio or single-sex experiments. We show that, for single-sex designs, the necessary number of breedings is at least doubled compared to the use of all born animals. While the presented tool provides preset parameters for the laboratory mouse, it can be readily used for any other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislava Milchevskaya
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Philippe Bugnon
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Emiel B J Ten Buren
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Vanhecke
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frank Brand
- Quantitative Methods, Department of Business and Economics, Berlin School of Economics and Law, Berlin, Germany
| | - Achim Tresch
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thorsten Buch
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Dietary Supplementation with Chlorogenic Acid Enhances Antioxidant Capacity, Which Promotes Growth, Jejunum Barrier Function, and Cecum Microbiota in Broilers under High Stocking Density Stress. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020303. [PMID: 36670842 PMCID: PMC9854556 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlorogenic acids (CGA) are widely used as feed additives for their ability to improve growth performance and intestinal health in poultry. However, whether dietary CGAs could reverse the impaired intestinal condition caused by high stocking density (HD) in broiler chickens is unknown. We determined the effect of dietary CGA on growth, serum antioxidant levels, jejunum barrier function, and the microbial community in the cecum of broilers raised under normal (ND) or HD conditions. HD stress significantly decreased growth and body weight, which was restored by CGA. The HD group showed increased serum malondialdehyde, an oxidative byproduct, and decreased SOD and GSH-Px activity. CGA reduced malondialdehyde and restored antioxidant enzyme activity. HD stress also significantly decreased jejunal villus length and increased crypt depth. Compared with ND, the expression of tight-junction genes was significantly decreased in the HD group, but this decrease was reversed by CGA. HD also significantly upregulated TNF-α. Compared with ND, the cecal microbiota in the HD group showed lower alpha diversity with increases in the harmful bacteria Turicibacter and Shigella. This change was altered in the HD + CGA group, with enrichment of Blautia, Akkermansia, and other beneficial bacteria. These results demonstrated that HD stress decreased serum antioxidant capacity, inhibited the development of jejunal villi, and downregulated expression of tight-junction genes, which increased intestinal permeability during the rapid growth period (21 to 35 days). Dietary CGA enhanced antioxidant capacity, improved intestinal integrity, and enhanced beneficial gut bacteria in chickens raised under HD conditions.
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Li YQ, Zhang Y, Bai DY, Liu YH, He XL, Ito K, Liu KX, Tan HQ, Zhen WR, Zhang C, Zhang BK, Ma YB. Effects of dietary chlorogenic acid on ileal intestinal morphology, barrier function, immune factors and gut microbiota of broilers under high stocking density stress. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1169375. [PMID: 37123261 PMCID: PMC10140557 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1169375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims: The purpose of this research was to assess the effect of chlorogenic acid (CGA) in the diet on ileac structure, barrier function, immunological state, and microbial profile of broiler chickens in a high stocking density (HD) environment. Methods: Four hundred and seventy-six male AA broiler chickens were randomly split into four groups, two with a normal stocking density (ND) of fourteen birds per m2 and two with a high stocking density of twenty-two birds per m2. Each of the treatments consisted of five replicates. One of the two ND and HD groups received the usual feed, while the other two were given at 1.5 g/kg CGA as part of their dietary regimen. Results: The ND CGA group showed a greater increase in villus height and villus height/crypt depth compared to the ND group at 35 and 42 days. The HD group experienced a greater elevation in villus height due to CGA supplementation than the HD group across days 28, 35, and 42. At day 42, the HD group saw a decline in OCLN and ZO-1 mRNA expression in the ileum, but CGA was able to restore them. The HD group experienced a greater rise in OCLN mRNA than the control HD group when supplemented with CGA. The expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the ileum was higher in the HD group, and CGA supplementation enhanced this effect. The HD group experienced a greater rise in IL-10 mRNA expression than the control group following the administration of CGA. The HD group showed reduced alpha diversity and an increase in detrimental microbes such as Turicibacter and Shigella in the gut compared to the ND group, while the HD CGA group saw a reduction in Turicibacter, Shigella, and other harmful microbes. These findings reveal that HD stress suppressed the growth of ileac villi, decreased the expression of tight-junction genes, amplified the expression of inflammatory genes, and disturbed the gut microbiota, ultimately leading to increased intestinal permeability. Conclusion: We conclude that when chickens are given dietary CGA, the disruption of the ileac barrier and increased oxidative damage and inflammation due to HD stress are reduced, which increases ileac integrity and the presence of beneficial intestinal bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qian Li
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Innovative Research Team of Livestock Intelligent Breeding and Equipment, Longmen Laboratory, Luoyang, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Welfare and Health Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Dong-Ying Bai
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Welfare and Health Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Yan-Hao Liu
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xiang-Long He
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Koichi Ito
- Department of Food and Physiological Models, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ke-Xin Liu
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Hai-Qiu Tan
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Wen-Rui Zhen
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Innovative Research Team of Livestock Intelligent Breeding and Equipment, Longmen Laboratory, Luoyang, China
| | - Cai Zhang
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Welfare and Health Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Bing-Kun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Department of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Bo Ma
- Department of Animal Physiology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- Innovative Research Team of Livestock Intelligent Breeding and Equipment, Longmen Laboratory, Luoyang, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Animal Welfare and Health Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
- *Correspondence: Yan-Bo Ma,
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Smith MK, Buhr DL, Dhlakama TA, Dupraw D, Fitz-Coy S, Francisco A, Ganesan A, Hubbard SA, Nederlof A, Newman LJ, Stoner MR, Teichmann J, Voyta JC, Wooster R, Zeygerman A, Zwilling MF, Kiss MM. Automated enumeration of Eimeria oocysts in feces for rapid coccidiosis monitoring. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102252. [PMID: 36463777 PMCID: PMC9719016 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidiosis represents a major driver in the economic performance of poultry operations, as coccidia control is expensive, and infections can result in increased feed conversion ratios, uneven growth rates, increased co-morbidities with pathogens such as Salmonella, and mortality within flocks. Shifts in broiler production to antibiotic-free strategies, increased attention on pre-harvest food safety, and growing incidence of anti-coccidial drug resistance has created a need for increased understanding of interventional efficacy and methods of coccidia control. Conventional methods to quantify coccidia oocysts in fecal samples involve manual microscopy processes that are time and labor intensive and subject to operator error, limiting their use as a diagnostic and monitoring tool in animal parasite control. To address the need for a high-throughput, robust, and reliable method to enumerate coccidia oocysts from poultry fecal samples, a novel diagnostic tool was developed. Utilizing the PIPER instrument and MagDrive technology, the diagnostic eliminates the requirement for extensive training and manual counting which currently limits the application of conventional microscopic methods of oocysts per gram (OPG) measurement. Automated microscopy to identify and count oocysts and report OPG simplifies analysis and removes potential sources of operator error. Morphometric analysis on identified oocysts allows for the oocyst counts to be separated into 3 size categories, which were shown to discriminate the 3 most common Eimeria species in commercial broilers, E. acervulina, E. tenella, and E. maxima. For 75% of the samples tested, the counts obtained by the PIPER and hemocytometer methods were within 2-fold of each other. Additionally, the PIPER method showed less variability than the hemocytometer counting method when OPG levels were below 100,000. By automated identification and counting of oocysts from 12 individual fecal samples in less than one hour, this tool could enable routine, noninvasive diagnostic monitoring of coccidia in poultry operations. This approach can generate large, uniform, and accurate data sets that create new opportunities for understanding the epidemiology and economics of coccidia infections and interventional efficacy.
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Farm Environmental Enrichments Improve the Welfare of Layer Chicks and Pullets: A Comprehensive Review. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192610. [PMID: 36230351 PMCID: PMC9559498 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, cage housing is regarded as a global mainstream production system for laying hens. However, limited living space and confinement of birds in cages cause welfare and health problems, such as feather pecking, osteoporosis, obesity, and premature aging. Many studies have been conducted to alleviate layer welfare problems by providing farm environmental enrichments such as litter, sand, alfalfa bales, chick papers, pecking stones, pecking strings, perches, slopes, elevated platforms, aviaries and outdoor access with a trend towards complex enrichments. The provision of appropriate enrichments continuously attracts layers towards pecking, foraging, dust bathing, and locomotion, thereby giving lifelong benefits to laying hens. Hence, raising chicks and pullets under such conditions may reduce feather and skin damage, as well as accumulation of abdominal fat, and improve several biological features such as health, productivity, quality products, and docility of laying hens. Therefore, providing enrichment during the first few days of the layer’s life without any interruption is crucial. In addition, due to different farm conditions, environmental enrichment should be managed by well-trained farm staff. For example, in preventing feather pecking among the birds, litter materials for foraging are superior to dust bath materials or new items. However, a limited supply of litter creates competition and challenges among birds. Therefore, providing farm environmental enrichment for layers requires proper handling, especially in commercial layer farms. Hence, improving the welfare of chicks and pullets through optimizing on-farm environmental enrichments is essential for production systems practicing cage housing.
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Zahoor MS, Ahmad S, Usman M, Dawood M, El-Sabrout K, Hashmi SGMD, Khan EU, Hussain M, Maqsood MA, Latif HRA. Effects of mirror and coloured balls as environmental enrichment tools on performance, welfare and meat quality traits of commercial broiler. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:151. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03155-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Differences in carcass composition and meat quality of conventional and slow-growing broiler chickens raised at 2 stocking densities. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101833. [PMID: 35421814 PMCID: PMC9018444 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The fast growth rate of broiler chickens is a welfare concern that has increased consumer interest in chicken from slower growing (SG) broilers. Replacing conventional (CONV) broilers with SG broilers will reduce chicken supply and SG broilers require different management practices than CONV. This study evaluated the effects of 2 stocking densities on the carcass composition and meat quality of CONV broilers that reach market weight at 42 d and SG broilers that reach market weight at 63 d. Male broilers from each strain were exclusively stocked into 16 pens at a density of either 29 kg/m2 or 37 kg/m2. Live body, carcass without giblets (WOG), and part weights were recorded and used to calculate yield. Initial and 24-hour pH, color (L*, a*, and b*), cooking loss, and Warner Bratzler shear force of the breast and thigh muscles were measured. Birds from both strains reached similar live body and carcass WOG weights. CONV had 3.4%, 13.0%, and 2.8% greater (P ≤ 0.002), carcass WOG, breast, and tenderloin yields, while SG had 2.7%, 5.0%, 7.5%, and 1.2% greater (P < 0.0001) wings, leg quarters, frame, and skin yields, respectively. CONV breast 24-h pH and cooking loss were greater (P ≤ 0.04) than SG. While SG thigh shear force was greater than CONV (P = 0.008), breast shear force was the lowest for CONV stocked at 29 kg/m2 and the greatest for SG stocked at 37 kg/m2 (P = 0.04). SG had a paler breast than CONV, while CONV had a yellower breast than SG (P < 0.0001). While SG had a redder thigh than CONV (P = 0.002), SG stocked at 29 kg/m2 had a redder breast than SG stocked at 37 kg/m2, with both CONV groups intermediate (P = 0.04). These results indicate that differences in male broiler meat quality were affected more by strain than by stocking density. Compared with CONV, SG broiler meat quality was more affected by stocking density in this study.
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Phytogenic Ingredients from Hops and Organic Acids Improve Selected Indices of Welfare, Health Status Markers, and Bacteria Composition in the Caeca of Broiler Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113249. [PMID: 34827980 PMCID: PMC8614400 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The selection for the rapid growth rate in broiler chickens that has been carried out over the years has negatively influenced their health and welfare status. In recent years, a number of reports have been delivered on the use of additives that improve broilers’ intestinal peristalsis and production results. The authors of this paper have proved that applying a mixture with 50% hops (manifesting strong antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties) may bring benefits to the quantity and quality of the final product. This may refer to the production performance, flock health status, and welfare of birds. The thematic scope of this research is currently of significant importance, as veterinary inspections pay particular attention to the quality of litter and the welfare of birds, and this motivates producers to improve breeding conditions, which will contribute to better production systems. Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the influence of phytogenic product-supplemented, organic acid-supplemented, and prebiotic-supplemented diets on the production results, antioxidative status, and selected welfare indices in broiler chickens. A total of 1155 one-day old male Ross 308 broilers were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: Group C, no additives; Group A, supplemented with phytogenic supplement (50% hop); and Group P, supplemented with 65% organic acids and their salts, and 30% prebiotic complex. Health condition and production results were monitored during the entire experiment. After 42 days, 10 birds from each dietary treatment group were selected for blood sampling and slaughter analysis. The results obtained revealed that over the whole feeding period, none of the investigated additives significantly affected broiler performance indices. However, feeding the birds treatment-A increased the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium in caecal digesta compared to the other treatments, whereas feeding treatment-P increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus compared to the control treatment. Overall, treatment-A was more effective at increasing relative abundance of Clostridia in birds at 42 days of age than treatment-P. Finally, there were no changes in blood levels of antioxidant indices or liver function indicators.
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Liu Y, Lin Q, Huang X, Jiang G, Li C, Zhang X, Liu S, He L, Liu Y, Dai Q, Huang X. Effects of Dietary Ferulic Acid on the Intestinal Microbiota and the Associated Changes on the Growth Performance, Serum Cytokine Profile, and Intestinal Morphology in Ducks. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:698213. [PMID: 34326826 PMCID: PMC8313987 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.698213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of ferulic acid (FA) on the growth performance, serum cytokine profile, intestinal morphology, and intestinal microbiota in ducks at the growing stage. 300 female Linwu ducks at 28 days of age with similar body weights were randomly divided into five groups. Each group contained six replicates of 10 birds. The dietary treatments were corn-soybean-based diet supplemented with FA at the concentrations of 0 (control), 100, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg diet. The results demonstrated that dietary FA at the levels of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg increased the average daily gain (P = 0.01), 400 and 800 mg/kg FA increased the final body weight (P = 0.02), 100, 200, and 800 mg/kg FA increased the serum glutathione (P = 0.01), and 100, 400, and 800 mg/kg FA increased the glutathione peroxidase activities in birds (P < 0.01). Additionally, 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg dietary FA lowered the serum levels of interleukin-2 (P = 0.02) and interleukin-6 (P = 0.04). Moreover, the morphometric study of the intestines indicated that 400 mg/kg FA decreased the crypt depth in jejunum (P = 0.01) and caecum (P = 0.04), and increased the ratio of villus height to crypt depth in jejunum (P = 0.02). Significant linear and/or quadratic relationships were found between FA concentration and the measured parameters. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that dietary FA increased the populations of genera Faecalibacterium, Paludicola, RF39, and Faecalicoccus in the cecum (P < 0.05), whereas decreased the populations of Anaerofilum and UCG-002 (P < 0.05). The Spearman correlation analysis indicated that phylum Proteobacteria were negatively, but order Oscillospirales, and family Ruminococcaceae were positively related to the parameters of the growth performance. Phylum Bacteroidetes, class Negativicutes and family Rikenellaceae were negatively associated with the parameters of the antioxidative capability. And phylum Cyanobacteria, Elusimicrobia, and Bacteroidetes, class Bacilli, family Rikenellaceae, and genus Prevotella were positively associated with the parameters of the immunological capability. Thus, it was concluded that the supplementations of 400 mg/kg FA in diet was able to improve the growth performance, antioxidative and immunological capabilities, intestinal morphology, and modulated the gut microbial construction of Linwu ducks at the growing stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Qian Lin
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Guitao Jiang
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Chuang Li
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Shengli Liu
- Shandong Lonct Enzymes Co., Ltd., Linyi, China
| | - Lingyun He
- Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Affairs Center, Huaihua, China
| | - Yali Liu
- Hunan Perfly Biotech Co., Ltd., Changsha, China
| | - Qiuzhong Dai
- Hunan Institute of Animal and Veterinary Science, Changsha, China
| | - Xingguo Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agriculture University, Changsha, China
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14
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Jeni RE, Dittoe DK, Olson EG, Lourenco J, Seidel DS, Ricke SC, Callaway TR. An overview of health challenges in alternative poultry production systems. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101173. [PMID: 34058563 PMCID: PMC8170424 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to consumer demand and changing welfare standards on health, ecology, equity, and safety concepts, poultry production has changed markedly over the past 20 y. One of the greatest changes to poultry production standards is now offering poultry limited access to the outdoors in alternative and organic poultry production operations. Although operations allowing access to the outdoors are still only a small portion of commercial poultry production, it may impact the gastrointestinal (GIT) health of the bird in different ways than birds raised under conventional management systems. The present review describes current research results in alternative systems by identifying how different poultry production operations (diet, environmental disruptive factors, diseases) impact the ecology and health of the GIT. Various research efforts will be discussed that illustrate the nutritional value of free-range forages and how forages could be beneficial to animal health and production of both meat and eggs. The review also highlights the need for potential interventions to limit diseases without using antibiotics. These alternatives could enhance both economics and sustainability in organic and free-range poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rim El Jeni
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Dana K Dittoe
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Elena G Olson
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Jeferson Lourenco
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Darren S Seidel
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Steven C Ricke
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
| | - Todd R Callaway
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA.
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15
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Assessment of Microbiota Modulation in Poultry to Combat Infectious Diseases. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030615. [PMID: 33652795 PMCID: PMC7996944 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This research was designed to evaluate the differences in caecal microbiota in broilers reared under two different farm conditions (commercial vs. optimal) during the growing period, using 16 rRNA sequencing analysis. Microbiota composition is affected by stress; for this reason, it could be considered a biomarker of poultry welfare and health. The main results demonstrated that no statistically significant differences were found between groups on microbiota composition from the beginning to the mid-period. However, significant differences were found at the end of growing, when a higher level of microbiota diversity was observed in the optimal farm conditions group. In conclusion, microbiota composition could be an interesting tool to evaluate new management conditions at field level, and could be developed to improve animal welfare during the growing period. Abstract Poultry is one of the main agricultural sub-sectors worldwide. However, public concern regarding animal welfare and antimicrobial resistance has risen in recent years. Due to the influence of management practices on microbiota, it might be considered to evaluate poultry welfare and health. Therefore, the objective of this research was to analyse the influence on microbiota balance of broilers under commercial and optimal farm conditions, using 16S rRNA sequencing analysis. The research was performed in two identical poultry houses (commercial vs. optimal). Results showed a higher level of microbiota complexity in the group reared under optimal farm conditions at the end of rearing. Regarding microbiota composition, Firmicutes was the dominant phylum during the entire growing period. However, the second most prevalent phylum was Proteobacteria at the arrival day, and Bacteroidetes from the mid-period onward in both groups. Moreover, the most predominant genera identified were Oscillospira, Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, and Coprococcus. In conclusion, it is necessary to optimize farm management as much as possible. Using gut microbiota diversity and composition as biomarkers of animal health could be an important tool for infectious disease control, with the aim of reducing the administration of antibiotics at field level.
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16
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In vivo collagen and mixed muscle protein turnover in 2 meat-type broiler strains in relation to woody breast myopathy. Poult Sci 2020; 99:5055-5064. [PMID: 32988542 PMCID: PMC7598337 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.06.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Two meat-type broiler strains, strain A and strain B, were reared in floor pens (25 birds/pen; 45 pens/strain) for pectoralis (P) major collagen and mixed muscle protein turnover (PT) study from 0-56 D using primary breeder nutrition and husbandry guidelines. Forty broilers (n = 10/strain for collagen PT; n = 10/strain for mixed muscle PT) were selected at each sampling age at day 21, 28, 35, 42, and 56 and infused with 1-13C proline (Pro) and 15N-phenylalanine (Phe) which are used as amino acid tracers for collagen and mixed muscle PT measurements, respectively. Muscle and plasma samples were collected, and enrichments of 1-13C Pro and 15N-Phe were determined using mass spectrometry. Fractional synthesis rate (FSR) and fractional degradation rate (FDR) were measured for collagen and mixed muscle using precursor-product principle. At day 42, after separating the sampled broilers as myopathy (woody breast [WB] score > 1) and nonmyopathy (WB = 0), plasma metabolites were screened for differential 3-methyhistidine (3-MH) expression for both strains. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA using t test. Results showed that collagen and mixed muscle FSR and FDR in pectoralis major decreased (P < 0.05) for both strains as the broilers aged. FSR for collagen and FDR for mixed muscle were higher for strain B than those for strain A (P < 0.05). Total collagen was higher (P < 0.05) for strain B. Differentially expressed 3-MH in plasma was higher (P < 0.05) for myopathy-affected broilers indicating greater muscle degradation occurring in myopathy-affected broiler types for both strains. 3-MH Expression in plasma was higher for strain B than for strain A. The research findings showing an increased collagen content per unit muscle weight in pectoralis major in strain B (than in strain A) could be due to higher mixed muscle FDR and increased collagen FSR occurring during the grow-out period. The increased degradation of muscle fibers and probable replacement of muscle-specific protein with connective tissue, mainly collagen, was an evident pathophysiological phenomenon occurring in myopathy-affected broilers.
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17
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Weimer SL, Mauromoustakos A, Karcher DM, Erasmus MA. Differences in performance, body conformation, and welfare of conventional and slow-growing broiler chickens raised at 2 stocking densities. Poult Sci 2020; 99:4398-4407. [PMID: 32867983 PMCID: PMC7598105 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumer concern for broiler welfare has increased interest in chicken from slower growing (SG) broiler strains. Broilers from SG strains take longer to reach market weight, which may necessitate differences in management practices, such as stocking density. This study evaluated the effects of 2 stocking densities on production performance, body conformation, and welfare of broilers from 2 strains. Broilers from strains that reach market weight at age 42 D (CONV; N = 284) and at 63 D (SG; N = 284) were exclusively stocked into pens at a density of either 29 kg/m2 or 37 kg/m2. Birds were provided the same starter, grower, and finisher diets with diet phase changes occurring when SG bird body weight (BW) matched CONV. Live BW, body length, pelvic width, shank length, shank width, keel length, breast width, and breast depth were collected at 4 phases: Phase 1—chick placement, Phase 2—starter, Phase 3—grower, and Phase 4—finisher. At Phase 4, footpad dermatitis (FPD), hock burn (HB), and toe damage (TD) were scored. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) and mortality for each pen were recorded throughout the study. Final BW was similar (2.68 kg) for both strains and stocking densities of birds (P > 0.05). CONV bird FCR was 35% more efficient than SG (P < 0.0001). CONV birds had shorter bodies and shanks compared with SG birds at Phases 3 and 4 (P < 0.05). Slower growing birds stocked at 37 kg/m2 had the longest bodies and keel bones at Phase 4 (P < 0.01). Also at Phase 4, SG birds stocked at 29 kg/m2 had the lowest prevalence of HB (4%), yet the highest prevalence of TD (28%; P < 0.01). These results indicate differences in the effects of strain and stocking density on male broiler conformation, performance, and welfare and highlight the importance of tailoring management practices to the strain of broiler raised.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Weimer
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - A Mauromoustakos
- Agricultural Statistics Lab, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - D M Karcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - M A Erasmus
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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18
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Growth, carcass, and meat quality of 2 dual-purpose chickens and a layer hybrid grown for 67 or 84 D compared with slow-growing broilers. J APPL POULTRY RES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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19
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How Are Information Technologies Addressing Broiler Welfare? A Systematic Review Based on the Welfare Quality® Assessment. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12041413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to explore how information technologies (ITs) are currently used to monitor the welfare of broiler chickens. The question posed for the review was “which ITs are related to welfare and how do they monitor this for broilers?”. The Welfare Quality® (WQ) protocol for broiler assessment was utilized as a framework to analyse suitable articles. A total of 57 studies were reviewed wherein all principles of broiler welfare were addressed. The “good health” principle was the main criteria found to be addressed by ITs and IT-based studies (45.6% and 46.1%, respectively), whereas the least observed principle was “good feeding” (8.8%). This review also classified ITs and IT-based studies by their utilization (location, production system, variable measured, aspect of production, and experimental/practical use). The results show that the current focus of ITs is on problems with conventional production systems and that less attention has been given to free-range systems, slaughterhouses, and supply chain issues. Given the valuable results evidenced by the exploitation of ITs, their use in broiler production should continue to be encouraged with more attention given to farmer adoption strategies.
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McKeith A, Loper M, Tarrant KJ. Research Note: Stocking density effects on production qualities of broilers raised without the use of antibiotics. Poult Sci 2020; 99:698-701. [PMID: 32029155 PMCID: PMC7587733 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In no antibiotics ever (NAE) broilers, enteric diseases pose a threat to intestinal health and generally welfare, which can be exacerbated because of stocking density. Through knowledge of litter condition and management, disease can be minimized, and broiler welfare can be improved. To evaluate how stocking density influences NAE broilers raised in conventional housing, we evaluated production traits for broilers raised at two stocking densities within a single commercial house. Over the course of 4 flocks, 78,960 Cobb 500 broilers were raised in an industry-style tunnel ventilated house. The house was divided into four equally sized pens, each representing one of two stocking densities. An industry standard stocking density (SSD; 0.23 m2 per bird) and low stocking density (LSD; 0.27 m2 per bird) were each assigned to two pens per flock and were alternated for each subsequent flock raised. Litter moisture content, body weight, mortality, and feed conversion (FCR) were evaluated and averaged over all four flocks for both stocking densities. Data were analyzed in JMP with an ANOVA, and means were separated by Tukey's honestly significant difference. As expected, the litter moisture content was significantly larger in the more densely packed SSD pens at weeks 2, 3, 4, and 6, totaling 0.242 moisture content on average at week 6 vs. 0.217 in LSD pens at the same flock age (P = 0.035). Weekly body weight and final flock FCR were not significantly impacted by stocking density. No association was observed in mortality between the broilers raised in SSD and LSD. The results from this study indicate that the two densities examined were comparable in their growth and efficiency. Additional management pressure would exist to handle the increase in litter moisture in flocks placed at SSD in a production setting; although, raised in the same barn at the same time, the impact of SSD vs. LSD was minimal in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda McKeith
- Department of Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education, California State University Fresno, Fresno, CA 93740
| | | | - Katy J Tarrant
- Department of Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education, California State University Fresno, Fresno, CA 93740.
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21
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Scanes CG, Hurst K, Thaxton Y, Archer GS, Johnson A. Effect of transportation and shackling on plasma concentrations of corticosterone and heterophil to lymphocyte ratios in market weight male turkeys in a commercial operation. Poult Sci 2020; 99:546-554. [PMID: 32416841 PMCID: PMC7587787 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is limited information on the effects of stress and/or physiological manipulation on either plasma concentrations of corticosterone (CORT) and/or heterophil: lymphocyte (H : L) ratios in turkeys. The present studies examine the effects of catching/transportation/lairage in a holding shed and shackling on plasma concentrations of CORT and H : L ratios in male market weight turkeys. Plasma concentrations of CORT were increased after transportation and lairage but not further elevated by shackling, irrespective of its duration up to 240 s. In one study, there were increased H : L ratios following catching/placing birds into transportation cages/transportation/lairage. In one study, H : L ratios declined following shackling. It is concluded that while moving turkeys from the farm to immediately before the shackling line is stressful, shackling for up to 4 min was not perceived as more stressful in turkeys. There were also differences between farms/houses for both plasma concentrations of CORT and H : L ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin G Scanes
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701.
| | | | - Yvonne Thaxton
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Gregory S Archer
- Department of Poultry Science, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, College Station, TX 77843
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Singer RS, Porter LJ, Thomson DU, Gage M, Beaudoin A, Wishnie JK. Raising Animals Without Antibiotics: U.S. Producer and Veterinarian Experiences and Opinions. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:452. [PMID: 31867349 PMCID: PMC6910073 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ensuring the safety, health, and overall well-being of animals raised for food is both an ethical obligation and a critical component of providing safe food products. The use of antibiotics for maintaining animal health has come under scrutiny in recent years due to the rise of antibiotic resistance globally. Some U.S. producers, especially in the poultry industry, have responded by eliminating their antibiotic use. The number of animals raised without antibiotics (RWA) is growing in the U.S., but there are concerns that RWA practices might negatively impact animal health and welfare. Therefore, the objective of this study was to survey U.S. veterinarians and producers about their experiences and opinions regarding RWA production. Veterinarians, farmers, ranchers, producers, and other stakeholders involved in raising broilers, turkeys, swine, beef cattle or dairy cattle were surveyed. Of the 565 completed responses received, 442 self-reported as practicing veterinarians or producers. Just over half of respondents reported having past or current experience with RWA programs. The main indicated reasons for raising animals without antibiotics were market driven; switching to RWA production was less commonly made for health-related reasons, such as to reduce antibiotic resistance or to improve animal health and welfare. Although respondents felt that RWA production has negative impacts on animal health and welfare, they overwhelmingly (>70%) indicated that the customer (retailer/restaurant/food service) believes that animal and health welfare will be significantly improved. Veterinarians and producers indicated that RWA programs will increase production costs with questionable effect on meat, egg or dairy consumer demand. Many respondents felt that there are times when the RWA label takes priority over animal health and welfare. Respondents generally felt that there was a need for increased auditing/assessment of animal health and welfare in RWA systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randall S. Singer
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
- Mindwalk Consulting Group, Falcon Heights, MN, United States
| | - Leah J. Porter
- Mindwalk Consulting Group, Falcon Heights, MN, United States
| | - Daniel U. Thomson
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, NY, United States
| | - Mallory Gage
- Gage Group Consulting, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Amanda Beaudoin
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, United States
| | - Jennifer K. Wishnie
- Department of Animal Science, California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, CA, United States
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Bir C, Davis M, Widmar N, Zuelly S, Erasmus M. Perceptions of Animal Welfare With a Special Focus on Turkeys. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:413. [PMID: 31824971 PMCID: PMC6881301 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Meat consumption and public concern for farm animal welfare are increasing, despite limited public understanding of agriculture and animal welfare. Turkey is important in U.S. holiday meal traditions and turkey meat is a frequently consumed processed product (i.e., lunchmeat). However, little is known about public perceptions and knowledge of commercial turkeys. An online survey was administered to 1,695 respondents in November 2018 to examine U.S. (1) demographic factors affecting meat consumption, selection of labeled meat products, and concern for animal welfare, (2) public knowledge of turkeys, and (3) concerns regarding the welfare of turkeys and other species. A total of 95% of respondents consumed meat and 10% hunted for some of the meat they consumed. Meat consumption frequency depended on region of residence, income level, gender, age, and whether respondents hunted. Of the meat consumers, 86% purchased turkey products. More meat consumers looked for the USDA organic label (39%) and the Non Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) project label (38%) than animal-welfare food labels (14%) when buying meat products. More pet owners (39%) than non-pet owners (25%) looked for animal welfare food labels. Being a pet owner increased the probability of being concerned about farm animal welfare. Concern for the commercial turkey was similar to concern for other farm animal species; self-reported knowledge of turkey production was low (mean score 2.64; scale of 1 to 7, 7 = highest). Turkey welfare concerns (mean score; rank from 1 to 5; 5 = least concerning) included poor nutrition (2.471) and illness (2.508), followed by housing (2.732), hot or cold weather (3.308) and transportation (3.981). Turkey welfare attributes that respondents cared the most about (mean score; scale of 1–5, 5 = cared the least) included space to move around (2.366), followed by veterinary health and wellness (2.680), ability to perform natural behavior (2.812), no feather loss or visible injuries (3.304), and decreased aggression (3.837). Demographic factors are important determinants of meat consumption and animal welfare concern. Public knowledge of turkey production is limited, despite a large percentage of the population purchasing turkey products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Bir
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Melissa Davis
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Nicole Widmar
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Stacy Zuelly
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Marisa Erasmus
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Mueller S, Kreuzer M, Siegrist M, Mannale K, Messikommer R, Gangnat IDM. Carcass and meat quality of dual-purpose chickens (Lohmann Dual, Belgian Malines, Schweizerhuhn) in comparison to broiler and layer chicken types. Poult Sci 2018; 97:3325-3336. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Gangnat IDM, Mueller S, Kreuzer M, Messikommer RE, Siegrist M, Visschers VHM. Swiss consumers' willingness to pay and attitudes regarding dual-purpose poultry and eggs. Poult Sci 2018; 97:1089-1098. [PMID: 29351665 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chick culling is an efficient and cost-effective method in modern poultry farming, but it raises ethical concerns. Dual-purpose poultry (DP), in which males are fattened and females are used for egg production, is currently the most realistic alternative to culling, as in ovo sexing is not yet viable for practical application. Consumers' acceptance of DP products and their willingness to pay (WTP) for them have not been studied yet, and we expect that both aspects are closely related to the acceptance of and WTP for products from systems claiming beyond-conventional animal welfare, such as organic products. Results from a survey conducted among 402 consumers at 8 Swiss supermarkets revealed that the practice of chick culling was largely unknown (75% of respondents). Generally, respondents' knowledge about poultry production was low. The DP alternative was preferred to chick culling, but no preference emerged between DP and in ovo sexing. Furthermore, the WTP for DP products was proportionally lower for chicken than for eggs, probably because of the different price elasticity between these products. A regression analysis was used to determine the factors influencing consumers' WTP for DP products. Consumers' WTP was positively related to knowledge about poultry production, habits tied to purchasing organic or free-range poultry products, and familiarity with DP products. Therefore, a combination of the DP alternative with an organic label is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- I D M Gangnat
- Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S Mueller
- Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Kreuzer
- Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R E Messikommer
- Institute of Agricultural Sciences, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - M Siegrist
- Institute for Environmental Decisions, Consumer Behavior, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 22 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - V H M Visschers
- Institute for Environmental Decisions, Consumer Behavior, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 22 - 8092 Zurich, Switzerland.,School of Applied Psychology, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Northwestern Switzerland FHNW, Riggenbachstrasse 16, 4600 Olten, Switzerland
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28
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Abstract
Simple Summary Male layer chicks do not have economic value and are humanely killed after hatching. The layer industry is seeking alternative methods to humanely kill recently hatched male chicks. This study evaluated the use of gases or negative air pressure as a means of humane and viable alternatives to maceration. The treatments included carbon dioxide, nitrogen, reduced air pressure, and a negative control. The study showed that chicks exposed to treatments, gases or negative air pressure, did not differ significantly in terms of the physiological stress response. The use of carbon dioxide resulted in a faster onset of unconsciousness and ultimately death as compared to nitrogen or negative air pressure treatments. Abstract Hatched male layer chicks are currently euthanized by maceration in the United States. Public concerns on the use of maceration have led to the search for alternative methods. We hypothesized that gas inhalation and low atmospheric pressure stunning (LAPS) are viable and humane alternatives to instantaneous mechanical destruction. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological and behavioral responses of recently hatched male layer chicks when subjected to carbon dioxide, nitrogen inhalation, or LAPS. The study consisted of seven treatments: breathing air (NEG), 25% carbon dioxide (CO2), 50% CO2, 75% CO2, 90% CO2, 100% nitrogen (N2), or LAPS. Ten day-of-hatch, male layer chicks were randomly assigned to each treatment, and each treatment was replicated on ten different days. A custom-made vacuum system was used to reduce air pressure inside the chamber from 100.12 kPa to 15.3 kPa for the LAPS treatment. Serum corticosterone and serotonin levels were measured using commercially available competitive enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Latencies to loss of posture and motionlessness were determined from video recordings. The 25% and 50% CO2 treatments were discontinued after the first replication, as the majority of the chicks recovered. The chicks in the negative (NEG) group had significantly higher levels of corticosterone than the other four euthanasia treatments. On the other hand, the serotonin levels of chicks in the NEG group was significantly lower when compared to the other four euthanasia treatments. The latencies to loss of posture and motionlessness of chicks exposed to 75% and 90% CO2 were significantly shorter than those in the LAPS and N2 inhalation treatments. These data suggest that the stress responses of chicks to the CO2, N2, and LAPS treatments do not differ among each other. However, the CO2 inhalation method was faster in inducing loss of posture and motionlessness in chicks than the LAPS and N2 inhalation treatments.
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29
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Rehman MS, Mahmud A, Mehmood S, Pasha TN, Khan MT, Hussain J. Assessing behavior in Aseel pullets under free-range, part-time free-range, and cage system during growing phase. Poult Sci 2018; 97:725-732. [PMID: 29253274 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to explore the effects of free-range (FR), part-time free-range (PTFR), and cage system (CS) on behavioral repertoire in Lakha (LK), Mushki (MS), Peshawari (PW), and Sindhi (SN) varieties of Aseel chicken during the growing phase (9 to 18 wk of age). In total, 144 Aseel pullets were allotted to 12 treatment groups in a 3 × 4 (rearing system × Aseel variety) factorial arrangement, according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Each treatment group was replicated 3 times with 4 birds in each replicate (12 birds per treatment group). The pullets were randomly marked weekly for identification, and their behavior was observed through the focal animal sampling method. Time spent on different behavioral activities was recorded and converted to a percentage. The data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA under a factorial arrangement using SAS 9.1, and the behavioral parameters were evaluated. The results indicated greater (P < 0.05) sitting, standing, drinking, preening, and aggressiveness in CS; walking, running, and jumping in PTFR; and foraging and dustbathing in both FR and PTFR, whereas feather pecking was found to be reduced in FR compared with PTFR and CS. Among varieties, PW showed the least feeding/foraging and feather pecking behavior, and greater standing, running, and jumping behavior (P < 0.05). However, SN spent less time in walking and preening, and more time in sitting, drinking, and aggressiveness. Dustbathing was found to be similar in all Aseel varieties (P = 0.135). In conclusion, the PTFR system could be suggested as a substitute for conventional housing systems because it better accommodates normal behavior in Aseel pullets.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Rehman
- Livestock and Dairy Development Department, Poultry Research Institute, Rawalpindi-46300, Pakistan
| | - A Mahmud
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
| | - S Mehmood
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
| | - T N Pasha
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
| | - M T Khan
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
| | - J Hussain
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Ravi Campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000, Pakistan
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30
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Grandin T. On-farm conditions that compromise animal welfare that can be monitored at the slaughter plant. Meat Sci 2017; 132:52-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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