Effect of Housing Design and Location on Production and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens during Summer in Botswana

Botswana experiences long, hot summer periods which negatively affect broiler productivity and results in economic losses. To determine these negative effects, two parallel broiler production studies were conducted in the North eastern (NE) and South eastern (SE) regions. In each region, three large scale commercial broiler farms were randomly selected based on similarities in bird management and housing systems. In each farm, one house type (Gable, Hoop and See-saw) was selected for long term flock monitoring (1 to 35 days) over three production cycles. Results showed that the production performance of the broilers in the SE region was superior to that in the NE region, with temperatures on being average higher in the NE than in the SE. The European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF) was significantly higher (p0.05) between the regions at 9.0% and 7.4% for the NE and SE, respectively. In the NE, the Gable structure had the highest profitability and economic efficiency and was thus superior in comparison to the other house structures.(AU)

Effect of different lighting sources on the performance of broiler breeder hens

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of using light-emitting diode (LED) lamps versus incandescent/tungsten (Inc) bulbs on broiler breeder hens' productive performance during the brooding and rearing periods (25 weeks), as well as the first 15 weeks of production. A total of 46600 one-day-old Arbor Acres Plus breeder chicks were placed in eight enclosed houses and randomly/evenly divided into two groups (four houses for each group): birds raised under yellow LED lighting, and birds raised under orange Inc lighting. Several traits have been studied to determine productive performance, including body weight at different ages, body weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, mortality rate, uniformity, age and weight at sexual maturity, egg number, egg production rate, egg number per bird, egg weight, and egg mass. According to the findings, using LED lighting instead of Inc lighting during the rearing period resulted in a significant improvement in all studied traits, and this positive effect continued until the production period, yielding excellent results for all studied production traits. LED lighting proved to be an effective source of lighting in broiler breeders' houses.(AU)

Artificial neural networks for the management of poultry industry: a simulation based on the broiler production chain / Redes neurais artificiais para o gerenciamento da indústria avícola: uma simulação baseada na cadeia de produção de frangos de corte

The aim of this study was to predict production indicators and to determine their potential economic impact on a poultry integration system using artificial neural networks (ANN) models. Forty zootechnical and production parameters from broiler breeder farms, one hatchery, broiler production flocks, and one slaughterhouse were selected as variables. The ANN models were established for four output variables: "saleable hatching", "weight at the end of week 5," "partial condemnation," and "total condemnation" and were analyzed in relation to the coefficient of multiple determination (R2), correlation coefficient (R), mean error (E), mean squared error (MSE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The production scenarios were simulated and the economic impacts were estimated. The ANN models were suitable for simulating production scenarios after validation. For "saleable hatching", incubator and egg storage period are likely to increase the financial gains. For "weight at the end of the week 5" the lineage (A) is important to increase revenues. However, broiler weight at the end of the first week may not have a significant influence. Flock sex (female) may influence the "partial condemnation" rates, while chick weight at first day may not. For "total condemnation", flock sex and type of chick may not influence condemnation rates, but mortality rates and broiler weight may have a significant impact.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi predizer os indicadores de produção e determinar o seu potencial impacto econômico em um sistema de integração utilizando as redes neurais artificiais (RNA). Quarenta parâmetros zootécnicos e de produção de granjas de matrizes e de frango de corte, um incubatório e um abatedouro foram selecionados como variáveis. Os modelos de RNA foram estabelecidos para quatro variáveis de saída ("eclosão vendável", "peso ao final da quinta semana", "condenações parciais" e "condenações totais") e foram analisados em relação ao coeficiente de determinação múltipla (R2), coeficiente de correlação (R), erro médio (E), erro quadrático médio (EQM) e raiz do erro quadrático médio (REQM). Os cenários produtivos foram simulados e os impactos foram estimados. Os modelos de RNA gerados foram adequados para simular diferentes cenários produtivos após o treinamento. Para "eclosão vendável", o modelo de incubadora e o período de incubação aumentaram os ganhos financeiros. Para "peso ao final da quinta semana", a linhagem também demonstrou influencia no retorno financeiro, o que não aconteceu com o peso ao final da primeira semana. O sexo do lote possui influência nas taxas de "condenação parcial", ao contrário do peso do frango no primeiro dia. As taxas de mortalidade e o peso do frango apresentaram influência na "condenação total", mas o sexo do lote e o tipo de pinto não tiverem influência.

Replacement of Conventional Vegetable Oil with Granulated Fats of Palm Oil (Prilled Fats and Calcium Soaps) in Broiler Chicken Diet: Performance and Carcass Traits

This study evaluated the productive performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed diets containing prilled fats of palm oil (PFPO) or calcium soaps of palm oil (CaSPO) replacing vegetable oils (VO). A total of two hundred 1-day-old male Ross 308 chickens were allocated in a 2 × 2 randomized factorial design. Diets included 2 PFPO levels (0 and 50%) and 2 CaSPO levels (0 and 50%). The level was the percentage of substitution of VO by granulated fats. The study had two phases (starter and finisher), each lasting 21 days. In the starter phase, PFPO did not influence (main effects; p>0.05) feed intake and body weight gain, but improved (main effect; p=0.03) feed conversion. In the finisher phase and the total study, PFPO had no effect (p>0.05) on these productive variables. Throughout the study, CaSPO did not influence feed intake (main effect; p>0.50), but decreased weight gain and had a negative effect on feed conversion (main effects; p<0.05). There was no influence of fats (PFPO or CaSPO) on carcass yield, breast, drumsticks plus thighs, and wings (main effects; p>0.05). Chickens fed CaSPO had lower (main effect; p=0.02) carcass weight. The only PFPO × CaSPO interaction (p=0.04) was for back yield. Results showed that PFPO or CaSPO could be employed in formulating broiler chicken diets, as they are less expensive than conventional VO. Partial substitution of VO for PFPO had minimal effect on productive variables, although partial dietary inclusion of CaSPO might slightly reduce the production of broiler chickens.(AU)

Commercial Feed Diluted with Different Fiber Sources and Enzyme Product for Broilers: Growth Performance, Carcass and Gut Health

The dilution of commercial broiler feed with copra meal (CM), palm kernel meal (PKM) and cassava leaf meal (CLM) and enzyme supplementation was investigated. Two hundred and eighty 7-day old Cobb 500 broilers were fed commercial feed alone or diluted with the test ingredients with and without enzyme. There were no interaction effects (p>0.05) on feed intake (FI) and weight gain (WG). Poorer (p<0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed on the diet diluted diets from 22-42 d, but this was restored (p>0.05) by enzyme supplementation. There was no interaction effect on final body weight (FBW). Diet dilution depressed FBW (p<0.05) but enzyme supplementation restored (p>0.05) this weight depression. Abdominal fat was lighter (p<0.05) on CLM compared to CM. There were no interaction effects (p>0.05) on the weight of gut segments and E. coli count. Heavier (p<0.05) liver, gizzard and intestine were observed on the test diets. Commercial feed dilution with CM, CLM and PKM at 100 g/kg for starter and 200 g/kg for finisher would be a viable option for smallholder broiler production. More research is needed into dilution levels and enzyme concentrations.(AU)

The Effects of Yucca Schidigera Extract and Multi-carbohydrase in Different Crude Protein Diets on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Carcass Parameters and Excreta Noxious Gas Contents in Broilers

The scarcity and increase in the price of animal feeds have attracted the attention of nutritionists to address this issue. The inclusion of plant extracts and enzymes to protein-reduced diet could be a feasible strategy to reducing the feed cost. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the impacts of Yucca schidigera extract and multi-carbohydrase in low crude protein (CP) diets of broiler on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass metrics, and noxious gas levels in the excreta. A total of 480, 1-d-old ROSS 308 were randomly allocated into 4 dietary treatments, six replication, and 20 birds/cage. Phase 1, T1(CP 21%, ME 2,969 kcal/kg); T2 (CP 19%, ME 2,863 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca); T3 (CP 17%, ME 2,865 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca); T4 (CP 17%, ME 2,861 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca + 0.1% multi-carbohydrase). Phase 2, T1 (CP 19%, ME 3,086 kcal/kg); T2 (CP 17%, ME 2,977 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca); T3 (CP 15%, ME 2,978 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca); T4 (CP 15%, ME 2,978 kcal/kg + 0.02% Yucca + 0.1% 0.1% multi-carbohydrase). Although the addition of YS and multi-carbohydrase to the low CP diets on the growth performance did not improve, it revealed the positive result on the nutrient digestibility, carcass parameters, and noxious gas emission. Overall, broilers supplemented with YS 0.02% and multi-carbohydrase (0.1%) demonstrated the best production performances compared to the other treatment groups. Thus, a combination of YS and multi-carbohydrase could be added to the diets with low CP to boost broiler production performance.(AU)

Salmonella Serovars Isolated from Poultry Breeding Flocks under the Brazilian Official Control Programme Between 2016 and 2018

The control of Salmonella in the poultry production chain combined with biosecurity measures is an important tool to maintain and guarantee the sanitary status of Brazilian flocks. The aim of this work was to compare official laboratory data on molecular typification of Salmonella isolates from poultry breeding flocks in different Brazilian states between 2016 and 2018 and identify the production category with the most positive flocks, in light of current legislation. Surveillance data of positive samples from the official Brazilian Salmonella Control Programme sent to Federal Agricultural Defence Laboratory of São Paulo (LFDA-SP) after molecular characterization were analysed. These data were subject to an exploratory study, undergoing a descriptive statistical analysis followed by the use of frequency and non-parametric hypothesis tests. Overall, 49 serovars were detected in poultry broiler-breeder and layer-breeder flocks. Salmonella ser. Heidelberg, Salmonella ser. Anatum, Salmonella ser. Newport, Salmonella ser. Schwarzengrund and Salmonella ser. Mbandaka were the five most common isolated serovars. The data shows that there is an opportunity to improve biosecurity measures in parent breeder flocks. A total of 16 serovars were identified in turkey-breeders. Salmonella ser. Anatum, Salmonella ser. Newport, Salmonella ser. Brandenburg, Salmonella ser. Litchfield, and Salmonella ser. Livingstone were the most common ones. The four official controlled serovars represented a small part of the isolated strains. These data demonstrate the importance of an official program in Brazil for Salmonella surveillance in breeder flocks combined with biosecurity measures.(AU)

Produção de frango caipirão como alternativa de renda para a agricultura familiar no noroeste de Minas- MG / Free-range broiler production as an alternative income for family farming in the northwest of Minas-MG

Muitos agricultores familiares empregam o cooperativismo como uma ferramenta para o fortalecimento dos meios produtivos e vislumbram a diversificação produtiva como uma estratégia de geração de renda. Este estudo analisou o projeto de diversificação promovido pela CAPUL no ano de 2020, no município de Arinos ­MG,com foco na produção de aves caipiras (Gallus domesticus) para abastecimento da demanda para alimentação escolar e comércio local. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar os impactos econômicos e sociais que o projeto gerou na vida dos agricultores familiares e elucidar a relevância do cooperativismo para a promoção da diversificação produtiva, bem como evidenciar os desprendimentos e entraves que existiram durante a execução do projeto. Utilizou-se como fonte de dados primários o questionário autoaplicável, considerando um universo de 13 agricultores familiares. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de instrumentos de cunho qualitativo e quantitativo e foram tabulados por meio do programa Microsoft Excel, para análise estatística descritiva dos resultados utilizou-se uma análise de cluster com o método hierárquico pelo modelo Ward. Conclui-se com essa pesquisa, que o projeto intitulado Frango Caipirão CAPUL causou impactos na vida dos agricultores familiares e que a cooperativa por meio das suas ações de ATER exerceu influências no modo de reprodução social eeconômica dos participantes do referido estudo, contribuindo para o fortalecimento da agricultura familiar. Implica-se, portanto, que outras ações do mesmo segmento podem utilizar este artigo como eixo norteador.(AU)

Many family farmers use cooperativism as a tool to strengthen productive environments and envision productive diversification as anincome generation strategy. This study analyzed the diversification project promoted by CAPUL in 2020, in the municipality of Arinos -MG, focusing on the production of free-range birds (Gallus gallus domesticus) to supply the demand for school meals and local commerce. The objective of this study was to analyze the economic and social impacts that the project generated in the lives of family farmers and elucidate the relevance of cooperativism for the promotion of productive diversification, as well as tohighlight the detachments and obstacles that existed during the execution of the project. The self-administered questionnaire was used as the primary data source, considering a universe of 14 family farmers. The data were obtained through qualitative and quantitative instruments and were tabulated using the Microsoft Excel program. For descriptive statistical analysis of the results, a cluster analysis was used with the hierarchical method by the Ward model. It is concluded with this research that the project entitled Frango Caipirão CAPUL caused impacts on the lives of family farmers and that the cooperative, through its ATER actions, exerted influences on the social and economic reproduction of the participants of that study, contributing to the strengthening family farming. It is implied, therefore, that other actions in the same segment can use this master's dissertation as a guideline.(AU)

Lutein and zeaxanthin content in corn imported from three countries of the American continent and in corn cultivated in Colombian territory / Conteúdo de luteína e zeaxantina em milho importado de três países do continente americano e em milho cultivado em território colombiano

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the major xanthophyll pigments found in corn kernels. These pigments provide the orange-red color of the broiler chicken skin and of the egg yolk. Therefore, knowing the corn xanthophyll content is important for the poultry feed producer. The objective of this study was to determine the lutein and the zeaxanthin content in corn cultivated in Colombia and in corn imported to Colombia from the United States, Argentina, and Brazil. Large differences in total lutein plus zeaxanthin content were found among the corn samples analyzed, with the highest mean level found in Colombian corn (2,758µg/100g), followed by Argentina (1,861µg/100g), United States (1,041µg/100g) and Brazil (947µg/100g). Large differences in lutein plus zeaxanthin content were also found among different corn hybrids cultivated in Colombia. Differences among geographical regions might be due to differences in UV-B radiation or in the light hours received by the crop during its growth. The differences among different corn hybrids might probably be due to genetic differences. Corn growers might be interested in cultivating hybrids higher in lutein and zeaxanthin as these pigments are very important in poultry production and human eye health.

Luteína e zeaxantina são os principais pigmentos xantofilas encontrados nos grãos de milho. Em aves, esses pigmentos naturais conferem a cor vermelho-alaranjada típica da pele do frango de corte e da gema do ovo. Assim, é importante conhecer o teor de xantofilas do milho utilizado nas dietas de aves. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o teor de luteína e zeaxantina em milho cultivado na Colômbia e em milho importado para a Colômbia dos Estados Unidos, da Argentina e do Brasil. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas no teor de luteína total mais zeaxantina entre as amostras de milho analisadas, com o nível médio mais elevado no milho colombiano (2.758µg/100g), seguido pelo milho argentino (1.861µg/100g), pelo milho dos Estados Unidos (1.041µg/100g) e pelo milho brasileiro (947µg/100g). Grandes diferenças no teor de luteína e zeaxantina também foram encontradas entre variados híbridos de milho cultivados na Colômbia. As diferenças entre as regiões geográficas podem ser devido a diferenças na radiação UV-B ou nas horas de luz recebida pela cultura durante seu crescimento. As diferenças entre os diversos híbridos de milho provavelmente podem ser devido a diferenças genéticas. Os produtores de milho podem estar interessados ​​em cultivar híbridos mais ricos em luteína e zeaxantina, pois esses pigmentos são muito importantes na produção de aves e na saúde ocular humana.

Beneficial Impact of Hypercapnic Conditions During Early Incubation on Broiler Hatchability. Embryo Mortality and Postnatal Performance

We assessed the extent to which CO2 levels altered different hatching and chick parameters. In Experiments 1 and 2, a total of 16,184 eggs from Cobb 500 breeders were incubated in single stage incubators under three different conditions: (a) standard ventilated incubator (CON, Exp.1 and 2); (b) increasing CO2 levels during the first 10 days of incubation until 0.7% (V7000, Exp. 1) and (c) until 0.8% (V8000, Exp. 2). High levels of CO2 improved hatchability, possibly due to lower embryo mortality from ED18 to ED21. Internal and external pipping in experiment V8000 started later than in CON; nevertheless, the hatch still occurred before in V8000 as a result of the shorter durations of external pipping and hatch. In Experiment 3, a total of 12,138 eggs from Cobb 500 were incubated in single stage incubators under three different conditions: (a) standard ventilated incubator (CON); (b) increasing CO2 levels until 1.0% with ventilation (V10000); and (c) increasing CO2 levels until 1.0% without ventilation (NV10000). Hypercapnic conditions led to better hatchability and lower embryo mortality from ED18 to ED21. Internal pipping started earlier in NV10000, but only V10000 differed from CON in terms of the average time for hatch. Hypercapnic groups also showed shorter durations of external pipping and hatch when compared to CON. Post-hatch analysis revealed no differences among incubation conditions in terms of body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, mortality by sudden death syndrome, and production factor. Nevertheless, V10000 showed a lower mortality by ascites and a better viability when compared to CON, while NV10000 presented a higher mortality by other causes. Altogether, our findings indicate that in addition to not being detrimental to embryo survival, high CO2 levels reduce embryonic mortality at 18-21 days of incubation and increase hatchability.(AU)

Effect of Ammonia Gas in Poultry Litter Contaminated with Salmonella Heidelberg

Salmonella Heidelberg is an emerging pathogen in Brazilian poultry production. The traditional methods (quicklime, windrowing and tarpaulin-on-surface) used for disinfecting reused poultry litter between flocks does not guarantee its elimination, thus allowing the transmission of this agent from one flock to another. The new tarpaulinon-surface method with controlled injection of ammonia gas has proven to be effective in its control, however, it is still unknown what dose of ammonia gas is needed to eliminate Salmonella Heidelberg in reused poultry litter. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of ammonia gas at different concentrations in sterile poultry litter artificially contaminated with Salmonella Heidelberg. Then, ammonia gas was injected in concentrations of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%, and 48 hours later, a sample was collected from each repetition in an entirely randomized design, and bacterial isolation was performed. All treatments, including positive and negative controls, were tested in quadruplicate and the parameters temperature, humidity, pH and water activity were evaluated. In the 0.5% and 1% treated samples the pathogen was not isolated, while in the 0.25% concentration one of the four samples tested was positive. The study reveals that ammonia gas is efficient in killing Salmonella Heidelberg in poultry litter at concentrations of 0.5 % or more within a 48-hour period and that the litter treated with ammonia gas increases its pH and water activity.(AU)

Determination of factors affecting profit by quantitative methods in broiler enterprises / Determinação dos fatores que afetam o lucro por métodos quantitativos em empresas de frangos de carne

This study was carried out to demonstrate how a regression model can be used as a decision support tool in the poultry sector, using variables that affect profit, within the scope of broiler enterprises that are engaged in contract production depending on broiler integrations. Enterprises included in the study were selected from Bolu, Sakarya and Ankara provinces those have the 24% of the rearing flocks and the integrations in Turkey. The 68 out of 9872 broiler enterprises existing in Turkey in 2017 were included in the study by random sampling method. The regression model obtained because of this study allows producers and institutions providing consultancy services in the broiler sector to monitor the marginal effect of variables that affect profit. As a result, when price and cost factors change under different risk conditions, the research model can be used as a decision support tool.

Este estudo foi realizado para demonstrar como um modelo de regressão pode ser utilizado como uma ferramenta de apoio à decisão no setor avícola, utilizando variáveis que afetam o lucro, dentro do escopo de empresas de frangos de corte que se dedicam à produção sob contrato, dependendo das integrações de frangos de corte. As empresas incluídas no estudo foram selecionadas das províncias de Bolu, Sakarya e Ancara, que possuem os 24% dos lotes de frangos de corte e as integrações na Turquia. As 68 das 9872 empresas de frangos de corte existentes na Turquia em 2017 foram incluídas no estudo pelo método de amostragem aleatória. O modelo de regressão obtido devido a este estudo permite aos produtores e instituições que prestam serviços de consultoria no setor de frangos de corte monitorar o efeito marginal das variáveis que afetam o lucro. Como resultado, quando os fatores preço e custo mudam sob diferentes condições de risco, o modelo de pesquisa pode ser usado como uma ferramenta de apoio à decisão.

Effect of Temperature and Feeding Time on Shell Thickness

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of ambient temperature (T) and feeding time (FT) on eggshell thickness (ST) and egg weight (EW) of broiler breeder hens. Thirty 44-week-old Ross 308 broiler breeder hens were randomly distributed into six environmentally controlled chambers and kept in individual cages. Three thermal treatments were applied: 20 ºC (T1), cyclic 20-30 ºC (30 °C between 1000 h and 1800 h) (T2), and 30 ºC (T3). Birds received 180 g of commercial breeder food at 0730 h (FT1) or 1530 h (FT2). There were two replications per treatment and egg collection was performed for seven days. The eggs from the birds at T1 and T2 fed at 1530 h (T1FT2 and T2FT2 respectively) were significantly heavier than those laid by hens at the same T when fed in the morning (T1FT1 and T2FT1); eggs from T1FT1 and T2FT1 were heavier than the eggs from T3, but there were no significant differences between them. Both T and FT had significant effects on ST, but no significant interactions were found. Birds fed at 1530 h had the highest ST, whilst birds at T3 showed the lowest. Birds on T2 produced the thickest shells due to a higher ST in birds fed at 1530 h. Birds fed at 1530 h consumed their food between 1800 h and 2030 h, resulting in a higher dietary Ca2 + available during shell mineralization. The effect of FT and biphasic T treatments on ST in feed restricted broiler breeders should be interpreted considering the length of the high T phase to the actual food consumption time.(AU)

Viabilidade econômica na produção de frango de corte de crescimento lento em Rio Branco/Acre / Economic viability in the production of slow-growing broiler chicken in Rio Branco/Acre

O Brasil é destaque mundial na produção de frango de corte baseada no modelo de integração. Alguns produtores têm migrado para a produção independente no sistema semiconfinado de criação de frangos caipiras a fim de atender a um nicho de mercado e obter maior lucratividade. Diante disso, o objetivo deste estudo foi conhecer os custos de produção e o resultado de um ciclo de produção de frangos de corte de crescimento lento criados em sistema semi-intensivo em Rio Branco/Acre. O estudo foi desenvolvido a partir da simulação da criação de frangos de crescimento lento da linhagem Vermelho Pesadão no sistema semiconfinado. O custo de produção foi calculado por meio de duas metodologias, o custo operacional e o custo total. A margem bruta (MB), a margem líquida (ML) e o resultado também foram calculados. Realizou-se a análise de cenários MOP (mais provável, otimista e pessimista). O item alimentação foi o custo mais elevado. Em todos os cenários, o faturamento foi suficiente para cobrir o COT. Porém, no cenário pessimista, a lucratividade foi baixa e o resultado negativo. O elevado valor dos insumos da ração torna a atividade inviável economicamente.

Brazil stands out worldwide in the production of broiler chickens based on the integration model. Some farmers have migrated to independent models in the semi-confined system of free-range chickens to meet a niche market and obtain greater profitability. Thus, this study aimed to know the production costs and the result of a production cycle of slow-growing broiler chickens raised in a semi-intensive system in Rio Branco, Acre. The study was developed from the simulation of the creation of slow-growing chickens from the "heavy red" lineage in a semi-confined system. The production cost was calculated using two methodologies, the operating cost and the total cost. The gross margin (GM), the net margin (NM), and the result were also calculated. The MOP scenario analysis (most likely, optimistic, and pessimistic) was performed. The food item was the highest cost. In all scenarios, the revenues was sufficient to cover costs. However, in the pessimistic scenario, profitability was low and the result was negative. The high value of feed inputs makes the activity economically unviable.

A Comparative Study on Growth Parameters of Three Broiler Chicken Strains from Jordan

The development of the poultry industry in the last years demanded the evaluation of different broiler chicken strains in order to improve production efficiency and welfare, considering physiological and livability parameters. Thus, the present study aimed to compare the growth performance and the livability of three broiler strains (Lohmann, Hubbard and Ross). All birds were fed a similar standard commercial diet ad libitum, and were separately allocated to three treatment groups. Live body weight (LBW) and body weight gain (BWG) were weekly recorded. Feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and livability (%) were calculated at the end of the experiment. The mean weekly LBW increased significantly in all broiler strains (p<0.05). The mean final LBW (kg/bird) of birds was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Hubbard (1.81±0.20) and Ross (1.80±0.18) than in Lohmann (1.69±0.06). Mean total BWG (kg/bird) was also significantly (p<0.05) higher in Hubbard (1.67±0.20), and Ross (1.64±0.18) than in Lohmann (1.54±0.06). Broiler strain had no significant effect on total FI and FCR. FCR values were 2.20±0.40, 2.21±0.53 and 2.44±0.65 g feed/g gain in Hubbard, Lohmann, and Ross, respectively. The livability of the three strains did not show any significant differences among the treatment groups, with values of 95.13% (Ross), 95.64% (Lohmann), and 92.94% (Hubbard). In conclusion, the present findings indicated that production performance of broiler chickens are considerably affected by their strains, and Hubbard achieved greater LBW, and BWG and the best FCR as compared to the Lohmann, and Ross strains.(AU)

Replacement of performance enhancers by propolis ethanol extract in broiler diets / Replacement of performance enhancers by propolis ethanol extract in broiler diets

The present study was carried out to evaluate the substitution of synthetic performance enhancers by ethanolic propolis extract (EPE) in the diet of broilers and their effects on performance, carcass yield, noble cuts, viscera and bed quality. A completely randomized design was used, with four treatments and six replicates each, totaling 24 experimental plots with 20 birds each. The experimental treatments were: negative control, without the inclusion of performance improvement and EPE-free; positive control, containing avilamycin performance enhancer; Inclusion of 0.1% of EPE and; Inclusion of 0.2% EPE. The analyzed data were submitted to analysis of variance and applied the SNK test at 5% probability. There was no effect of the inclusion of additives on feed intake and feed conversion in the periods from 1 to 7, 1 to 21, and from 1 to 42 days of age. Weight gain was lower in birds receiving feed with the inclusion of 0.1% EPE in the period from 1 to 7 days, not differing from the other treatments in the other evaluation periods. Carcass characteristics, cuts, and viscera and bed moisture were not influenced by the treatments used. The inclusion of ethanol extract from propolis as a performance enhancer up to 42 days of age provided similar results to the use of performance enhancers based on avilamycin, thus being an efficient substitute in poultry production.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the substitution of synthetic performance enhancers by ethanolic propolis extract (EPE) in the diet of broilers and their effects on performance, carcass yield, noble cuts, viscera and bed quality. A completely randomized design was used, with four treatments and six replicates each, totaling 24 experimental plots with 20 birds each. The experimental treatments were: negative control, without the inclusion of performance improvement and EPE-free; positive control, containing avilamycin performance enhancer; Inclusion of 0.1% of EPE and; Inclusion of 0.2% EPE. The analyzed data were submitted to analysis of variance and applied the SNK test at 5% probability. There was no effect of the inclusion of additives on feed intake and feed conversion in the periods from 1 to 7, 1 to 21, and from 1 to 42 days of age. Weight gain was lower in birds receiving feed with the inclusion of 0.1% EPE in the period from 1 to 7 days, not differing from the other treatments in the other evaluation periods. Carcass characteristics, cuts, and viscera and bed moisture were not influenced by the treatments used. The inclusion of ethanol extract from propolis as a performance enhancer up to 42 days of age provided similar results to the use of performance enhancers based on avilamycin, thus being an efficient substitute in poultry production.

Meta-Analysis of Butyric Acid: a Performance-Enhancing Additive to Replace Antibiotics for Broiler Chickens

Butyric acid has been studied and utilized intensively in broiler chicken production in order to substitute growth-promoting antibiotics. However, the comprehensive literature on this topic makes it difficult to understand overall results, since there is a noticeable number of studies with conflicting conclusions. Although several research studies have shown that butyric acid may increment broiler chicken's performance, several other studies show the opposite. This work aimed to organize information to understand, through a meta-analysis, whether butyric acid can be used as a performance-enhancing additive for broiler chickens, and whether it can replace growth-promoting antibiotics. It was clear from the results that the effect of butyric acid depends on the microbiological challenge that broilers receive. When broilers are raised without health challenge, butyric acid and even antibiotics do not influence growth performance. However, when broilers are challenged, butyric acid provided an increase in weight gain and a significant improvement in feed conversion, matching the results of antibiotics. We conclude that butyric acid improves broiler performance and can be used to replace growth-promoting antibiotics.(AU)

The influence of clove leave extract (Syzygium aromaticum) on growth performance and bacterial population of broiler chickens raised in stressful conditions of high stocking density

Broilers maintenance at high stocking density impacts uncomfortable conditions; this increases the potential for stress, reduces feed consumption, and reduces production performance and health in broiler chickens. This study aims to evaluate the effect of clove leaf extract on growth performance and microbial population in the digestive tract of broiler chickens reared at high density. From the eighth day, five treatment groups, T0 (negative control with a typical density of 10 birds/m2 ), T1 (positive control with a high density of 16 birds/m2 ), T2, T3, and T4 with a high density of 16 birds/m2, were randomly assigned from 444 broilers (bodyweight of 129.78±0.75 g) with six repetitions each on the eighth day. The feed includes clove leave extract as much as 0.5, 0.75, and 1 ml/kg for T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were tracked weekly. One chicken from each replicate was taken randomly, slaughtered, and feathered on day 35. The digesta was taken from the ileum and cecum to measure the intestinal bacterial population and put into a sterile container. Digesta from the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and cecum were also collected to determine pH levels. MRS agar was used to determine the amount of LAB in the digesta. The findings revealed that giving clove leaf extract of feed to broiler chickens kept at high stocking density could higher body weight gain (P < 0.05), higher feed consumption (P < 0.05), decreased the pH of the ileum and cecum (P < 0.05), increased lactic acid bacteria and decreased coliform bacteria in the ileum and cecum (P < 0.05).

Effect of the Supplementation of Plant Extracts Based Additive in Broiler Chicken Diets on Productive Performance, Carcass Yield, and Meat Quality

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementation of an additive based on plant and spice extracts in broiler chicken diets on the productive performance, carcass yield, and meat quality. 704 male broiler chicks were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design with 4 treatment, 4 replicates of 44 broiler chickens each. The experimental diets consisted of Diet 1: Control diet; Diet 2: Control diet + antibiotic growth promoters (AGP); Diet 3: Control diet + vegetable extracts (100 g/ton) and Diet 4: Control diet + vegetable extracts (150 g/ton). The vegetable extracts used were carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol extracted from oregano, cinnamon, and cloves. The supplementation of vegetal extracts did not affect (p>0.05) broiler chickens' productive performance or carcass yield. The lipid peroxidation (MDA nmol/mg protein) in the meat in natura was decreased (p<0.05) for broilers supplemented with vegetable extracts. The supplementation of 100 or 150 g/ton of vegetal extracts based on carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, and eugenol did not affect broiler chickens' productive performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality, and inhibited MDA production in broilers' in natura meat.(AU)

Addition of a blend of exogenous enzymes to broiler chickens diets: impacts on performance and production costs / Adição de uma mistura de enzimas exógenas a dietas de frangos de corte: impactos no desempenho e custos de produção

Broiler diets are based on corn, soybean and wheat production; however, some protein ingredients have many antinutritional factors and low digestibility. The objective of this study was to add a blend of exogenous enzymes to the feed with low nutritional value for broilers to reduce production costs and improve digestibility while maintaining good zootechnical performance. The experimental design was completely randomized, including three treatments with five replications (n=15) each: a) positive control (PC), diet calculated for males with average performance; b) negative control + exogenous enzymes (NC+EE), minimum nutrient diet according to the requirements of the production phase, and the enzymatic blend was added; and c) negative control (NC), minimum levels of nutrients for each phase. At 21 days, the PC group showed greater weight gain and lower feed conversion than the NC (P<0.05). At 42 days, PC had lower feed intake than NC (P=0.040), while lower feed conversion was observed in groups PC and NC+EE than NC (P=0.001). The production efficiency index was higher in the PC treatment, but the NC+EE treatment was higher than the NC (P=0.001). Considering production costs and body weight, we found that NC+EE birds had greater profitability. Therefore, we conclude that the blend of exogenous enzymes added to a diet with minimal nutritional levels has practical application in the broiler production system.(AU)

As dietas de frangos de corte são baseadas na produção de milho, soja e trigo; no entanto, alguns ingredientes proteicos possuem muitos fatores antinutricionais e baixa digestibilidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi adicionar à ração uma mistura de enzimas exógenas com baixo valor nutricional para frangos de corte para reduzir os custos de produção e melhorar a digestibilidade, mantendo o bom desempenho zootécnico. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, incluindo três tratamentos com cinco repetições (n=15) cada: a) controle positivo (PC), dieta calculada para machos com desempenho médio; b) controle negativo + enzimas exógenas (CN+EE), dieta mínima de nutrientes de acordo com as exigências da fase de produção, e foi adicionada a mistura enzimática; c) controle negativo (CN), teores mínimos de nutrientes para cada fase. Aos 21 dias, o grupo PC apresentou maior ganho de peso e menor conversão alimentar que o NC (P<0,05). Aos 42 dias, PC apresentou menor consumo de ração que NC (P=0,040), enquanto foi observada menor conversão alimentar nos grupos PC e NC+EE que NC (P=0,001). O índice de eficiência de produção foi maior no tratamento PC, mas o tratamento NC+EE foi maior que o NC (P=0,001). Considerando os custos de produção e peso corporal, verificamos que as aves NC+EE tiveram maior rentabilidade. Portanto, concluímos que a mistura de enzimas exógenas adicionada a uma dieta com níveis nutricionais mínimos tem aplicação prática no sistema de produção de frangos de corte.(AU)