Physiological responses and intestinal conditions of broiler chickens treated with encapsulated Acalypha australis L. leaf extract and chitosan.

Background and Aim: The ban on antibiotic growth promoters adversely affects the physiological condition and health of poultry. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of encapsulated Acalypha australis L. leaf extract, chitosan, or a combination of both on the physiological and intestinal conditions of broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: A total of 280 Cobb broiler chicks were randomly distributed into four groups: Basal feed without additives (CNTL), basal feed with 0.01% encapsulated A. australis leaf extract (EALE), 0.01% chitosan (CHIT), and 0.01% EALE and 0.01% chitosan (EACH). Sample collection and data measurement were conducted on day 36. Results: There was a tendency (p = 0.08) for EACH bird to have a higher body weight than the other groups. Feed consumption was higher (p < 0.05) in EACH than in EALE and CHIT. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower (p < 0.05) in EALE, CHIT, and EACH than in CNTL. Erythrocyte numbers were lower (p < 0.05) in EALE than in CNTL and EACH. Hematocrit was lower (p < 0.05) in EALE and CHIT groups than in the other two groups. There was a tendency (p = 0.09) for heterophils to be higher in EACH than in CNTL. Thrombocyte counts were lower (p < 0.05) in EACH group than in the other groups. Serum globulin levels were higher (p < 0.05) in EACH than in CNTL and CHIT. The albumin-to-globulin ratio was higher (p < 0.05) in CNTL than in EALE and EACH. Coliform bacteria tended to be lower (p = 0.05) in the cecum of EACH broilers than that of other broilers. Similarly, the ratio of Lactic acid bacteria to coliforms tended to be higher (p = 0.08) in the cecum of EACH group than that in the other groups. Treatments did not influence the intestinal morphology of broiler chickens (p > 0.05). Conclusion: A combination of EALE and chitosan as feed additives enhanced the final body weight and feed efficiency (FCR) of broilers. These additives also increased the levels of heterophils, serum globulin, the ratio of LAB to coliforms, and reduced thrombocytes, albumin-to-globulin ratio, and cecal coliform bacteria. Hence, EALE and chitosan blend improved the growth performance, immune status, and intestinal health of broiler chickens.

Effect of unripe banana flour as a functional feed ingredient on growth performance, internal organ relative weight and carcass traits of broilers.

BACKGROUND: Following the prohibition of in-feed antibiotics, poultry nutritionists are increasingly interested in the use of functional feed. Unripe banana flour (UBF) contains significant amounts of oligosaccharides (which may act as prebiotics) and antioxidants, making it a potential functional feed for broilers. However, research on the use of UBF as a functional feed ingredient for broilers is limited. OBJECTIVES: The study investigated the effect of UBF with or without probiotic and multienzyme on growth, internal organ weight and carcass characteristics of broilers. METHODS: A total of 392 broiler chicks were distributed into 4 groups included CONT (chicks receiving control feed), UBF (chicks receiving 5% UBF in feed), UBFPRO (5% UBF plus 0.05% probiotics) and UBFZYM (5% UBF plus 0.05% multienzyme). Data on growth performance were weekly recorded, whereas data on internal organs and carcass were collected on day 38. RESULTS: Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower (p < 0.05) in UBF, UBFPRO and UBFZYM than that in CONT chicks, with no significant difference in body weight, body weight gain and feed intake. There was a tendency that gizzard was higher (p = 0.08) in CONT than in UBF chicks. Also, pancreas tended (p = 0.09) to be lower in UBFZYM than in CONT birds. There was a notable effect (p < 0.05) of dietary treatments on the yellowness (b*) values of thigh meats, in which UBFPRO had lower b* values than that of CONT but did not differ from that of UBF and UBFZYM. There was no difference (p < 0.05) in carcass and commercial proportion of broilers. CONCLUSIONS: Feeding of 5% UBF with or without probiotic and multienzyme improved FCR, without negatively affecting the carcass characteristics of broilers.

Performance, gut morphology, and meat characteristics of broilers housed at a high-density pen and provided with fermented Averrhoa bilimbi fruit filtrate.

Objective: This study assessed the impact of fermented Averrhoa bilimbi fruit filtrate (FF) on growth, gut morphology, and meat traits of high-stocked broilers. Materials and Methods: A 2 × 2 factorial trial with stocking densities (9 or 18 birds/m2) and drinking 2% FF or plain water was conducted using 378 14-day-old broiler chicks. On day 35, samples were obtained and analyzed. Results: FF improved feed efficiency and income over the feed cost of high-stocked broilers by about 7.63% and 10%, respectively, compared to high-stocked broilers receiving only water. FF decreased duodenal crypt depth and meat water-holding capacity. Meats from high-stocked broilers receiving FF showed lower cholesterol than other meats. Lower cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and higher HDL/low-density lipoprotein were found in meats from broilers receiving FF. Total unsaturated fatty acid (UFA) was higher in meats of high-stocked broilers receiving FF than others. The UFA/saturated fatty acid was lower in meats of high-stocked broilers receiving plain water. High-stocked broilers given FF had higher meat n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA). FF enhanced meat n-6 PUFA levels. The n-3/n-6 PUFA increased with high density and drinking FF. Conclusion: Drinking FF improved gut morphology and meat qualities of broilers housed in high-density pens. FF may be an excellent alternative to improve the growth and meat qualities of broilers raised in high-density houses.

Germinated papaya seed alone or in combination with chitosan on growth, health and meat quality of broilers during grower period.

The study investigated the effect of a mixture of germinated papaya seed flour and chitosan (GPS-CH) in comparison to the germinated papaya seed flour (GPS) alone on growth, blood profile, intestinal indices and meat quality of broilers. A total of 288 14-day old Cobb chicks were divided into three groups with 8 replications, including CONT (chicks receiving basal feed with no additive), GPS (chicks receiving basal feed supplemented with 0.5% GPS), and GPS-CH (chicks receiving basal feed supplemented with 0.5% GPS and 0.2% chitosan). Treatments had no effect (p > 0.05) on broiler growth. Spleen was lower (p < 0.05) in GPS and GPS-CH than in CONT. Thrombocytes were lower (p < 0.05) in GPS and GPS-CH than in CONT. Total triglyceride and protein were higher (p < 0.05) in GPS and GPS-CH than in CONT. Jejunal villi height (VH) and ileal VH to crypt depth ratio of GPS-CH were higher (p < 0.05) than that of CONT and GPS birds. Total fat in breast meat was lower (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH than in CONT and GPS. The highest (p < 0.05) pH was found in GPS-CH breast. The yellowness values were lower (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH than in CONT and GPS breast. GPS thigh had lowest (p < 0.05) moisture and highest (p < 0.05) fat. Ash was higher (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH than in CONT thigh. Water holding capacity (WHC) was higher (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH than in CONT and GPS thigh meats. Cooking loss was lower (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH than in GPS thigh meats. Compared to GPS, the pH values of thigh meats were higher (p < 0.05) in GPS-CH and CONT meats. The yellowness values were lower in GPS and GPS-CH than in CONT thigh. In conclusion, GPS-CH was beneficial in improving immune responses, nutrient bioavailability, intestinal morphology and meat quality of broilers during the grower period.

Growth performance, blood variables, intestinal bacterial content, and morphological measurements of broilers supplemented with Lactobacillus casei-fermented mixture of red rice and aromatic ginger.

Background and Aim: Natural feed additives are important for broiler sustainability during the post-antibiotic era. This study aimed to evaluate the possible effects of the dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus casei-fermented mixture of red rice and aromatic ginger (FERMIX) on growth, blood profiles, intestinal bacterial content, and morphological measurements of broilers. Materials and Methods: Two hundred broiler chicks were allotted to four groups with five replications, including CONTROL (chicks provided with basal feed), FERMIX025 (basal feed supplemented with 0.25% FERMIX), FERMIX050 (0.50% FERMIX), and FERMIX100 (1.00% FERMIX). FERMIX is an anaerobic fermentation product from a mixture of red rice flour and aromatic ginger using L. casei. Blood, organs, digesta, and carcass were collected on day 35. Results: Final body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio did not differ (p>0.05) across treatments. FERMIX at 0.5% increased (p<0.05) spleen relative weight. Liver weight was lower (p<0.05) in broilers fed with 1% FERMIX. The liver weight linearly reduced (p<0.05) with the increased FERMIX levels. FERMIX at 0.25% elevated (p<0.05) broiler drumsticks' yield than that in other groups. Erythrocytes, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, and plasma total protein levels were quadratically higher (p<0.05) in FERMIX050 treated than in other groups. Increased FERMIX levels resulted in a linear decrease (p=0.08) in ileal lactose-negative Enterobacteriaceae counts. Villi height/crypt depth (CD) ratio was quadratically higher (p<0.05) in the duodenum of broiler supplemented with 0.5% FERMIX. The jejunal CD was quadratically lower (p<0.05) in FERMIX050 than in other groups. Conclusion: Although it did not influence growth, dietary FERMIX, especially at 0.5%, improved immune competencies, physiological conditions, and health of broilers' intestine.

The effect of using acidified turmeric on some productive parameters and intestinal bacterial counts in broilers at high stocking density pens.

Objective: This work investigated the impact of acidified turmeric on growth, blood profile, and gut bacterial counts of broiler chickens stocked in an overcrowding stress condition. Materials and Methods: A total of 285 14-day-old Lohmann broiler strains were distributed to T0 (chicks receiving basal feed raised at a density of 9 chicks/m2), T1 (chicks receiving basal feed raised at 16 chicks/m2), T2 (chicks receiving 1% turmeric powder raised at 16 chicks/m2), and T3 (chicks receiving 1% acidified turmeric powder raised at 16 chicks/m2). Body weight and feed intake were determined weekly. On day 37, blood and intestinal content were collected and analyzed. Results: Body weight was higher while feed conversion ratio was lower in T0 than in other groups. Compared to T0, T1 had a lower thymus weight. Erythrocytes and hematocrits were greater in T0 than in T2 and T3. Hemoglobin was higher in T0 than in T3. Serum superoxide dismutase differed as T0 < T1 < T2. Ileal coliform was higher in T0 than in T1 and T3. Lactic acid bacteria counts were higher in T0 and T1 than in T2 and T3. Conclusions: Acidified turmeric was capable of maintaining the relative weight of the immune organ and ameliorating the oxidative stress of the broiler during overcrowding stress.

Growth performance of broiler chickens fed on sprouted-papaya seed based diets.

The study investigated how sprouted-papaya seed meal (SPSM) a total of affected the growth and carcase traits of broilers. Based on a completely randomized design, 390 day-old Lohmann broiler chicks were allotted to CONT (chicks provided with control diet), SEED25 (diet containing 2.5% papaya seed meal), GERM1 (diet containing 1% SPSM), GERM25 (diet containing 2.5% SPSM) and GERM5 (diet containing 5% SPSM). Body weight and feed intake of chickens were weekly recorded from 14 to 36 days of age, while birds (six birds per treatment group; 30 birds in total) were slaughtered at day 36. Feeding SPSM up to 5% did not impair (p > 0.05) broilers' growth or feed intake. At 5%, SPSM compromised (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR) and reduced breast meat proportion. SPSM at 2.5% in diets had no (p > 0.05) detrimental effects, while papaya seed meal at the same proportion lowered (p < 0.05) final body weight, weight gain, and cumulative feed intake. Overall, SPSM may be incorporated in broiler rations up to 2.5% with no harmful effects on growth, feed intake, FCR and carcase traits of broiler chickens.

Effect of novel natural feed additive containing Averrhoa bilimbi L. fruit filtrate, wheat bran, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance and meat characteristics of broilers.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: In the post-antibiotic era, consumer demand for healthy and safe meats has prompted poultry producers to seek alternative effective feed additives. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a novel natural feed additive based on a mixture of Averrhoa bilimbi L. fruit filtrate, wheat bran, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the growth rate, internal organ weight, and breast meat characteristics of broilers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 280 1-day-old chicks were divided into one control (CNTRL; feed without additives) and three treatment groups: NOV25, feed with 2.5 g/kg novel additive; NOV50, feed with 5.0 g/kg novel additive; and NOV100, feed with 10 g/kg novel additive. The body weight (BW), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured weekly. On day 35, the chickens from each group were slaughtered, and their internal organs and breast meat samples were collected. RESULTS: The BW of broilers in NOV100 was greater (p=0.016) than that in the other groups. The FCRs in the treatments groups were lower (p<0.001) than that in the control group. Elevated levels of the novel additive increased (p=0.051) the relative weight of the duodenum. The pH values in the breast meat of broilers receiving the novel additive were higher (p<0.001) than that in control. The C20:3n-6 of the NOV100 breast meat was lower (p=0.012) than that of NOV25 and NOV50, but it did not differ from that of the control. The unsaturated fatty acid-to-saturated fatty acid ratio in the breast meats of the treatments was higher (p=0.032) than that in control. The L-tyrosine content in NOV50 breast meat was higher (p=0.036) than that in CNTRL and NOV100 but did not differ from that in NOV25. CONCLUSION: The proposed feed additive improved the live BW and FCR of broilers and the physical and nutritional qualities of broiler breast meat.

Effect of acidified turmeric and/or black pepper on growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens.

The study investigated the effect of acidified turmeric, black pepper or its combination on growth and meat quality of broilers. The Averrhoa bilimbi Linn. fruit filtrate was used to acidify the herbs. A number of 392 day-old Lohmann broiler chicks were randomly distributed to four groups, including CONT (control diet), TRMC (diet supplemented with 1% acidified turmeric), BLPR (1% acidified black pepper) and TRPR (1% acidified turmeric and 1% acidified black pepper). Body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were weekly recorded. Internal organ weight and carcase traits were determined at day 35. The CONT and TRMC showed greater (p < 0.05) weight gain than BLPR and TRPR. The FCR was lower (p < 0.05) in TRMC than in BLPR and TRPR, but did not differ from CONT. The gizzard was greater (p < 0.05) in BLPR than that in CONT and TRMC. The BLPR had smaller (p < 0.05) pancreas than other chickens. Abdominal fat was lower (p < 0.05) in TRMC, BLPR and TRPR than that in CONT, of which BLPR was the lowest. Drumstick was greater (p < 0.05) in BLPR than in CONT. CONT had lighter and less yellow (p < 0.05) breast meats than other broilers. In thigh meats, the lightness (L*) values were higher (p < 0.05) in CONT than in TRMC and BLPR. The yellowness (b*) were lower (p < 0.05) in CONT than in TRPR meats. In conclusion, acidified turmeric reduced abdominal fat deposition and improved meat quality of broilers.

Effect of feeding fermented mixture of cassava pulp and Moringa oleifera leaf meal on immune responses, antioxidative status, biochemistry indices, and intestinal ecology of broilers.

AIM: The study investigated the effect of feeding fermented mixture of cassava pulp and Moringa oleifera leaf meal (FCPMO) on the immune responses, antioxidative status, biochemical parameters, and intestinal ecology of broiler chickens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four hundred Lohmann broiler chickens were distributed to four groups of diets including CONT (corn-soybean-based feed with no additive), BACI (corn-soybean-based diet supplemented with 0.1% zinc bacitracin), FERM (diet containing 20% FCPMO), and FERB (diet containing 20% FCPMO and added with 0.1% Bacillus subtilis). At days 4, 14, and 19, the chicks were vaccinated using commercial Newcastle disease-infectious bursal disease (ND-IBD), IBD, and ND vaccines, respectively. At day 35, blood was sampled and digesta was obtained from the ileum and caecum. Furthermore, the duodenal segment was obtained. RESULTS: The BACI, FERM, and FERB groups had higher (p<0.05) serum superoxide dismutase activity than control. The malondialdehyde was lower (p=0.07) in BACI, FERM, and FERB than that in CONT. The BACI and FERM had lower (p<0.05) leukocytes and lymphocytes than CONT. The hemoglobin, erythrocytes, and hematocrit were lower (p<0.05) in BACI and FERM than those in CONT and FERB. Serum total triglyceride was lower (p<0.05) in FERM and FERB than that in CONT. The FERM and FERB had higher (p<0.05) albumin levels. Serum globulin level was lower (p<0.05) in FERB than that in BACI, but did not differ from that in CONT and FERM. The numbers of coliform, lactose-negative-enterobacteria and enterobacteria were lower (p<0.05) in FERB than that in other treatment groups. Crypt depth (CD) was higher (p<0.05) in FERM, while the villi height to CD ratio was lower (p<0.05) in FERM than that in CONT and FERB. The treatments showed no effect (p>0.05) on cecal volatile fatty acids production. CONCLUSION: Feeding FCPMO improved immune responses, antioxidative status, and physiological conditions, but had less effect on the intestinal ecology of broilers.

Growth performance, haematological responses, intestinal microbiology and carcass traits of broiler chickens fed finisher diets containing two-stage fermented banana peel meal.

The study investigated the effect of finisher diets containing two-stage fermented banana peel (FBP) meal on growth performance, haematological responses, intestinal microbiology and carcass traits of broilers. From days 22 to 38, 200 broiler chicks were grouped to maize-soybean meal-based finisher diet as a control (CONT) and finisher diets containing either 5% FBP (FBP-5), 10% FBP (FBP-10) or 15% FBP (FBP-15). Birds were blood sampled and slaughtered at day 38. For microbial population and villi height measurement, digesta and intestinal segments were collected. Breast meat was obtained for meat colour determination. Data collected were analysed according to analysis of variance followed by Duncan's multiple-range test when there was significant effect. There was no effect of treatments on broiler growth performance. The relative duodenum weight tended (P = 0.08) to be lower in FBP than in CONT. The mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was higher (P < 0.05) in FBP-5 than in CONT and FBP-15. Uric acid concentration was lower (P < 0.05) in FBP-10 and FBP-15 than in CONT. Feeding FBP tended (P = 0.08) to decrease coliform population in the ileum. Compared to CONT, the ileal villi heights were higher (P < 0.05) and lower (P < 0.05) in FBP-10 and FBP-5, respectively. The relative weight of thigh (P < 0.05) and wings (P = 0.07) were higher in CONT than in FBP-fed birds, but the eviscerated carcass was not different (P > 0.05) among groups. The lightness (L*) values of meat were higher (P < 0.05) in FBP-10 and FBP-15 than in CONT and FBP-5. Compared with others, breast meat from FBP-10 birds had lower (P < 0.05) redness (a*) values. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of FBP at the levels of up to 15% had no detrimental effect on growth and health performances of broiler chickens.

Effect of fermentation using Chrysonillia crassa and Monascus purpureus on nutritional quality, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of used rice as a poultry feed ingredient.

OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of fermentation using Chrysonillia crassa and Monascus purpureus on nutritional qualities, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the used rice as a poultry feed ingredient. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The used rice was soaked, steamed, and spread on a tray to cool. Suspension of M. purpureus or C. crassa was inoculated on the steamed used rice, and then mixed thoroughly. Afterward, the mixture was spread out on the tray, which was then covered with an aluminum foil. It was aerobically incubated for 7 and 4 days for the M. purpureus- and C. crassa-inoculated used rice, respectively. Subsequent to sun drying, the fermented used rice was grounded and analyzed. RESULTS: Crude protein and ash contents were higher (p < 0.05) in the used rice fermented with C. crassa or M. purpureus than in the unfermented. Conversely, carbohydrate content was lower (p < 0.05) in the fermented compared with the unfermented. Gross energy and energy from fat were higher (p < 0.05) in the used rice fermented with M. purpureus than the unfermented. Amino acids L-methionine, L-serine, L-glutamic acid, L-valine glycine, L-leucine, L proline, L-threonine, L-histidine, and L-Sistine were higher (p < 0.05) in M. purpureus-fermented used rice than in C. crassa-fermented and the unfermented used rice. However, amino acids L-isoleucine, L- alanine, L-lysine, and L-tryptophan were higher (p < 0.05) in the used rice fermented with both C. crassa and M. purpureus, compared with the unfermented. L-tyrosine content was higher (p < 0.05) in M. purpureus-fermented used rice than in the unfermented. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of the fermented products were higher (p < 0.05) than that of the unfermented. In addition, the antimicrobial activities of the fermented products against Staphylococcus aureus were higher (p < 0.05) than that of the unfermented used rice. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the used rice fermented using C. crassa and M. purpureus improved the nutritional quality, as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the products.

Hematological parameters and selected intestinal microbiota populations in the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens fed basal diet supplemented with multi-strain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals.

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with multi-strain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals on the hematological parameters and selected intestinal microbiota populations in the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 240 one-day-old Indonesian indigenous crossbred chicks were raised for 10 weeks. The chicks were distributed to one of four groups, i.e., chicks receiving basal diet without any additive (CONT), chicks receiving basal diet with 0.04% of zinc bacitracin (AGP), chicks receiving basal diet with 0.01% of commercial probiotic Bacillus subtilis preparation (PROB1), and chicks receiving basal diet with 0.5% of multi-strain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals (PROB2). Blood was collected on the week 8, while the internal organs and eviscerated carcasses were collected on the week 10. RESULTS: PROB2 tended (p=0.09) to have a lower body weight (BW) compared to CONT chicks. Feed conversion ratio was higher (p<0.05) in PROB1 and PROB2 compared to CONT birds. The number of thrombocytes tended (p=0.09) to be higher in CONT than in other groups. Antibody titer against Newcastle disease virus vaccine was higher (p<0.05) in PROB1 and PROB2 than in CONT group. Serum triglyceride concentration was lower (p<0.05) in PROB2 than in other birds. AGP chicks had lower (p<0.05) serum total protein and globulin concentrations than CONT and PROB1 chicks. Serum albumin level was lower (p<0.05) in PROB2 than in CONT and PROB1 birds. Albumin to globulin ratio tended (p=0.06) to be higher in AGP than in other birds. Lactose-negative Enterobacteriaceae tended (p=0.07) to be lower in PROB1 and PROB2 than in CONT group. PROB1 and PROB2 tended (p=0.06) to have greater lactic acid bacteria (LAB) population than in CONT and AGP birds. CONCLUSION: Multi-strain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals was able to improve immune response and control the potentially pathogenic bacteria. However, the additive could not improve the growth performance of the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens.

The effect of supplementation of multistrain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals to the basal diet on the growth performance, carcass traits, and physiological response of broilers.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of supplementation of multistrain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals to the broiler chicken diets on their growth performance, hematological parameters, and carcass traits. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred and eighty-eight Lohmann 1-day-old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to four groups, i.e., control (without additional supplementation) and three experimental treatments where basal diet was enriched by 0.1%, 0.5%, or 1% of multistrain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals, respectively. Blood sampling was conducted on day 28, while the selected organs and eviscerated carcasses were collected on day 42. RESULTS: Dietary supplementation did not affect (p>0.05) the final body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio of broilers. Supplementation by 0.1% and 0.5% of multistrain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals reduced (p≤0.05) heart relative weight of broilers. Dietary supplementation tended (p=0.07) to increase the relative weight of ileum and pancreas of broilers. Supplemented birds had lower (p≤0.05) numbers of leukocytes and eosinophils compared to unsupplemented birds. There were tendencies that supplementation of multistrain probiotics in combination with vitamins and minerals resulted in lower (p=0.07) counts of lymphocytes and heterophils when compared with no supplementation. Supplementation by 0.5% of multistrain probiotics in combination with vitamins and minerals resulted in lower (p≤0.05) serum concentration of uric acid when compared with control. There was no significant effect of dietary supplementation on carcass traits, pH, and drip loss of broiler breast muscles. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation of commercial broiler feeds with 0.5% of multistrain probiotic preparation in combination with vitamins and minerals was potential to improve digestive functions and physiological status of broiler chickens.

Effect of two-step fermentation by Chrysonilia crassa and Bacillus subtilis on nutritional values and antioxidative properties of agro-industrial by-products as poultry feed ingredients.

OBJECTIVE: This current study was subjected to investigate the influence of two-stage fermentation by Chrysonilia crassa and Bacillus subtilis on nutritional values and antioxidative properties of agro-industrial by-products. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two-stage fermentation with Ch. crassa (inoculated in advance; single-step fermentation) and B. subtilis (inoculated later; two-step fermentation) was conducted on agro-industrial by-products, i.e., banana peel meals, cassava pulp, and rice bran. The pH measurement, microbial enumeration, proximate, and antioxidant analyses were conducted following 4- and 2-days aerobic incubation with Ch. crassa and B. subtilis, respectively. RESULTS: The pH of banana peels and cassava pulp increased with Ch. crassa-fermentation, but then decreased following B. subtilis-fermentation. Chrysonilia crassa-fermentationdid not change, but B. subtilis-fermentation decreased pH of rice bran. The number of lactic acid bacteria was higher in two-stage than in single-stage fermented by-products. Crude protein and fat were higher in fermented than in unfermented banana peels. Crude protein was higher in single- and two-stage fermented, while fat higher in single-stage fermented than in unfermented cassava pulp. Crude fat and ash contents increased with fermentation in rice bran. Single-stage fermentation increased some of amino acids contents in banana peels and cassava pulp. The concentration of polyphenols, tannins, and antioxidant potential of banana peels reduced with fermentation. Total polyphenols and tannins were higher, whereas antioxidant activity was lower in fermented than in unfermented cassava pulp. Total polyphenols, tannins, and antioxidant activity were lower in two-stage than in single-stage fermented and unfermented rice bran. CONCLUSION: Single-stage fermentation with Ch. crassa improved nutritional characteristics of agro-industrial by-products.

Intestinal microbial ecology and hematological parameters of broiler fed cassava waste pulp fermented with Acremonium charticola.

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding Acremonium charticola-fermented cassava pulp (AC-FCP) on the intestinal microbial ecology and hematological indices of broiler chickens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 240 male Lohman day-old-chicks were randomly allotted to one of the four experimental diets including control diet, control diet + antimicrobials (neomycin; 300 mg/kg diet), diet containing AC-FCP (16 g/100 g diet) or diet containing AC-FCP + antimicrobials. At day 28, the birds from each pen were blood sampled, sacrificed and immediately the internal organs were removed and weighed. Digesta were obtained from the ileum and cecum. RESULTS: Birds fed AC-FCP had lower (p<0.05) coliform bacteria count in the ileal digesta than birds fed control diet or control diet + antimicrobials. Butiric acid was higher (p<0.05) in the cecal content of birds fed AC-FCP than in other birds. Propionic acid was also higher in AC-FCP fed birds than in other birds although statistically not significant. The percentages of lymphocytes and heterophils were higher (p<0.05) and tended (p=0.07) to be lower, respectively, in broilers fed control diet than in other birds. The birds provided control diet had lower (p<0.05) heterophils to lymphocytes ratio compared to those receiving AC-FCP or AC-FCP + antimicrobials. Serum total protein and globulin were higher (p<0.01) in birds fed control diet or control diet + antimicrobials compared to AC-FCP or AC-FCP + antimicrobials fed birds. Serum albumin was lower (p<0.01) in AC-FCP birds than that in other birds. There was a tendency (p=0.09) that birds fed AC-FCP diet had lower total serum cholesterol than other birds. CONCLUSION: Feeding AC-FCP has potential to improve the intestinal health and protect the birds from acute infections.

Performances and haematological profile of broilers fed fermented dried cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz).

The effect of feeding fermented dried cassava (gathot) on the performances and haematological profile of broilers was investigated. There were four dietary treatments arranged in a completely randomized design, i.e. control diet and diets containing 25, 50 or 100 g/kg gathot. The birds were provided with the treatment diets ad libitum from 8 to 35 days of age. Body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined weekly. At day 32, the birds were blood sampled, sacrificed and immediately the internal organs and abdominal fat were removed and weighed. Feeding gathot at various levels did not affect (P > 0.05) the growth and FCR, but tended (P = 0.09) to reduce the feed cost per kilogramme live weight gain of broilers. The dietary treatments did not cause toxicological effect on broilers, indicated by the values of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) that were not different from those in the control diet. Dietary inclusion of gathot lowered heterophils to lymphocytes ratio (H/L ratio) (P < 0.05) and albumin to globulin ratio (A/G ratio) (P = 0.14) of broilers as compared to the control diet. Total triglyceride was lower (P < 0.05) in the serum of broilers fed diets containing 5 and 10 % of gathot, when compared with that in the control diet. The treatments resulted in reduced abdominal fat deposition in broilers. In conclusion, dietary inclusion of gathot at up to 10 % had no negative impact on the growth performance of broilers. Feeding gathot has potential to improve the health and physiological stress responses as well as reduce body fat deposition in broilers.

Assay of Antioxidant Potential of Two Filamentous Fungi Isolated from the Indonesian Fermented Dried Cassava.

The antioxidant capacity and antioxidant constituents of two filamentous fungi (Acremonium charticola and Rhizopus oryzae) isolated from the Indonesian fermented dried cassava (gathot) were evaluated in the present study. The antioxidant capacity of the fungal crude extracts was assessed based on the 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethyl-benzthiazolin-6-sulfonicacid) (ABTS) method. Total phenolics were determined based on the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while the flavonoids content in the fungal extracts was determined by the spectrophotometric method with aluminum chloride. Total tannins were estimated by the Folin-Denis method. The ABTS⁺ radical scavenging activity was higher (p < 0.01) in A. charticola compared to that in R. oryzae and ascorbic acid (as a control). A higher (p < 0.01) content of total phenolics was detected in A. charticola than that in R. oryzae. Total flavonoids were higher (p < 0.01) in R. oryzae as compared with that in A. charticola. The fungus A. charticola had a higher (p < 0.01) level of total tannins than R. oryzae. In conclusion, both filamentous fungi isolated from the Indonesian fermented dried cassava exhibited antioxidant potentials as indicated by their capabilities to scavenge ABTS⁺. A. charticola had a higher antioxidant capacity than R. oryzae. The antioxidant capacity of A. charticola was attributed mainly to its phenolics and tannins contents.

Functional Properties of Filamentous Fungi Isolated from the Indonesian Fermented Dried Cassava, with Particular Application on Poultry.

The study aimed to evaluate the probiotic properties, antioxidant activity and fermentative capacity of Acremonium charticola and Rhizopus oryzae isolated from the Indonesian fermented dried cassava, with particular application on poultry. A. charticola inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Aspergillus flavus. A. charticola and R. oryzae grew in potato dextrose agar (PDA) adjusted to pH 3 and 8 or in PDA supplemented with bile salt up to 0.8%. After soaking for 8 hr, the survival rate of A. charticola in the simulated gastric juice (pH 2) and bile solutions (2% bile salt) was lower than that of R. oryzae. A. charticola and R. oryzae exhibited strong antioxidant activities. Compared to unfermented cassava pulp (control), the fibre content of cassava pulp tended to be lower after fermentation with A. charticola for 14 days. The populations of A. charticola and R. oryzae were significantly higher in fermented cassava pulp than in unfermented one. Coliform was higher in cassava pulp fermented with R. oryzae or A. charticola + R. oryzae compared to control after 7 days of fermentation, however, the bacteria were not different between A. charticola-fermented cassava pulp and control. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were higher in A. charticola- and R. oryzae-fermented cassava pulp than those in control, however, no difference of LAB was observed between A. charticola + R. oryzae-fermented cassava pulp and control. In conclusion, A. charticola exhibited antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activity, gastrointestinal persistence and fermentative capacity that may be beneficial for poultry industry.