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Erensoy K, Sarıca M, Noubandiguim M, Karaçay N. The effects of varying stocking densities during the first 10 days on the performance, welfare, slaughter and meat quality characteristics of broiler chickens in the subsequent period. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:286. [PMID: 39325319 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-04104-w] [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: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of varying stocking densities during the first 10 days on the performance, welfare, slaughter and meat quality characteristics of broiler chickens in the subsequent period (11-42 days). In the study, treatments representing 3 different stocking densities with the same group sizes were established and a total of 432 d-old chicks were used. In the first 10 days of the rearing period, treatments of 18 (SD18), 27 (SD27) and 36 (SD36) chicks per m2 were formed, and at 11 days of age, chicks in all treatments were reared at a density of 18 chicks/m2. Body weight differences in SD18, SD27 and SD36 treatments at 10 and 42 days of age were significant (P < 0.05), they were 252.6, 254.3 and 241.5 g in SD18, SD27 and SD36 groups at 10 days and 2961.1, 2874.8 and 2842.7 g at 42 days of age, respectively. In the first 10 days of growing period, SD36 showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) from the other groups in feed intake and feed conversion ratio, but this was not significant at slaughter age. The livability at 10 and 42 days was not different among treatments and was between 98.6 and 99.3% and 93.5-93.8%, respectively. The uniformity at 10 days was significant among the stocking density groups (P < 0.05) and the best uniformity level was obtained in the SD36 group, the differences in CV values at 42 days were not significant among the treatments. EPEF (European production efficiency factor) values were not different between the groups, the highest numerical value was determined in the SD36 group. Foot pad dermatitis, hock burn and breast burn levels were significantly higher in SD18 chickens (P < 0.05), however incidence of finger crookedness and valgus-varus deformity did not differ between the treatments. The litter moisture contents were similar between treatments, and ranged from 25.6 to 32.6%. Different stocking density treatments during the first 10 days of the experiment had no significant effect on slaughter, abdominal fat, carcass parts, color and pH values in the breast and thigh meat. In conclusion, rearing broiler chickens by dividing the poultry house area by half during the first 10 days (36 birds/m2) could help to improve the overall productivity (EPEF) by providing ease of maintenance, efficient heating and better control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadir Erensoy
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey.
| | - Musa Sarıca
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey
| | - Moise Noubandiguim
- Institut National Supérieur des Sciences et Techniques d'Abéché (INSTA), B.P: 130, Abeche, Chad
| | - Numan Karaçay
- Department of Animal Science, Agricultural Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey
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2
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Konicek C, Gumpenberger M, Schramel JP. Silicone Shoes for the Treatment of Foot Pad Dermatitis (Bumblefoot) in Pet Chickens-A Retrospective Case Series. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2581. [PMID: 39272366 PMCID: PMC11394303 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 08/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Backyard chickens often suffer from foot pad dermatitis (FPD), a condition exacerbated by poor husbandry, nutritional deficiencies, and obesity. Pressure-relieving bandages, commonly used in the treatment of FPD, are impractical for outdoor chickens as they quickly become wet and dirty, necessitating daily changes that are often unfeasible. This retrospective study explores the use of custom-fit silicone shoes created via 3D-printed molds as an alternative to traditional bandages. CT scans were used to design shoes adapted from a design used for birds of prey. Over three years, 16 chickens with varying degrees of FPD were treated. The results demonstrated that silicone shoes were an effective treatment for FPD, allowing outdoor activity and facilitating daily lesion care without frequent bandage changes. The median shoe-wearing period was 14 days, and most owners provided positive feedback. Despite some attachment issues, the occurrence of secondary pressure marks, and feather regrowth challenges, the silicone shoes offered better ventilation, reusability, and consistent pressure relief compared to traditional bandages. This study concludes that silicone shoes are a viable solution for managing FPD in backyard chickens, promoting faster healing and improving owner compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Konicek
- Clinical Unit of Internal Medicine Small Animal, Service for Avian and Reptiles, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela Gumpenberger
- Clinical Unit of Diagnostic Imaging, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Peter Schramel
- Clinical Unit of Anaesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive-Care Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria
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3
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Anthney A, Do ADT, Alrubaye AAK. Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis lameness in broiler chickens and its implications for welfare, meat safety, and quality: a review. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1452318. [PMID: 39268189 PMCID: PMC11390708 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1452318] [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: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The exponential increase in global population continues to present an ongoing challenge for livestock producers worldwide to consistently provide a safe, high-quality, and affordable source of protein for consumers. In the last 50 years, the poultry industry has spearheaded this effort thanks to focused genetic and genomic selection for feed-efficient, high-yielding broilers. However, such intense selection for productive traits, along with conventional industry farming practices, has also presented the industry with a myriad of serious issues that negatively impacted animal health, welfare, and productivity-such as woody breast and virulent diseases commonly associated with poultry farming. Bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO) lameness is one such issue, having rapidly become a key issue affecting the poultry industry with serious impacts on broiler welfare, meat quality, production, food safety, and economic losses since its discovery in 1972. This review focuses on hallmark clinical symptoms, diagnosis, etiology, and impact of BCO lameness on key issues facing the poultry industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Anthney
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Anh Dang Trieu Do
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Adnan A K Alrubaye
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
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4
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Saraiva S, Santos S, García-Díez J, Simões J, Saraiva C. Comparative Analysis of Animal Welfare in Three Broiler Slaughterhouses and Associated Farms with Unsatisfactory Slaughterhouse Results. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2468. [PMID: 39272252 PMCID: PMC11394360 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the health and welfare of 70 commercial broiler flocks (transport batches) in three distinct slaughterhouses based on various indicators including emaciation, dirty feathers (DFs), footpad dermatitis (FPD), hock burn (HB), breast burn (BB), breast blister, breast ulcer, ascites, septicemia/abnormal color, cellulitis, extensive traumatisms, dead on arrival (DoA) and condemnation rate. Assessment scales ranging from 0 (absence) to 2 (severe) were used for DFs, FPD, and HB, while a 0 (absence) to 1 (present) scale was applied to BB, breast blisters, and breast ulcers. The prevalence of total condemnation causes (emaciation, ascites, septicemia/abnormal color, cellulitis, and extensive traumatism) and DoA were recorded and presented in percentages. Three flocks presented condemnation rates higher than 4% and 11 flocks presented DoA rates higher than 0.5%. Twenty-one flocks achieved grade 1 (warning) for FPD and 14 achieved grade 2 for FPD (alarm). Extensive trauma was observed in 0.01% of the slaughtered animals, and no flock reached the threshold of 2%. Breast blisters and breast ulcers lesions were not observed in the studied flocks. The significant positive associations observed for the presence of severe footpad dermatitis (FPD2), severe hock burns (HB2), and breast burns (BB1) indicate simultaneous occurrences. Absences of hock burns (HB0) and breast burns (BB0) were also associated. Eleven houses that obtained the worst results for welfare indicators at slaughterhouses were audited. FPD, HB, DoA, and the condemnation rate were the most crucial indicators for identifying farms with inadequate welfare conditions. These indicators should be systematically integrated into the welfare monitoring of broilers in slaughterhouses. Audits conducted on farms detected some noncompliance with regulatory welfare standards and suggested improvements in environmental and structural conditions, as well as the reduction in stocking densities and improvements in the water systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Saraiva
- Animal and Veterinary Science Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Santos
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Juan García-Díez
- Animal and Veterinary Science Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Simões
- Animal and Veterinary Science Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cristina Saraiva
- Animal and Veterinary Science Center (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Science (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
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5
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Slegers Y, Hostens M, Matthijs MGR, Stegeman JA, de Wit JJ. Broiler flocks in production systems with slower-growing breeds and reduced stocking density receive fewer antibiotic treatments and have lower mortality. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104197. [PMID: 39190990 PMCID: PMC11395773 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
In the Netherlands, the number of broiler production systems with higher welfare standards, using slower-growing broilers and decreased stocking densities, has increased over the last decade. This study aimed to investigate the effect of this change on antibiotic treatments, mortality, and footpad lesions. Data from national monitoring databases from 2013 to 2021 were used, resulting in 113,380 included flocks from 917 farms. Flocks were divided into conventional (CONV), medium-growing (MED), and slow-growing (SLOW), based on breed and slaughter age (median age: CONV 42 d; MED 50 d; SLOW 56 d). Generalized mixed-effect models were created to compare antibiotic treatments in and after the first week, total on-farm mortality, and footpad lesion scores between these 3 production systems. Year, quarter, flock size, thinning, number of houses, and regional density of poultry farms were included as fixed effects. Random effects were farm and veterinary practice in all models, with an additional random slaughterhouse effect to describe footpad lesions. Probability of treatment in the first week of age in CONV flocks overall years (7.2%, 95% CI [5.9, 8.7]) was higher than in MED (2.0%, 95% CI [1.6, 2.5]) and SLOW flocks (1.3%, 95% CI [1.0, 1.7]). Treatment probability after the first week was similarly higher in CONV flocks (14.7%, 95% CI [12.1, 17.6]) than in MED (3.2%, 95% CI [2.5, 4.0]) and SLOW flocks (2.2%, 95% CI [1.7, 2.9]). CONV flocks had a higher mean mortality (3.2%, 95% CI [3.0, 3.4]) than MED (2.0%, 95% CI [1.9, 2.1]) and SLOW flocks (1.9%, 95% CI [1.8, 2.0]). Regarding footpad lesions, CONV flocks had the highest mean scores (range 0-200) over all years, whereas SLOW flocks had the lowest scores (CONV: 46.1, 95% CI [42.1, 50.6]; MED: 21.3, 95% CI [18.9, 24.0]; SLOW: 13.2, 95% CI [11.5, 15.1]). This analysis of data from flocks over a 9-yr period indicates that switching from conventional to alternative production systems with higher welfare standards could positively affect broiler health and antibiotic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Slegers
- Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.151, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - M Hostens
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853-4801, USA
| | - M G R Matthijs
- Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.151, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J A Stegeman
- Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.151, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J J de Wit
- Farm Animal Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.151, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands; Royal GD, PO box 9, 7400 AA Deventer, The Netherlands
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6
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Zampiga M, Laghi L, Soglia F, Piscitelli R, Dayan J, Petracci M, Bonaldo A, Sirri F. Partial substitution of soybean meal with microalgae meal (Arthrospira spp. - Spirulina) in grower and finisher diets for broiler chickens: implications on performance parameters, footpad dermatitis occurrence, breast meat quality traits, amino acid digestibility and plasma metabolomics profile. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103856. [PMID: 38908124 PMCID: PMC11253657 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103856] [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] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal with microalgae meal (MM; Arthrospira spp.) during grower and finisher phases on productive performance, footpad dermatitis (FPD) occurrence, breast meat quality, amino acid digestibility and plasma metabolomics profile of broiler chickens. One thousand day-old Ross 308 male chicks were divided into 5 experimental groups (8 replicates, 25 birds/each): CON, fed a commercial soybean-based diet throughout the trial (0-41 d); F3 and F6, fed the CON diet up to 28 d of age and then a finisher diet (29-41 d) with either 30 or 60 g MM/kg, respectively; and GF3 and GF6, receiving CON diet until 14 d and then diets containing 30 or 60 g MM/kg from 15 to 41 d, respectively. All diets were iso-energetic and with a similar amino acid profile. Growth performances were recorded on a pen basis at the end of each feeding phase and apparent ileal amino acid digestibility was determined at 41 d. Footpad dermatitis occurrence was assessed on all processed birds, while breast and plasma samples were collected for meat quality and metabolomics analysis (proton nuclear magnetic resonance - 1H-NMR). At 41 d, CON group showed higher body weight than F6 and GF6 ones (2,541 vs. 2,412 vs. 2,384 g, respectively; P < 0.05). Overall, GF6 group exhibited the highest feed conversion ratio, while F3 did not present significant differences compared to CON (1.785 vs. 1.810 vs. 1.934 g feed/g gain, respectively for CON, F3 and GF6; P < 0.01). The occurrence and the risk of developing FPD were similar among groups. MM administration increased breast meat yellowness and reduced amino acid digestibility (P < 0.001). The 1H-NMR analysis revealed variations in the levels of some circulating metabolites, including histidine, arginine and creatine, which play important metabolic roles. Overall, these findings can contribute to expand the knowledge about the use of Arthrospira spp. as protein source in broiler diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Zampiga
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Luca Laghi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Francesca Soglia
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Raffaela Piscitelli
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Jonathan Dayan
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy; Department of Animal Science, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
| | - Massimiliano Petracci
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Alessio Bonaldo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy
| | - Federico Sirri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Bologna 40064, Italy.
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7
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Bist RB, Yang X, Subedi S, Chai L. Automatic detection of bumblefoot in cage-free hens using computer vision technologies. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103780. [PMID: 38688138 PMCID: PMC11067544 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103780] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cage-free (CF) housing systems are expected to be the dominant egg production system in North America and European Union countries by 2030. Within these systems, bumblefoot (a common bacterial infection and chronic inflammatory reaction) is mostly observed in hens reared on litter floors. It causes pain and stress in hens and is detrimental to their welfare. For instance, hens with bumblefoot have difficulty moving freely, thus hindering access to feeders and drinkers. However, it is technically challenging to detect hens with bumblefoot, and no automatic methods have been applied for hens' bumblefoot detection (BFD), especially in its early stages. This study aimed to develop and test artificial intelligence methods (i.e., deep learning models) to detect hens' bumblefoot condition in a CF environment under various settings such as epochs (number of times the entire dataset passes through the network during training), batch size (number of data samples processed per iteration during training), and camera height. The performance of 3 newly developed deep learning models (i.e., YOLOv5s-BFD, YOLOv5m-BFD, & YOLOv5x-BFD) were compared in detecting hens with bumblefoot of hens in CF environments. The result shows that the YOLOv5m-BFD model had the highest precision (93.7%), recall (84.6%), mAP@0.50 (90.9%), mAP@0.50:0.95 (51.8%), and F1-score (89.0%) compared with other models. The observed YOLOv5m-BFD model trained at 400 epochs and batch size 16 is recommended for bumblefoot detection in laying hens. This study provides a basis for developing an automatic bumblefoot detection system in commercial CF houses. This model will be modified and trained to detect the occurrence of broilers with bumblefoot in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Bahadur Bist
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Sachin Subedi
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Lilong Chai
- Department of Poultry Science, College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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8
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van Emous RA, van Harn J, van Riel JW. Effects of season, catching method, and thinning on carcass quality and production parameters in 4 different broiler production systems in the Netherlands. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103688. [PMID: 38621347 PMCID: PMC11019459 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103688] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In the Netherlands, poultry meat production has been evolving in recent years toward broiler production systems with slow-growing broilers. In this study the effects of season, catching method, and thinning on carcass quality and production parameters in four different broiler production systems in the Netherlands was evaluated. The data for this study were collected from slaughterhouse data in 2018, 2019, and 2020 and contained information about four different broiler production systems: conventional (fast growing) broilers (CONV), 2 different indoor slow-growing broilers (SGB1 and SGB2), and Better Life 1 Star (BLS) concept with slow-growing broilers. The data set consisted of 14,976, 1,730, 3,713, and 1,121 records (flocks) for CONV, SGB1, SGB2, and BLS, respectively. All three production systems with slow-growing broilers had a lower slaughter weight, average daily gain (ADG), first-week mortality, and total mortality than CONV (no-thinning). ADG of SGB2 and BLS was lower than that of SGB1. Slaughter weight and ADG were the lowest when day-old chicks were placed in March/April and the highest when they were placed in September/October. All slow-growing broiler production systems had a lower footpad lesion score and a lower incidence of hock burns, leg hematomas, breast hematomas, dead-on-arrival chickens (DOA), and total rejects than CONV. Autumn flocks had more hock burns, a higher footpad lesion score, and more wing hematomas than spring flocks. More scabby hips and fewer total rejects were found during the summer months than during the winter months. Thinning flocks had more scabby hips, ammonia burns, and DOAs and fewer hock burns, footpad lesions, wing hematomas, leg hematomas, breast hematomas, and total rejects than no-thinning flocks. Mechanically caught flocks had more ammonia burns, DOAs, and total rejects than manually caught flocks. In conclusion, this study showed that all three production systems with slow-growing broilers had a lower first-week mortality and total mortality and better scores on most carcass quality parameters and welfare indicators than CONV.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A van Emous
- Wageningen Livestock Research, De Elst 1, Wageningen, WD NL-6708, the Netherlands.
| | - J van Harn
- Wageningen Livestock Research, De Elst 1, Wageningen, WD NL-6708, the Netherlands
| | - J W van Riel
- Wageningen Livestock Research, De Elst 1, Wageningen, WD NL-6708, the Netherlands
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9
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Kittelsen KE, Vasdal G, Thøfner I, Tahamtani F. A walk through the broiler breeder life: how do footpad dermatitis and gait scores develop from rearing to slaughter? Avian Pathol 2024; 53:164-173. [PMID: 38193215 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2024.2304005] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The two most common animal-based indicators used to evaluate leg health in broiler chickens are footpad dermatitis (FPD) and gait scoring, but these indicators are less explored in broiler breeders. This study is the first to investigate FPD and gait scoring in broiler breeders during their lifespan from rearing to end of life. In total, eight flocks were monitored (four Ross and four Hubbard) at five different timepoints, in rearing (5 and 15 weeks of age), during the production period (25 and 45 weeks of age) and at the end of the production period (approximately 60 weeks of age). At each visit, 50 hens and 25 roosters were gait scored (six-point scale) and footpads from another 50 hens and 25 roosters were evaluated (five-point scale) (total n = 3000 breeders, 2000 hens and 1000 roosters). Litter quality and air quality were measured at each visit. The results showed that the overall prevalence of FPD in rearing was low and that it increased towards the end of the production, with a mean FPD score of 2 out of a maximum 4 in the hens, indicating moderate lesions and 1.5 in the roosters. In all houses, the litter was dry and loose. FPD was not related to the litter quality, but to air quality, especially the ammonia concentration (P < 0.001). Overall, the gait score were good, and increased with age in both hens (P < 0.001) and roosters of both hybrids (P < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Käthe Elise Kittelsen
- Poultry Health Services, Animalia AS- The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guro Vasdal
- Poultry Health Services, Animalia AS- The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ida Thøfner
- Department of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fernanda Tahamtani
- Poultry Health Services, Animalia AS- The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, Oslo, Norway
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10
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Escobar C, Watts DB, Torbert HA, Bailey MA, Krehling JT, Landers D, Jackson AP, Gilpin M, Still K, Munoz LR, Orellana L, Adhikari Y, Macklin KS, Baker-Cook B. Evaluating the impact of gypsum as a novel bedding material on broiler performance, foot pad health, and fear response. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103676. [PMID: 38564833 PMCID: PMC10999700 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103676] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) gypsum is a byproduct of the coal-fired power plant process commonly used to remove sulfur dioxide emissions from the flue gas. FGD gypsum has numerous industrial, agricultural, and environmental applications. This study aimed to explore a novel approach involving the use of FGD gypsum combined with different litter treatments as bedding for broiler production. It focused on performance metrics, including adjusted feed conversion ratio (AFCR) and average body weight (BW), foot pad dermatitis (FPD), and fear response over 5 consecutive flocks. A total of 1,800 one-day-old Ross 708 chicks were randomly assigned to 24 pens (75 birds/pen), divided into 6 treatment groups (4 pens/treatment), with 5 replications and raised until 42 d old (d). Treatments were gypsum that was decaked (D), rotovated (E), and rotovated then windrowed (F) between flocks. Control treatments using pine shavings were decaked (A), rotovated (B), and windrowed postrotovating (C). AFCR, average BW, and mortality were used as a measure of production. Foot pad dermatitis scores were taken on d42 using a scale of 0 (absence), 1 (mild), and 2 (severe). Response to observer and human approach test were used to measure fear response. Data were analyzed as a 2-way ANOVA (Proc Glimmix) for the main effects of bedding type and litter treatment. Means were identified using Tukey's HSD. No effect of bedding type or litter treatment was found for AFCR, BW, or mortality. FPD scores 2 and 1, were higher with pine shavings than gypsum (P = 0.01 and P = 0.01, respectively). While FPD scores 0 were higher for gypsum than the pine shaving (P = 0.01). No difference in fear response was found among birds raised on any of the gypsum litter treatments and any of the pine shaving litter treatments. Overall, the use of gypsum as bedding results in equivalent production and fear response to pine shavings, while increasing FPD quality when compared to pine shaving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Escobar
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Dexter B Watts
- USDA-ARS, National Soil Dynamics Laboratory, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | - H Allen Torbert
- USDA-ARS, National Soil Dynamics Laboratory, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | - Matthew A Bailey
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - James T Krehling
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Denise Landers
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | | | - Melissa Gilpin
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Katie Still
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Luis R Munoz
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Leticia Orellana
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Yagya Adhikari
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Kenneth S Macklin
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA
| | - Bethany Baker-Cook
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
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11
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Chathuranga NC, Yu M, Hong JS, Oketch EO, Nawarathne SR, Vohobjonov Y, Jayasena DD, Yi YJ, Heo JM. Effect of different bedding depths of rice hulls on growth performance and carcass traits of White Pekin ducks. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 66:504-513. [PMID: 38975579 PMCID: PMC11222111 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Duck meat is recognized as a healthier poultry product that contains higher amounts of unsaturated and essential fatty acids, iron, and excellent amounts of protein. It has been found to possess the ability to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and subsequently, blood pressure in the human body; and improve the immunity system. The current study investigated the appropriate bedding depths of rice hulls as a preferred bedding material by evaluating the growth performance and carcass traits of White Pekin ducks raised for 42 days. A total of 288 one-day-old White Pekin ducklings were randomly allotted to floor cages with one of four bedding depths at 4 cm, 8 cm, 12 cm, and 16 cm. Ducklings were fed standard duck starter (days 1-21) and finisher (days 22-42) diets. The birds were stocked at a rate of 6 birds/m2 with 6 replicates per treatment. Growth performance evaluation for the body weight, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake were measured to calculate the weekly feed conversion ratio. Breast, leg, and carcass yield were assessed as carcass traits. The muscle color and proximate composition were also analyzed for meat quality. Footpad dermatitis was also evaluated on day 42. Ducks reared on 16 cm bedding depth over the 42 days recorded higher (p < 0.05) body weight, average daily, average daily feed intake, and improved feed conversion ratios compared to other groups. The crude fat in breast meat also lowered (p < 0.05) in ducks reared at 16 cm (1.02%) when compared to ducks raised at 4 cm bedding depth (2.11%). Our results showed improved redness (p < 0.05) when the depth of bedding materials was elevated. Except for the breast meat fat, the dissimilar bedding depths did not affect (p < 0.05) the breast and leg meat composition, footpad dermatitis, and mortality for the current study. In conclusion, this study indicated that the bedding depths would directly or indirectly affect the growth performance and meat color of White Pekin ducks; and the bedding depth of rice hulls at 16 cm improved the growth performance of White Pekin ducks for 42 days.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Myunghwan Yu
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Jun Seon Hong
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Elijah Ogola Oketch
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Shan Randima Nawarathne
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Yuldashboy Vohobjonov
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
| | - Dinesh D. Jayasena
- Department of Animal Science, Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, Badulla 90000, Sri Lanka
| | - Young-Joo Yi
- Department of Agricultural Education, College of Education, Suncheon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea
| | - Jung Min Heo
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
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12
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Kwon BY, Park J, Kim DH, Lee KW. Assessment of Welfare Problems in Broilers: Focus on Musculoskeletal Problems Associated with Their Rapid Growth. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1116. [PMID: 38612355 PMCID: PMC11011155 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The growth of the broiler industry has been accompanied with concerns over the environmental and social impacts on intensive production systems, as well as the welfare of the animals themselves. As a result, since the 2000s, there has been growing interest in alternative production systems that improve animal welfare and sustainability. In this context, it is important to prioritize the welfare of broilers in commercial production systems and to use reliable welfare indicators to provide consumers with information about the welfare of the animals they consume. Resource-based measures (RBM) are based on assessing the resources available to the birds in terms of their housing, environment, and management practices, such as stocking density, litter quality, lighting and air quality, etc. Outcome-based measures (OBM), also known as animal-based measures, focus on assessing the actual welfare outcomes for the birds, such as footpad dermatitis, hock burn, contamination or damage to feathers, gait score, mortality, etc. These OBM-based measures are one of the more direct indicators of welfare and can help identify any welfare issues. The present review highlighted the factors that affect animal welfare indicators focused on OBMs which can be used in the commercial broiler farms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kyung-Woo Lee
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea; (B.-Y.K.); (J.P.); (D.-H.K.)
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13
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Thennakoon TMID, Udagedara UGDMB, Atapattu NSBM, Senaratne D. Effects of Salvinia as a broiler litter material on growth performance, behavior, welfare parameters, litter characters, and ammonia emission. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103542. [PMID: 38417331 PMCID: PMC10909906 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103542] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The type of litter material has direct impacts on production, behavioral, and welfare parameters of broilers. The price of conventionally-used litter materials is increasing. Salvinia molesta is a fast-growing aquatic plant which has become an environmental issue in some areas. This study assessed the suitability of air-dried Salvinia plants (SAL) as an alternate litter material to paddy husk (PH). Resulting in a completely randomized experiment, a total of 240 broilers was raised in 12 floor-pens each provided with either PH or SAL as litter materials, from 11 to 36 d. Scan sampling technique was employed to record the birds' engagement in 15 predetermined behaviors. Foot pad dermatitis (FPD), hock burn damage (HBD) and plumage cleanliness (PC) were assessed using Welfare Quality Scoring System. Litter samples were analyzed for pH, dry matter%, water holding capacity, porosity, N%, tapped-density and ammonia emission rate. The litter material had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on mortality, growth performance parameters, dressing % and visceral organ weight. The scores for FPD and PC were unaffected by the litter materials. SAL litter reported significantly lower (P < 0.05) HBD scores. The percentages of birds engaged in eating and wing flapping behaviors were significantly lower on SAL. Litter type had no significant influence on the color, aroma, flavor, texture and overall acceptability of breast meat. Air-dried Salvinia plants reported acidic pH. SAL litter gave a significantly higher tapped-density. Ammonia emission rate of SAL litter was significantly lower than that of PH. However, the final litter N content was higher for PH (3.7%) than SAL (3.2%). The study proposes air-dried Salvinia plants as a litter material for broilers since it gives growth performance comparable to PH with reduced hock burn damage incidences. Effects of SAL on behavior and the fertilizer value of the spent litter are to be studied further.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M I D Thennakoon
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka
| | - U G D M B Udagedara
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka
| | - N S B M Atapattu
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka.
| | - D Senaratne
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka
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14
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Zhou S, Watcharaanantapong P, Yang X, Thornton T, Gan H, Tabler T, Prado M, Zhao Y. Evaluating broiler welfare and behavior as affected by growth rate and stocking density. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103459. [PMID: 38308899 PMCID: PMC10847911 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103459] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the welfare and behaviors of Cobb 700 broilers as affected by growth rate (GR) and stocking density (SD). Slower-growth (weight gain < 50 g/d) and medium-growth (weight gain = 50-60 g/d) broilers were produced by providing 57.1% and 78.6% of the feed intake listed in the Cobb 700 production manual for standard (fed ad libitum) broilers (weight gain > 60 g/d). Broilers at all 3 GRs were reared at 2 SDs of 30 and 40 kg/m2. Broiler welfare indicators, including gait score, tibia strength, feather coverage, and footpad condition were evaluated when birds reached 1, 2, and 3 kg of body weight. The activity index was determined by overhead cameras and image processing, and the time spent at feeders was recorded using the radio-frequency identification (RFID) systems. The results show that it took 45 d for standard, 52 d for medium-growth, and 62 d for slower-growth broilers to reach a 3 kg market body weight. Feed conversion ratios (FCR, kg/kg) were 1.57 for standard, 1.67 for medium-growth, and 1.80 for slower-growth broilers. Growth rate and SD had an interaction effect on feather cleanliness (P = 0.03), and belly feather coverage (P = 0.02). Slower-growth broilers were more active and had better feather coverage and gait scores than medium-growth and standard broilers (all P < 0.01) but may feel hungry and depressed, medium-growth broilers spent the most time at the feeder among the 3 growth groups (P = 0.02), and standard broilers showed the best production performance. Broilers at 30 kg/m2 showed better bone strength (P = 0.04), and footpad condition (P < 0.01) compared to those at 40 kg/m2. In conclusion, reducing GR and SD may slightly improve broiler leg health at the high expense of compromised production performance and prolonged production cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengyu Zhou
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | | | - Xiao Yang
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Tanner Thornton
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Hao Gan
- Biosystems Engineering & Soils Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Tom Tabler
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Maria Prado
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Yang Zhao
- Animal Science, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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15
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Raziq F, Hussain J, Ahmad S, Hussain MA, Khan MT, Ullah A, Qumar M, Wadood F, Gull-e-Faran. Effect of body weight at photostimulation on productive performance and welfare aspects of commercial layers. Anim Biosci 2024; 37:500-508. [PMID: 36915928 PMCID: PMC10915190 DOI: 10.5713/ab.22.0365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Due to current selection practices for increased egg production and peak persistency, the production profile, age at maturity, and body weight criteria for commercial layers are constantly changing. Body weight and age at the time of photostimulation will thus always be the factors that need to be adequately addressed among various production systems. The current study was carried out to determine the effects of pullets' body weight (low, medium, and heavy) on their performance, welfare, physiological response, and hormonal profile. METHODS With regard to live weight, 150 16-week-old pullets were divided into three groups using a completely randomized design (CRD) and held until the 50th week. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate the data under the CRD, and the least significant difference test was used to distinguish between treatment means. RESULTS In comparison to the medium and light birds, the heavy birds had higher body weight at maturity, an earlier age at maturity, and higher egg weight, eggshell weight, eggshell thickness, egg yolk index, breaking strength, egg surface area, egg shape index, egg volume, and hormonal profile except corticosterone. However, the medium and light birds had lower feed consumption rates per dozen eggs and per kilogram of egg mass than the heavy birds. Light birds showed greater body weight gain, egg production, and egg specific gravity than the other categories. At 20 weeks of age, physiological response, welfare aspects, and catalase were non-significant; however, at 50 weeks of age, all these factors-aside from catalase-were extremely significant. CONCLUSION The findings of this study indicate that layers can function at lower body weights during photostimulation; hence, dietary regimens that result in lighter pullets may be preferable. Additionally, the welfare of the birds was not compromised by the lighter weight group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazal Raziq
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000,
Pakistan
| | - Jibran Hussain
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000,
Pakistan
| | - Sohail Ahmad
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore-54000,
Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif Hussain
- College of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Abdul Wali khan University, Mardan-23200,
Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tahir Khan
- Department of Poultry Science, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur-63100,
Pakistan
| | - Assad Ullah
- Civil Veterinary Hospital Gumbat, Kohat-26120,
Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Qumar
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur-63100,
Pakistan
| | - Fazal Wadood
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur-63100,
Pakistan
| | - Gull-e-Faran
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur-63100,
Pakistan
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16
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Cervantes HM, Billard L, Pesti GM. Retrospective Broiler Health Survey: Scope, Parameters, and Overall Trends. Avian Dis 2024; 67:310-316. [PMID: 38300652 DOI: 10.1637/aviandiseases-d-23-00056] [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: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
A retrospective analysis encompassing 18 yr (1999-2016) of broiler chicken health surveys from broiler production complexes throughout the United States was conducted to identify trends and areas of opportunity. The analysis used necropsy data from 19,577 broiler chickens considered to be "healthy" or "clinically normal" by visual assessment. The very low incidence of dehydrated (0.01%) or undersized (0.02%) broilers is evidence that the objective of examining "healthy" birds was achieved. The results of the correlation analysis were what was expected for "healthy" broilers, with these birds having positive correlations with skin color and size of the bursa of Fabricius. The average age of broilers included in this analysis ranged from 26.2 days in 2008 to 33.7 days in 2013. The percentage of "normal" broilers (those without visible lesions or abnormalities) varied from 5.63% in 2012 to 28.33% in 1999. The results of this study identified four areas of opportunity for improving poultry health: 1) coccidiosis, 2) oral lesions and gizzard erosions, 3) retained yolks, and 4) pododermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector M Cervantes
- Department of Population Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602,
| | - Lynne Billard
- Department of Statistics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602
| | - Gene M Pesti
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602
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17
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Alabi OM, Olagunju SO, Aderemi FA, Lawal TE, Oguntunji AO, Ayoola MO, Oladejo OA, Adeleye BE, Adewumi AA, Alabi BD, Tarta A. Effect of litter management systems on incidence and severity of footpad dermatitis among broilers at finisher stage. Transl Anim Sci 2023; 8:txad145. [PMID: 38221958 PMCID: PMC10782915 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txad145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pododermatitis, or footpad dermatitis (FPD), is a welfare concern affecting broiler chickens globally. In the humid tropics, where high temperatures and humidity prevail, the impact of pododermatitis on broiler performance characteristics and behavior becomes even more significant hence this investigation. One hundred and eighty male broilers were used for this experiment out of 200 birds initially procured at day old. They were brooded and reared on deep litter and at 21 days of age, they were randomly allotted to the experimental unit. There were three treatments each with three replicates in a completely randomized design. The three litter management systems constituted the treatment groups. In the first treatment (t-A), litter materials were changed on a weekly basis and replaced with fresh ones while in the second treatment (t-B), the litter materials were turned or raked once a week, and in the third treatment (t-C), the litter materials were left untouched. The litter material used across all treatments was wood shavings and t-C served as control. The experimental birds were fed ad libitum during the trial. Data on daily feed intake, incidence and severity of paw lesions, and weekly body weights were taken while the experiment lasted 35 days. Test of mobility and aggression were carried out on the birds from each group on the last day of the experiment. The moisture content and pH of litter materials of each replicate were taken weekly from day 21 till the end of the experiment. Data were later subjected to analysis of variance statistically. The results revealed that broilers on t-A performed better (P < 0.05) than those on t-B and t-C for feed intake, live weight, weight gain, and feed utilization. However, FPD was pronounced among broilers on t-C and much more severe. A positive correlation was observed between the values of litter moisture content, litter pH, and incidence and severity of FPD. Birds on t-C were dull in appearance and inactive. In conclusion, FPD has a detrimental impact on the performance characteristics and behavior of broiler chickens in the humid tropics. However, the severity depends on the management system adopted. By adopting appropriate management practices such as weekly replacement of litter with fresh ones, it is possible to alleviate the negative consequences of FPD, improve broiler welfare, and enhance the sustainability of the poultry industry in these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- O M Alabi
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - S O Olagunju
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - F A Aderemi
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - T E Lawal
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - A O Oguntunji
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - M O Ayoola
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - O A Oladejo
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - B E Adeleye
- Animal Science and Fisheries Management Unit, Agriculture Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | - A A Adewumi
- Department of Wildlife and Forestry, College of Agriculture, Osun-State University, Ejigbo Campus, Nigeria
| | - B D Alabi
- Department of Nursing Science, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Nigeria
| | - A Tarta
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Khuzestan, Iran
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18
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Urban J, Jaworski S, Lange A, Bień D, Matuszewski A, Michalczuk M. Effects of the Addition of Crude Fibre Concentrate on Performance, Welfare and Selected Caecal Bacteria of Broilers. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3883. [PMID: 38136920 PMCID: PMC10741125 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The study evaluated the effects of crude fibre concentrate supplementation on final body weight, mortality, feed conversion ratio, European Production Efficiency Factor, European Broiler Index, welfare parameters, colony-forming units of selected caecal bacteria (Enterobacteriaceae and lactic acid bacteria) and pH of broiler faeces and litter. The study comprised 990 Ross 308 male chicks divided into three groups, a control and two experimental groups, which were given crude fibre concentrate as a feed supplement. On the thirty-fifth day of rearing, the birds' welfare scores were evaluated, and 2 g of cecum was collected post-mortem from six chickens in each group. Subsequently, a series of ten-fold dilutions of the material was prepared, followed by cultures and measurement of pH in the faeces and litter. The inclusion of crude fibre concentrate resulted in a beneficial impact on the ultimate body mass (p ≤ 0.001), welfare standard (p ≤ 0.001), and quantity of colony-forming units of lactic acid bacteria (p ≤ 0.05) within the cecum. Furthermore, it had a positive influence on lowering the pH levels of both faeces and litter (p ≤ 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Urban
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Sławomir Jaworski
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (S.J.); (A.L.)
| | - Agata Lange
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute of Biology, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (S.J.); (A.L.)
| | - Damian Bień
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Arkadiusz Matuszewski
- Department of Animal Environment Biology, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Monika Michalczuk
- Department of Animal Breeding, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (D.B.); (M.M.)
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19
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Liu KL, He YF, Xu BW, Lin LX, Chen P, Iqbal MK, Mehmood K, Huang SC. Leg disorders in broiler chickens: a review of current knowledge. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:5124-5138. [PMID: 37850850 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2270000] [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] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring improved leg health is an important prerequisite for broilers to achieve optimal production performance and welfare status. Broiler leg disease is characterized by leg muscle weakness, leg bone deformation, joint cysts, arthritis, femoral head necrosis, and other symptoms that result in lameness or paralysis. These conditions significantly affect movement, feeding and broiler growth performance. Nowadays, the high incidence of leg abnormalities in broiler chickens has become an important issue that hampers the development of broiler farming. Therefore, it is imperative to prevent leg diseases and improve the health of broiler legs. This review mainly discusses the current prevalence of broiler leg diseases and describes the risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention of leg diseases to provide a scientific basis for addressing broiler leg health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Li Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Feng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Bo-Wen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Lu-Xi Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Pan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Muhammad Kashif Iqbal
- Institute of Continuing Education and Extension, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Mehmood
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Shu-Cheng Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
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20
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Daneshmand A, Kumar A, Kheravii SK, Pasquali GAM, Wu SB. Xylanase and beta-glucanase improve performance parameters and footpad dermatitis and modulate intestinal microbiota in broilers under an Eimeria challenge. Poult Sci 2023; 102:103055. [PMID: 37734358 PMCID: PMC10514458 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Coccidiosis is an enteric disease of poultry worldwide that compromises gut health and growth performance. The current research investigated the effects of 2 doses of a multienzyme preparation on broilers' performance, gut health, and footpad dermatitis (FPD) under an Eimeria challenge. A total of 512 mixed-sex day-old chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly allocated to 4 treatments of 8 replicates. Treatments were: 1) nonchallenged control (NC); 2) NC + Eimeria challenge (CC); 3) CC + recommended level of xylanase and glucanase (XG, 100 g/t feed [on top]); 4) CC + double XG (2XG, 200 g/t feed). Eimeria spp. vaccine strains were gavaged on d 9 to induce coccidiosis in chickens. Performance parameters were evaluated during starter, grower, and finisher phases, and 4 birds per pen were euthanized on d 16 for sampling, FPD was scored on d 35, and litter moisture was analyzed on d 17 and 35. The data were analyzed using 1-way ANOVA with Tukey's test to separate means, and Kruskal-Wallis test was used for non-normally distributed parameters. The results showed that the Eimeria challenge was successful based on reduced weight gain and feed intake during grower phase, and higher FITC-d concentration, lesion score (female), and oocyst counts (d 14) in CC group compared to N.C. group, while XG and 2XG increased (P < 0.001) weight gain and improved FCR compared to CC and NC groups during finisher phase. The addition of X.G. and 2XG decreased litter moisture (P = 0.003) and FPD (P < 0.001) in challenged broilers compared to the N.C. group (d 35). Supplementing XG and 2XG reestablished the population of Lactobacillus in the cecum of challenged birds to an intermediate level between the NC and CC groups (P > 0.05). The inclusion of XG tended to increase the expression of Junctional adhesion molecule 2 (JAM2), which was not different from CC and NC groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the combination of xylanase and glucanase (Natugrain TS) improved the performance and modulated jejunal microbiota of broilers under mild Eimeria challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Daneshmand
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Alip Kumar
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Sarbast K Kheravii
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | | | - Shu-Biao Wu
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
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21
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Kittelsen KE, Vasdal G, Moe RO, Steinhoff FS, Tahamtani FM. Health effects of feed dilution and roughage in Ross 308 broiler breeder cockerels. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102985. [PMID: 37586188 PMCID: PMC10450970 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102985] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
To ensure reproductivity and prevent obesity, broiler breeder's growth rate is controlled by quantitative feed restriction. However, feed restriction is associated with chronic hunger, frustration, and abnormal behaviors, thus representing a welfare problem. Feed diluted with insoluble fiber is an alternative, allowing larger amounts of feed and more gut filling, increasing satiety without increasing the caloric intake. Previous research on feed dilution has focused on pullets not cockerels. In addition, the health effects of diluted feed are less explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of feed dilution and roughage on health indicators in broiler breeder cockerels, 5 to 10 wk of age (WOA), a very feed restricted period. In total, 200 Ross 308 broiler breeder cockerels were housed in 12 pens (6 pens/treatment), 16 to 17 birds per pen. The treatments were standard feed (Control) and feed diluted with (20%) insoluble oat hulls and 150 g of roughage (lucerne/alfalfa) daily per pen (D + R). The D + R birds received 20% more feed per day. Body weight, pecking injuries, footpad dermatitis (FPD), and litter quality were recorded weekly between 5 and 9 WOA. At 10 WOA all birds were euthanized and subjected to postmortem assessment. D + R birds tended to weigh more than controls (P = 0.055), but diet did not affect flock uniformity (P = 0.57). The weekly assessment showed no effect of treatment on foot pad lesion scores (P = 0.31). However, an effect on FPD was observed postmortem (P = 0.04), where Control had slightly better footpad condition compared to the D + R group. Litter had to be completely changed in 2 control pens during the trial, due to quality deterioration. There was no effect of treatment on the weight of specific organs, the length of the gut, the intestinal mucosa, nor on the incidence of wounds on the head (P = 0.15). Overall, these results indicate that feed dilution and roughage have neither adverse nor beneficial health effects on Ross 308 broiler breeder cockerels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathe E Kittelsen
- Animalia - The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, N-0515 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Guro Vasdal
- Animalia - The Norwegian Meat and Poultry Research Centre, N-0515 Oslo, Norway
| | - Randi O Moe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, NMBU - The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1433 Ås, Norway
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22
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Naeem M, Burton E, Scholey D, Alkhtib A, Broadberry S. Efficacy of oat hulls varying in particle size in mitigating performance deterioration in broilers fed low-density crude protein diets. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102979. [PMID: 37562128 PMCID: PMC10432837 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102979] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary fibres with increased particle size may develop foregut more efficiently in meat poultry fed diets moderately low in crude protein. The study investigated the performance of broilers fed low-density crude protein diets with the inclusion of oat hulls increasing in particle size. Ross 308 male broiler chicks (n = 336) were divided into 48 pens, 12 pens per treatment (7 chicks per pen). Pens were allocated to 4 dietary treatments in mash form; positive control (PC), a standard crude protein diet, negative control (NC), around 5% lower in protein with 5% celite as an inert material, OH400: 5% lower protein diet with 5% oat hulls of geometric mean diameter (GMD) 400 µm, OH850: 5% lower protein diet with 5% oat hulls of GMD 850µm. Birds were fed ad libitum from d 1 to 35 in 3 phases; starter: d 0 to 10, grower: d 10 to 24 and finisher: d 24 to 35. Growth performance was calculated at the end of the trial. Two birds per pen were sampled on d 24 and 35 to collect data on proventriculus and gizzard weights and pooled ileal digesta. Apparent ileal digestibility of amino acids on d 24, and metabolizable energy on d 24 and 35 were recorded for each pen. Litter was sampled from each pen on d 34 to analyze litter N and moisture content. Footpad dermatitis scores of all birds per pen were recorded on d 35. Overall, no difference (P > 0.05) in body weight gain and feed intake was found between the treatments. However, NC and OH400 showed poorer FCR than PC, whereas FCR on PC and OH850 was similar (P > 0.05). Gizzard absolute weight and relative to body weight, and gizzard to proventriculus ratio were higher (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to PC and NC on d 24 and 35. Gizzard digesta particle size was reduced (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to all other diets on d 24 and 35. Amino acids digestibility coefficients for aspartic acid and valine increased (P < 0.05) in birds fed OH850 compared to PC, whereas coefficients for several other amino acids were improved compared to NC and OH400. The apparent ileal digestibility of metabolizable energy was similar (P > 0.05) between PC and OH850. Litter moisture and nitrogen, and footpad dermatitis scores were reduced (P < 0.05) on OH850 compared to PC. In conclusion, the inclusion of coarse oat hulls of GMD 850 µm in low-density crude protein diets can be beneficial for the broilers in developing the foregut, utilizing the nutrients efficiently and reducing litter nitrogen and moisture, and footpad scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Naeem
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, NG25 0QF, United Kingdom.
| | - E Burton
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, NG25 0QF, United Kingdom
| | - D Scholey
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, NG25 0QF, United Kingdom
| | - A Alkhtib
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, NG25 0QF, United Kingdom
| | - S Broadberry
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell, NG25 0QF, United Kingdom
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23
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Mengucci C, Rampelli S, Picone G, Lucchi A, Litta G, Biagi E, Candela M, Manfreda G, Brigidi P, Capozzi F, De Cesare A. Application of multi-omic features clustering and pathway enrichment to clarify the impact of vitamin B2 supplementation on broiler caeca microbiome. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1264361. [PMID: 37840729 PMCID: PMC10568133 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1264361] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The results of omic methodologies are often reported as separate datasets. In this study we applied for the first time multi-omic features clustering and pathway enrichment to clarify the biological impact of vitamin B2 supplementation on broiler caeca microbiome. Methods The caeca contents of broilers fed +50 and +100 mg/kg vitamin B2 were analyzed by shotgun metagenomic and metabolomic. Latent variables extracted from NMR spectra, as well as taxonomic and functional features profiled from metagenomes, were integrated to characterize the effect of vitamin B2 in modulating caeca microbiome. A pathway-based network was obtained by mapping the observed input genes and compounds, highlighting connected strands of metabolic ways through pathway-enrichment analysis. Results At day 14, the taxonomic, functional and metabolomic features in the caeca of tested broilers showed some degree of separation between control and treated groups, becoming fully clear at 28 days and persisting up to 42 days. In the caeca of birds belonging to the control group Alistipes spp. was the signature species, while the signature species in the caeca of broilers fed +50 and +100 mg/kg vitamin B2 were Bacteroides fragilis and Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Ruminococcus torques, Subdoligranum spp., respectively. The pathway enrichment analysis highlighted that the specific biochemical pathways enhanced by the supplementations of vitamin B2 were N-Formyl-L-aspartate amidohydrolase, producing Aspartate and Formate; L-Alanine:2-oxoglutarate amino transferase, supporting the conversion of L-Alanine and 2-Oxoglutarate in Pyruvate and L-Glutamate; 1D-myo-inositol 1/4 phosphate phosphohydrolase, converting Inositol 1/4-phosphate and water in myo-Inositol and Orthophosphate. The results of this study demonstrated that the caeca of birds fed +50 and + 100 mg/kg were those characterized by taxonomic groups more beneficial to the host and with a higher concentration of myo-inositol, formic acid, amino acids and pyruvate involved in glycolysis and amino acid biosynthesis. Conclusion In this study we demonstrated how to perform multi-omic features integration to describe the biochemical mechanisms enhanced by the supplementation of different concentrations of vitamin B2 in the poultry diet. The relationship between vitamin B2 supplementation and myo-inositol production was highlighted in our study for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Mengucci
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Simone Rampelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Picone
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Alex Lucchi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | | | - Elena Biagi
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Candela
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gerardo Manfreda
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Patrizia Brigidi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Capozzi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Alessandra De Cesare
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia (BO), Italy
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24
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Moon J, DuBien J, Ramachandran R, Liang Y, Dridi S, Tabler T. Effects of a Sprinkler and Cool Cell Combined System on Cooling Water Usage, Litter Moisture, and Indoor Environment of Broiler Houses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2939. [PMID: 37760340 PMCID: PMC10525607 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change is a serious challenge to food production around the world. Sustainability and water efficiency are critical to a poultry industry faced with global production concerns including increased demands for high-quality, affordable animal protein and greater environmental pressures resulting from rising global temperatures, flock heat stress, and limits on water availability. To address these concerns, a commercial sprinkler system used in combination with a cool cell system was evaluated against a cool cell system alone for two summer flocks of heavy broilers at Mississippi State University to determine effects of sprinkler technology on cooling water usage, litter moisture, and in-house environments. Environmental data were calculated and recorded throughout the flocks. The combination house exhibited a 2.2 °C (4 °F) increase in daily maximum temperature, lower coincident relative humidity, and a 64% (62,039 L/flock) reduction in average cooling water usage over the cool cell-only house. Litter moisture for the combination house tended to be numerically lower but showed no significant difference at several time points between and across flocks. A combined sprinkler/cool cell system reduced cooling water use by 64% over two flocks compared to a cool cell alone system and decreased in-house relative humidity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Moon
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Jan DuBien
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Reshma Ramachandran
- Department of Poultry Science, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Yi Liang
- Center of Excellence for Poultry Science, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Sami Dridi
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Tom Tabler
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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25
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Choi J, Goo D, Sharma MK, Ko H, Liu G, Paneru D, Choppa VSR, Lee J, Kim WK. Effects of Different Eimeria Inoculation Doses on Growth Performance, Daily Feed Intake, Gut Health, Gut Microbiota, Foot Pad Dermatitis, and Eimeria Gene Expression in Broilers Raised in Floor Pens for 35 Days. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2237. [PMID: 37444035 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The study was conducted to investigate the effects of different Eimeria inoculation doses on the growth performance, gut ecosystem, and body composition of broilers in floor pens for 35 days. A total of 750 15-day-old broilers were allocated to five experimental groups with six replicate pens. The five experimental groups included unchallenged control (CON); Eimeria dose 1 (ED1): E. acervulina: 31,250/E. maxima: 6250/E. tenella: 6250; Eimeria dose 2 (ED2): E. acervulina: 62,500/E. maxima: 12,500/E. tenella: 12,500; Eimeria dose 3 (ED3): E. acervulina: 125,000/E. maxima: 25,000/E. tenella: 25,000; and Eimeria dose 4 (ED4): E. acervulina: 250,000/E. maxima: 50,000/E. tenella: 50,000. On D 21, BW were linearly reduced by increased Eimeria inoculation doses (p < 0.01). On D 35, the Eimeria challenge groups had significantly lower BW compared to the CON group. Increased Eimeria inoculation doses linearly decreased crude fat (CF) (p < 0.01) on D 21. Increased Eimeria inoculation doses tended to increase the relative abundance of the phylum Proteobacteria (p = 0.098) on D 21. On D 35, lean:fat was linearly reduced by increased Eimeria inoculation doses (p < 0.05). Eimeria infection negatively influenced growth performance and gut health in broilers in the acute phase, and the negative effects were prolonged to D 35 in floor pen conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janghan Choi
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- US National Poultry Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service, Athens, GA 30605, USA
| | - Doyun Goo
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Milan Kumar Sharma
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Hanseo Ko
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Guanchen Liu
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Deependra Paneru
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | | | - Jihwan Lee
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Woo Kyun Kim
- Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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26
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Mansilla WD, Saraswathy S, García-Ruiz AI. Dietary protein reduction with stepwise addition of crystalline amino acids and the effect of considering a minimum glycine-serine content in broiler diets. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102684. [PMID: 37116283 PMCID: PMC10160592 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102684] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing the dependency on soybean meal (SBM) is necessary to improve the sustainability of the poultry industry. Moreover, the recommendations for minimum contents of dietary Gly+Ser require further research. Two parallel studies were executed to determine the effects of replacing SBM with crystalline amino acids (CAA) to meet the amino acid requirements and to determine whether a minimum content of Gly+Ser is necessary for broiler diets. In study 1, 1,860 one-day-old male chicks were fed a common starter phase diet (22.8% CP). During the grower-1, grower-2, and finisher phases, the control CP content was reduced (up to 2.1%) with the stepwise addition of CAA (treatments 1-5). Within each feeding phase, AME, standardized ileal digestible Lys, and the minimum Met, Thr, Val, Gly+Ser, Ile, Arg, and Trp to Lys ratios were similar. In study 2, 1,488 male chickens were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design with the Gly+Ser content and feed ingredients used as main factors. Performance was monitored during 41 d in both studies. Reduction in CP content linearly increased (P < 0.05) BW, ADG, and ADFI in the grower-1, grower-2, and finisher phases. When the overall FCR was adjusted considering the BW differences (FCRadj); FCRadj linearly decreased with the weighted average CP (WACP) content (P < 0.001). In the lowest CP treatment, estimated dietary N utilization efficiency was improved by 10%, and the overall N excretion was reduced by 16% compared with the control (P < 0.001). The overall SBM and soybean oil intakes were linearly reduced relative to WACP (-12.0 and -20.2% in control vs. treatment 5, respectively; P < 0.001). Formulating with a minimum Gly+Ser content in the starter phase improved the FCR (P < 0.05) only in the corn-SBM-based diet. In grower-1, increasing Gly+Ser content improved the FCR independent of the feed ingredients used (P < 0.05). Crystalline amino acids can be used to partially replace intact protein reducing the dependency on SBM. Young birds may not synthesize enough Gly endogenously and a minimum content should be provided in the early phases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saritha Saraswathy
- Global Nutrition Formulation, Trouw Nutrition, 3800 AG Amersfoort, the Netherlands
| | - Ana I García-Ruiz
- Poultry R&D, Trouw Nutrition, El Viso de San Juan, Toledo 45215, Spain
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27
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Dao HT, Sharma NK, Swick RA, Moss AF. Feeding recycled food waste improved feed efficiency in laying hens from 24 to 43 weeks of age. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8261. [PMID: 37217578 PMCID: PMC10203362 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34878-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
There is renewed interest in utilizing food waste as animal feed due to its potential benefits in reducing feed cost and environmental impact while improving global food security. This study was conducted to examine the efficacy of recycled food waste-based feed for laying hen performance, egg quality, and nutrient digestibility. Hy-Line Brown hens (n = 150) were randomly distributed to three dietary treatments with 50 replicate cages of a single bird per treatment from 24 to 43 weeks of age. The treatments were: a standard/control feed based on wheat, sorghum, and soybean meal; a recycled food waste based-feed; and a 50:50 blend of control and food waste based-feed. Hens offered the food waste-based diets had similar egg weight, hen day egg production, and egg mass, but lower feed intake and higher feed efficiency, compared to those fed the control diets (P < 0.001). Hens fed the food waste diets exhibited lower shell breaking strength and shell thickness at week 34, and higher yolk color score and higher fat digestibility compared to the control treatment at week 43 (P < 0.001). Thus, feeding the recycled food waste based-feed maintained egg production while improving feed efficiency compared to the control feed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiep T Dao
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia.
- Faculty of Animal Science, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy Town, Gia Lam District, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam.
| | - Nishchal K Sharma
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Robert A Swick
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
| | - Amy F Moss
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia
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28
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van Staaveren N, Tobalske BW, Brost J, Sharma R, Beaufrère H, Elias A, Harlander-Matauschek A. Biomechanics of landing in injured and uninjured chickens and the role of meloxicam. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102794. [PMID: 37307632 PMCID: PMC10276282 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Birds use their legs and wings when transitioning from aerial to ground locomotion during landing. To improve our understanding of the effects of footpad dermatitis (FPD) and keel bone fracture (KBF) upon landing biomechanics in laying hens, we measured ground-reaction forces generated by hens (n = 37) as they landed on force plates (Bertec Corporation, Columbus, OH) from a 30 cm drop or 170 cm jump in a single-blinded placebo-controlled trial using a cross-over design where birds received an anti-inflammatory (meloxicam, 5 mg/kg body mass) or placebo treatment beforehand. We used generalized linear mixed models to test for effects of health status, treatment and their interaction on landing velocity (m/s), maximum resultant force (N), and impulse (force integrated with respect to time [N s]). Birds with FPD and KBF tended to show divergent alterations to their landing biomechanics when landing from a 30 cm drop, with a higher landing velocity and maximum force in KBF compared to FPD birds, potentially indicative of efforts to either reduce the use of their wings or impacts on inflamed footpads. In contrast, at 170 cm jumps fewer differences between birds of different health statuses were observed likely due to laying hens being poor flyers already at their maximum power output. Our results indicate that orthopedic injuries, apart from being welfare issues on their own, may have subtle influences on bird mobility through altered landing biomechanics that should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke van Staaveren
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bret W Tobalske
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Jacob Brost
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rahul Sharma
- Department of Animal Biosciences, Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hugues Beaufrère
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Epidemiology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Audrey Elias
- School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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29
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Dong Y, Fraley GS, Siegford JM, Zhu F, Erasmus MA. Comparing different environmental enrichments for improving the welfare and walking ability of male turkeys. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285347. [PMID: 37159459 PMCID: PMC10168550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated age-related changes in turkey welfare measures (wounds, feather quality (FQ), feather cleanliness, and footpad condition (FCON)) and walking ability (gait) as influenced by different types of environmental enrichment (EE). Tom turkeys (n = 420) were randomly assigned to: straw bale (S), platform (P), platform + straw bale (PS), pecking block (B), tunnel (T) or control (C; no enrichment) group. Welfare measures and gait were assessed at 8, 12, 16 and 19 wk and analyzed using PROC LOGISTIC with Firth bias-correction. Better wing FQ with age was observed in turkeys in S and T groups. Turkeys in the S group had better wing FQ at 16 (P = 0.028) and 19 wk (P = 0.011) vs. 8 wk. Wing FQ (P = 0.008) was better at 19 vs. 8 wk for T turkeys. FCON worsened over time for turkeys in all treatment groups except for the S group. FCON was worse at 19 vs.8 wk for P (P = 0.024), PS (P = 0.039), B (P = 0.011), T (P = 0.004) and C (P = 0.014) turkeys and was worse at 19 vs. 12 wk for B (P = 0.038), T (P = 0.015) and C (P = 0.045) turkeys. FCON was worse at 19 vs. 16 wk for T (P = 0.007) and C (P = 0.048) turkeys. FCON was also worse at 16 vs. 8 wk for B (P = 0.046) turkeys. Gait worsened with increasing age in all treatment groups. Gait was worse at 19 wk for S (P < 0.001), P (P < 0.001), PS (P < 0.001) and B turkeys (P < 0.001) vs. earlier ages, while gait in T (P < 0.001) and C turkeys (P < 0.001) worsened starting at 16 wk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiru Dong
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Gregory S. Fraley
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Janice M. Siegford
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Fengqing Zhu
- Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
| | - Marisa A. Erasmus
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
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van der Eijk JAJ, van Harn J, Gunnink H, Melis S, van Riel JW, de Jong IC. Fast- and slower-growing broilers respond similarly to a reduction in stocking density with regard to gait, hock burn, skin lesions, cleanliness, and performance. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102603. [PMID: 36996512 PMCID: PMC10070940 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing trend toward broiler production systems with higher welfare requirements. Breed and stocking density are considered key factors for broiler welfare that are often specified as criteria for such higher welfare systems. However, it remains unknown how slower-growing broilers respond to a reduction in stocking density with regard to their welfare and performance, and whether this response differs from fast-growing broilers. Therefore, we compared fast- (F) and slower-growing broilers (S) housed at 4 different stocking densities (24, 30, 36, and 42 kg/m2, based on slaughter weight) and measured their welfare scores (i.e., gait, footpad dermatitis, hock burn, skin lesions and cleanliness), litter quality and performance. The experiment had a 2 × 4 factorial design with 4 replicates (pens) per treatment (32 pens in total). Thinning (15%) was done in a 50/50 male/female ratio at 38 (F) and 44 (S) d of age (estimated body weight of 2.2 kg). We hypothesized that breeds would respond differently to a reduction in stocking density. Contrary to our hypothesis, only one interaction between breed and stocking density was found on footpad dermatitis, indicating that fast- and slower-growing broilers generally showed similar responses to a reduction in stocking density. F broilers showed a steeper decline in the prevalence of footpad dermatitis with reducing stocking density compared to S broilers. Broilers housed at lower stocking densities (24 and/or 30 kg/m2) showed improved welfare measures, litter quality and performance compared to those housed at higher stocking densities (36 and/or 42 kg/m2). S broilers had better welfare scores (gait, footpad dermatitis and skin lesions), litter quality and lower performance compared to F broilers. In conclusion, reducing stocking density improved welfare of both F and S broilers, but more for F broilers in case of footpad dermatitis, and using S broilers improved welfare compared to F broilers. Reducing stocking density and using slower-growing broilers benefits broiler welfare, where combining both would further improve broiler welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerine A J van der Eijk
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Jan van Harn
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Henk Gunnink
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Stephanie Melis
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Johan W van Riel
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ingrid C de Jong
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, 6700 AH Wageningen, the Netherlands
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31
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Berg C, Edwards S, Knierim U, Riber A, Salamon A, Tiemann I, Fabris C, Manakidou A, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Velarde A. Welfare of ducks, geese and quail on farm. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07992. [PMID: 37200855 PMCID: PMC10186070 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion concerns the welfare of Domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus), Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata domesticus) and their hybrids (Mule ducks), Domestic geese (Anser anser f. domesticus) and Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) in relation to the rearing of breeders, birds for meat, Muscovy and Mule ducks and Domestic geese for foie gras and layer Japanese quail for egg production. The most common husbandry systems (HSs) in the European Union are described for each animal species and category. The following welfare consequences are described and assessed for each species: restriction of movement, injuries (bone lesions including fractures and dislocations, soft tissue lesions and integument damage and locomotory disorders including lameness), group stress, inability to perform comfort behaviour, inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour and inability to express maternal behaviour (related to prelaying and nesting behaviours). Animal-based measures relevant for the assessment of these welfare consequences were identified and described. The relevant hazards leading to the welfare consequences in the different HSs were identified. Specific factors such as space allowance (including minimum enclosure area and height) per bird, group size, floor quality, characteristics of nesting facilities and enrichment provided (including access to water to fulfil biological needs) were assessed in relation to the welfare consequences and, recommendations on how to prevent the welfare consequences were provided in a quantitative or qualitative way.
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Biesek J, Banaszak M, Grabowicz M, Wlaźlak S. Chopped straw and coffee husks affect bedding chemical composition and the performance and foot pad condition of broiler chickens. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6600. [PMID: 37088790 PMCID: PMC10123054 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33859-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Bedding material is a crucial environmental factor for chickens. Coffee husks are waste from the industry that could be reused. The study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of various bedding types and assess their impact on the performance characteristics of broiler chickens and the incidence of footpad dermatitis (FPD). Ross 308 broilers were used in the study. Birds were divided into 3 groups (216 chickens, 72 per group). Group 1 was kept on chopped straw (S). Group 2 was kept on coffee husks (CHs), and the 3rd group (PB) was kept on pellet bedding made from S and CHs in a 1:1 ratio. The dry matter (DM), crude fiber (CF), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) content, and the pH of the bedding were analyzed. Production results were examined during 42 days of rearing. FPD was assessed on a point scale. The tissue composition of the carcasses and qualitative physicochemical characteristics of the meat (pH, color, water holding capacity, drip loss) and bone-breaking strength were analyzed. Straw had a higher CF content. In total, the highest N content in CHs was noticed. P content was lower in the S, and K was the highest in the CHs group, followed by S and PB. The pH of the bedding was lower in the CHs group, higher in PB, and highest in S bedding. The DM was decreasing within the days of rearing. A significant interaction was demonstrated between the type of bedding and rearing days on the bedding (manure) composition. On days 1-14, FCR deteriorated in the PB group compared to the S group. The presence of FPD was significantly lower in the PB group than in the others. In the PB group, chickens had a higher slaughter yield than in the S group and a lower weight and liver share than in the CHs group. The weight and proportion of abdominal fat were higher in the group kept on S than on CHs. It can be concluded that coffee husks as a component of pellets had a beneficial effect on reducing FPD in chickens and their slaughter yield and enriched bedding with nutrients, which with poultry manure, could be a good fertilizer for agricultural soils after rearing. It could be recommended to use pelleted bedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Biesek
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, PBS Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Mazowiecka 28, 85-084, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Mirosław Banaszak
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, PBS Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Mazowiecka 28, 85-084, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grabowicz
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, PBS Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Mazowiecka 28, 85-084, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Sebastian Wlaźlak
- Department of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Faculty of Animal Breeding and Biology, PBS Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, Mazowiecka 28, 85-084, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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Di Gregorio MC, de Almeida ERM, Momo C, da Silva Araújo CS, Hueza IM, Andréo-Filho N, Raspantini LER, Gotardo AT, Górniak SL. Sodium Salicylate as Feed Additive in Broilers: Absence of Toxicopathological Findings. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091430. [PMID: 37174467 PMCID: PMC10177601 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) in animal production have been related to the increase in multidrug-resistant bacteria. The AGP ban in many countries has highlighted the growing need for alternatives for feed additives. Considering the non-antibiotic anti-inflammatory theory of AGPs, chicks received three different doses of sodium salicylate (SS) in feed (10, 30, 90 mg/kg), basal diet (BD) was used as a negative control, and zinc bacitracin (ZB) was used as a positive control. Chicks were individually housed to increase the accuracy of the dose of SS ingested. Performance parameters and footpad dermatitis were evaluated weekly, while haematology, serum biochemistry, histopathology, and tibial dyschondroplasia were determined on Days 21 and 42. A linear dose-dependent decrease in haemoglobin concentration was observed, but the values were within the normal reference range. Among all the other evaluated parameters, no relevant differences between treatments were observed; however, not even the AGP group performed better than the control group. It is possible that the conditions in which the birds were raised were not stressful enough to allow for anti-inflammatories to demonstrate their beneficial effects on performance. Studies should be conducted where the animals are exposed to commercial conditions, as the presence of natural stressors could allow a better evaluation of the efficacy of the anti-inflammatory agent as a growth promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Carraro Di Gregorio
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Elaine Renata Motta de Almeida
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Claudia Momo
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Soares da Silva Araújo
- Department of Nutrition and Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Isis Machado Hueza
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema 09913-030, Brazil
| | - Newton Andréo-Filho
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Environmental, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, Diadema 09913-030, Brazil
| | - Leonila Ester Reinert Raspantini
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - André Tadeu Gotardo
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Silvana Lima Górniak
- Research Centre for Veterinary Toxicology (CEPTOX), Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil
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Schreiter R, Freick M. Flock-level risk factors of litter condition for the occurrence of plumage damage and skin lesions in commercial laying hen farms. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102705. [PMID: 37141809 PMCID: PMC10176254 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Plumage damage (PD) as a result of severe feather pecking (SFP) and skin lesions (SL) due to cannibalism (CA) is serious welfare, performance, and economic problems in commercial layer farms. Genetics, nutrition, and housing conditions are central complexes that contribute to the multifactorial causes of these behavioral disorders. Practical recommendations consider the quality of litter as an important criterion for the prevention of SFP, although systematic longitudinal studies providing evidence-based findings are lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of litter condition on the occurrence of PD and SL in the field using a longitudinal design. Integument scoring (PD and SL; 7 times), litter scoring (structure, cake formation, litter quality, and litter height; 12 times), and laboratory litter analysis (dry matter (DM), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and pH value; 12 times) were performed in 28 laying hen flocks with a median flock size of 12,357 birds, in barn (n = 21) or free-range systems (n = 7), during the first laying period. Binary logistic regression (BLR) models showed the association of housing type and animal age on PD and SL (P < 0.001), and of the hybrid type on PD (P < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant association with PD and SL was observed for several litter traits. An increase in litter height, DM, and P was associated with lower PD (P ≤ 0.022) and SL (P < 0.001). In contrast, a higher N content of the litter was associated with an increase in SL (P = 0.007). Cake formation (P < 0.001) and a low structure (P = 0.025) of the litter showed an association with higher PD. In conclusion, this study identified caked litter with less structure, low height, and low contents of DM and P as risk factors for behavioral disorders in commercial laying flocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Schreiter
- ZAFT e.V., Centre for Applied Research and Technology, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Markus Freick
- ZAFT e.V., Centre for Applied Research and Technology, Dresden, Germany; HTW Dresden - University of Applied Sciences, Dresden, Germany
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35
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Plouhinec L, Neugnot V, Lafond M, Berrin JG. Carbohydrate-active enzymes in animal feed. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 65:108145. [PMID: 37030553 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
Considering an ever-growing global population, which hit 8 billion people in the fall of 2022, it is essential to find solutions to avoid the competition between human food and animal feed for croplands. Agricultural co-products have become important components of the circular economy with their use in animal feed. Their implementation was made possible by the addition of exogenous enzymes in the diet, especially carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). In this review, we describe the diversity and versatility of microbial CAZymes targeting non-starch polysaccharides to improve the nutritional potential of diets containing cereals and protein meals. We focused our attention on cellulases, hemicellulases, pectinases which were often found to be crucial in vivo. We also highlight the performance and health benefits brought by the exogenous addition of enzymatic cocktails containing CAZymes in the diets of monogastric animals. Taking the example of the well-studied commercial cocktail Rovabio™, we discuss the evolution, constraints and future challenges faced by feed enzymes suppliers. We hope that this review will promote the use and development of enzyme solutions for industries to sustainably feed humans in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauriane Plouhinec
- INRAE, Aix-Marseille Univ., UMR1163 Biodiversité et Biotechnologie Fongiques, 13009 Marseille, France; ADISSEO, 135 Avenue de Rangueil, INSA Toulouse, Hall Gilbert Durand, 31400 Toulouse, France.
| | - Virginie Neugnot
- ADISSEO, 135 Avenue de Rangueil, INSA Toulouse, Hall Gilbert Durand, 31400 Toulouse, France
| | - Mickael Lafond
- INRAE, Aix-Marseille Univ., UMR1163 Biodiversité et Biotechnologie Fongiques, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Guy Berrin
- INRAE, Aix-Marseille Univ., UMR1163 Biodiversité et Biotechnologie Fongiques, 13009 Marseille, France.
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Herskin MS, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Tiemann I, de Jong I, Gebhardt‐Henrich SG, Keeling L, Riber AB, Ashe S, Candiani D, García Matas R, Hempen M, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Rojo Gimeno C, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Bailly‐Caumette E, Michel V. Welfare of broilers on farm. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07788. [PMID: 36824680 PMCID: PMC9941850 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion considers the welfare of domestic fowl (Gallus gallus) related to the production of meat (broilers) and includes the keeping of day-old chicks, broiler breeders, and broiler chickens. Currently used husbandry systems in the EU are described. Overall, 19 highly relevant welfare consequences (WCs) were identified based on severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: 'bone lesions', 'cold stress', 'gastro-enteric disorders', 'group stress', 'handling stress', 'heat stress', 'isolation stress', 'inability to perform comfort behaviour', 'inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour', 'inability to avoid unwanted sexual behaviour', 'locomotory disorders', 'prolonged hunger', 'prolonged thirst', 'predation stress', 'restriction of movement', 'resting problems', 'sensory under- and overstimulation', 'soft tissue and integument damage' and 'umbilical disorders'. These WCs and their animal-based measures (ABMs) that can identify them are described in detail. A variety of hazards related to the different husbandry systems were identified as well as ABMs for assessing the different WCs. Measures to prevent or correct the hazards and/or mitigate each of the WCs are listed. Recommendations are provided on quantitative or qualitative criteria to answer specific questions on the welfare of broilers and related to genetic selection, temperature, feed and water restriction, use of cages, light, air quality and mutilations in breeders such as beak trimming, de-toeing and comb dubbing. In addition, minimal requirements (e.g. stocking density, group size, nests, provision of litter, perches and platforms, drinkers and feeders, of covered veranda and outdoor range) for an enclosure for keeping broiler chickens (fast-growing, slower-growing and broiler breeders) are recommended. Finally, 'total mortality', 'wounds', 'carcass condemnation' and 'footpad dermatitis' are proposed as indicators for monitoring at slaughter the welfare of broilers on-farm.
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An J, Lee J, Song M, Oh H, Kim Y, Chang S, Go Y, Song D, Cho H, Park H, Kim HB, Cho J. Effects of supplemental different clay minerals in broiler chickens under cyclic heat stress. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 65:113-131. [PMID: 37093908 PMCID: PMC10119463 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2022.e94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of supplementing clay minerals and organic chromium in feed on broiler chicken under heat stress (HS). A total of 90 one-day-old broiler chicken (Arbor Acres) with an initial body weight of 45.0 ± 0.2 g were assigned to five treatment groups (six replications, three birds each cage): 1) NC group, basal diet under room temperature environment; 2) PC group, basal diet under high temperature (HT) environment; 3) ILT group, basal diet + 1% illite + HT; 4) ZLT group, basal diet + 1% zeolite + HT; 5) OC group, basal diet + 400 ppb/kg organic chromium + HT. The ILT and ZLT groups had significantly higher body weight than the PC group in 4 weeks. Apparent total tract digestibility of gross energy was increased in the ILT, ZLT, and OC groups compared to the PC group. The NC group had lower foot-pad dermatitis score than other groups. Escherichia coli population in the cecum and feces was decreased in the ZLT group than in the PC group. Lactobacillus in cecum and feces was significantly increased in the ZLT group than in the PC group. Regarding blood profiles, blood cortisol was decreased in the NC and ILT groups compared to the PC group. Water holding capacity and pH were increased in the ZLT group than the PC group. In conclusion, according to the results of growth performance, nutrients digestibility, bacteria counts, and meat characteristics, supplementation of the ZLT in broiler diet can alleviate HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewoo An
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Jihwan Lee
- Department of Poultry Science, University
of Georgia (UGA), Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Minho Song
- Department of Animal Science and
Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134,
Korea
| | - Hanjin Oh
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Yongju Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seyeon Chang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Youngbin Go
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Dongcheol Song
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Hyunah Cho
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Haeryoung Park
- Korea Agriculture Technology Promotion
Agency, Iksan 54667, Korea
| | - Hyeun Bum Kim
- Department of Animal Resource and Science,
Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Jinho Cho
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
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Reducing Dietary Crude Protein in Broiler Diets Positively Affects Litter Quality Without Compromising Growth Performance Whereas A Reduction in Dietary Electrolyte Balance Further Improves Litter Quality But Worsens Feed Efficiency. Anim Feed Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2023.115571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Case Report of Puffinosis in a Manx Shearwater ( Puffinus puffinus) Suggesting Environmental Aetiology. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243457. [PMID: 36552377 PMCID: PMC9774697 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243457] [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: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Puffinosis is a disease of a range of seabirds characterised by dorsal and ventral blistering of their webbed feet, conjunctivitis, dry necrosis, leg spasticity, head shaking, loss of balance, tremors, and death. It is associated with Manx shearwaters (Puffinus puffinus), frequently affecting chicks within their underground nesting burrows. The aetiology of the disease is unclear but has been attributed to a type-2 coronavirus associated with Neotombicula mites as a potential vector. However, there is some uncertainty given potential laboratory contamination with mouse hepatitis virus and failure to fulfil Koch's postulates, with birds injected with isolates remaining healthy. We describe a detailed case report of puffinosis in a Manx Shearwater covering necropsy, histology, bacteriology, and metagenomics including viral sequencing. We found no evidence of viral infection or parasites. Our results are consistent with an entirely environmental aetiology, with caustic faecal ammonia in damp nesting burrows causing conjunctivitis and foot dermatitis breaking the skin, allowing common soil bacteria (i.e., Flavobacterium, Staphylococcus and Serratia spp., Clostridia perfringens and Enterococcus faecalis) to cause opportunistic infection, debilitating the bird and leading to death. A similar condition (foot pad dermatitis or FPD) has been reported in broiler chickens, attributed to caustic faeces, high humidity, and poor environmental conditions during indoor rearing, preventable by adequate ventilation and husbandry. This is consistent with puffinosis being observed in Shearwater nesting burrows situated in tall, dense, vegetation (e.g., bracken Pteridium aquilinum) but rarely reported in burrows situated in well-ventilated, short coastal grasslands. This proposed environmental aetiology accounts for the disease's non-epizootic prevalence, spatial variation within colonies, and higher frequency in chicks that are restricted to nesting burrows.
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Brink M, Janssens GP, Delezie E. Does feeding more phases reduce ammonia concentrations from broiler litter? ANIMAL NUTRITION (ZHONGGUO XU MU SHOU YI XUE HUI) 2022; 11:152-159. [PMID: 36263408 PMCID: PMC9557236 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2022.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We compared a 3- and 5-phase feeding program in terms of ammonia concentrations measured at litter level, litter composition and quality, nitrogen (N) utilization, performance, welfare, and meat deposition in broilers. A total of 744 Ross 308 male broilers was divided into 2 treatments, each with 6 replicates. The 3-phase diets were formulated to CP and digestible lysine contents of 205 and 11.5 g/kg (0 to 9 d), 195 and 10.8 g/kg (9 to 24 d), and 183.3 and 10.15 g/kg (24 to 39 d), respectively. The 5-phase diets had additional phases from 17 to 24 d and 32 to 39 d with CP and digestible lysine contents of 188 and 10.4 g/kg and 177 and 9.8 g/kg, respectively. Feeding 5 phases reduced the NH3 concentrations at litter level by 37.95% and 20.81% at 23 (P < 0.05) and 37 d of age (P < 0.05), respectively. There was a tendency for a lower litter total ammoniacal nitrogen concentration for the 5-phase treatment than the 3-phase treatment at 24 and 39 d of age (P < 0.1 for both). Total N concentration of the litter also tended to be lower for the 5-phase treatment at 39 d of age (P < 0.1). The lower NH3 coincided with a lower average litter pH at 24 and 32 d of age (P < 0.05 for both). Birds fed the 5-phase treatments had a lower incidence of foot lesions at 24 d of age (P < 0.001). Performance as well as carcass yield could be maintained, except for FCR, which was higher for the 5-phase treatment between 17 and 24 d of age and the overall period (P < 0.05 and < 0.001, respectively). The impact of the 5-phase treatment regarding the utilization of N (digestibility, excretion, and retention) was less clear, however the NH3 volatilized from the litter was significantly reduced. Feeding 5 phases may therefore potentially reduce the NH3 emitted from broiler houses which has several environmental and health benefits. Although the 5-phase treatment resulted in a significant decrease in feed efficiency, growth performance and meat deposition were maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madri Brink
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Geert P.J. Janssens
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Evelyne Delezie
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, 9090 Melle, Belgium
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Szafraniec GM, Szeleszczuk P, Dolka B. Review on skeletal disorders caused by Staphylococcus spp. in poultry. Vet Q 2022; 42:21-40. [PMID: 35076352 PMCID: PMC8843168 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2022.2033880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lameness or leg weakness is the main cause of poor poultry welfare and serious economic losses in meat-type poultry production worldwide. Disorders related to the legs are often associated with multifactorial aetiology which makes diagnosis and proper treatment difficult. Among the infectious agents, bacteria of genus Staphylococcus are one of the most common causes of bone infections in poultry and are some of the oldest bacterial infections described in poultry. Staphylococci readily infect bones and joints and are associated with bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), spondylitis, arthritis, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, osteomyelitis, turkey osteomyelitis complex (TOC), bumblefoot, dyschondroplasia with osteomyelitis and amyloid arthropathy. Overall, 61 staphylococcal species have been described so far, and 56% of them (34/61) have been isolated from clinical cases in poultry. Although Staphylococcus aureus is the principal cause of poultry staphylococcosis, other Staphylococcus species, such as S. agnetis, S. cohnii, S. epidermidis, S. hyicus, S. simulans, have also been isolated from skeletal lesions. Antimicrobial treatment of staphylococcosis is usually ineffective due to the location and type of lesion, as well as the possible occurrence of multidrug-resistant strains. Increasing demand for antibiotic-free farming has contributed to the use of alternatives to antibiotics. Other prevention methods, such as better management strategies, early feed restriction or use of slow growing broilers should be implemented to avoid rapid growth rate, which is associated with locomotor problems. This review aims to summarise and address current knowledge on skeletal disorders associated with Staphylococcus spp. infection in poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustaw M. Szafraniec
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Szeleszczuk
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Dolka
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
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Alfifi A, Christensen JP, Hounmanou YMG, Sandberg M, Dalsgaard A. Characterization of Escherichia coli and other bacteria isolated from condemned broilers at a Danish abattoir. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1020586. [PMID: 36439808 PMCID: PMC9686377 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1020586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Meat inspection is important to ensure food safety and protect public health. Visual inspection of slaughtered carcasses for pathological changes should be supported by bacteriological analysis to determine whether the entire carcass or parts of it should be condemned. The aim of this study was to determine the bacterial species present in different sample types from condemned broiler carcasses. Furthermore, we investigated the genetic characteristics, zoonotic potential, and relatedness of Escherichia coli, the predominant bacterial species isolated from the carcasses. A total of 400 broiler carcasses condemned because of cellulitis (100), scratches (100), hepatitis (100), and healthy control carcasses (100) were selected. Samples of meat, pathological lesion, and bone marrow of each carcass were obtained for microbial analysis. From the analyzed samples, 469 bacterial isolates were recovered with E. coli accounting for 45.8%, followed by Aeromonas spp. (27.9%), in particular A. veronii. The highest rate of bacterial isolation was observed in carcasses condemned with cellulitis, whereas carcasses with hepatitis had the lowest rate of bacterial isolation. Forty-four E. coli isolates originating from different sample types were selected for whole genome sequencing. A clonal relationship was shown between E. coli from different sample types of the same carcass condemned with cellulitis and scratches. A major clade of E. coli was found in carcasses condemned with cellulitis with isolates containing mdf(A), tet(A), and bla TEM-1B genes that confer resistance to macrolides, tetracycline, and ampicillin, respectively. E. coli in this clade all belonged to ST117 and clustered with E. coli isolates previously collected from dead chickens and carcasses condemned due to cellulitis in Denmark, Finland, and the United Kingdom. Bacterial evaluation results of carcasses condemned with cellulitis, scratches (moderate to severe skin lesion), and acute hepatitis confirmed the need for total condemnation of carcasses with these pathological findings. A similar evaluation should be done for carcasses affected with chronic hepatitis, and minor scratches lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Alfifi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jens P. Christensen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Yaovi Mahuton Gildas Hounmanou
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Marianne Sandberg
- National Food Institute, Danish Technical University, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anders Dalsgaard
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Castro F, Chai L, Arango J, Owens C, Smith P, Reichelt S, DuBois C, Menconi A. Poultry industry paradigms: connecting the dots. J APPL POULTRY RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japr.2022.100310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Brink M, Janssens GP, Delezie E. How do moisture content, friability, and crust development of litter influence ammonia concentrations in broiler production? Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.105109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Perera WNU, Abdollahi MR, Zaefarian F, Wester TJ, Ravindran V. Barley, an Undervalued Cereal for Poultry Diets: Limitations and Opportunities. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192525. [PMID: 36230265 PMCID: PMC9558528 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary With the ever-increasing demand for poultry products, the continuous supply of conventional cereal grains such as maize has become a challenge. Barley has been recognised as a potential alternative feed ingredient that can replace common cereal grains in poultry diets. However, due to several limitations such as the presence of various anti-nutritive factors and the variability in nutrient composition and quality, the use of barley in poultry diets remains comparatively low. The previous findings on the optimum use of barley in poultry diets are also inconsistent primarily due to differences in research methodologies. The importance of using accurate nutrient profiles for specific barley cultivars to formulate barley-based diets is emphasised in this review. Moreover, the need to adapt feed processing conditions suitable to different barley cultivars to increase the inclusion of barley in poultry diets is highlighted in this review. Abstract The supply of conventional cereal grains, especially of maize, will be a significant constraint to the future growth of the poultry industry. Various alternative feed ingredients are being tested to replace maize in poultry diets. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one such feed ingredient, the use of which remains limited in poultry diets due to its low metabolisable energy, presence of anti-nutritive, soluble non-starch polysaccharides and consequent inter-cultivar variability. Differences in research methodologies used in published studies have also contributed to the inconsistent findings, preventing a good understanding of the nutritional value of barley for poultry. The importance of using accurate nutrient profiles, specifically metabolisable energy and digestible amino acids, for specific barley cultivars to formulate barley-based diets is emphasised. Nutritionists should also pay close attention to feed processing conditions tailored to the specific barley cultivars to increase the barley inclusion in poultry diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Nipuna U. Perera
- Monogastric Research Center, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - M. Reza Abdollahi
- Monogastric Research Center, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Faegheh Zaefarian
- Monogastric Research Center, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Timothy J. Wester
- Monogastric Research Center, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
| | - Velmurugu Ravindran
- Monogastric Research Center, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-27-224-0350
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de Jong IC, Schokker D, Gunnink H, van Wijhe M, Rebel JMJ. Early life environment affects behavior, welfare, gut microbiome composition, and diversity in broiler chickens. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:977359. [PMID: 36213407 PMCID: PMC9534479 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.977359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify whether early-life conditions in broiler chickens could affect their behavior and welfare, and whether or not this was associated with an altered gut microbiome composition or diversity. Broilers were tested in a 2 x 2 factorial design with hatching conditions [home pen (OH) or at the hatchery (HH)] and enrichment (dark brooder (EE) or no brooder (NE) until 14 days of age) as factors (N = 6 per treatment combination). Microbiota composition was measured in the jejunum on days (d) 7, 14, and 35 and in pooled fecal samples on day 14. A novel environment test (NET) was performed on days 1 and 11, and the behavior was observed on days 6, 13, and 33. On day 35, composite asymmetry was determined and footpad dermatitis and hock burn were scored. In their home pen, HH showed more locomotion than OH (P = 0.05), and NE were sitting more and showed more comfort behavior than EE at all ages (P <0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively). On days 6 and 13 NE showed more eating and litter pecking while sitting, but on day 33 the opposite was found (age*enrichment: P = 0.05 and P <0.01, respectively). On days 1 and 11, HH showed more social reinstatement in the NET than OH, and EE showed more social reinstatement than NE (P <0.05). Composite asymmetry scores were lower for EE than NE (P <0.05). EE also had less footpad dermatitis and hock burn than NE (P <0.001). Within OH, NE had a more diverse fecal and jejunal microbiome compared to EE on day 14 (feces: observed richness: P = 0.052; jejunum: observed richness and Shannon: P <0.05); the principal component analysis (PCA) showed differences between NE and EE within both HH and OH in fecal samples on day 14, as well as significant differences in bacterial genera such as Lactobacillus and Lachnospiraceae (P <0.05). On day 35, PCA in jejunal samples only showed a trend (P = 0.068) for differences between NE vs. EE within the OH. In conclusion, these results suggest that especially the dark brooder affected the behavior and had a positive effect on welfare as well as affected the composition and diversity of the microbiome. Whether or not the behavior was modulated by the microbiome or vice versa remains to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid C. de Jong
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Ingrid C. de Jong
| | - Dirkjan Schokker
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Henk Gunnink
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Maudia van Wijhe
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Johanna M. J. Rebel
- Wageningen Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Wageningen University and Research, Lelystad, Netherlands
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Liebl M, Gierus M, Potthast C, Schedle K. Influence of Insoluble Dietary Fibre on Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Marker Genes in Caecum, Ileal Morphology, Performance, and Foot Pad Dermatitis in Broiler. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12162069. [PMID: 36009659 PMCID: PMC9404941 DOI: 10.3390/ani12162069] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In a low-fibre diet destined for broilers, the effects of two lignocellulose products and soybean hulls were evaluated regarding their effect on ileal morphometric parameters, caecal gene expression, foot pad dermatitis, and performance. A total of 5040-day-old broilers (Ross 308) were allotted to four treatments and fattened for 36 days applying a three-phase feeding program. The control diet consisted of corn, wheat, and soybean meal. Experimental diets were supplemented with 0.8% lignocellulose product 1, 0.8% lignocellulose product 2, or 1.6% soybean hulls. Tissue samples for caecal expression of inflammation-related genes and ileal morphometries were collected on day 21. Gizzard pH and weights were recorded, and foot pad scores were evaluated at day of slaughter (day 36). In starter (day 1−10) and finisher phase (day 28−36), no effect on the performance was observed. In grower phase (day 11−27), fibre-supplemented diets showed significantly heavier body weights and daily weight gains (p < 0.05). Daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and gene expression analysis were unaffected by dietary fibre supplementation. Positive effects regarding ileal morphometrics (higher villi) and foot pad health occurred in fibre-supplemented diets. In conclusion, fibre supplementation improved performance in grower phase and showed beneficial effects regarding ileal morphology and foot pad dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariella Liebl
- FFoQSI GmbH, Austrian Competence Centre for Feed and Food Quality, Safety and Innovation, 3430 Tulln, Austria
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Livestock Products and Nutrition Physiology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Muthgasse 11, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Gierus
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Livestock Products and Nutrition Physiology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Muthgasse 11, 1190 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Karl Schedle
- Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Livestock Products and Nutrition Physiology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Muthgasse 11, 1190 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence:
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Leishman EM, Wood BJ, Baes CF, Harlander-Matauschek A, van Staaveren N. The usual suspects: Co-occurrence of integument injuries in turkey flocks. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102137. [PMID: 36116351 PMCID: PMC9489801 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the prevalence and co-occurrence of integument injuries in Canadian turkeys. Participating farmers scored 30 birds in their flock for integument injuries to the head/neck (HN), back/tail (BT), and footpad (FP) using a simplified scoring system (0: no sign of injury, 1: mild injury, 2: severe injury). Information from 62 flocks was used to calculate the prevalence of any (score ≥1) and severe (score 2) injuries on a flock- and individual-level. Chi-square analyses were performed to determine the likelihood of integument injury co-occurrence. The prevalence of each type of injury varied between flocks. While the majority of flocks reported injuries, the within-flock prevalence was relatively low and largely comprised of mild cases (score 1). Given their higher prevalence, the data indicate that FP injuries are overall more widespread and more severe among Canadian turkey flocks than HN and BT injuries. Co-occurrence of different integument injuries was observed in 7% of birds and 58.1% of flocks reported at least one bird with co-occurring injury types. Despite the low prevalence of multiple injury types, birds with one type of injury were more likely to present with other injury types. Indeed, birds with HN injuries were 4 times more likely to have BT injuries, and birds with FP injuries were 1.5 times more likely to have BT injuries compared to birds that do not have these respective injuries. The data increase our understanding of the co-occurrence of these common integument injuries which can help inform a holistic management approach to rear turkeys with healthy skin and feather cover.
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Kromann S, Baig S, Stegger M, Olsen RH, Bojesen AM, Jensen HE, Thøfner I. Longitudinal study on background lesions in broiler breeder flocks and their progeny, and genomic characterisation of Escherichia coli. Vet Res 2022; 53:52. [PMID: 35799204 PMCID: PMC9264609 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-022-01064-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In broiler breeders, background mortality is rarely addressed, however, it represents the death of a vast number of birds, a constant productivity loss, welfare concerns and it might affect chick quality. The study aimed to unveil lesions leading to mortality in a study population perceived as healthy, combined with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of Escherichia coli, a well-known contributor to disease problems in poultry. Broiler breeders (n = 340) originating from three distinct, putative healthy flocks and their progeny (n = 154) were subjected to a comprehensive post-mortem examination, bacteriological sampling, and sequencing of 77 E. coli isolates. Productivity data confirmed an exemplary health status of the enrolled flocks, and post-mortem examination further verified the absence of general disease problems. Among the submitted broiler breeders, exudative peritonitis (31.2%) was the most frequent lesion linked to infectious disease, whereas airsacculitis, pericarditis, perihepatitis, and salpingitis occurred in 18.5%, 3.5%, 3.8% and 17%, respectively. Yolksacculitis occurred in 15.6% of the broilers, whilst pericarditis, perihepatitis and peritonitis were diagnosed in 9.7%, 7.1% and 9.1%, respectively. WGS revealed a diverse population where ST95 dominated the population retrieved from broiler breeders, whereas ST10 was highly prevalent among broilers. Both lineages could be isolated from extraintestinal sites of birds without lesions indicative of infection. In general, the genetic diversity within flocks was comparable to the diversity between farms, and the overall occurrence of resistance markers was low. In conclusion, a comprehensive insight into lesions associated with background mortality is presented, together with a vast diversity of E. coli isolated from extraintestinal sites during a non-outbreak situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Kromann
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark. .,DanHatch Denmark A/S, Rugerivej 26, 9760, Vrå, Denmark.
| | - Sharmin Baig
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marc Stegger
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Heidemann Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Anders Miki Bojesen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Henrik Elvang Jensen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ida Thøfner
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Sonnabend SJ, Spieß F, Reckels B, Ahmed MFE, El-Wahab AA, Sürie C, Lingens JB, Visscher C. Influence of Using Perforated Plastic Flooring Beneath the Waterline on Growth Performance, Litter Quality, and Footpad Health of Broiler Chickens: A Field Study. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141749. [PMID: 35883295 PMCID: PMC9311644 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The standard housing method in Europe’s poultry farming is to keep broilers on a littered concrete floor. Therefore, wood shavings are used to catch moisture to prevent wet litter. In particular, the broilers frequently visit the wet area beneath the waterline, where the wet litter causes the main problem in footpad health and animal welfare. The current study tested the impact of slatted flooring beneath the waterline by dividing the barn into three areas (drinkers, feeders, comfort) in terms of growth performance, litter quality, and footpad health of the broilers. The quality of the litter was assessed on the basis of different parameters, for example, dry matter. No effect on growth performance between a littered floor and partially slatted flooring was noted. However, the litter parameters show a small positive impact on the litter quality, especially in the areas of drinkers and comfort, while using partially slatted flooring. Nevertheless, the slatted flooring had an impact on the footpad health of the broilers, with a lower FPD score at the end of the fattening period. Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of slatted flooring beneath waterlines in broiler barns on litter quality and, subsequently, footpad health. The hypothesis tested was that installing slatted flooring underneath waterlines helps to improve litter quality and thus reduces footpad diseases, enhancing animal welfare as a result. Five experimental runs with two groups were conducted. Each run was defined as one fattening period of 32 days and consisted of 15,000 broiler Ross 308 of both sexes. Every barn was divided into three areas (drinkers, feeders, and comfort area) for weekly sampling. No influence on growth performance was noted. The slatted flooring influenced the litter quality by preventing the litter in the experimental group (EG = 690 ± 167 g/kg DM) from becoming moisture until day 14 of the fattening period compared to the control group (CON = 636 ± 198 g/kg DM). The footpad health was also influenced by using slatted flooring, with lower camera-based footpad scores in the EG (8.80) compared to CON (22.0) at the slaughterhouse (p = 0.0258). Installing slatted flooring beneath the waterline reduced the moisture of the litter compared to the control barn in the first two weeks of age and showed a positive effect on the footpad health of the broilers at the end of fattening, which indicates an improvement in animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvan-Justin Sonnabend
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Fabian Spieß
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Bernd Reckels
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
| | - Marwa F. E. Ahmed
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Department of Hygiene and Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Amr Abd El-Wahab
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Department of Nutrition and Nutritional Deficiency Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Christian Sürie
- Farm for Education and Research Ruthe, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Schäferberg 1, D-31157 Sarstedt, Germany;
| | - Jan Berend Lingens
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Christian Visscher
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, D-30173 Hannover, Germany; (S.-J.S.); (F.S.); (B.R.); (M.F.E.A.); (A.A.E.-W.); (C.V.)
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