Ammonia gas for bacterial control in poultry litter

ABSTRACT: The current techniques used in the disinfection of reused poultry litter, such as lime addition, windrowing and plastic cover on the surface, do not guarantee the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, causing damage to the environment and animal health. Gram negative bacteria, i.e., Salmonella and Escherichia coli, can be transmitted from one batch to another through reused litter, causing health damage to broilers and humans that consume food contaminated by these agents. Our study assessed the effectiveness of the methods plastic cover on the surface (PCS) and plastic cover on the surface with ammonia gas injection (PCSAI) in the control of Gram negative bacteria. The results obtained, both in laboratory conditions (Experiment 1) and in the field (Experiment 2), demonstrate that the method PCSAI with 0.22% ammonia gas had a significant reduction (P 0.05) of Gram negative bacteria in the period of 48 hours This new methodology for disinfecting poultry litter will allow its reuse in a practical and safe way, improving the preservation of the environment, of the health of broilers and consumers of poultry products.

RESUMO: O reaproveitamento de camas aviárias na criação de frangos de corte é uma prática muito utilizada no Brasil. Essa prática reduz custos de produção e contribui na conservação do meio ambiente. As técnicas atuais utilizadas na desinfecção de camas aviárias reaproveitadas, como adição de cal, enleiramento e lona na superfície, não garantem a eliminação de microrganismos patogênicos porque não geram quantidade suficiente de amônia. O gás amônia, em concentrações elevadas, tem efeito biocida. Bactérias Gram negativas, como as Salmonelas e Escherichia coli, podem ser transmitidas de um lote para outro através do reaproveitamento da cama, ocasionando prejuízos para a saúde das aves e dos humanos que consomem alimentos contaminados por estes agentes. Este trabalho avaliou a eficácia do método lona na superfície com injeção de gás amônia no controle de microrganismos Gram negativos. Os resultados obtidos demostraram que esse método controlou os microrganismos Gram negativos num período de 48 horas em camas de frangos de corte reaproveitadas. Assim, essa nova metodologia de desinfecção de camas de aviário permitirá sua reutilização de forma prática e segura, melhorando a saúde das aves e dos consumidores dos produtos avícolas.

Ammonia gas for bacterial control in poultry litter / Gás amônia para controle bacteriano em cama aviária

The current techniques used in the disinfection of reused poultry litter, such as lime addition, windrowing and plastic cover on the surface, do not guarantee the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, causing damage to the environment and animal health. Gram negative bacteria, i.e., Salmonella and Escherichia coli, can be transmitted from one batch to another through reused litter, causing health damage to broilers and humans that consume food contaminated by these agents. Our study assessed the effectiveness of the methods plastic cover on the surface (PCS) and plastic cover on the surface with ammonia gas injection (PCSAI) in the control of Gram negative bacteria. The results obtained, both in laboratory conditions (Experiment 1) and in the field (Experiment 2), demonstrate that the method PCSAI with 0.22% ammonia gas had a significant reduction (P<0.05) of Gram negative bacteria in the period of 48 hours This new methodology for disinfecting poultry litter will allow its reuse in a practical and safe way, improving the preservation of the environment, of the health of broilers and consumers of poultry products.

O reaproveitamento de camas aviárias na criação de frangos de corte é uma prática muito utilizada no Brasil. Essa prática reduz custos de produção e contribui na conservação do meio ambiente. As técnicas atuais utilizadas na desinfecção de camas aviárias reaproveitadas, como adição de cal, enleiramento e lona na superfície, não garantem a eliminação de microrganismos patogênicos porque não geram quantidade suficiente de amônia. O gás amônia, em concentrações elevadas, tem efeito biocida. Bactérias Gram negativas, como as Salmonelas e Escherichia coli, podem ser transmitidas de um lote para outro através do reaproveitamento da cama, ocasionando prejuízos para a saúde das aves e dos humanos que consomem alimentos contaminados por estes agentes. Este trabalho avaliou a eficácia do método lona na superfície com injeção de gás amônia no controle de microrganismos Gram negativos. Os resultados obtidos demostraram que esse método controlou os microrganismos Gram negativos num período de 48 horas em camas de frangos de corte reaproveitadas. Assim, essa nova metodologia de desinfecção de camas de aviário permitirá sua reutilização de forma prática e segura, melhorando a saúde das aves e dos consumidores dos produtos avícolas.

Características físico-químicas da cama de aviário e desempenho de frangos de corte alojados em diferentes materiais de cama e duas densidades

La arena para aviarios se utiliza para absorber la humedad y convertirse en una barrera para el contacto directo del ave con el suelo en los sistemas de cría intensiva. De esta forma, contribuye al bienestar y mejor desempeño productivo de las aves al reducir los cambios bruscos de temperatura en los galpones. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las características físicas y químicas de cuatro tipos de material de cama bajo dos densidades de alojamiento y el comportamiento de pollos de engorde alojados en diferentes tratamientos durante un período de 42 días. Se adoptó un diseño experimental completamente al azar, en un esquema factorial 4 x 2 (cuatro tipos de material de cama y dos tasas de carga) y cinco repeticiones. Los cuatro tipos de material de cama fueron arena lavada, virutas de madera, cáscara de arroz y heno Tifton 85 y las dos tasas de carga fueron de 10 y 14 aves/m2. Los parámetros de desempeño de los animales evaluados fueron: aumento de peso, consumo, conversión alimenticia, peso vivo y viabilidad, mientras que las características analizadas de la camada fueron: pH, temperatura y humedad. Los materiales utilizados para la cama de aves de corral no afectaron negativamente el rendimiento de las aves, sin embargo, las aves alojadas a una densidad de 10 aves/m2 tuvieron un mejor rendimiento. No hubo diferencia entre los valores de pH y temperatura de los diferent

Aviary litter is used to absorb moisture and become a barrier to the bird's direct contact with the ground in intensive rearing systems. In this way, it contributes to the welfare and better productive performance of birds by reducing sudden temperature changes in the sheds. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of four types of litter material under two housing densities and the performance of broilers housed in different treatments over a period of 42 days. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted, in a 4 x 2 factorial scheme (four types of litter material and two stocking rates) and five replications. The four types of litter material were washed sand, wood shavings, rice husk and Tifton 85 hay and the two stocking rates were 10 and 14 birds/m2. The performance parameters of the evaluated animals were: weight gain, consumption, feed conversion, live weight and viability, while the analyzed characteristics of the litter were: pH, temperature and humidity. The used poultry litter materials did not negatively affect the performance of the birds, however the birds housed at a density of 10 birds/m2 had better performance. There was no difference between the pH and temperature values of the different treatments, however the humidity of the sand bed at a density of 10 birds/m2 was significantly higher than that of the o

A cama de aviário é utilizada para absorver umidade e se tornar uma barreira do contato direto da ave com o chão em sistemas intensivos de criação. Desse modo, contribui para o bem-estar e melhor desempenho produtivo das aves por reduzir as mudanças bruscas de temperatura nos galpões. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características físico-químicas de quatro tipos de material de cama aviária sob duas densidades de alojamento e o desempenho de frangos de corte alojados nos diferentes tratamentos no período de 42 dias. Foi adotado o delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, em um esquema fatorial 4 x 2 (quatro tipos de material de cama e duas taxas de lotação) e cinco repetições. Os quatro tipos de material de cama foram areia lavada, maravalha, casca de arroz e feno de Tifton 85 e as duas taxas de lotação foram 10 e 14 aves/m2. Os parâmetros de desempenho dos animais avaliados foram: ganho de peso, consumo, conversão alimentar, peso vivo e viabilidade, enquanto que as características analisadas da cama foram: pH, temperatura e umidade. Os materiais de cama aviária utilizados não afetaram negativamente o desempenho das aves, entretanto as aves alojadas na densidade de 10 aves/m2 apresentam melhor desempenho. Não houve diferença entre os valores de pH e temperatura dos diferentes tratamentos, entretanto a umidade da cama de areia na densidade de 10 aves/m2 foi signi

Características físico-químicas da cama de aviário e desempenho de frangos de corte alojados em diferentes materiais de cama e duas densidades / Physical-chemical characteristics of poultry litter and performance of broilers housed in different litter materials and two densities / Características físico-químicas de la cama de aves de corral y rendimiento de los pollos de engorde alojados en diferentes materiales de cama y dos densidades

A cama de aviário é utilizada para absorver umidade e se tornar uma barreira do contato direto da ave com o chão em sistemas intensivos de criação. Desse modo, contribui para o bem-estar e melhor desempenho produtivo das aves por reduzir as mudanças bruscas de temperatura nos galpões. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características fisico-químicas de quatro tipos de material de cama aviária sob duas densidades de alojamento e o desempenho de frangos de corte alojados nos diferentes tratamentos no período de 42 dias. Foi adotado o delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso, em um esquema fatorial 4 x 2 (quatro tipos de material de cama e duas taxas de lotação) e cinco repetições. Os quatro tipos de material de cama foram areia lavada, maravalha, casca de arroz e feno de Tifton 85 e as duas taxas de lotação foram 10 e 14 aves/m2. Os parâmetros de desempenho dos animais avaliados foram: ganho de peso, consumo, conversão alimentar, peso vivo e viabilidade, enquanto que as características analisadas da cama foram: pH, temperatura e umidade. Os materiais de cama aviária utilizados não afetaram negativamente o desempenho das aves, entretanto as aves alojadas na densidade de 10 aves/m² apresentam melhor desempenho. Não houve diferença entre os valores de pH e temperatura dos diferentes tratamentos, entretanto a umidade da cama de areia na densidade de 10 aves/m² foi significativamente maior que a dos demais materiais. Portanto, os materiais de cama aviária utilizados nesse estudo apresentaram características físico-químicas semelhantes, sendo que a areia lavada tem maior poder de absorção de água, mas, mesmo assim, não afetou negativamente o desempenho das aves. As aves alojadas na densidade de 10 aves/m² apresentaram melhor desempenho.

Aviary litter is used to absorb moisture and become barrier to the bird's direct contact with the ground in intensive rearing systems. In this way, it contributes to the welfare and better productive performance of birds by reducing sudden temperature changes in the sheds. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of four types of litter material under two housing densities and the performance of broilers housed in different treatments over a period of 42 days. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted, in a 4 x 2 factorial scheme (four types of litter material and two stocking rates) and five replications. The four types of litter material were washed sand, wood shavings, rice husk and Tifton 85 hay and the two stocking rates were 10 and 14 birds/m². The performance parameters of the evaluated animals were: weight gain, consumption, feed conversion, live weight and viability, while the analyzed characteristics of the litter were: pH, temperature and humidity. The used poultry litter materials did not negatively affect the performance of the birds, however the birds housed at a density of 10 birds/m² had better performance. There was no difference between the pH and temperature values of the different treatments, however the humidity of the sand bed at a density of 10 birds/m² was significantly higher than that of the other materials. Therefore, the avian litter materials used in this study had similar physicochemical characteristics, with washed sand having greater water absorption power, but even so, it did not negatively affect the performance of the birds. Poultry housed at a density of 10 birds/m2 showed better performance.

La arena para aviarios se utiliza para absorber la humedad y convertirse en una barrera para el contacto directo del ave con el suelo en los sistemas de cría intensiva. De esta forma, contribuye al bienestar y mejor desempeño productivo de las aves al reducir los cambios bruscos de temperatura en los galpones. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las características físicas y químicas de cuatro tipos de material de cama bajo dos densidades de alojamiento y el comportamiento de pollos de engorde alojados en diferentes tratamientos durante un período de 42 días. Se adoptó un diseño experimental completamente al azar, en un esquema factorial 4 x 2 (cuatro tipos de material de cama y dos tasas de carga) y cinco repeticiones. Los cuatro tipos de material de cama fueron arena lavada, virutas de madera, cáscara de arroz y heno Tifton 85 y las dos tasas de carga fueron de 10 y 14 aves/m². Los parámetros de desempeño de los animales evaluados fueron: aumento de peso, consumo, conversión alimenticia, peso vivo y viabilidad, mientras que las características analizadas de la camada fueron: pH, temperatura y humedad. Los materiales utilizados para la cama de aves de corral no afectaron negativamente el rendimiento de las aves, sin embargo, las aves alojadas a una densidad de 10 aves/m² tuvieron un mejor rendimiento. No hubo diferencia entre los valores de pH y temperatura de los diferentes tratamientos, sin embargo la humedad del lecho de arena a una densidad de 10 aves/m² fue significativamente mayor que la de los otros materiales. Por lo tanto, los materiales de cama de aves utilizados en este estudio tenían características fisicoquímicas similares, teniendo la arena lavada un mayor poder de absorción de agua, pero aun así, no afectó negativamente el desempeño de las aves. Las aves de corral alojadas a una densidad de 10 aves/m² mostraron un mejor rendimiento.

Ammonia levels during broiler rearing cycle

The evaluated ammonia volatilization rates and its association with humidity, temperature, and pH in broiler litter in conventional and dark house rearing systems. Evaluations were performed at 0.01, 1.00, and 1.50 m high, using a completely randomized design, at a weekly frequency for 12 weeks­from the sanitary void to the end of the 42-day cycle. Litter temperature had no significant difference for different types of house. Humidity and pH levels varied according to houses and evaluation periods. No ammonia volatilization was detected during initial periods. However, up from the 21st day of rearing, rates started to increase, showing higher concentrations at 0.01 m height. At 1.00 and 1.50 m, values around 20 mL·m­3, were obtained and considered an acceptable exposure level for the broilers and employees directly working in this sector. Yet, broiler breeders should target lower levels due to environmental impacts.

Evaluation of the Ingestive Behavior of Foreign Fragments and the Integrity of Gastrointestinal Tract of Broiler Chickens

Fragments with vibrant colors and attractive textures in poultry house litter may be consumed considering that the confinement environment does not offer many opportunities for the development of the birdss natural behavior. Control and quality programs aiming to reduce and to eliminate the consumption of materials from the construction of sheds have been implanted. However, it is necessary to develop studies for a better understanding of the birds ingestive behavior and the consequences for their health, welfare and productivity. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ingestive behavior of broilers exposed to metal, wood, glass and plastic fragments at different concentrations and sizes added to the poultry house litter and the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract of broilers. A total of 360 birds were distributed in a completely randomized design over a 2x3 factorial scheme (2 fragment sizes: 2 to 7 mm and 5 to 8 mm and 3 concentrations: 0.1, 0.5 and 1%), totaling 6 treatments and 5 replicates. The fragments used were glass, wood, metal and plastic, in respective concentrations and sizes, distributed in the poultry house litter. The supply of fragments or the accidental occurrence of similar fragments to which were analyzed in this study concerning the poultry house litter, with different sizes, colors and textures does not compromise the integrity of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract and the welfare of the birds.(AU)

Evaluation of the Ingestive Behavior of Foreign Fragments and the Integrity of Gastrointestinal Tract of Broiler Chickens

Fragments with vibrant colors and attractive textures in poultry house litter may be consumed considering that the confinement environment does not offer many opportunities for the development of the birds’s natural behavior. Control and quality programs aiming to reduce and to eliminate the consumption of materials from the construction of sheds have been implanted. However, it is necessary to develop studies for a better understanding of the bird’s ingestive behavior and the consequences for their health, welfare and productivity. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ingestive behavior of broilers exposed to metal, wood, glass and plastic fragments at different concentrations and sizes added to the poultry house litter and the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract of broilers. A total of 360 birds were distributed in a completely randomized design over a 2x3 factorial scheme (2 fragment sizes: 2 to 7 mm and 5 to 8 mm and 3 concentrations: 0.1, 0.5 and 1%), totaling 6 treatments and 5 replicates. The fragments used were glass, wood, metal and plastic, in respective concentrations and sizes, distributed in the poultry house litter. The supply of fragments or the accidental occurrence of similar fragments to which were analyzed in this study concerning the poultry house litter, with different sizes, colors and textures does not compromise the integrity of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract and the welfare of the birds.

The Effects of Perch Cooling on Behavior, Welfare Criteria, Performance, and Litter Quality of Broilers Reared at High Temperatures with Different Litter Thicknesses

The first aim of this study was to investigate the effects of perch cooling and different litter thicknesses on litter quality of the housing facility, welfare criteria (incidence of footpad and hock burns, gait score, plumage cleanliness and damages), heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, growth, and carcass compositions of broilers reared at high ambient temperature. Secondly, the study was conducted to determine whether cooled perches would be preferred by broiler chickens exposed to a hot environment, and subsequently, whether the utilization of these perches would improve the welfare and performance of broilers, beyond those provided by non-cooled perches. A total of 459 1-day-old male broiler chicks were randomly assigned to nine treatment groups based on the perch treatment (no perch, non-cooled, cooled perches) and litter thicknesses (1, 7, 14 cm) with three replicates. Aerial ammonia and litter moisture levels were lower in broilers reared at 14 cm litter thickness group than in broilers reared at 1 cm thickness group. The perch-contact incidence of chickens reared under the cooled perch was found higher than the non-cooled chickens at 36 to 42 days of age. Cooled perches and 14 cm of litter thickness tended to decrease the incidence of footpad and hock burn. The body weight gain of the broilers in cooled perch group was higher than those in no perch and non-cooled perch groups at 0-42 d (p 0.05). These results suggest that cool perches have a beneficial effect on the performance and welfare of broilers.(AU)

The Effects of Perch Cooling on Behavior, Welfare Criteria, Performance, and Litter Quality of Broilers Reared at High Temperatures with Different Litter Thicknesses

The first aim of this study was to investigate the effects of perch cooling and different litter thicknesses on litter quality of the housing facility, welfare criteria (incidence of footpad and hock burns, gait score, plumage cleanliness and damages), heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, growth, and carcass compositions of broilers reared at high ambient temperature. Secondly, the study was conducted to determine whether cooled perches would be preferred by broiler chickens exposed to a hot environment, and subsequently, whether the utilization of these perches would improve the welfare and performance of broilers, beyond those provided by non-cooled perches. A total of 459 1-day-old male broiler chicks were randomly assigned to nine treatment groups based on the perch treatment (no perch, non-cooled, cooled perches) and litter thicknesses (1, 7, 14 cm) with three replicates. Aerial ammonia and litter moisture levels were lower in broilers reared at 14 cm litter thickness group than in broilers reared at 1 cm thickness group. The perch-contact incidence of chickens reared under the cooled perch was found higher than the non-cooled chickens at 36 to 42 days of age. Cooled perches and 14 cm of litter thickness tended to decrease the incidence of footpad and hock burn. The body weight gain of the broilers in cooled perch group was higher than those in no perch and non-cooled perch groups at 0-42 d (p 0.05). These results suggest that cool perches have a beneficial effect on the performance and welfare of broilers.

Organic trace minerals and calcium levels in broilers' diets to 21 days old

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of dietary calcium levels and supplementation with organic trace minerals selenium, copper, iron, zinc and manganese on performance, tissue deposition and litter mineral concentration. A total of 2,496 one-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers were randomly assigned to a 3 × 4 factorial experimental design with three levels of dietary Ca [8, 10 and 12 g kg–1, while maintaining the same Ca:nPP (non-phytate phosphorus) ratio (2:1)] and four levels of micromineral supplementation (0.62, 0.72, 0.82 and 0.92 g kg–1). There was a total of 12 treatments, with eight replicates of 26 birds per pen. Micromineral supplementation (MS) was achieved by adding different levels of the product Bioplex TR Se® and Ca supplementation was achieved by adding increasing levels of limestone and dicalcium phosphate. An interaction between Ca and MS levels was observed (p 0.05) for Ca, P or ash concentrations in the tibia, which were influenced only by dietary Ca levels (p < 0.05). The Ca level of 10 g kg–1 promoted higher Ca and P concentration in the tibia and lower micromineral excretion in the litter. The combination of MS level of 0.82 g kg–1 with Ca level of 10 g kg–1 led to the best BWG response. The supplementation conditions that led to higher micromineral levels in the liver and breast varied for each mineral.

Organic trace minerals and calcium levels in broilers' diets to 21 days old

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of dietary calcium levels and supplementation with organic trace minerals selenium, copper, iron, zinc and manganese on performance, tissue deposition and litter mineral concentration. A total of 2,496 one-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers were randomly assigned to a 3 × 4 factorial experimental design with three levels of dietary Ca [8, 10 and 12 g kg–1, while maintaining the same Ca:nPP (non-phytate phosphorus) ratio (2:1)] and four levels of micromineral supplementation (0.62, 0.72, 0.82 and 0.92 g kg–1). There was a total of 12 treatments, with eight replicates of 26 birds per pen. Micromineral supplementation (MS) was achieved by adding different levels of the product Bioplex TR Se® and Ca supplementation was achieved by adding increasing levels of limestone and dicalcium phosphate. An interaction between Ca and MS levels was observed (p < 0.05) for the parameters of performance, liver Cu concentration, breast Se and Cu concentrations and litter Se, Mn and Zn concentrations. No interactions were observed (p > 0.05) for Ca, P or ash concentrations in the tibia, which were influenced only by dietary Ca levels (p < 0.05). The Ca level of 10 g kg–1 promoted higher Ca and P concentration in the tibia and lower micromineral excretion in the litter. The combination of MS level of 0.82 g kg–1 with Ca level of 10 g kg–1 led to the best BWG response. The supplementation conditions that led to higher micromineral levels in the liver and breast varied for each mineral.(AU)

Multi-Attribute Evaluation and Selection of Broiler House for the Low Prevalence of Footpad Lesion

Intensive broiler production requires large flock density, which compromises litter quality and increases the prevalence of footpad lesions. The present study aimed at comparing the incidence of footpad dermatitis of broilers reared in two different rearing environments. Data from two broiler houses were recorded during 42 d. Air temperature and relative humidity; litter moisture, pH, and temperature; footpad surface temperature; and the incidence of footpad lesions was investigated. Litter quality was analyzed in a 2 x 4 factorial arrangement, with two house types (dark house or open-sided house) and four rearing phases (21, 28, 35, and 42 d of growth), with four replicates per treatment using 12 replicates. Four replicates were used for analyzing the air environment data. For the footpad lesion identification, a randomly factorial scheme of recording the surface temperature was built (2 x 2) using two houses, and the broiler sex using 15 replicates in the grow-out stages. The measures of association (odds ratio and risk ratio) were calculated. The multi-criteria analysis (Analytic Hierarchy Process - AHP) was applied for estimating the house that provided less prevalence of lesions. The field data did not provide enough evidence for selection of a particular house with less incidence of footpad dermatitis. However, when applying the measures of association data, and corresponding literature data to the AHP, there was an indication that the dark-house provided broiler rearing condition that reduced the incidence of footpad lesions.(AU)

Multi-Attribute Evaluation and Selection of Broiler House for the Low Prevalence of Footpad Lesion

Intensive broiler production requires large flock density, which compromises litter quality and increases the prevalence of footpad lesions. The present study aimed at comparing the incidence of footpad dermatitis of broilers reared in two different rearing environments. Data from two broiler houses were recorded during 42 d. Air temperature and relative humidity; litter moisture, pH, and temperature; footpad surface temperature; and the incidence of footpad lesions was investigated. Litter quality was analyzed in a 2 x 4 factorial arrangement, with two house types (dark house or open-sided house) and four rearing phases (21, 28, 35, and 42 d of growth), with four replicates per treatment using 12 replicates. Four replicates were used for analyzing the air environment data. For the footpad lesion identification, a randomly factorial scheme of recording the surface temperature was built (2 x 2) using two houses, and the broiler sex using 15 replicates in the grow-out stages. The measures of association (odds ratio and risk ratio) were calculated. The multi-criteria analysis (Analytic Hierarchy Process - AHP) was applied for estimating the house that provided less prevalence of lesions. The field data did not provide enough evidence for selection of a particular house with less incidence of footpad dermatitis. However, when applying the measures of association data, and corresponding literature data to the AHP, there was an indication that the dark-house provided broiler rearing condition that reduced the incidence of footpad lesions.

Vitamina C e E na alimentação de frangos de corte industrial criados em ambiente com desafio permanente na amazônia ocidental / Vitamin C and E in feeding industrial chicken bred in a permanently challenged environment in western amazon / Vitamina C y E en la alimentación de pollos de corte industrial creados en ambiente con desafío permanente en la amazonia occidental

Avaliou-se o efeito da adição das vitaminas C e E na ração sobre o desempenho zootécnico, rendimento de carcaça, de cortes nobres, de parâmetros hematológicos e de órgão linfoide (baço) de frangos de corte criados em ambiente de estresse calórico, CMR (cama reutilizada) e temperaturas elevadas. Foram utilizados 300 frangos de corte em lote misto, de linhagem Cobb, no período de um a 64 dias de vida. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos da seguinte forma: T1 CN (cama nova) com vazio sanitário, T2 CMR sem vazio sanitário, T3 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 200mg/kg de vitamina C e E, T4 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 350mg/kg de vitamina C e E, T5 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 500mg/kg de vitamina C e E na proporção 150g/kg de ácido ascórbico e 75g/kg de D-alfa-Tocoferol. A CMR contribuiu para o aparecimento de algum processo infeccioso nas aves, constatado por alteração no parâmetro hematológico, evidenciado pela visualização de heterófilos do tipo bastonete/imaturo no T2, porém sem caracterização clínica. A adição da vitamina C e E melhorou o ganho de peso, conversão alimentar e a eficiência alimentar, por outro lado não influenciou os parâmetros hematológicos nem o peso relativo de baço. Concluiu-se que a suplementação de vitamina C e E amenizou o desafio imposto aos frangos, contribuindo dessa maneira para um melhor desempenho zootécnico.(AU)

Dietary yield, yield of nutritional functions, calorific power, and the zootechnical power (spleen) of broiler chickens in a caloric stress environment, REL (reutilized litter), and high temperatures. A total of 300 broilers were used, ranging from 1 to 64 days of age. The experimental design was completely randomized with five treatments and six replicates. The treatments were: T1 NL (new litter) with sanitary empty space; T2 REL without sanitary empty space; T3 REL without sanitary empty space + 200mg/kg vitamin C and E; T4 REL without sanitary empty space + 350mg/kg vitamin C and E; T5 REL without sanitary empty space + 500mg/kg vitamin C and E in the proportion of 150g/kg ascorbic acid and 75g/kg D-Alpha-Tocopherol. The REL contributed to the onset of some infectious process in the birds, which was verified by alteration in the hematological parameter, evidenced by the visualization of the rod/immature type heterophils in the T2, but with no clinical characterization. The addition of vitamin C and E improved weight gain, feed conversion and feed efficiency. However, it did not influence the hematological parameters nor the relative weight of the spleen. It was concluded that vitamin C and E supplementation ameliorated the challenge imposed on chickens, thus contributing to a better zootechnical performance.(AU)

Se evaluó el efecto de la adición de las vitaminas C y E en la ración sobre el desempeño zootécnico, rendimiento de carcasa, de cortes nobles, de parámetros hematológicos y de órgano linfoide (bazo) de pollos de corte creados en ambiente de estrés calórico, CMR (cama reutilizada) y temperaturas elevadas. Se utilizaron 300 pollos de corte en lote mixto, de linaje Cobb, en el período de 1 a 64 días de vida. El delineamiento experimental utilizado fue el completamente casualizado con cinco tratamientos y seis repeticiones. Los tratamientos fueron distribuidos de la siguiente forma: T1 CN (cama nueva) con vacío sanitario, T2 CMR sin vacío sanitario, T3 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 200mg / kg de vitamina C y E, T4 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 350mg / kg de vitamina C y E, T5 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 500mg / kg de vitamina C y E en la proporción 150 g / Kg de ácido ascórbico y 75g / Kg de D-Alfa-Tocoferol. La CMR contribuyó para aparición de algún proceso infeccioso en las aves, constatado por alteración en el parámetro hematológico, evidenciado por la visualización de heterófilos del tipo bastón / inmaduro en el T2, todavía sin caracterización clínica. La adición de la vitamina C y E mejoró la ganancia de peso, la conversión alimenticia y la eficiencia alimentaria, por otro lado no influenció los parámetros hematológicos ni el peso relativo del bazo. Se concluyó que la suplementación de vitamina C y E amenizó el desafío impuesto a los pollos, contribuyendo así a un mejor desempeño zootécnico.(AU)

Vitamina C e E na alimentação de frangos de corte industrial criados em ambiente com desafio permanente na amazônia ocidental / Vitamin C and E in feeding industrial chicken bred in a permanently challenged environment in western amazon / Vitamina C y E en la alimentación de pollos de corte industrial creados en ambiente con desafío permanente en la amazonia occidental

Avaliou-se o efeito da adição das vitaminas C e E na ração sobre o desempenho zootécnico, rendimento de carcaça, de cortes nobres, de parâmetros hematológicos e de órgão linfoide (baço) de frangos de corte criados em ambiente de estresse calórico, CMR (cama reutilizada) e temperaturas elevadas. Foram utilizados 300 frangos de corte em lote misto, de linhagem Cobb, no período de um a 64 dias de vida. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos e seis repetições. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos da seguinte forma: T1 CN (cama nova) com vazio sanitário, T2 CMR sem vazio sanitário, T3 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 200mg/kg de vitamina C e E, T4 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 350mg/kg de vitamina C e E, T5 CMR sem vazio sanitário + 500mg/kg de vitamina C e E na proporção 150g/kg de ácido ascórbico e 75g/kg de D-alfa-Tocoferol. A CMR contribuiu para o aparecimento de algum processo infeccioso nas aves, constatado por alteração no parâmetro hematológico, evidenciado pela visualização de heterófilos do tipo bastonete/imaturo no T2, porém sem caracterização clínica. A adição da vitamina C e E melhorou o ganho de peso, conversão alimentar e a eficiência alimentar, por outro lado não influenciou os parâmetros hematológicos nem o peso relativo de baço. Concluiu-se que a suplementação de vitamina C e E amenizou o desafio imposto aos frangos, contribuindo dessa maneira para um melhor desempenho zootécnico.(AU)

Dietary yield, yield of nutritional functions, calorific power, and the zootechnical power (spleen) of broiler chickens in a caloric stress environment, REL (reutilized litter), and high temperatures. A total of 300 broilers were used, ranging from 1 to 64 days of age. The experimental design was completely randomized with five treatments and six replicates. The treatments were: T1 NL (new litter) with sanitary empty space; T2 REL without sanitary empty space; T3 REL without sanitary empty space + 200mg/kg vitamin C and E; T4 REL without sanitary empty space + 350mg/kg vitamin C and E; T5 REL without sanitary empty space + 500mg/kg vitamin C and E in the proportion of 150g/kg ascorbic acid and 75g/kg D-Alpha-Tocopherol. The REL contributed to the onset of some infectious process in the birds, which was verified by alteration in the hematological parameter, evidenced by the visualization of the rod/immature type heterophils in the T2, but with no clinical characterization. The addition of vitamin C and E improved weight gain, feed conversion and feed efficiency. However, it did not influence the hematological parameters nor the relative weight of the spleen. It was concluded that vitamin C and E supplementation ameliorated the challenge imposed on chickens, thus contributing to a better zootechnical performance.(AU)

Se evaluó el efecto de la adición de las vitaminas C y E en la ración sobre el desempeño zootécnico, rendimiento de carcasa, de cortes nobles, de parámetros hematológicos y de órgano linfoide (bazo) de pollos de corte creados en ambiente de estrés calórico, CMR (cama reutilizada) y temperaturas elevadas. Se utilizaron 300 pollos de corte en lote mixto, de linaje Cobb, en el período de 1 a 64 días de vida. El delineamiento experimental utilizado fue el completamente casualizado con cinco tratamientos y seis repeticiones. Los tratamientos fueron distribuidos de la siguiente forma: T1 CN (cama nueva) con vacío sanitario, T2 CMR sin vacío sanitario, T3 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 200mg / kg de vitamina C y E, T4 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 350mg / kg de vitamina C y E, T5 CMR sin vacío sanitario + 500mg / kg de vitamina C y E en la proporción 150 g / Kg de ácido ascórbico y 75g / Kg de D-Alfa-Tocoferol. La CMR contribuyó para aparición de algún proceso infeccioso en las aves, constatado por alteración en el parámetro hematológico, evidenciado por la visualización de heterófilos del tipo bastón / inmaduro en el T2, todavía sin caracterización clínica. La adición de la vitamina C y E mejoró la ganancia de peso, la conversión alimenticia y la eficiencia alimentaria, por otro lado no influenció los parámetros hematológicos ni el peso relativo del bazo. Se concluyó que la suplementación de vitamina C y E amenizó el desafío impuesto a los pollos, contribuyendo así a un mejor desempeño zootécnico.(AU)

Performance and carcass yield of broilers fed crude glycerin at differing inclusion levels

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of crude glycerin at differing inclusion levels on performance and carcass characteristics of broilers and litter moisture. 960 broilers of 21-42 days of age were used in a completely randomized design with six crude glycerin inclusion levels (0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15%), with eight replicates containing 20 broiler chickens per experimental unit. There was a quadratic effect (p<0.05) for weight gain, feed intake and feed:gain ratio from 21 to 42 days of age. Higher levels of crude glycerin in diets increased (40.24%, p<0.05) the litter moisture and reduced (6.04%, p<0.05) the viability of of the birds. There were no effects (p>0.05) on carcass yield, breast, or liver percentages. However, there was an increase (6.17%, p<0.05) in leg yield and a decrease in (p<0,05, 7.05%) the drumstick yield. For the wing yield and abdominal fat, a quadratic effect (p<0.05) was observed. The protein and fat deposition rates, as well as the dry matter content of the carcass, showed a quadratic effect (p<0.05) due to the inclusion levels of crude glycerin. Crude glycerin may be used in broiler diets from 21 to 42 days, at up to 6% without harming the performance of the broilers, the yield and carcass quality, litter moisture, and the viability of broilers. It is recommended that crude glycerin can be fed at 5.63% from 21 to 42 days, while for lower feed conversion it is recommended that the level of 3.72% is used.(AU)

Performance and carcass yield of broilers fed crude glycerin at differing inclusion levels

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of crude glycerin at differing inclusion levels on performance and carcass characteristics of broilers and litter moisture. 960 broilers of 21-42 days of age were used in a completely randomized design with six crude glycerin inclusion levels (0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15%), with eight replicates containing 20 broiler chickens per experimental unit. There was a quadratic effect (p0.05) on carcass yield, breast, or liver percentages. However, there was an increase (6.17%, p<0.05) in leg yield and a decrease in (p<0,05, 7.05%) the drumstick yield. For the wing yield and abdominal fat, a quadratic effect (p<0.05) was observed. The protein and fat deposition rates, as well as the dry matter content of the carcass, showed a quadratic effect (p<0.05) due to the inclusion levels of crude glycerin. Crude glycerin may be used in broiler diets from 21 to 42 days, at up to 6% without harming the performance of the broilers, the yield and carcass quality, litter moisture, and the viability of broilers. It is recommended that crude glycerin can be fed at 5.63% from 21 to 42 days, while for lower feed conversion it is recommended that the level of 3.72% is used.

The benefit of L-Threonine supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, intestinal morphology and litter quality of broilers

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of dietary L-Threonine supplementation on broiler performance, carcass characteristics, duodenal histo-morphology and litter analysis. It was hypothesised that the overall broiler performance would be improved in threonine adequate diets with reduced environmental impact when using L-threonine supplementation. A total of 144-sexed Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 3 dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated 6 times with 8 birds per replicate (4 male and 4 female). Treatment group 1 served as threonine deficient group, fed with a diet with all limiting amino acids met except threonine as no synthetic form was supplied. Treatment group 2 served as threonine adequate high crude protein, where L-Threonine adequacy was achieved with higher level of crude protein. Treatment group 3 served as L-Threonine adequate but achieved it through L-Threonine supplementation. Treatment effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics, intestinal morphology and litter quality were determined. Results compared to group 1 showed that group 3 at the end of the experimental period (28 days) had improved final body weight P < 0.05, live and carcass weights P < 0.01, dressing yields P < 0.05, relative wing weights P < 0.01 and relative heart weights P < 0.05. However, group 2 showed numeric improvement in all aforementioned parameters but not enough to show significance. Litter moisture and nitrogen content was affected by dietary L-Threonine fortification P < 0.05. The lowest moisture and nitrogen content were noticed in group 3. Meanwhile, group 2 showed the highest nitrogen and group 1 showed the highest moisture content among all groups. Intestinal villi length and villus: crypt ratio was affected by dietary treatments P < 0.001 and P < 0.05 respectively. Group 3 showed the highest villus length and villus: crypt ratio followed by group 2 and group 1. In conclusion correcting L-Threonine...(AU)

The benefit of L-Threonine supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, intestinal morphology and litter quality of broilers

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of dietary L-Threonine supplementation on broiler performance, carcass characteristics, duodenal histo-morphology and litter analysis. It was hypothesised that the overall broiler performance would be improved in threonine adequate diets with reduced environmental impact when using L-threonine supplementation. A total of 144-sexed Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 3 dietary treatments. Each treatment was replicated 6 times with 8 birds per replicate (4 male and 4 female). Treatment group 1 served as threonine deficient group, fed with a diet with all limiting amino acids met except threonine as no synthetic form was supplied. Treatment group 2 served as threonine adequate high crude protein, where L-Threonine adequacy was achieved with higher level of crude protein. Treatment group 3 served as L-Threonine adequate but achieved it through L-Threonine supplementation. Treatment effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics, intestinal morphology and litter quality were determined. Results compared to group 1 showed that group 3 at the end of the experimental period (28 days) had improved final body weight P < 0.05, live and carcass weights P < 0.01, dressing yields P < 0.05, relative wing weights P < 0.01 and relative heart weights P < 0.05. However, group 2 showed numeric improvement in all aforementioned parameters but not enough to show significance. Litter moisture and nitrogen content was affected by dietary L-Threonine fortification P < 0.05. The lowest moisture and nitrogen content were noticed in group 3. Meanwhile, group 2 showed the highest nitrogen and group 1 showed the highest moisture content among all groups. Intestinal villi length and villus: crypt ratio was affected by dietary treatments P < 0.001 and P < 0.05 respectively. Group 3 showed the highest villus length and villus: crypt ratio followed by group 2 and group 1. In conclusion correcting L-Threonine...

Effect of broccoli residues fermented with probiotics on the growth performance and health status of broilers challenged with Clostridium perfringens

This study aimed at investigating the effects of broccoli residues fermented with probiotics (BF) on the growth performance, immunity, and gut health in broilers challenged with Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens). A total of 600 broilers (one day old) were randomly allotted into five treatments with six replicates of 20 birds each and were reared until 42 days of age. The treatments included a positive control (PC, fed a basal diet and reared on uncontaminated litter), a negative control (NC, birds reared on litter contaminated with C. perfringens and fed a basal diet), and NC plus BF at 25, 50 or 75 g/kg of diet. The BF contained yeast 3.1 × 10 (7) cfu/g, lactic acid bacteria 9.5 × 10 (6) cfu/g and Bacillus subtilis 3.5 × 10 (6) cfu/g. Birds in the NC group showed lower (p<0.05) feed intake and body weight gain, whereas BF supplementation recovered (p<0.05) the growth performance to the levels of PC group. Dietary BF at 50and 75 g/kg reduced (p<0.05) broiler mortality. Similarly, compared to the NC group, BF increased (p<0.05) immune organ weights and serum immunoglobulins A, G, and M to the levels of PC group. The ileal populations of Escherichia coli and Gram-negative bacteria were decreased (p<0.05) by BF to the levels of PC, and C. perfringens was also decreased (p<0.05) by BF. The serum profiles of mono- and di-amine oxidase were decreased (p<0.05) by BF. BF at 75 g/kg reduced (p<0.05) monoamine oxidase compared with the other BF doses. The results suggest that broccoli residues fermented with probiotics can be a novel biological feed additive to protect the performance and health of broilers against C. perfringens infection.(AU)