A MACHINE LEARNING APPROACH EXPLORING CHARACTERISTIC HOST-MICROBE MOLECULAR INTERACTIONS IN THE GUT OF TWO LINES OF DIVERGENTLY SELECTED WHITE LEGHORNS

S. Nolin\*(1), C.Ashwell(1)

(1)North Carolina State University, Raleigh, United States

* Corresponding author: snjones@ncsu.edu

For forty years, two lines of White Leghorn chickens have been selected for high (HAS) or low (LAS) antibody response to a low dose injection of sheep erythrocytes. These lines have become an important model for understanding avian immunogenetics though currently only about 40% of the observed phenotypic differences can be explained. Their gut is home to billons of microorganisms and the largest number of immune cells in the body. Better understanding host-microbe interactions may further explain the antibody response differences of HAS and LAS. Previously, our group has sequenced the RNA and the 16S microbiome of the jejunum of six birds from each line. Sequencing data was further analyzed using machine learning to determine the microbes most predictive of line followed by the differential gene expression in the jejunum most predictive of high, medium, or low abundance of those microbes. Using the machine learning software Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis (University of Waikato, New Zealand), we ran four machine learning algorithms: support vector machines (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), random forest (RF), and J48 decision trees (J48). RF and J48 performed best for microbe-line predictions while all four performed variably for gene expression-microbe abundance predictions depending on microbe. The most predictive taxa were the order Streptophyta (no lower classification), and genera Enterococcus, Lactobacillus, and SMB53, all with >89% predictive performance. The lists of top predictive genes (>91% for one or more algorithms) for each of the four microbes were subject to pathway analysis to identify molecular targets in the gut where the microbes may be interacting with the host. Microbial abundance was associated with gene enrichment for pathways involved in the complement system, antigen presentation, pattern recognition receptors, DNA repair, and metabolism of amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates and inositol phosphates. Host microbe interactions can be extremely challenging to elucidate, however by utilizing machine learning to identify host genes predictive of microbial abundance we identified molecular pathways where commensal microbes may be more likely exerting an effect. This information will be useful in directing future research focusing more intensely on ways the microbiome may be influencing the phenotypic differences in antibody response via the identified pathways and in turn, accelerate scientific discovery.
ID: 1168

EFFECT OF ESSENTIAL OILS BASED ADDITIVE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF ILEAL MICROBIOME OF BROILERS WITH METAGENOMICS ANALYSIS

T. Chabrillat\*(1), C.Girard\*(1), S.Kerros(1)

(1)Phytosynthese, Mozac, France

\* Corresponding author: thibaut.chabrillat@phytosynthese.fr

Under the pressure to reduce antibiotics in poultry production, emerging alternatives like essential oils are increasingly used to improve gut health and performances. This study had the objective to understand how the gut flora implementation of broiler chickens is impacted by an essential oil blend, initially developed for its bacteriostatic effect on E.coli (Girard et al., 2019). This trial was conducted at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal with 2x90 1day ROSS broilers till 21 days old.

A negative control was compared to a treated group that received essential oils supplementation in an usual broiler feed (0.05% "Phyto CSC", Phytosynthese equal to 55ppm of volatile molecules). At 7, 14 and 21 days 15 birds/group were euthanized; their ileal contents were collected and stored in liquid nitrogen to perform a MiSeq 16S rRNA gene sequencing according Thibodeau et al., 2017 method. α-diversity was described by Shannon Index and analysed with a Wilcoxon test; β-diversity was analysed with Bray-Curtis similarity index associated with Permanova-Adonis test. Body weight of euthanized bird was analysed with Student test.

Results indicated α-diversity of microbiomes were significantly higher at D14 in ileum for treated group. α-diversity of ileal microbiome tended also to be higher at D7 for treated group (p=0.1). β-diversity of ileum were significantly different at D7 and 14 (p<0,001). Moreover inside each groups, β-dispersion of Bray-Curtis index tended to be smaller before 14days for the treated group (p=0.09 at D7 and p=0.03 at D14). This result suggests the treatment could lead to better homogeneity of gut flora between chicks before 14 days. Recorded body weights were not significantly different between control and treated groups with respectively: 137 vs. 133 at D7; 426 vs. 422 at D14 and 816 vs. 849 at D21.

To conclude, the addition of this essential oils supplementation in broilers feed is not delaying the implementation of ileal flora according the α-diversity analysis. The microbiome community structures were influenced by the supplementation until D14 in ileum. Further studies could measure how this gut flora modulation impacts the performances and disease resistances in field conditions with numerous bacterial challenges.
ID: 1342

IN OVO FEEDING OF CLOSTRIDIALE STRAINS MODULATE GUT MICROBIOME

S. Abousaad(1), R.Malheiros(2), S.Jones(3), B.Tracy(3), P.Ferket*(2)

(1)North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, United States

(2)North Carolina State University, Raleigh, United States

(3)White Dog Labs, Inc., New Castle, United States

* Corresponding author: pferket@ncsu.edu

The use of live microorganisms to manage enteric health is becoming a feasible practice, especially when administered early in a broiler's productive life. Strains within the Clostridiale order, including many butyric acid-producing anaerobes, are found in the intestines of healthy animals that have been shown to promote growth performance and improve gut health. White Dog Labs (New Castle, DE) has developed a novel biologic called BioTyton™ consisting of unique Clostridiale strains. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of BioTyton™ delivered by in ovo feeding (IOF) on gut health. Two experiments were conducted to measure the stimulation effect of BioTyton™ on the gut microbiome of broiler chickens. Viable eggs of equal weight (± 0.5 std.) were segregated for different experimental treatments. At ~17 day of incubation, 100 µL of either 101, 103, 105, 107 or 109 CFU BioTyton™/mL was administrated into the embryonic amnion. In both studies, a saline control was also injected, and a sham control (i.e., no injection) was used in one of the studies. Cecal material from 21 d old chicks was obtained and microbiome metabolites were subjected to analysis using GC for quantification of acetate, lactate, and butyrate. Analysis for the microbiome profiles showed a significant difference for both 105 CFU/mL and 107 CFU/mL from the saline control. The 105 CFU/mL dosage had a greater proliferation of the BioTyton™ strains in the cecum. Butyrate was detected in samples analyzed for the 105 CFU/mL dosage with an average concentration of 0.14 mg/g cecum material. These data suggest that BioTyton™ influencing the profile of the cecum in broiler chickens. In conclusion, in ovo administration of 105 CFU/mL Injection of BioTyton™ into the amnion of the chicken embryos can modulate the development of the gut microbiome that may positively affect subsequent gut health. BioTyton™ is not yet for sale at this time.
INFECTION OF LAYERS WITH HISTOMONAS MELEAGRIDIS HAS SEVERE CONSEQUENCES ON CAECAL MICROBIOTA

M. Abdelhamid(1), N.Quijada(2), M.Dzieciol(2), E.Mann-selberherr(2), D.Liebhart(1), C.Hess(1), M.Hess(1), S.Paudel(1)

(1) Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria, Vienna, Austria

(2) Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology and Veterinary Public Health, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria, Vienna, Austria

* Corresponding author: michael.hess@vetmeduni.ac.at

Histomonas meleagridis is the etiological agent of histomonosis or blackhead disease in various galliform birds. Clinical appearance of the disease in turkeys as primary host is well described but there is substantial lack of knowledge in chickens. The parasite is frequently noticed in layers in coincidence with reduced performance which was also demonstrated experimentally (1). Furthermore, colibacillosis often appears together with blackhead disease in chickens but the pathomechanism is not known (2).

In the actual study, the composition and structure of caecal microbiome as well as the colonization of a bioluminescent labelled pathogenic strain of Escherichia coli in birds with or without H. meleagridis were investigated. For this, a total of 48 commercial layers were equally allocated in 3 different groups. Birds in group 1 were infected at 23 weeks of age with H. meleagridis. At 2, 4 and 6 days post H. meleagridis infection (dpi), birds of groups 1 and 2 were inoculated with tagged-E. coli, whereas the third group was kept as negative control. Four birds/group were necropsied at 7, 10, 14, 28 dpi for sampling. The composition of caecal microbiota in birds from all three groups were analyzed after sequencing the v3-v4 hypervariable regions of 16S rRNA gene with illumina MiSeq platform. As a result, the biggest changes in gut microbial community, even at genera levels were prominent in birds of group 1, in coincidence with macroscopic and histological lesions. Species richness and evenness werelower in co-infected birds at all four time points compared to birds infected with E. coli only and the negative control. The relative abundance of E. coli-Shigella, Helicobacter and Bacteriodes was higher in birds of group 1 than in birds from other two groups, in coincidence with decreased proportion of Lactobacillus. Upon quantification of the tagged-E. coli in caecal tissues, birds in group 1, compared toother groups, contained significantly higher bacterial load at every time point of sampling, demonstrating a supportive effect of the parasite.

In conclusion, the co-infection of birds with H. meleagridis and E. coli and the appearance of blackhead disease had severe consequences on the caecal microbiota, characterized by significantly reduced species diversity and increased colonization of E. coli, which might influence the pathobiology of colibacillosis.

1.Liebhart et al. 2013. Avian Pathology. 42, 79-84

2.Paudel et al. 2018. Avian Diseases. 62, 300-306
WORKING GROUP

EF 1

ECONOMY AND MARKETING
CURRENT STATUS OF POULTRY PRODUCTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA

Z. Janječić*(1), H.Medić(2), D.Horvatek tomić(3), R.Raguž đurić(4), H.Mazija(5), A.Maltar(6), E.Prukner radovčić(3)

(1) University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, Curacao

(2) University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, Zagreb, Croatia

(3) University of Zagreb Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia

(4) Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb, Croatia

(5) University of Zagreb Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagreb, Cuba

(6) NUTRICON-VET d.o.o., Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author: zjanjecic@agr.hr

Croatian poultry production has a long tradition and a solid present, as well as a good base for further development, and covers almost all forms of poultry production, of which the most important are fattening of chickens and turkeys and production of eggs. They are accompanied by modern slaughterhouses and meat processing and egg sorters. In addition, breeding and keeping of parent flocks, hatcheries, pullets rearing and animal feed factories are present. The rearing of other poultry such as ducks and geese is seasonal and occurs mainly on family farms for personal use or rarely for the market. Similar is the case with the breeding of Croatian original poultry breeds - Zagorje turkey and Hrvatica hens which are exclusively grown on small family farms also for personal needs or only rarely for sale on the market. With the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union in 2013, there were significant changes in poultry production, especially in the production of eggs. Currently, the registered facilities have the capacity to accommodate 1,944,000 laying hens, of which 72% are in enriched cages, 25% are in the floor mode, 2.9% are in the free range mode and only 0.1% are in organic production. The consumption of eggs per capita is 172 pieces, and self-sufficiency is estimated at 95%. The production of poultry meat is 85,000 tonnes, with a share of 78% of chicken meat and 15% of turkey meat, while 7% are duck and goose meat. At the same time, large imports of poultry meat are still recorded, amounting to 26% of domestic production, while only 10% of domestic production is exported. Self-sufficiency in poultry meat production and consumption in Croatia is 89%, and per capita poultry meat consumption is 21 kg. The global problem of securing sufficient quantities of feed for poultry feeding, alternative sources of protein in poultry feeding, as well as increasing attention to poultry welfare, and the growing vocation of abolishing cages in the production of table eggs, will certainly affect poultry production in Croatia. The challenges and expectations of Croatian poultry production in the coming period are likely to be under the auspices of events and trends primarily in other EU Member States, surrounding countries and of course the world. It is believed that Croatian poultry production will continue to be the leading stock of livestock production in the total agricultural production of the Republic of Croatia.
COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS FOR EGGS PRODUCERS

H. Arazi* (1)

(1)Extension Service, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nizanei oz, Israel

* Corresponding author: hagit.arazi@gmail.com

Introduction: The supply and variety of feed additives for laying hen feeds is increasing from yearly, which is why growers are debating whether the increase in cost is worthwhile in terms of added cost versus the expected increase in revenue as a result of improved performance.

Aim: To examine the cost of various additives in laying hen feeds compared to the benefit of improving the performance by those additives and their financial gain.

This is an effective and useful tool for farmers and nutritionists giving them an opportunity to achieve optimal economic decisions.

Materials & methods: The model examines the interaction in the following current flock parameters:
Feed price, average egg weight, average daily feed consumption, hen-day production, percentage of cracked eggs and percentage of dirty eggs, and changes in these parameters on a monthly basis.

Any cost modification due to feed prices, average daily feed consumption and/or a variation in income as a result of a change in the hen-day production, egg weight, percentage of cracked eggs and percentage of dirty eggs are taken into consideration.

The model calculates a current flock revenue versus monthly expenses, with reference to the current layer flock performance, as well as taking into account upcoming fluctuations in feed additive cost against the expected additional revenue. The calculated balance is per layer hen for the coming month.

Results:

For example: (prices in €)

Eggs price: $XL= 0.1393, L= 0.0928, M= 0.0817, S= 0.0611$, Cracked & Dirty eggs = 0.05.

Current Flock Data:

Feed Price = 270 €/ton, Average Eggs Weight =64 gram, Average Daily Feed Consumption = 120 gram/day/hen, Hen-Day Production= 90%, Percentage of Cracked Eggs =2% and Percentage of Dirty Eggs=2%.

If the price of the feed increases by 7 €/ton as a result of adding an additive to the feed, it will cost the farmer 0.026 € per month per hen. In order to offset this added cost, hen's performance needs to be improved.

Egg weight must increase by 0.6 grams, or average daily feed consumption must decrease by 3 grams.
The model can combine the parameters on demand.

Conclusion: The model examines the different interactions between the above-discussed parameters and allows the farmer the opportunity to make an optimal judgment concerning the contribution of feed additives or other decisions related to the interaction of parameters.
CURRENT STATE OF POULTRY EGGS AND MEAT PRODUCTION IN UKRAINE

V. Melnyk\*(1), N.Prokopenko(1), S.Bazyvoliak(1), L.Konoval(3)

(1)National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine

(3)Alfa-Vet LTD, Kyiv, Ukraine

* Corresponding author: melnikvika0204@gmail.com

Poultry farming in Ukraine remains the leading branch of animal husbandry. This is evidenced, first of all, by the number of poultry, which increased by 3.3% on all farms in 2018, while the number of cattle, sheep and goats decreased compared to the previous year.

Thus, according to the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, as of January 1, 2019, the number of poultry of all species in poultry farms of Ukraine of all categories was 211614.7 thousand heads (SSSU, 2019). As of January 1, 2019, the number of poultry amounted to 118,812.9 thousand heads in agricultural farms, which is 5.6% more than in the previous year. The main species of the poultry is chickens (115280.8 thousand heads). There are also turkeys (778.5 thousand heads), geese (260.4 thousand heads), ducks (3633, thousand heads), quails (758.6 thousand heads) and poultry of other species.

The largest number of birds is concentrated in the holdings of Vinnytsya (32588.6 thousand heads), Kyiv (28389.2 thousand heads), Cherkasy (26031.7 thousand heads) and Dnipropetrovsk regions.

Households also tend to increase in the number of poultry.

In 2018, there has been an increase in the production of poultry eggs of all species. For example, in January-December 2018, farms of all categories produced 16138.5 million eggs, which is 4.1% more than in 2017, including the production of eggs in the agricultural farms amounted to 8900.4 million units (by 6.4%), and in households - 7238.1 million units (by 1.4%).

As for the production of poultry meat, in January-December 2018 agricultural farms sold 1426.7 thousand tonnes of poultry in live weight, including of broilers - 1343.9 thousand tonnes, which is by 7.0 and 6.7% more than in the previous year. In 2018, the first place for the production of poultry meat was taken by the Vinnytsya region, and the second - Cherkasy, at the expense of poultry farms belonging to the holding "Myronivskyi khliboprodukt".

In 2018, 750.5 million eggs of poultry of all species were incubated by poultry and hatchery enterprises of Ukraine, which is 2.6% more than in the previous year. In total, 604.6 million heads of healthy young were incubated, that is 4.5% more than in 2017.

Thus, the statistics for number of poultry and poultry production in 2018 show that, despite the global problems that continue to exist in the country, the poultry industry is developing rapidly.

References

SSSU (2019) State Statistics Service of Ukraine. [online-last updated 15 November].

http://www.ukrstat.gov.ua/
LAYING HENS - HUSBANDRY SYSTEMS ON DIFFERENT WELFARE LEVELS - AN ECONOMIC COMPARISON

P. Thobe\*(1), M.Almadani(2)

(1)Thuenen-Institute of farm economics, Braunschweig, Germany

(2)Thuenen-Institute, Braunschweig, Germany

* Corresponding author: petra.thobe@thuenen.de

Due to stricter animal protection's regulations worldwide, Germany seeks to get its pioneering role in this area. One of the most important milestones, among others is the abolition of cage farming for laying hens. However, the question remains: is everything on track? Most of the current farming systems show some weaknesses which are not yet adequately covered.

Towards a better future, together with farmers and consultants, the Thünen Institute developed criteria for objective evaluation of the current housing systems in a comparative way. In the first step, biological and technical production figures were compared for each farming system in order to figure out the causes of the discrepancies in total costs. The assessment of the production costs in the investigated housing systems was carried out on the basis of branch evaluations at farm level, which provided valuable information. The evaluations showed that none of the farming systems currently being used can be completely convincing.

Although barn husbandry enables low production costs (7.5 ct./egg), however, the animals suffer limitations regarding space availability and exercise space outside. Providing a veranda could help in this context, but at the same time it might impair the ventilation system.

With free-range system, animals are given the opportunity to use the outdoor area, but often stay close to the barn to escape birds of prey, especially when there are no shelters. This can lead to high nitrogen emissions and infection risks. Furthermore, if free-range farming has to be temporarily banned due to an outbreak of avian flu, the conditions in the free range-barn are the same as in the barn husbandry without outdoor access.

In principle, this problem also arises with mobile barns; however the damage caused by predators is even worse. Moreover, it can also be difficult to ensure the mobility of the barns and thus sufficient nutrient distribution in winter and rainy conditions. The production costs are more than twice as high as for barn husbandry, mainly because of the high labour input. In terms of direct costs (especially feed), smaller flocks can also incur cost disadvantages if rebates can only be obtained for higher purchase charges.

The process of optimizing current husbandry systems has started.

KEYWORDS: laying hens, animal welfare levels, free range, cost comparison
ID: 1137

INDIAN POULTRY INDUSTRY: WAY FORWARD

P. Rajamanickam\*(1)

(1) Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India

\* Corresponding author: profrppsc@gmail.com

The aim of the present study is to analyse the current status, practical challenges and opportunities of the Poultry industry in India. The data were collected from the official websites of national and international agencies. India ranks the 3rd largest egg producer and the 4th largest poultry meat producer in the world. As per the latest census (2019), the total poultry population is 851.81 million which indicates an increase of 16.81 per cent over the previous census period (i.e., 2012). A total of 45.78 per cent increase in backyard poultry is witnessed; the total commercial poultry in the country is 534.74 Million in 2019, increased by 4.5 per cent over previous Census. Indian poultry industry is contributing Rs.698.88 billion to the total national GDP of Rs.1,24,486 billion in 2015-16 (0.56 %). The total egg production and meat production in the country was 95.20 billion and 3.76 million tonnes respectively during 2018. Annual per capita availability of eggs and chicken meat increased from 10 eggs and 146 grams in 1970s to 74 eggs and 3.6 kg respectively during 2018, while National Institute of Nutrition recommends at 180 eggs and 11 kg per annum. Welfare of commercial layer is given more importance and the government of India has issued new guidelines for egg rearing of birds. Increasing population, increasing per capita income and changing food habits, wider market for chicken than beef or pork and contract farming system are some factors that helped in increasing production and efficiency. Reduced marketing margins led to keep the consumer price under check. Emerging and reemerging diseases, abnormal rise in cost of feed ingredients, over dependence on maize and soya, lack of attempts for processing and further processing of egg and meat, institutions not keeping pace with the growth of industry and increase in demand for skilled manpower at all levels of value chain, lowering of import duties on poultry products are the challenges facing Indian poultry industry. Mass based production and continued performance to buy from wet market hamper introduction of technology and improve quality of products sold in local markets. The scope of export promotion for poultry products is also discussed.
# HOW TO INCREASE FEED PROTEIN SELF-SUFFICIENCY OF THE FRENCH POULTRY SECTOR? DEVELOPMENT OF A ROLE-PLAYING GAME TO UNDERSTAND THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN OPERATORS OF CROP AND POULTRY PRODUCTIONS

B. Méda*(1), M.Désolé(2), A.Valière(1), L.Dusart(3), I.Bouvarel(3)

(1)INRAE, Nouzilly, France

(2) ISARA Lyon, Lyon, France

(3) ITAVI, Nouzilly, France

* Corresponding author: bertrand.meda@inra.fr

French poultry production is relying on large amounts of imported soybean meal. This dependence is associated to many economic, environmental and societal concerns, urging for the improvement of protein self-sufficiency at national scale. Yet, this issue not only concerns the poultry sector but also the crop one. To better understand the relationships between these sectors, we developed a role-playing game (RPG) approach. Among all the operators involved in crop and poultry sectors, five key roles were identified and considered in the RPG: Crop farming (FARM), grain collection and storage (STOR), grain transformation e.g. for oilmeals production (TRANS), feed and broiler production (FEED-BRO), and finally, chicken meat retailing (RETAIL). For each role, a fictive profile was created (e.g. name, farm/company characteristics...) and a specific Excel simulator was developed and calibrated with realistic parameters, allowing the calculation of relevant economic indicators. For instance, FARM semi-gross margin could be calculated according to crop rotation, annual yields and price context. Actual operators were invited to play their own role in the RPG. RETAIL launched the game by asking the two FEED-BRO for chicken fed with French vegetal feedstuffs. Operators were then free to interact and decide, but they had to record their decisions (e.g. sale contract). They were also observed by the RPG animators. Interactions were only observed between two roles at a time, in a classical seller/customer relationship. Specific demands toward the crop production sector were effectively observed to meet RETAIL's demand, mainly by increasing rapeseed/sunflower grains/meals production. Immediately after the RPG, a debriefing was organized in order to get the collective feedback. The main findings were that i) differences in management timescales (e.g. years for FARM vs. days/weeks for RETAIL) are perceived as a limiting factor to an optimal cooperation between operators, and ii) that the economic value, potentially generated by new labels, is difficult to assess and should be more fairly distributed. One solution could be the contractualization between operators, but many factors such as timescale differences, yield/price uncertainty, or bargaining power of each operator have to be considered. The importance of RETAIL, the only operator directly connected to consumers' expectations, was also highlighted in order to help in structuring new supply chains.
EF2

NUTRITION

FEEDSTUFFS

PROTEIN NUTRITION

FEED TECHNOLOGY

MINERAL NUTRITION

PHYSIOLOGY OF NUTRITION

INGESTION AND DIGESTION

FEEDING IN ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

METABOLISM
FEEDSTUFFS
EFFECT OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF MURAMIDASE TO WHEAT VERSUS CORN-BASED DIETS ON BROILERS' GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND LITTER QUALITY

E. Baeza-Campone\*(1),I. Eising(2), PerezCalvo(2)

(1)INRA, Nouzilly, France

(2)DSM Nutritional Products ANH, Basel, Switzerland

* Corresponding author: elisabeth.baeza-campone@inra.fr

Muramidases are enzymes that hydrolyze peptidoglycans (PGNs) which are structural polymers conforming in bacterial cell walls. It is hypothesized that excessive PGNs in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting from natural bacterial turnover in the gut microbiota, could negatively impact gastrointestinal functionality by interfering with its ability for nutrient digestion and absorption and, consequently, on growth performance. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of a novel microbial muramidase, BalanciusTM (Bal) on the growth performance of broiler chickens fed with two different diets: wheat based diet (T1-T4) and corn based diet (T5-T8). Bal was tested alone or in association with Crina® Poultry Plus (CPP, a specific blend of essential oil components and benzoic acid). For that purpose, 2880 male Ross 308 chickens were distributed into 8 groups: T1 and T5 had control diets, T2 and T6 had diets supplemented with CPP, T3 and T7 had diets supplemented with Bal, and T4 and T8 had diets supplemented with Bal plus CPP. All diets included feed enzymes as phytase (Ronozyme HiPhos 20000GT) and xylanases (Ronozyme WX2000CT and Multigrain GT) and Maxiban as coccidiostat. Each group comprised 12 pens with 30 chickens per pen. At 34 days of age, the conditions of litter (scores 1 to 5 with decreased quality) and footpads (scores 1 to 5 with increased pododermatitis) were assessed. Litter samples were collected for further analysis of pH, dry matter, total nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen contents. Data were treated with variance analysis (statview software) testing the effect of dietary treatment. Means were compared using a t-test and statistical significance was set at P value < 0.05. Groups T3 and T7 fed diets supplemented with Bal had higher body weight (P < 0.05) at 10 (+1.9 to 2.3%), 21 (+1.8 to 3.2%) and 35 (+1.3 to 2.9%) days of age than control groups (T1 and T5). However, the dietary treatment had no effect on feed conversion ratio, mortality rate, which was very low (1.84%), and the condition of litter and footpads presenting mostly scores 1 or 2. Among groups fed diets based on corn, the supplementation with Bal decreased the nitrogen content of litter (-11.8% compared to control group, P < 0.05). In conclusion, the supplementation of diets with Bal improved body weight of chickens. It seemed also to improve the intestinal digestion and absorption of nitrogen compounds particularly with diets based on corn.
EFFICACY OF CARBOHYDRASE ENZYME SUPPLEMENT DEPENDS ON SOLUBLE ARABINOXYLAN CONTENT

S. Musigwa*(1), N.Morgan(1), R.Swick(1), P.Cozannet(3), S.Wu(1)

(1)University of New England, Armidale, Australia

(2)Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Addis ababa, Ethiopia

(3)Adisseo France SAS, Paris, France

* Corresponding author: smusigwa@myune.edu.au

A study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of carbohydrate enzymes (Rovabio® Advance containing xylanase, β-glucanase and arabinofuranosidases) in diets containing different amounts of soluble arabinoxylan (sAX). Experiment 1 employed a 2 × 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors were: enzymes - 0 or 0.005%, sAX - normal (21% of total AX), low (15%) or high (27%) and run - 1 vs. 2. Six iso-energetic wheat-SBM based-diet treatments were composed of 8.5% non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) and 20.9% crude protein (CP) for normal sAX diets, 10.6% NSP and 21.9% CP for low sAX diets, as well as 8.9% NSP and 20.1% CP for high-sAX diets. Five and 8 replicates per treatment were realised in experiment 1 and experiment 2, respectively. Experiment 1 used closed respiratory chambers (two birds/chamber) with treatment diets fed from d19 to 28 initially for 4 d adaptation. Data for metabolisable energy (ME) and net energy (NE) calculation were recorded from d25 to 28. Experiment 2 used floor pens with 12 birds/pen and treatment diets were fed from d19 to 35. Weight of feed and birds/pen were recorded on d28 and 35 to calculate feed intake (FI) and weight gain (WG). On d35 all birds were euthanised and opened for sexing and sex was used as covariate during data analysis. In both experiments, data were analysed using the General Linear Model of Minitab. Results from experiment 1 showed higher (P < 0.05) respiratory quotient and ME value in the high-sAX diets supplemented with the enzymes than unsupplemented high-sAX diets. The enzymes also increased NE value (P = 0.01) in all supplemented diets. In the floor pen feeding experiment, enzymes only reduced (P < 0.01) FCR in birds fed low-sAX diets from d19 to 28 and d19 to 35. The enzymes also reduced (P < 0.001) ME intake (MEi)/WG in the low-sAX birds from d19 to 28. The application of the enzymes increased (P < 0.001) energy intake (MEi and NEi) per metabolic body weight (MBW) and per WG in birds fed high-SAX diets from d19 to 35. As expected, the FCR was highly correlated (P < 0.001) to MEi/WG (r = 0.755) and NEi/WG (r = 0.702) from d19 to 35. A weak correlation (P < 0.05, r = 0.362) was observed between MEi/MBW and FCR from d19 to 35 but NEi/MBW only tended to be correlated with FCR from d19 to 35 (P = 0.078, r = 0.260). Overall, the supplemental enzymes released more energy in high sAX diets and a lower FCR and energy intake per WG was observed in the supplemented low sAX diets.
EVALUATION OF SCENT LEAF (OCIMUM GRATISSIMUM) PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVES ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY OF BROILER CHICKENS

P. Onimisi*(1), E.Salihu(1)

(1)AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA, Zaria, Nigeria

* Corresponding author: onimisiphil@gmail.com

A study was carried out using five hundred and forty Cobb 500 broiler chickens to evaluate the effect of Ocimum gratissimum leaf meal as phytobiotics on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens. The birds were allotted to four dietary treatments with three replicates comprising of forty five birds each in a completely randomized design. Ocimum gratissimum was added at 0, 400 and 800g while the last treatment contained Oxytetracycline at sub-therapeutic level as growth promoters. Data were collected on growth performance and antioxidant capacity. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Tukey procedure of SAS. The result obtained showed that birds fed diets containing Oxytetracycline and 800g of Ocimum gratissimum had significantly (P < 0.05) higher final weight and weight gain, best feed conversion and least feed cost per kg gain. Result for antioxidant capacity showed higher values (P < 0.05) for glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the treatment groups fed dietary supplement of the experimental materials. GPx activity was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for birds fed diets containing Ocimum gratissimum when compared with the control and AGP groups. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) by the addition of Ocimum gratissimum. It is concluded therefore that addition of Ocimum gratissimum at 800g per 100kg diet improved the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens. Ocimum gratissimum leaf meal as phytobiotics can therefore be added to the diet of broiler chickens at 800g/100kg as a replacement for antibiotic growth promoters for improved growth performance and higher antioxidant capacity of birds.
GLYCAEMIC RESPONSE OF CHICKENS TO HIGH-TEMPERATURE SHORT-TIME EXTRUDED LEGUME GRAIN
DIETS

O. Adeleye\*(1)

(1)University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

\* Corresponding author: ooadeleye@rocketmail.com

This study was conducted to evaluate the glycaemic response of broiler chickens to high-temperature short-time (HTST) extruded legume grain diets under different extrusion temperatures. Broiler starter diets (NRC, 1994) were formulated to contain 15% of either African yam beans (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) or Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) as energy-protein sources and extruded on a single screw extruder at either 80, 100 or 120°C at 25% moisture, while unextruded diets served as the controls.

A total of five hundred and forty 1-d old broiler chicks were neck-tagged, weighed and randomly allotted to the twelve diets in 3 replicates, 15 chicks/replicate for 21 days. On day 21, 5 chickens per treatment were fasted for 12h preceding, and basal blood glucose was measured for each chicken using a glucometer (ACCUCHEK active, Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mammheim, Germany), with ~ 100µLblood drawn from the wing vein. Diets were then offered to each experimental group for 30 mins, andblood glucose concentration measured at 30, 60, 90, 120 and 180 mins postprandial. Glucose responsecurves were plotted for each diet and used to estimate peak glucose concentration (mg/dL), time at peak glucose concentration (mins), max. glucose increment (mg/dL), area under the glucose concentration curve (× 103 mg • dL-1 • 180 min-1), area under the incremental glucose concentrationcurve (× 103 mg • dL-1 • 180 min-1), and glycaemic index normalized against the corresponding unextruded diets. Data obtained were subjected to ANOVA (P < 0.05) and preplanned contrasts, elucidating the effect of extrusion (unextruded vs extruded; 80, 100 and 120°C) and extrusion temperatures (80°C vs 100°C, 80°C vs 120°C and 100°C vs 120°C).

Significant effects of extrusion cooking were observed for the area under the glucose concentration curve (36.65 ± 1.16 vs 40.58 ± 2.42. P = 0.00), area under the incremental glucose concentration curve (0.84 ± 0.55 vs 2.96 ± 2.25, P = 0.01) and glycaemic index (100.0 ± 0.00 vs 110.84 ± 7.67, P = 0.00) of chickens on the African yam bean diets and on max. glucose increment (79.40 ± 29.96 vs 54.86 ± 18.28, P = 0.04) for chickens on the Bambara groundnut diets, however, no effect of extrusion was observed for pigeon pea diets. Also, the effect of extrusion temperatures on glycaemic response indices was not significant (P > 0.05) for all legume grain diets.

This result affirms that the effect of extrusion cooking on the glycaemic response of chickens differ in
the legume grains, however, variations in extrusion temperature ranging from 80-120°C do not impact
on glycaemic responses of chickens.

Keywords: Glycaemic index; Extrusion cooking; Pigeon pea; Bambara groundnut; African yam beans
ID: 143

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY AND LIPID PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS CONTAINING CURRY LEAF (OCIMUM CANUM) AS PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVES

P. Onimisi*(1)

(1)AHMADU BELLO UNIVERSITY ZARIA, Zaria, Nigeria

* Corresponding author: onimisiphil@gmail.com

Five hundred and fifty two Cobb 500 broiler chickens were used in a study to determine the effect of Ocimum canum leaf meal as phytobiotics on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and lipid profile of broiler chickens. The birds were allotted to four dietary treatments with three replicates comprising of forty six birds each in a completely randomized design. Four experimental diets were formulated containing Ocimum canum at 0, 400 and 800g while oxytetracycline in sub therapeutic doses as recommended by the manufacturer was used as a positive control. The diets and water were fed ad lib to birds throughout the period of the experiment. Data were collected during the starter and finisher phases on growth performance, antioxidant capacity and lipid profile of the broiler chickens. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and significant differences among treatment means were compared using Tukey procedure at P < 0.05 level of significance. The result obtained showed that birds fed diets containing Oxytetracycline and 800g of Ocimum canum had higher (P < 0.05) final weight and weight gain, best feed conversion ratio and least feed cost per kg gain at both the starter and finisher phases. Mortality was also reduced by the inclusion of the experimental material. Result for antioxidant capacity showed higher values (P < 0.05) for glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the treatment groups fed dietary supplement of Ocimum canum at 400 and 800g. GPx activity was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for birds fed diets containing Ocimum canum when compared with the control and AGP groups. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was not significant across the treatment groups (p>0.05) while catalase (CAT) content was significantly (P < 0.05) improved by the additive. Broilers fed with diets containing Ocimum canum had significantly (P < 0.05) lower cholesterol, triglycerides and high density lipoprotein compared to the control treatments. It is concluded therefore that addition of Ocimum canum at 800g per 100kg diet improved the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens. Ocimum canum leaf meal as phytobiotics can therefore be added to the diet of broiler chickens at 800g/100kg diet for improved growth performance and the development of higher antioxidant capacity by broiler chickens.
STIMULATORY FEED COLOR EFFECTS ON PERFORMANCE OF HIGH GROWTH RATE BROILERS

J. Gulizia\*(1), K.Downs(1)

(1)Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, United States

* Corresponding author: jzg0120@auburn.edu

This research study was conducted to determine color of feed effects on average body weight, body
weight gain, cumulative feed consumption, and adjusted feed conversion of high growth rate broilers.
Previous feed color research from this lab assessing effects of red, green, and blue on broiler
performance has been presented. Treated diets were colored using food grade powdered dyes. Four
treatments [control (complete broiler starter diet), orange (#f59b54 hex color code), yellow (#e5c92a
hex color code), and purple (#6b5669 hex color code)] with 4 replicates (60 birds/treatment) were fed
to 240 male Cobb 500 broilers over a 21 d battery cage grow out. Bird weights and feed consumption
data were collected on 7 d intervals. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design, with
battery cage representing the experimental unit, using the ANOVA procedure. Overall, there were no
significant treatment effects for average body weight at d 7 (P=0.4575), 14 (P=0.1468), and 21
(P=0.7228); cumulative feed consumption between d 0 to 7 (P=0.2422), 0 to 14 (P=0.1645), and 0 to 21
(P=0.2612); and adjusted feed conversion between d 0 to 7 (P=0.5357), 0 to 14 (P=0.6661), and 0 to 21
(P=0.9175). There were no significant treatment effects for body weight gain between d 0 to 7
(P=0.4097) and 0 to 21 (P=0.2298). However, there were significant treatment effects for body weight
gain between d 7 to 14 (P=0.0125) and 0 to 14 (P=0.0258). Birds on purple had a significantly higher
body weight gain than birds on orange or yellow between d 7 to 14. Body weight gain between d 0 to
14 for purple (489.15 g/bird) was significantly more than control (468.99 g/bird; P=0.0572), orange
(463.13 g/bird; P=0.0197), and yellow (452.48 g/bird; P=0.0044). Additionally, there were no observed
treatment differences for mortality anytime during the 21 d grow out (P>0.05). These results are
indicative that inherent stimulatory color spectral effects for orange, yellow, and purple did not
influence most high growth rate broiler performance parameters. Therefore, based on the results of
this study there appears limited economic value in coloring commercial broiler feed orange, yellow, or
purple as a method to increase feed consumption. However, further research on purple colored feed
effects on broiler performance may be warranted from the early body weight gain effects observed in
this study.
COMPARATIVE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKS AND TURKEY POULTS REARED UNDER CROSS-SPECIES HUSBANDRY CONDITIONS

O. Olukosi\*(1), M.Pilevar(1), Y.Lin(1), S.Veluri(1)

(1)University of Georgia, Athens, United States

* Corresponding author: oaolukosi@uga.edu

Two experiments utilizing 192 birds each (male turkey poults or male broiler chicks) were done simultaneously to compare growth performance response to enzymes supplementation in broilers and turkeys raised under cross-species rearing conditions. In one experiment, 96 male broiler chicks and 96 turkey poults were reared under management condition (brooding temperature and day light provisions) specific for Cobb 500 broilers. In the second, the same number of broilers chicks and turkey poults were reared in conditions specified for BUT 6 turkeys. In each experiment, each species received control diets formulated to meet the specification for the breed except marginal reduction in metabolizable energy and non-phytate phosphorus levels. The control diets were supplemented with xylanase or phytase individually or in combination. Birds and feed were weighed and excreta were collected on days 7 and 21. Data for each experiment were analyzed for the main effects of xylanase (2), phytase (2) and husbandry type (2) as a 2x2x2 factorial. Broilers, although having lower (P < 0.05) initial body weight, gained more weight and consumed more feed (P < 0.05) than turkeys, irrespective of husbandry conditions. For broilers, phytase supplementation, irrespective of husbandry condition, improved (P < 0.05) FCR on days 7 and 21. There was phytase × xylanase × husbandry interaction for day overall weight gain with birds receiving individual phytase and xylanase supplementation having lower weight gain when raised under turkey husbandry condition. There was significant husbandry × phytase interaction (P < 0.05) on day 21 broiler body weight, with phytase improving weight gain when birds were raised under broiler, but not turkey, husbandry condition. There were minimal enzyme effects on turkey poults raised under both husbandry conditions. Overall, the only significant effect was the main effect of husbandry condition, with d 0 to 7 FCR being lower (P < 0.05) when poults were raised under turkey husbandry condition even though weight gain for turkey was consistently greater when raised under broiler, not turkey, husbandry condition. It is concluded that the husbandry condition influences growth performance response of broiler chicks and turkey poults and this needs to be considered when executing comparative species studies or carrying out horizontal comparison responses across studies.
EFFECT OF A-TOCOPHEROL AND TANNIN EXTRACT SUPPLEMENTATION TO LINSEED OIL-ENRICHED DIETS ON INTESTINAL MORPHOLOGY OF BROILER CHICKENS

L. Perić*(1), D.Žikić(1), M.Đukić stojčić(1), T.Trebušak(3), J.Leskovec(2), A.Levart(2), J.Salobir(4), V.Rezar(2)

(1)University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Animal Science, Novi sad, Serbia

(2)University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, Ljubljana, Slovenia

(3)Chamber of agriculture and forestry of Slovenia, Ljubljana, Slovenia

(4)University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, Ljubljana, Slovenia

* Corresponding author: lidija.peric@stocarstvo.edu.rs

It has been demonstrated that high level of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) could cause negative effects for epithelial cells and even induce the mucosa apoptosis and reduce the villus height. This is why it is very important to supplement linseed-oil enriched diets with certain level of antioxidants. Current scientific evidence suggests that tannins had multiple biological activities, including anti-inflammatory properties attributed mainly to their antioxidant and antiradical activity that might exert positive effects on gut health.

The aim of the experiment was to determine the effect of supplementation of linseed oil enriched diets with vitamin E or tannin extract (Farmatan®, Tanin, Slovenia) on production results and intestinal morphology of broiler chickens. 300 day-old male chickens (Ross 308) were allocated to 3 treatment groups with 5 replicates of 20 male birds. From the day 21 to day 42 the 5 % of linseed oil was added to the experimental basal diets supplemented with: no additives (control group, C), 200 IU vitamin E/kg (E) or 500 mg of tannin extract/kg of feed (T). At the age of 40 days, 12 animals per group were sacrificed and their tissue samples were taken from the mid-section of the jejunum, washed with saline solution, placed in 10% formaldehyde and after histological procedure stained with hematoxylin and eosine. Jejunal histology parameters were determined using light microscope and software for image analysis (IM1000 Image Manager, Leica). Obtained data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, using general linear models. Results were considered significant when P<0.05.

The results showed that there were no differences in production results between control and experimental groups (body weight, feed consumption and feed conversion ratio). However, significant influence of tannin extract on morphology of jejunum has been demonstrated. Tannin group had significantly higher villus height (1,940.82 10–6um (C), 2,027.60um (E) and 2,207.66um (T)), lower crypt depth (439.90 um (C), 485.87um (E) and 426.23um (T)), higher villi/crypt ratio (4.53 (C), 4.37(E) and 5.35 (T)) and significantly higher villus area compared to C and E groups (0.35mm2 (C), 0.40 mm2 (E) and 0.47 mm2 (T)). The results confirmed positive effect of tannin extracts on jejunal morphology of broiler chickens, while the addition of vitamin E in oil-enriched diets didn't show significant effect on gut morphology parameters.
VISCOSITY (IN VITRO) AND PROXIMATE ANALYSIS OF UK WHEAT HARVEST OVER FIVE YEARS

S. Gilani*(1), A.Riley(2), A.Bello(3), J.Hoe(4), L.Haaning(4), C.Evans(2)

(1)Danisco Animal Nutrition (IFF), Oegstgeest, Netherlands

(2)Danisco Animal Nutrition (IFF), Marlborough, United Kingdom

(3)Danisco Animal Nutrition (IFF), Leiden, Netherlands

(4)Danisco Animal Nutrition (IFF), Brabrand, Denmark

* Corresponding author: Saad.Gilani@iff.com

Wheat is quite widely used as a cereal in poultry diets in the UK and other parts of Europe. Many factors affect the quality of harvest including seed quality, soil composition, fertilizer and weather conditions. Wheat contains crude protein (CP), oil, starch, sugars and variable amount of crude fiber (including neutral detergent fiber (NDF), Hemi-cellulose (HC). Although, attention is paid towards starch, oil and protein contents for least cost formulation purpose, NDF and HC draw less attention and viscosity is even less reported and discussed. In vitro analysis for measuring viscosity (cP, centipoise as units), has been developed inhouse as published elsewhere (Bedford and Classen 1992).Wheat samples were collected across the UK from 2014 till 2019 (except 2018 due to unforeseen circumstances). Near-infrared scan measurements were done for CP, oil, starch, sugars, NDF and HC on dry matter basis. Viscosity was measured as mentioned above on fresh basis. The average (20 samples + SD) results of 2019 wheat harvest was compared with average of four years (n = 89 + SD). Observed values (in % except where stated otherwise) for dry matter were (85.7 + 0.9 vs 87.0 + 0.3), CP (12.6 + 0.1 vs 13.3 + 0.2), oil B (1.4 + 0.1 vs 2.5 + 0.1), starch (68.9 + 0.9 vs 65 + 1.1), sugars (1.85 + 0.7 vs 2.9 + 0.5) NDF (8.5 + 0.3 vs 10.8 + 0.1), HC (5.8 + 0.3 vs 7.9 + 0.4) and viscosity (cP 7.5 + 1.9 vs 8.4 + 1.3). Interesting to note CP, oil B, sugars, NDF and HC seems to be lower for 2019 compared to previous years. Starch contrary to sugars, appears to be higher than previous years. It should also be noted that although viscosities for 2019 harvest were lower, the values show more variability than previous years. In conclusion, wheat quality looks quite good for 2019 harvest. However due to variable viscosity and higher starch content, attention should be paid when it comes to feeding wheatto birds. Exogenous supplementation of xylanase, beta-glucanase and amylase may help to improve nutrient digestibility in poultry (Kiarie et al., 2013).

Reference: Bedford and Classen. An in Vitro assay for prediction of broiler intestinal viscosity and growth when fed rye-based diets in the presence of exogenous enzymes. Poultry Science (1993). 72:137-143.

Kiarie. E, Romero. Luis F. and Nyachoti. M.C. The role of added feed enzymes in promoting gut health in swine and poultry. Nutrition Research Reviews (2013), 26, 71–88.
THE PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE IN BROILER CHICKS FED DIETS WITH ENZYMATIC HYDROLYSATES OF KERATIN- AND COLLAGEN-CONTAINING MATERIALS

V. Lukashenko\*(1), V.Fisinin(1), I.Saleeva(1), E.Ovseychik(1), E.Zhuravchuk(1), V.Volik(1), D.Ismailova(1)

(1)Federal Scientific Center “All-Russian Research and Technological Institute of Poultry” of Russian Academy of Sciences, Sergiev posad, Russia

* Corresponding author: lukashenko@vnitip.ru

The slaughter and processing of poultry result in substantial amounts of inedible wastes (feathers, bones, tendons, etc.) which can be converted into protein feed additives for animals and poultry by an adequate processing technology. The aim of the study presented was the evaluation of effects of substitution of such protein additives produced by the two-stage processing of keratin- and collagen-containing poultry wastes (short thermal treatment with subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis) for fishmeal in diets for broiler chicks (cross Ross-308, four treatments). Control treatment 1 was fed standard broiler diet with fishmeal; experimental treatments were fed the same diet with the substitution of fishmeal by hydrolysate of keratin-containing material (feathers; treatment 2); hydrolysate of feathers additionally supplemented with a probiotic to improve digestibility and assimilation of dietary nutrients (treatment 3), and a mixture of hydrolysates of feathers and collagen-containing material and a probiotic (treatment 4).

It was found that at 38 days of age live bodyweight and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were better in experimental treatments. Live bodyweight in treatment 2 was significantly higher in compare to control by 6.7% (P≤0.01) while FCR was better by 5.6%. In treatment 4 live bodyweight was higher by 5.4%, FCR better by 5.1% in compare to control (P≤0.01). The best growth efficiency was found in treatment 3 (hydrolysate of feathers plus probiotic): live bodyweight was significantly higher by 8.6% in compare to control (P≤0.001) while FCR was better by 6.7%. The conclusion was made that protein feed additives based on the hydrolysates of keratin- and collagen-containing poultry wastes can significantly improve the productive performance in broiler chicks.

The study was financed by the Russian Science Foundation, grant No 17-16-01028.
PREMIUM YEAST FRACTION REDUCES SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM COLONIZATION IN BROILERS

R. Raspoet(1), K.Tadele(2), B.Castello branco beirao(3), C.Fávaro junior(3), D.Mesa(3), M.Ingberman*(3), A.Riggi(1), L.Felipe caron(3)

(1) Phileo by Lesaffre, Marcq-en-baroeul, France

(2) Phileo by Lesaffre, Milwaukee, United States

(3) Imunova, Curitiba, Brazil

* Corresponding author: r.raspoet@phileo.lesaffre.com

Salmonellosis is an important food-borne zoonosis, with poultry and poultry products as the main transmission vector. The occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in non-typhoidal Salmonella is considered an additional major public health concern. With the increasing consumption of poultry products, new intervention strategies are necessary along the food chain to reduce Salmonella prevalence during poultry production. Yeast fractions (YF) rich in mannans and β-glucans can modulate the bird's immune system but also to adhere to type-1 fimbriae of pathogenic bacteria including Salmonella, making it more difficult for them to colonize the intestinal epithelium.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the supplementation of a premium yeast fraction (PYF) obtained from a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain and containing at least 20% of mannan and 20% β-glucan (1,3 and 1,6) on Salmonella colonization in broilers.

One-day old broiler chicks were divided over 3 isolators, each representing one treatment group; the unchallenged control (UC), the challenged control (CC) and premium yeast fraction supplemented (250g/ton) and challenged group (PYF). At day 2, all animals in the CC and YF group were orally inoculated with 108 CFU of Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028. Performance data were recorded at days 3, 7, 14 and 28 and statistically evaluated with SPSS22 software using one-way ANOVA with SNK post-hoc test ($P \le 0.05$). Mucosal flagellin antibodies and Salmonella Typhimurium loads in ceca were determined at day 28 and statistically analyzed using a Kruskal Wallis test ($P \le 0.05$) with SPSS22 software.

At D7 ($p=0.014$) and D14 ($p=0.023$) of the trial, challenge with Salmonella Typhimurium reduced body weights in the CC group (136±8.02 and 338±28.06) compared to that of the UC (162±4.19 and 432±10.80), while administration of the PYF to challenged birds reversed the effect Salmonella challenge on the birds performance on both days (154±4.45 and 397±24.06). Significant decreases in Salmonella Typhimurium numbers were seen in the caecum ($p \le 0.001$) of the PYF supplemented group at day 28 (2.68±1.76) compared to the CC (9.52±1.36), while the UC group remained negative for Salmonella throughout the experiment.

Additionally, the detection of higher geometric mean flagellin IgA antibody titers ($p \le 0.001$) in the supplemented group (600±2.49) compared to the UC (150±2.10) and CC (82±1.28), shows the positive effect of the PYF on the immune system.

Consequently, administration of a PYF can reduce the negative effects Salmonella challenge on birds and food safety.
IMPACT OF BACILLUS COCKTAIL ON PERFORMANCE OF BROILERS EXPOSED TO NECROTIC ENTERITIS
CHALLENGE

R. Raspolt*(1), T.Gaydos(2), T.Kiros(3), E.Auclair(1), D.Hooge(4), M.Sims(5), A.Riggi(1)

(1)Phileo by Lesaffre, Marcq-en-baroeul, France

(2) Gaydos Technical Services, Dallas, United States

(3)Phileo by Lesaffre, Milwaukee, United States

(4)Consulting Poultry Nutritionist, Pleasant groove, United States

(5)Virginia Diversified Research Corporation, Harrisonburg, United States

* Corresponding author: r.raspolt@phileo.lesaffre.com

Use Bacillus probiotics has gained a lot of interest in the animal industry. Their effects on animal health, with improvement of intestinal health and pathogen reduction, have made them very attractive especially since the reduction/ban of antibiotics. Different Bacilli were screened based on diverse functionalities, leading to the construction of a probiotic cocktail containing 3 different Bacillus species (B. pumilus, B. amyloliquefaciens and B. licheniformis). To validate this cocktail, a necrotic enteritis challenge dose response trial was carried out. 2100 Cobb 500 chicks were divided over 7 groups with each 10 replicates of 30 birds. Treatment groups were negative control (NC); positive control (PC); Bacillus cocktail at Log4, Log4.5, Log5, Log5.5 or Log6 cfu/g feed. All animals were fed at libitum and on D17 and 18 all birds, expect those belonging to the NC, received an oral gavage with 2ml Clostridium perfringens culture. The culture was grown overnight in cooked meat broth and later incubated for 12h in a sterile nutrient broth. Mortality was recorded daily, Necrotic enteritis (NE) lesion scores were evaluated on D21 and zootechnical performances were evaluated on days 14, 28 and 42. Parameters were analyzed by ANOVA and means separated by Tukey's test (P≤0.05) using Statistix 10 analytical software.

P-values of the NE scores (p=0.028) showed a significantly higher NE lesions in the PC (2.17) compared to the NC (0.59) and the Bacillus log 4 group (1.17), while other Bacillus groups performed intermediate. On day 42 of the trial, a tendency for a significant difference (p=0.059) could be observed for the body weights. Body weights of the PC only reached 1.580 kg, while those of the NC were 1.850kg. All the Bacillus supplemented groups acquired a final body weight that was intermediate between those of the PC and NC and were ranging from 1.681 to 1.745 kg. Statistically significant differences were observed for FCR (p=0.001), the PC had significantly higher values compared to the NC and all the Bacillus supplemented groups, except for the log 4.5 group who was performing intermediately. The PC (18.06%) also exhibited a significantly higher overall mortality (p=0.013) compared to the NC (4.44%) and the log 4.5 (8%) and log 5 (7.67%) Bacillus supplemented groups. All other Bacillus supplemented groups decreased the mortality intermediately compared to the PC. Consequently, administration of a Bacillus cocktail to birds under necrotic enteritis challenge, leads to enhancement of birds' performance.
XYLANASE CAN IMPROVE METABOLISABLE ENERGY OF THE WHEAT-MAZE DIET AND INCREASE CAECAL CONTENTS OF SHORT-CHAIN FATTY ACIDS WHEN FED TO BROILER CHICKEN

K. Dimitrova*(1), G.Gonzales-ortiz(2), S.Mansbridge(1), P.Rose(1), M.Bedford(2), V.Pirgozliev(1)

(1)Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(2)AB Vista, Marlborough, United Kingdom

* Corresponding author: kdimitrova@harper-adams.ac.uk

The use of xylanase is well-accepted practice in poultry farming but recently, research is focused on the effects of the interrelationships between xylanase, feed ingredients, retention variables and the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the caecal content. The current study examined the effect of xylanase on apparent metabolisable energy (AME), dry matter (DMR) and nitrogen (NR) retention in relation to the SCFAs. The study used three hundred and sixty Ross 308 male broiler chickens which were allocated in 18 floor pens (20 birds per pen). The feed, provided in mash form, was wheat-maize based and the study was comprised of two phases – starter (from day 0 to 21) and finisher (from day 22 to 35). The main ingredients in the diets were wheat 29%, corn 31.27% and soybean meal 33.30% for the starter phase and 39%, 35.40% and 19.70% respectively for the finisher phase. After splitting the basal diet in two batches one was used as a control diet and the other was supplemented with Econase®-XT (AB Vista, Marlborough, UK) at 100 g/t, providing 17100 BXU/kg units of xylanase. The retention data was obtained from analysing the faeces collected at the end of each growth phase and for caecal contents of SCFAs, gas-chromatography was used. The statistical analysis was done with Genstat software using a 2 x 2 factorial design. The results of the study showed that in comparison to the control diet, xylanase supplementation showed an increased retention of AME (12.32 vs 12.13, SEM=0.10, P < 0.05), NR (0.758 vs 0.745, SEM=0.006, P<0.05) and DMR (0.689 vs 0.674, SEM=0.01, P < 0.05). Xylanase supplementation increased caecal acetic acid (78.5 mM vs 60.6, SEM=11.43, p<0.05), volatile fatty acids (96.2 mM vs 75.1, SEM= 14.29, P<0.05) and SCFAs (100.9 mM vs 82.4, SEM=15.56, p<0.05). These results suggested that xylanase can improve metabolisable energy and part of this may be through influencing fermentation processes in the caeca through mechanisms which can be the subject of further research.
COMBINATION OF XYLANASE AND XYLOOLIGOSACCHARIDES IMPROVES FEED EFFICIENCY IN BROILERS

K. Dimitrova*(1), G.Gonzalez-ortiz(2), S.Mansbridge(3), P.Rose(4), M.Bedford(2), V.Pirgozliev(1)

(1)Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(2) Ab Vista, Marlborough, United Kingdom

(3) Harper Adams University, Newpoer, United Kingdom

(4)Harper Adams University, Marlborough, United Kingdom

Currently, some combinations of enzymes and different compounds which can be potentially beneficial for the bird's performance and health are being extensively studied. The use of the xylanasealone has been proven to be beneficial for broiler chickens and it is expected that if it is combined withsome prebiotic-like substances it will further increase its effectiveness. The aim of the current study was to examine the effect of combination of xylanase and prebiotics (xylooligosaccharides - XOS) supplemented to a maize-based diet. The main ingredients in the diet, which was formulated to meet commercial recommendations (Aviagen Ltd), were maize, soybean meal and soya oil and their respective quantity for the three dietary phases were as follow: starter diet - 56.44%, 35.95% and 2.66%; grower diet – 65.96%, 26.86% and 2.13%; and finisher diet – 69.64%, 23.72%, and 1.99%. Each basal diet was split further into two batches – one was used as a control and the other was supplemented (50g per tonne) with Signis (AB Vista, Marlborough, UK) which provided a combination of xylanase and xylooligosaccharides (35% XOS, degree of polymerization from 2 to 7 xyloses). Two hundred and forty male Ross 308 chicks were obtained from a commercial hatchery and assigned to the experimental diets following randomisation. Birds were reared in 12 floor pens (20 birds each) and the feed (crumbs for the starter diet; pellet for the grower and finisher) and water were provided at libitum. The performance variables feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), and feed conversion ratio (FCRm, mortality corrected) were measured at the end of each dietary phase of bird's growth – 10, 24and 35 day old. The data were analysed by ANOVA using repeated measurements for the dietary phases and the results are presented as overall for the entire study period. Although the impact on Fland WG was only numerical (P > 0.05), birds fed Signis had an improved (lower) FCRm (1.33 vs 1.35, SEM = 0.012; P < 0.05). The combination of xylanase and XOS can be beneficial for the growth performance of birds through improved feed efficiency of maize-based diet.

<footnote>* Corresponding author: kdimitrova@harper-adams.ac.uk</footnote>
# EFFICACY OF A COMBINED XYLANASE AND XYLO-OLIGOSACCHARIDE IN SUPPORTING THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILERS

A. Desbruslais*(1), D.Scholey(2), E.Burton(2), M.Bedford(3), H.Masey o'neil(4)

(1)Nottingham Trent University, Farnsfield, United Kingdom

(2)Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom

(3)A.B.Vista, Marlborough, United Kingdom

(4)A.B.Vista, Nottingham, United Kingdom

* Corresponding author: alexandra.desbruslais@ntu.ac.uk

Efficacy of a combined Xylanase and xylo-oligosaccharide in supporting the performance of broilers
Introduction

The mode of action for exogenous xylanase (Xyl) has been debated widely, with a general consensus that Xyl aids the degradation of non-starch polysaccharides present in viscous grains, thus increasing diffusion of nutrients in the intestine. Recently it has been suggested that Xyl may also have beneficial effects on the gut's microbiome due to provision of xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) as a nutrient source for microbiota. This study looked at the effect of a combined xylanase and XOS product on digesta viscosity and the performance of broilers to 35 days.

Materials and Methods 240 Ross 308 male, day-old broilers housed in 48 pens, 5 birds per pen, and 16 replicates per treatment for 35 days. Birds were randomly assigned to one of 3 treatments manufactured from a wheat/soy mash basal; Control, Control +0.1g/kg Xyl and XOS, and Control +0.2g/kg Xyl and XOS. Diets were made in 3 phases, starter, d0-21 and finisher d21-28 and finisher D28-35. Birds and feed were weighed weekly to calculate body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI) andFCR. On day 35, 1 bird per pen was euthanised. Jejunal digesta supernatant was analysed for viscosityusing a cone and plate viscometer (DV Viscometer, Brookfield, USA). Data was analysed using IBM SPSSSVer 26) Significance was declared at p=>0.005

Results

There was a significant increase in BWG (p=0.002) for both treatments vs Control and a significant improvement in FCR (p=0.003) for diet C (0.2g/kg Xyl + XOS) from d0-35. Although there was no significant difference in weekly FI, from d0-35 there was a significant increase in the FI for both Xyl + XOS treatments. There was no significant difference in digesta viscosity between treatments (p=0.103).
Conclusion

Whilst the viscosity results were numerically reduced in line with Xyl supplementation, these results seem to indicate that the performance gains seen are due to more than a simple reduction in digesta viscosity. However, Xyl and XOS supplementation does effectively improve broiler performance with greater improvements with double the recommended dose.
EFFECT OF A FEED SUPPLEMENT CONTAINING BACILLUS SPP. ON PERFORMANCE, INTESTINAL MORPHOLOGY AND INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA OF BROILER CHICKENS FED DIETS WITH NORMAL OR LOW ENERGY LEVELS

E. Bonos*(1), I.Giannenas(2), E.Sidiropoulou(2), I.Stylianaki(2), G.Filioussis(2), A.Tzora(3), I.Skoufos(3), F.Barbe(4), V.Demey(4), E.Christaki(2)

(1) School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, Kostakioi artas, Greece

(2) School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

(3) School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, Arta, Greece

(4) Lallemand SAS, Blagnac, France

* Corresponding author: eleftherios.bonos@gmail.com

In recent years, numerous new feed additives are examined in broiler nutrition to support their health and welfare and to enhance their performance. The main aim of this study was to test the efficacy of a new probiotic Bacillus strain on broilers performance, intestinal morphology and intestinal microbiota. A second objective was to test the possible energy sparing effect of this probiotic.

640 day-old male chicks (Ross-308) were allocated into 4 equal treatments with 10 replicates each (16 chicks per cage). The L1 (control) treatment was fed the basal diets (starter 1-10 d, grower 11-24 d, and finisher 25-35 d). The L2 treatment was fed diets containing 4% lower Metabolisable Energy, compared to the control. The L3 and L4 treatments were fed the diets of the 1st and 2nd treatment, respectively, further supplemented with a novel probiotic strain of Bacillus spp (1x10^9 CFU/kg feed). All diets were provided ad libitum in mash form. Weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI) and FCR were evaluated on days 10, 24 and 35. Intestinal morphometric analysis (villus height (VH), crypt depth (CD) and goblet cells) and microbiological analysis (conventional and RNA methods) were performed in samples collected on day 35. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA (probiotic x feed energy level) at 0.05 significance level.

For the overall experimental period, lower dietary energy decreased the final body weight and WG (P=0.002), but did not affect FI and FCR. The probiotic supplementation increased the final weight and WG (P=0.003), decreased FCR (P=0.002) but did not affect FI. Intestinal morphology was affected by both the probiotic supplementation (P<0.001 for VH/CD ratio), and energy level of the feed (P<0.001 for ileum VH and villus goblet cells). Probiotic supplementation resulted in higher ileum and cecum Lactobacillus (P<0.001) and Bacillus (P<0.001) counts and lower cecum E. Coli (P<0.001), while lower dietary energy increased cecum C. perfringens (P=0.023). Significant interaction between probiotic supplementation and energy level was noted for FI (P=0.026), FCR (P=0.016), intestinal morphology (P≤0.001) and microbiological analyses (P<0.05), showing that this probiotic was able to reduce the negative effects induced by lower dietary energy.

The results of the trial showed that probiotic supplementation can support growth performance, provide an energy sparing effect, and improve intestinal health status of broilers.
DRIED BOVINE COLOSTRUM POWDER DECREASES MORTALITY IN BROILER CHICKENS

A. Pastor\*(1), R.Santos(2), M.Schwartz(3), M.Münnich(1), L.Star(2)

(1)Phytobiotics Futterzusatzstoffe GmbH, Eltville, Germany

(2)Schothorst Feed Research B.V., Lelystad, Netherlands

(3)Schwartz Consulting Services, Loiusburg, United States

* Corresponding author: a.pastor@phytobiotics.com

In broiler production, the first week of life is a relevant period and the foundation for a successful grow
out period. Therefore, supporting chicks in the first days of life have long-lasting positive effects.

Bovine colostrum offers immunoglobulins which may provide cross protection against different agents that share the same neutralizing sites, even when used in a different species. Additionally, colostrum contains growth factors and various immune factors, which might further add to a beneficial use in poultry. A previous study indicated that feeding bovine colostrum to broiler chickens improved growth performance and immune responses (Qureshi et al., 2004).

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of bovine colostrum on zootechnical parameters in broiler chickens in two different studies.

Experiment I used 320 male Ross 308 broiler chickens for a trial duration of 35 days. Birds were kept in floor pens and received ad libitum access to feed and water. Feed was based on corn, soybean meal, and wheat. Chicks were randomly distributed to two treatments (8 replicates): NC-I: Negative Control (basal diet, no supplements); C-I: Colostrum (1.125 mg Immune Milk / ml water; applied from d 0 - 7). Colostrum was offered in bell drinkers (500 ml colostrum / water mix) for the first four hours after a dark period.

Experiment II used 288 off-sex male Cobb 500 broiler chickens for a trial duration of 35 days. Birds were kept in battery cages. Feed was based on corn and soybean meal. Birds were picked up directly at the hatchery and were randomly distributed to two treatments (8 replicates): NC-II: Negative Control; C-II: Colostrum (337.5 mg Immune Milk / chick; gavaged once at the hatchery). Afterwards, allbirds were denied access to feed and water for 24 hours to mimic transport stress.

In both studies, final body weight was numerically higher in colostrum supplemented birds (2634 and 2654 g; 1502 and 1563 g, respectively; p > 0.05). Furthermore, numerically decreased mortality was observed in both trials for the overall period (2.5 and 0.625 %; 7.86 and 1.39 %, respectively; p > 0.05). No effects were seen on FCR or feed intake. The results of the studies indicate that providing chicks at an early age with colostrum can have positive effects on the overall grow out period, despite different genetics, husbandry, or feed composition.

Qureshi, M.A. et al. (2004): Immunmilk feeding increases growth and immune responses in broiler chickens. Int. J. Poult. Sci. 3: 305-312.
# THE EFFECTS OF A GEL CARRIER CONTAINING MICROALGAE AND A PROBIOTIC ON THE EFFICIENCY OF COCCIDIA VACCINATION IN BROILERS

M. Frisch\*(1), A.Schlagheck(2), B.Keimer(2), J.Millecam(3)

(1)Biochem Zusatzstoffe Handels- u. Produktionsgesellschaft mbH, Lohne, Germany

(2)Biochem Zusatzstoffe GmbH, Lohne, Germany

(3)Poulpharm BVBA, Izegem, Belgium

\* Corresponding author: mfrisch@biochem.net

## Objective

The discussed ban of coccidiostats and arising resistances increase the necessity for more frequent and efficient application of coccidia vaccines. The objective of the study was to investigate the efficiency of a patented gel carrier containing microalgae in combination with a probiotic as a suitable carrier for coccidia vaccines applied in the hatchery.

## Material and methods

In this floor-pen trial, 552 day-old chicks (ROSS 308) were randomly allocated to 3 treatment groups (n=8; 23 chicks per pen, ♂). Chicks in control group (CON) received no coccidia vaccination (CV), whereby the other groups received a commercial CV (Huveguard MMAT) at d1 either sprayed on feed (FEED) or via gel application (GEL) using microalgae-based gel (HatchGel® SP, Biochem) and including a probiotic product (B.I.O.Sol, Biochem). The gel was dropped on chicks while still in crates before placing in pens to simulate hatchery application. In GEL the probiotic was additionally supplemented via water from d1 to d3. All treatment groups were fed a commercial broiler diet free of coccidiostats. Fecal samples were pooled penwise from d5 to d9 for counting of oocysts per gram feces (OPG). On d7, fecal samples of 4 animals per pen were collected and OPG was counted individually (n=32). Data was analyzed with R-software. Differences in species specific and total OPG were analyzed with linear regression models with group as fixed effect. In case oocyst counts were low or absent, differences were not statistically analyzed. To evaluate uniformity of oocyst shedding, percentage of birds shedding per group was studied using a logistic regression model with group as categorical fixed effect. Differences at P<0.05 were considered as significant.

## Results

In CON no marked shedding of oocysts was observed from d5 to d9, whereby in FEED and GEL significant numbers of oocysts were counted compared to CON (P<0.01). Furthermore, a higher total and species-specific OPG from d5 to d9 and a one-day earlier peak in shedding was observed in GEL compared to FEED. Percentage of birds shedding oocysts tended to be higher in GEL compared to FEED on d7 (78.1% vs. 56.3%, P=0.066).

## Conclusion

Vaccination was successful and oocysts were shed from d5 to d9 after vaccination. Although differences in amount of oocyst shedding and percentage of birds shedding were not significant, the GEL group did have a higher OPG count and a higher percentage of shedding birds indicating a higher success rate of vaccination.
EFFECTS OF SELECTED HERBS AND A NATURAL FLAVORING COMPOUND IN FEED ON BROILER
PERFORMANCE, BREAST MEAT YIELD AND QUALITY UNDER MILD HEAT STRES CONDITIONS

K. Kjeldsen*(1), K. Männer(2)

(1)R2 Agro. A company producing animal feed and feed supplements, Hedensted, Denmark

(2)Institute of Animal Nutrition, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany

* Corresponding author: kck@r2agro.com

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of selected herbs in combination with a natural
flavouring compound on broiler growth performance, breast meat quality and breast meat yield under
mild heat stress conditions. A total of 315 one-day old Cobb 500 male broiler chickens were randomly
assigned to three treatment groups with seven replicates: control (T1 no supplementation), T2 (300
ppm herbal premix supplementation) and T3 (600 ppm herbal premix supplementation). The feed was
of standard composition and identical for all three groups besides the addition of herbal premix. The
herbal premix consisted of: 18% grape pulp (Vitis vinifera); 75% rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus),
fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum), olive leaves (Olea europaea) and quillaja bark
(Quillajaceae); 2.5% natural flavouring compound and a carrier. From day 21 to 35, room temperature
was 28°C to induce mild heat stress in broilers. Body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio
were determined between day 1-14 (starter feed) and day 15-35 (grower feed), and also for each 7-
day period. Data were analysed using the software package SPSS (IBM SPSS Version 25) based on
Oneway Anova. Body weight gain on d 14 was significant (p
EFFECT OF THE COMBINED USE OF A MIXTURE OF AROMATIC PLANTS, ESSENTIAL OILS AND TRIBUTYRIN ON BROILER CHICKENS' PERFORMANCE AND GUT MICROFLORA

A. Tzora*(1), K.Fotou(1), A.Karamoutsios(1), S.Skoufos(1), C.Voidarou(1), E.Bonos(1), A.Tsinas(1), E.Christaki(2), I.Giannenas(2), I.Skoufos(1)

(1) School of Agriculture, University of Ioannina, Arta, Greece

(2) School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

* Corresponding author: tzora@uoi.gr

Nowadays, a main effort of the animal nutrition science is to support high levels of animal health and performance with limited use of therapeutics. In this effort, the management of intestinal microflora plays a significant role.

In this 37 days trial, a total of 360 one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross-308) were randomly allocated to 4 groups with 6 replicates (of 15 chicks), all housed in floor pens with rice hulls litter. Commercial breeding, management and vaccinations procedures were employed. Group A (Control) was fed basal diets (based on maize and soybean meal) in mash form, which did not contain anticoccidials or antibiotics. The diets of the other groups were further supplemented: Group B with a mixture of dried aromatic plants and essential oils (3 g/kg); Group C with a premix containing tributyrin (1 g/kg); Group D with the mixture of dried aromatic plants and essential oils (3 g/kg) and the tributyrin premix (1 g/kg). Intestinal samples from the jejunum and caecum (N=96) were collected at slaughter to evaluate microbial counts. Appropriate agars were used for the isolation, enumeration and identification of total aerobes and total anaerobes, Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, Lactobacilli and Clostridium perfringens. Identification of all bacterial isolates was performed by MALDI-TOF Biotyper (Bruker Daltonics). Data were analyzed with the ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis methods, using SPSS v20 software. The combined use of the feed additives (group D) resulted in improved (PE. coli (5.22 vs 3.53 log CFU/g) and Enterobacteriaceae (5.42 vs 3.83 log CFU/g), compared to the control, whereas groups B, C and D had lower (PC. perfringens counts compared to the control (2.56; 2.47; 2.30 vs 2.88 log CFU/g). In the ceca, group D, compared to the groups A, B and C, had lower (PE. coli (6.18 vs 7.44; 7.17; 7.43 log CFU/g), Enterobacteriaceae (6.53 vs 7.56; 7.29; 7.66 log CFU/g) and C. perfringens (3.77 vs 4.87; 4.82; 5.37 log CFU/g), while group D, compared to group B, had lower (P

Based on these findings, the combined use of the two feed additives had the best results in improving broiler performance and lowering intestinal populations of potentially harmful bacteria.

Acknowledgments: The project/research is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Operational Program "Epirus 2014-2020", NSRF 2014-2020. Project Code: ΗΠ1ΑΒ-0028192. Acronym: Innochicken
THE IMPACT OF THE LENGTH OF THE COLLECTION PERIOD ON THE ESTIMATE OF DIETARY METABOLISABLE ENERGY IN BROILERS

A. Simic*(1), G.González-ortiz(2), S.Mansbridge(3), P.Rose(3), M.Bedford(2), V.Pirgozliev(3)

(1)Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(2) Ab Vista, Marlborough, United Kingdom

(3) Harper Adams University, Edgmond, United Kingdom

* Corresponding author: 19302800@live.harper.ac.uk

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of three collection periods (24, 48 and 96h) on apparent metabolisable energy (AME) implementing the total collection technique when using two dietary treatments with different energy density fed to female and male chicks. A high energy diet containing 539 g/kg of maize and 387 g/kg soybean as the major ingredients was prepared alongside a low energy diet where 50 g/kg wheat bran was substituted for maize. The diets were fed as pellets and did not contain any coccidiostat, antimicrobial growth promoters or prophylactic additives. Six-hundred-forty Ross 308 (50% females and 50% males) were obtained from a commercial hatchery, allocated to 32 floor pens, 16 pens females and 16 pens males, and were fed the experimental diets following randomisation. At 7d age, 5 birds from each pen were chosen by random and allocated to 32 raised floor pens and fed the same diets. The birds were fed the experimental diets for 7 days prior to their allocated collection periods of 24, 48 or 96 hours. Water and food were supplied ad libitum throughout the study. At the start of the collection period, birds were 8 d age and all excreta were collected daily for 24, 48 or for 96h, respectively, immediately dried at 60°C and then milled. Feed intakes were also measured for the same period as excreta collection. Data were statistically analysed by ANOVA using a 3 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. The main effects were the collection period, the diet and the sex of the birds. The AME values for 24h collection period were higher (P0.05) as the 48h collection period (12.14 vs 11.96 MJ/kg), and there was no difference (P>0.05) between 48h and 96h collection periods. There was a difference in daily feed intake (FI) (P0.05). There were no interactions (P>0.05) between the length of the collection, dietary energy content and the sex of the birds. The results demonstrated that the length of the collection period has an impact on the estimate of dietary AME values.
THE EFFECT OF DIETARY FIBRE AND SUPPLEMENTARY XYLANASE ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE VARIABLES AND GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT DEVELOPMENT IN MALE AND FEMALE BROILERS

A. Simic*(1), G.González-ortiz(2), S.Mansbridge(3), P.Rose(3), M.Bedford(2), V.Pirgozliev(3)

(1)Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(2) Ab Vista, Marlborough, United Kingdom

(3) Harper Adams University, Edgmond, United Kingdom

* Corresponding author: 19302800@live.harper.ac.uk

With the increased scarcity of grain cereals, the poultry industry may be required in the future to use an increasing amount of cereal by-products in their feed formulations. A study was conducted to investigate the response of male and female Ross 308 broiler chicks on feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and gastrointestinal tract development (GIT%) as per cent of body weight (BW) fed two levels of dietary fibre, with and without xylanase (XT; ABVista, UK). A positive control (PC) contained 539 g/kg maize and 387 g/kg soybean meal as the main ingredients, and with a calculated 12.59 MJ/kg AME, 228 g/kg CP and 26.1 g/kg fibre content were mixed. The negative control (NC) contained 50 g/kg wheat bran at the expense of maize; and with a calculated 12.28 MJ/kg AME, 232 g/kg CP and 28.5 g/kg fibre content. Both PC and NC were then further split into two and one part was supplemented with xylanase (16000 BXU/kg XT), resulting in 4 diets, or 8 treatments in total including 4 diets and 2 sexes. Each diet was fed to 12 floor pens, 20 birds in each, from day old to 21d age following randomisation. Room temperature and lighting regime met commercial recommendations (Aviagen Ltd, Edinburgh, UK). At day 21, a bird from each pen was dissected and the GIT development was assessed. Data were analysed by ANOVA following 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design (including 2 fibre levels, with and without enzyme, and two sexes). Overall, feeding NC reduced final weight gain (Pvs 1891g) and male birds were heavier than females (Pvs 34.9 g/b/d). Male birds ate more feed (Pvs 55.7 g/b/d) and grew faster (Pvs 52.0 g/b/d) compared to females. There was fibre by xylanase interaction (Pvs 1.411), but not the low fibre diet (1.379 vs 1.348). Female birds had a relatively heavier pancreas and spleen (as % of the body weight) compared to males (P vs 0.34 and 0.09 vs 0.07, respectively), although no differences in the overall GIT% was observed between treatments (P>0.05). This experiment has confirmed the expected growth performance effects of diets that differ in fibre contents and xylanase supplementation when fed to male and female birds at this age. The results support the view that feeding xylanase in high fibre poultry diets is a tool to improve feed efficiency in broilers.
RESIN ACID CONTAINING TALL OIL FATTY ACID REDUCED MORTALITY AND OOCYST SHEDDING IN BROILERS CHALLENGED WITH EIMERIA

E. Valkonen*(1), G.Sanson(2), H.Kettunen(1), J.Vuorenmaa(1)

(1)Hankkija Oy, Hyvinkää, Finland

(2)Felleskjøpet Fôrutvikling, Trondheim, Norway

* Corresponding author: eija.valkonen@hankkija.fi

Resin acids have well documented anti-inflammatory and tissue healing effects. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of resin acid composition (RAC), containing bioactive resin acids and free fatty acids from coniferous trees, on broiler health and performance under an Eimeria challenge. A total of 1760 Ross 308 one-day-old chicken were housed in a trial facility. The birds received one of the 2 dietary treatments during the 30 days experiment: control (CTRL), or RAC supplemented diet (1.5 g RAC/kg of feed) (RAC). There were in total 11 pens in each treatment; 3 pens of females, 3 pens of males and 5 pens with 50% of each sex. Each pen housed 80 chicken. The pens were divided in 3 rooms, sexes and dietary treatments were balanced within the rooms. On day 16 all chicks were challenged with a 10-fold dose (0,25 ccm/chick) of Eimeria vaccine (Huveguard, Huvepharma, Belgium). Growth, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded per pen, and shedding of Eimeria oocysts (OPG) at days 7, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 28 per dietary treatment. The results were subjected to ANOVA or when response variables were not normally distributed, to two-sided X2-test with R software (R i386 3.6.1).

In both treatments there were no oocysts found in excreta samples taken at day 7, 14 or 20. At d21, total oocyst counts were high (> 600 000 OPG) in both treatments, but 10% lower in treatment RAC than in CTRL. Furthermore, RAC gave better reduction of OPG from d21 to d23 compared to CTRL (-86% vs. -60%), and from d21 to d28 (-50% vs. -37%). The birds receiving RAC diet had a lower mortality in comparison to CTRL (2-sided X2-test, p<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences between the diets in growth or FCR.

In current trial, RAC gave protection against the Eimeria challenge when compared to the control, denoted by the lower mortality and improved reduction of OPG. RAC seems to be a useful tool in supporting gut health and performance in coccidiostat-free broiler production.
ID: 412

EFFECT OF PHYTASE ENZYME LEVEL AND SOURCE ON BROILER PERFORMANCE AND TIBIA ASH FROM 1 TO 21 DAYS

W. Pacheco\*(1), M.Rueda(1), M.Jackson(2), O.Gutierrez(2)

Diets fed to broilers are mainly composed of corn and SBM in which phosphorus is partially unavailable in a phytate form. Phytases breakdown the phytate molecule, which reduces feed costs and phosphorus excretion. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of phytase source and inclusion level on broiler performance, breaking streight, and tibia ash from 1 to 21 d. The treatments consisted of a combination of two phytase sources (coated - Optiphos and uncoated- Optiphos+, which is a new intrinsically heat stable form of Optiphos), positive control (PC), negative control (NC), and NC + 0, 250, 500, 1000 or 1500 FTU kg-1of phytase. The positive control (PC) was formulated to contain 1.00% calcium and 0.40% available phosphorus and the negative control (NC) was formulated to contain 0.80% calcium and 0.20% available phosphorus. A total of 640-day-old male broilers were placed in battery cages and randomly distributed among 10 treatments with 8 replicates per treatment and 8 birds/cage. Feed intake and BW were determined at 7, 14 and 21 d and FCR adjusted by adding the weight of the mortality to the BW of live birds. On d 21, 3 birds per cage were euthanized by CO2asphyxiation and used to evaluate bone breaking strength and tibia ash. The left tibia was removed and cleaned for bone breaking strength measurement using an Instron texture analyzer. Bones were ashed to measure tibia ash content. Data were statistically evaluated using ANOVA procedure and means were separated by Tukey's HSD test. Broilers fed the NC without phytase had the lowest (845 g; P < 0.05) BW and lowest feed intake (991 g; P < 0.05) at 21 d. However, the addition of coated and uncoated phytase enzymes to the NC from 250 to 1500 FTU linearly increased BW at 21 d of age. Birds fed diets with 1500 FTU of coated phytase and 500 FTU of uncoated phytase had higher feed intake than the NC (1,071 and 1,099 g vs. 991 g; P < 0.05), but similar feed intake than the PC (1,071 and 1,099 g vs. 1,087 g; P > 0.05). Broilers fed the NC had the lowest (29.42%; P < 0.05) tibia ash and bone breaking strength (20.09 N; P < 0.05). The addition of either coated or uncoated enzyme linearly increased tibia ash and bone breaking strength of broilers, when diets were deficient in available phosphorus. Compared to the coated product across all levels, uncoated Optiphos+yielded improved 21-day BW (942 vs. 892 g; P < 0.05), FCR (1.205 vs. 1.231 g:g; P < 0.05), tibia ash (36.02 vs. 34.22%; P < 0.05) and bone breaking strength (33.70 vs. 29.92 N; P < 0.05). The results of this experiment indicated that phytase source and level have an impact on broiler performance and bone characteristics from 1 to 21 d of age.

<footnote>(1) Auburn University, Auburn, United States</footnote>

<footnote>(2) Huvepharma Inc., Peachtree city, United States</footnote>

<footnote>* Corresponding author: wjp0010@auburn.edu</footnote>
# A SURVEY OF LIMESTONE QUALITY FROM THE EUROPEAN CONTINENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR BROILER AND LAYER NUTRITION

P. Plumstead*(1), R.Angel(2), M.Sinclair-black(3), L.Marchal(4), A.Debicki-garnier(4)

(1)Chemunique PTY LTD, Randburg, South Africa

(2) University of Maryland, College park, United States

(3) University of Pretoria, Randburg, South Africa

(4) DuPont Nutrition and Biosciences, Leiden, Netherlands

* Corresponding author: peter@chemunique.co.za

Limestone (LS) is the main source of Ca in feeds for broilers and laying hens, contributing of more than 50% and 90% of dietary Ca respectively. In recent years, several research groups have shown digestibility of Ca to vary dramatically depending on the solubility and particle size of the LS. In the light of this recent research, our objective was to conduct a survey of LS used in European feed mills to better understand the variation in LS quality used commercially. A total of 255 LS samples were collected from feed mills in 16 countries on the European continent. Of these, 192 samples were fine LS with an average geometric mean diameter (GMD) of 1000 µm. All samples were analysed for moisture, and 9 minerals (Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, P, K, Na, Zn). LS particle size was determined on a 100g sample using a set of 14 sieves plus the base pan and GMD of LS particles by mass (dgw) calculated. Solubility of LS was determined in duplicate using the dynamic solubility assay recently published by Kim et al., (2019). For fine LS, solubility was determined at 5, 15, and 30 minutes and LS grit at 30, 90, and 150 minutes. Analyzed Ca was 37.82 +/- 1.93% and 38.26 +/- 1.27 for fine and grit LS, respectively. The average GMD of fine LS was 248 µm, +/- 223 µm with a CV of almost 90%. Over 48% of the fine LS had a GMD below 150 µm, and 30% below 100 µm, reflecting the fine nature of LS used in Industry. LS grit had an average GMD of 1797 µm +/- 478 µm. There was a significant correlation between GMD particle size and solubility of the fine LS at 5 minutes and grit LS at 30 min. However, GMD particle size could not explain all of the observed variation in solubility at the first time-point. For example, two LS from Ukraine and Poland with GMD of 299 and 285 µm had solubility at 5 minutes of 87% and 45%, respectively. In a similar manner, two LS samples from different quarries in Germany had GMD particle sizes of 46 µm and 250 µm but both reached 94% solubility at 5 minutes. Similarly, LS grit samples from Germany and Turkey had respective GMD particle size of 2523 µm and 2587 µm, solubilizing to 73% and 42% at 30 minutes. This suggests that in addition to particle size, geology of LS rock can alter the rate of solubility. The large variation in solubility of LS used in Europe should be considered when selecting LS for broilers and layers since this can potentially alter Ca and P digestibility, and phytase efficacy.
ID: 451

# EFFECTS OF DIETARY FRESH LEMON ON THE PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE, EGG QUALITY, SERUM PARAMETERS AND IMMUNE STATUS OF JINGFEN LAYING HENS DURING THE LATE LAYING PERIOD

Y. Wan\*(1), R.Ma(1), Y.Li(1), W.Liu(1), J.Li(1), K.Zhan(1)

(1)Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agriculture Science, Hefei, China

* Corresponding author: eternalwan@163.com

## INTRODUCTION

The prolonged use of antibiotics may lead to the development of bacteria resistant to drugs, which can be transferred to humans; thus, alternate approaches to replace antibiotics in poultry production are urgently needed. Lemon (Citrus limon L.), the third most important Citrus species, is rich in phenolic compounds as well as vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids and are beneficial to the health of animals. Although the composition and byproducts of lemon have been reported to have potential uses in animal feed, few studies have investigated the use of fresh lemon (FM) as an additive in poultry feed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary fresh lemon, citric acid (CA) and flavomycin (FLA) on the Jingfen laying hens from 79 to 96 weeks of age.

## MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female Jingfen chickens (n=540) were randomly distributed into the following 5 dietary treatments with 36 replications of 3 birds raised in cages: 0 (control), 20 (2%), and 40 g/kg (4%) FM, citric acid (CA) and flavomycin (FLA). Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed to egg ratio (FER) were recorded daily. Body weight, shank length, shank girth and egg quality traits were measured biweekly. Serum biochemical indices and antibody titers were detected every 4 weeks from 84 to 96 weeks of age. The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model (GLM) in SAS version 9.3. Tukey's multiple comparison was used to test the significance of the differences between treatment means; significance was declared at P < 0.05.

## RESULTS

Compared with the control diet, the 2% FM, 4% FM, CA and FLA diets increased the laying rate (P<0.05). FM and CA improved antioxidant enzyme activities (P<0.05) and reduced serum HDL and LDL concentrations. Serum TG and T-CH concentrations were lower in all treatment groups than in the control group, indicating favorable effects on lipid metabolism. Antibody titers against H5N1, H9N2 and NDV were higher in the 2% FM and 4% FM treatment groups than in the control group during most experimental periods (P<0.05), while the effect of CA and FLA on the immune performance of chickens was weak.

## CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, FM enhanced the immune and antioxidative status of laying hens during the late laying period and improved their production performance and albumen quality; thus, FM can be used as a new feed additive and as a potential substitute for organic acid and antibiotics during the late laying period.
GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF JAPANESE QUAILS FED DIETS CONTAINING VARYING INCLUSION LEVELS OF GINGER WASTE MEAL (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE) AS A PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR MAIZE

A. Ijaiya*(1), M.Kareem(1), M.Moses(1), M.Asoloko(1), J.Yahaya(1), S.Adio(1)

(1)Federal University of Technology Minna, Minna, Nigeria

* Corresponding author: atijaiya@futminna.edu.ng

A study was carried out to investigate the growth performance, nutrients digestibility and carcass characteristics of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) as responses to varying inclusion levels of ginger (Zingiber officinale) waste meal as partial replacement for maize in their diets. 288 two weeks old mixed sexes Japanese quails were purchased from National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom, Jos, Plateau State Nigeria with average initial weight of 30.88 g. They were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments in which ginger waste meal replaced maize at 0, 10, 20 and 30 % designated as T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively, in a completely randomized design experiment. Each treatment had four replicates with 18 birds/replicate, feed and water were given ad libitum. The parameters measured included initial weight, average feed intake, average weight gain, final weight, feed conversion ratio, nutrients digestibility and carcass characteristics. All data generated were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS 2017 and where differences occurred, Duncan Multiple Range Test was used to separate the means. The results showed that there were no significant (p>0.05) differences in all the parameters measured except in average feed intake, crude fibre and nitrogen free extracts digestibilities where significant (p<0.05) differences were observed across treatment groups. Japanese quails on 30 % inclusion level had the highest value for average feed intake, crude fibre and nitrogen free extract digestibilities. Therefore, it was concluded that dietary maize could be replaced with ginger waste meal up to 30 % in the diets of growing Japanese quails without adversely affecting growth performance, nutrients digestibility and carcass yield.
EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF LIVE YEAST ON BROILERS PERFORMANCES IN DIFFERENT CONDITIONS:
A MULTI-ANALYSIS

V. Demey*(1), J.Soula(1), A.Saxy(1)

(1)Lallemand SAS, Blagnac, France

* Corresponding author: vdemey@lallemand.com

The use of live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 (LY) to improve performances of broiler chickens has been documented in several environments: well controlled research institutes trials as well as field evaluation. The objective of this multi-analysis is to combine the results of all these trials and evaluate the overall effect of the supplementation of LY on broilers performance. A total of 24 trials were included in this analysis: 12 institute and 12 field studies. In all trials, a Control group (receiving a standard broiler feed (NC)) was contemporaneous compared to a probiotic group receiving the same Control diet supplemented with 1x10<sup>9</sup> CFU/kg feed of LY. In 6 different trials, animals from control and treated groups were submitted to a challenge with micro-organism(s) commonly encountered in poultry production. To allow comparison between different experimental conditions the performance results of each trial were expressed as % of the corresponding genetic standard values (Cobb or Ross as applicable) at the appropriate age. Growth performances of each replicate were recorded (final body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and mortality). Average trial data were analysed using a Mixed Model with treatment as fixed effect and study as a random effect. The trial was the experimental unit. Overall results (n=24) show that the addition of the LY to the feed significantly increased growth performances: +1.75% final BW (P<0.05). FCR improved by 4 points. Mortality was reduced in LY group by -18.7%, compared to NC. When a challenge was applied to the animals (n=6), the differences between NC and LY were even more pronounced (+6% BW, -7points of FCR and -42% mortality rate). From the results of this multi-analysis, it can be concluded that the addition of the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 to broiler chickens feed is beneficially affecting their growth performances.
APPLICATION OF PHYTOGENIC FOR SUSTAINABLE EGG PRODUCTION IN LAYING HENS DURING THE LATE LAYING PERIOD

A. Abdel-wareth\*(1)

(1)Department of Animal and Poultry Production, Faculty of Agriculture, South Valley University,, Qena, Egypt

\* Corresponding author: a.wareth@agr.svu.edu.eg

Improved chickens performance and sustainable egg production can be accomplished by phytogenic as feed supplements. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary Moringa oleifera leaves supplementation on laying performance, ammonia production, nutrient digestibility, egg quality, economic prospects and serum biochemical profile. A total of one hundred and fifty Bovans Brown laying hens (66-week-old), were assigned to five treatment diets including dry moringa leaves at 0, 3, 6, 9, or 12 g/kg, respectively, for 12 weeks. Each treatment had six replicate pens with five hens. All production variables were determined for each replicate. Thirsty eggs were randomly collected per treatment to determine egg quality parameters. Twelve birds from each treatment were randomly selected for serum biochemical profile. The statistical analysis was performed using a completely randomized design and orthogonal polynomial contrasts were used to determine the linear and quadratic effects of the increasing levels of inclusion. Over the course of the trial, incremental dietary moringa leaves significantly increased (P<0.001) egg weight, egg production, egg mass and feed intake from 66–70, 70–74,74–78 and 66–78 weeks of age. Moreover, feed conversion ratio was linearly improved (P<0.001) with increasing levels of moringa in laying hens diet. Concerning ammonia concentrations were (P<0.05) decreased in hens consumed diet supplemented moringa compared with control group. The inclusion of 9 g/kg moringa resulted in overall best productive performance. Eggshell thickness and Haugh unit of hens fed diets supplemented with moringa leaves were greater (P<0.01) than the control diet. Digestibility of crude protein, ether extract and crude fiber linearly increased (P<0.001) with increasing levels of supplementation. Interestingly, serum cholesterol, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, urea and creatinine linearly decreased with increasing moringa levels in the diets. The economic efficiency of hens fed diets supplemented with moringa leaves was greater (P<0.01) than that of hens fed the control diet. It can be concluded that Moringa oleifera leaves can be used as an effective feed additive to improve productive performance of laying hens during the late laying period.
EFFECTS OF ENZYME-HYDROLYZED POULTRY BY-PRODUCT MEAL ON PERFORMANCE AND BLOOD CHARACTERISTICS IN BROILER CHICKENS

J. Kim(1), M.Gwak(2), Y.Kim(1), H.Park(1), B.Kim(1), H.Park(1), G.Kim(1)

(1)Kongju National University, Yesan, South Korea

(2)SCI Inc., Chungnam, South Korea

* Corresponding author: jihyuk@kongju.ac.kr

The search for an alternative protein source has been an issue of major importance in the feed industry. Some agricultural waste or byproducts have a big potential to be used in livestock feed. As the poultry industry grows, the production of byproducts from poultry processing plants has been increasing. Although the animal protein sources have a higher protein level and balanced amino acids, the high protein content of feedstuff does not always guarantee the efficient utilization of protein in the body. There have been various methods, such as hydrolyzation, to process the poorly digested protein into a more digestible form. This study was conducted to investigate whether enzyme-hydrolyzed poultry byproduct meal (EHPBM) is more effective as a protein source than poultry byproduct meal (PBM) and soybean meal (SBM) for broiler chickens.

A group of 300 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly allocated to three treatments with five replicates (20 birds/replicate) for five weeks. The treatments were: 1) Basal diet containing soybean meal (SBM), 2) basal diet containing poultry byproduct meal (PBM), and 3) basal diet containing enzyme-hydrolyzed poultry byproduct meal (EHPBM). Feed intake and weight gain were measured every week. At day 35, a total of 75 birds were selected for blood and internal organ sampling. Duncan's Multiple Range Test was used for significant differences at the 5% level.

The EHPBM-fed group (1,853 g ± 125.60) showed the highest final body weight when compared to PBM-fed group (1,723 g ± 76.81) and SBM-fed group (1,545 g ± 62.31) (P<0.05). The feed conversion ratio of the EHPBM treatment group is considered to be effective in improving productivity when the feed conversion ratio by weight is considered. The feed conversion ratio of the EHPBM-fed group was 1.740, which was significantly higher than the PBM group (1.674) and SBM group (1.653) (P<0.05). There were no significant effects on internal organ weight, but in blood biochemical characteristic analysis, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were higher in the EHPBM group and PBM group (P<0.05), which is considered to be due to rapid growth.

In conclusion, EHPBM may partly replace conventional dietary protein sources such as soybean meal or poultry byproduct meal and can be used to improve the productivity of broilers. However, for practical uses considering economic feasibility, more studies should be conducted to identify the effective and optimum use of EHPBM.
ID: 631

EFFECT OF PROBIOTIC ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, MORPHOMETRY INTESTINAL, HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND CAECAL MICROFLORA OF GUINEA FOWL BROILERS.

D. Libanio\*(1), T. Bouassi(1), C. Kpomasse(1), C. Chrysostome(3), K. Tona(1)

(1)Centre d'Excellence Régional sur les Sciences Aviaires (CERSA) de l'Université de Lomé (Togo), Lomé, Togo

(3)Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques (FSA) de l'Université d'Abomey-Calavi (Bénin), Cotonou, Benin

\* Corresponding author: libaniod@yahoo.fr

Following the ban of antibiotics used as growth factor promoter in poultry production, several alternatives such as prebiotics and probiotics have been explored. Stabilized products of sorghum enriched with lactobacilli (SPSL): Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentatum, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Enterococcus faecium would be a justified alternative. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of SPSL on growth performance, morphometry intestinal, haematological parameters and caecal microflora of Guinea fowl. A total of 630 guinea fowl broilers with average body weight of 33.02g were assigned into 3 treatments with 6 replicates (35 birds/replicate). The 3 treatments were: 1) basal diet (T-), basal diet supplemented with TetracolivitND (antibiotic) in water at 1g per liter 5 consecutive days per month (T+) and basal diet supplemented with the SPSL at the dose of 3% (T3). During experimental period (12 weeks), feed intake, body weight and mortality were recorded weekly. At the 4, 8 and 12 weeks, 54 birds per treatment were used to collect blood samples and caecal digesta respectively for haematological and microbiological analyses. Results showed that at wk 12 the birds fed with diets containing SPSL (T3) had higher (1506±10.6) body weight, compared with birds of T+ (1401±8.36) and T- (1398±9.22), (p=0.008). At the 12 week, a significant increase was observed in T3 group (117±1.35) compared to T+ (109±1.25) and T- (106.5±2.01) in terms of small intestine length (p + (16.78±0.72) compared to T- (19.63±1.30) at 12th week. It's similar for the White blood cells where the birds in T3 (205±1.85) and T+ (206.6±3.23) recorded the lower level (p=0.0128) compare to T- (210.4±2.33) at 12th week. At the 4 weeks, total coliforms bacteria was high (p=0.0245) in the T- (6.05±0.31) and T+ (6.35±0.45) than T3 (4.09± 0.68). It's similar for the Escherichia coli were the T3 (3.26±0.59) and T+ (3.79±0.43) recorded the lower level (p=0.0481) compare to T- (5.08±0.57). It can be concluded that the SPSL has significantly improved the growth performance and health status of Guinea-fowl.

Key words: guinea fowl broilers, growth, SPSL, antibiotic, caecal microflora.
THE EFFECTS OF SOURCE, PARTICLE SIZE, AND LEVEL OF CALCIUM ON CROP- AND GIZZARD-EMPTYING RATES AND BLOOD PARAMETERS IN LAYING HENS

S. Kawakami*(1), A.Takenouchi(1), S.Miyasako(1), H.Miyake(2), J.Tachiki(2), M.Tsudzuki(1)

(1)Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-hiroshima, Japan

(2)Maruei Co., LTD., Hiroshima, Japan

* Corresponding author: skawak@hiroshima-u.ac.jp

Laying hens need to take a large amount of calcium (Ca) from feed during their egg production, it is therefore important to select appropriate feed additive as a Ca source for hens. It is believed that the retention time of ingested feed in the crop affects Ca digestion and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract of chickens, but the relationship between the retention time and the Ca sources added in the feed has not been known. The present study examined whether crop- and gizzard-emptying rates were affected by the difference of the Ca sources which are commercially available in Japan.

Fifty seven laying hens at 180 days of age were used. The hens were given free access to water and a commercial basal diet. The hens were fasted for 16 hours and then fed 9 test diets which contained the different source, particle size, and level of Ca as follows: (1) control (fed a basal diet, n = 7); (2) 1% addition of fine limestone (0.8-1.7 mm in particle size, n = 7) to the basal diet; (3) 2% addition of fine limestone (n = 6); (4) 1% addition of large limestone (1.7-4.0 mm in particle size, n = 6); (5) 2% addition of large limestone (n = 6); (6) 1% addition of fine oyster shell (1.7-4.0 in particle size, n = 6); (7) 2% addition of fine oyster shell (n = 7); (8) 1% addition of large oyster shell (4.0-7.0 mm in particle size, n = 6); (9) 2% addition of large oyster shell (n = 6). Three hours after feeding, the blood samples and total contents of the crop and gizzard were collected. Crop- and gizzard-emptying rates were calculated by the formula which is equal to dry weight of feed emptying from the crop and gizzard per dry weight of ingested feed. Plasma was used for measurement of glucose, NEFA, Ca, and inorganic phosphorus concentrations. For data comparisons, we performed one-way ANOVA, and the significance of the differences was assessed using a Tukey-Kramer test.

One-way ANOVA revealed that crop-emptying rate in the hens fed 2% large oyster shell-added feed significantly decreased as compared to that in the hen fed control feed (P < 0.01). Crop-emptying rate in the hens fed 2% large limestone-added feed tended to decrease as compared to control (P < 0.1). There were no significant differences in gizzard-emptying rate between the experimental groups. There were also no significant differences in blood parameters between the experimental groups.

These results suggest that addition of 2% large oyster shell to feed is appropriate as a Ca source for laying hens.
CASSAVA ROOT-BASED COMPOSITE MEAL IN POULTRY NUTRITION: EFFECTS OF BLENDING MATERIALS AND ENSILING PERIOD.

O. Emenalom\*(1), E.Etuk(1), U.Okehie(1), C.Agidi(1), O.Njemanze(1), C.Emmanuel(1), C.Nwadi(1), R.Iheanacho(1)

(1)Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Owerri, Nigeria

\* Corresponding author: emenalom62@gmail.com

Cassava root meal is underexploited in poultry nutrition in Nigeria because of its low protein value, dustiness and high hydrogen cyanide content. The purpose of this study was to develop a composite cassava-based meal by ensiling a blend of peeled or unpeeled cassava root meal, wet brewers' grain and palm kernel meal, and determine their proximate compositions and feeding values in broiler diets. Peeled and unpeeled cassava root meals were blended with wet brewers' grain and palm kernel meal or wet brewers' grain in a ratio of 1.0:1.5:0.5 or 1.0:1.5 and ensiled for 0, 7 and 14 days in a black polythene bag under room temperature. The sun dried composite meals were analyzed for their proximate compositions and incorporated into broiler diets at 50% replacement of maize in different experiments. The design was a complete randomized design. Protein content (DM) was 10.90–11.89, 10.54–13.03, 12.02–12.56 and 12.45–13.16% for peeled cassava-brewers’ grain, peeled cassava-brewers’ grain and palm kernel meal, unpeeled cassava-brewers’ grain, unpeeled cassava-brewers’ grain and palm kernel meal blends, respectively. Ensiling decreased the protein values for unpeeled cassava-based products but increased those of peeled cassava-based products at 14 and 7 days respectively. Gross energy value was 4672.94–4942.94, 5113.94 – 5315.64, 4562.45–4705.46 and 4948.26–5224.80kcal/kg for peeled cassava-brewers’ grain, peeled cassava-brewers’ grain and palm kernel meal, unpeeled cassava-brewers’ grain and unpeeled cassava-brewers’ grain and palm kernel meal blends, respectively. Except for the peeled cassava-brewers’ grain product, the gross energy values increased with increasing period of ensilage. The enhanced protein and energy values of the composite meals relative to cassava root meal and reduced dustiness is noteworthy. Weight gain and feed conversion ratio were similar in starter broiler chickens fed diets containing 50% peeled cassava-based products irrespective of the combinations and ensilage period. Broiler chickens fed unpeeled cassava-based product had significantly (p<0.05) lower weight gain and poorer feed conversion ratio, lower abdominal fat and drier litter moisture than the control irrespective of ensilage period. Carcass yield organ weights and mortality were unaffected. Nutritionally improved and energy rich composite meal can be prepared from a blend of cassava root meal, wet brewers' grain and palm kernel meal.
EFFECT OF MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS BASED ON SHUNGITE ON LAYING HENS.

A. Zasorin*(1), I.Nikonov*(2), E.Anchikov(3)

(1) Karelian Investment Company "RBC", Petrozavodsk, Russia

(2) Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology - MVA by K.I. Skryabin, Moscow, Russia

(3) Danzim llc., Moscow, Russia

* Corresponding author: danzim@mail.ru

INTRODUCTION.

In industrial environment birds are exposed to significant functional load, which often weakens the natural defence and negatively affects the health and growth rates. Mineral additive from shungite rock is of great interest. Fossil shungite rock is an ancient Precambrian carbonaceous formation with a specific structure, properties and high adsorption capacity. Shungite carbon has a fullerene-like structure characterized by high chemical and physico-chemical activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS.

The research was conducted on "Hisex brown" hens aged 56-64 weeks in commercial poultry farm. Mineral feed additive based on shungit was grinded with the use of innovative technologies and sort by fractions of different size. The size of particles was determined by regulatory requirements for poultry feeds. The trial used biochemical, molecular genetic and zootechnical approaches to assess the impact of feed additive based on shungite on birds condition. The total number of bacteria in the intestinal was analyzed by quantitative PCR and NGS. The effect of feed additive on the expression of productivity and resistance genes was evaluated. Mineral additive based on shungit was added into the diets in the amount of 1 kg/t of feed.

RESULTS.

The mineral feed additive based on shungite has been tested for the ability to bind mycotoxins. The true sorption of mycotoxins: aflatoxin B1- 99.8%, ochratoxin A - 99.7%, T-2 toxin - 59.6%, zearalenone - 98.7%.

It was observed an increasing production performance of laying hens with feeds supplemented with shungite in the form of grits with a particle size of 2-3 mm diameter. During the experiment the average egg production per hen increased and reached the target values. Average body weight of laying hens in the experimental group increased by 1.5%, which indicates a good physiological condition. It was observed raise in overall grade of eggs and increas of total eggmass. The yield of high grade eggs (7.6%) was significantly increased.

It was shown that the number of uncultivated bacteria throughout the entire period of growing broilers ranged from 28.9 to 48.2 %. Entering a feed additive based on shungite changes the structure of microbiota, reducing the relative numbers of uncultivated bacteria phylotypes. The number of useful cellulolytic microorganisms was rather high throughout the entire broilers rearing period. The number of lactobacilli was higher on 27% in variant with shungite compared with control.

CONCLUSION.

The use of a mineral supplement based on shungite in a preventive dose can neutralize the negative impact of mycotoxins on birds and keep their productivity at the target level. Feed additive based on shungite tested for lack of binding capacity in relation to vitamins, trace elements and amino acids in the balance trial. Thus, the feed additive based on shungite when used in poultry feeds increase productivity and has the potential to improve feed conversion ratio. It practically does not affect the metabolism of vitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
ID: 750

RESIN ACID CONTAINING TALL OIL FATTY ACID PRODUCT IMPROVED BROILER PERFORMANCE

E. Valkonen*(1), C.Picart(2), H.Kettunen(1), C.Launay(3), J.Vuorenmaa(1)

(1)Hankkija Oy, Hyvinkää, Finland

(2)Neovia, Languidic, France

(3)Neovia, Paris, France

Tall oil fatty acid, originating from coniferous trees is comprised of free long-chain fatty acids (90%) and bio-active resin acids (8.5%). In previous trials tall oil fatty acid has consistently shown positive effects on animal performance. An experiment was conducted with sodium salt of tall oil fatty acid (STOFA) to evaluate its effects on broiler health and performance under challenging housing conditions, and with or without in-feed coccidiostat (maduramicin). The experiment had 3×2 factorial design with three levels of STOFA; 0, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg feed (equating 0, 0.5, and 0.1 g of tall oil fatty acid/kg feed), and two levels of coccidiostat (maduramicin); 0 and 5 mg/kg feed.

A total of 7680 Ross 308 mixed sex one-day-old chicken were randomly allocated into 6 experimental treatments with 8 replicate pens in each treatment. In each pen maximal allowed animal density was maintained along the trial with extra fencing. The house temperature was reduced by 3 centigrade lower than the recommendation after day 2. The broilers were weighed at days 14, 20, 28 and 34. Feed intake and FCR were calculated for each period and for the entire trial period. The results were subjected to two-way ANOVA for mean effects and interaction effects with R software (R i386 3.6.1). Post-hoc comparisons were made if the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05).

Diet significantly affected the final body weight of the broilers. There was a significant interaction between the effect of coccidiostat and the effect of STOFA; STOFA improved birds body weight more in coccidiostat free diet group than in group with in-feed coccidiostat (p<0.05). Birds on coccidiostat-free STOFA diets reached similar average body weight as birds on coccidiostat diets, while birds without STOFA and in-feed coccidiostat had the lowest body weight. Dietary treatments had no statistically significant effects on feed conversion ratio.

Based on the current trial showing significantly improved final body weight, sodium salt of tall oil fatty acid with bio-active resin acids supports broiler growth performance. The effect was more pronounced in broilers on coccidiostat-free diet.

<footnote>* Corresponding author: eija.valkonen@hankkija.fi</footnote>
CITRULLUS LANATUS ESSENTIAL OILS INCLUSION IN DIETS ELICIT NUTRACEUTICAL EFFECTS ON EGG PRODUCTION, EGG QUALITY AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS IN LAYER HENS

U. Marume* (1), J. Mokagane (1), C. Shole (1), A. Hugo (3)

Use of natural feed additives such as phytogenic plants with medicinal benefits has been suggested as possible alternatives to the commercial feed additives (Karori et al., 2007; Boskurt et al., 2014; Omonijo et al., 2017). The current study evaluated the effects of C.lanatus essential oil inclusion in diet on egg production, egg quality and physiological parameters in layer hens. A total of 72 white leghorn point-of-lay hens at 18-weeks were randomly allocated to three (3) dietary treatments: 1) Commercial layer diet (control), 2) Commercial diet + 1g C. lanatus essential oil/kg feed and 3) Commercial diet + 2g C. lanatus essential oil/kg feed. Each treatment was replicated 8 times arranged in completely randomized design. The general linear statistical model (SAS, 2010) was used for analysis of variance to determine the effects of essential oil inclusion in diets on performance of the layer hens. From the results, an increase in total weight gain, average daily feed intake (ADFI) and average daily gain (ADG) was observed with inclusion of the C. lanatus essential oil. In addition, the inclusion of C. lanatus in diet improved the egg mass and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Hens fed C. lanatus containing diets had higher (P < 0.05) C. lanatus oil appeared to reduce shell weight and shell ratio, while increasing albumen height and haugh unit (HU). Diets containing C. lanatus had significantly higher (P < 0.05) total n-6 fatty acids (14.81±0.59) and also had the highest (P < 0.05) C. lanatus essential oils in diets. Moreover, tibia bone parameters were also significantly improved with inclusion of C. lanatus essential oils in diets. It can be concluded that C. lanatus essential oil positively affected egg production and quality and health of layer hens and can be used successfully as a natural feed additive in layer hens.

<footnote>(1) North West University, Mmabatho, South Africa</footnote>

<footnote>(3) University of Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa</footnote>

<footnote>* Corresponding author: upenyu.marume@nwu.ac.za</footnote>
EFFECT OF RAPESEED MEAL OR TOTAL SULFUR CONTENT IN THE DIET ON PERFORMANCE AND MINERAL METABOLISM OF THE BODY IN BROILER CHICKENS

M. Kubiś*(1), Z.Wiśniewska(1), S.Kaczmarek(1)

(1)Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznań, Poland

* Corresponding author: marta.kubis@up.poznan.pl

Studies show that in birds fed with the addition of rapeseed meal are more likely to have leg problems. Probably, this is due to the high concentration of sulphur in rape products, which in some way negatively affects the calcium economy of the body. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of total sulphur or rapeseed meal contained in feed on broilers chicken performers and Ca digestibility.

Study was conducted with 480 1 day old ROSS 308 chickens. Birds were randomly assigned to 5 dietary treatments (12 rep / 8 birds). The experiment lasted 35 days and was divided into two periods: starter (1-11d) and grower (12-35d). The first group was the control group and the main protein component was soybean meal. In the second and third group, there was addition of rapeseed meal 5 and 10% in starter diets and 10 and 20% in grower diets, respectively. In the 4th and 5th groups, the diet from the control group and the addition of sulfate ions were used so that the total sulfur content was equalized to the level from groups 2 and 3. On day 35 of the experiment, the birds were sacrificed and intestinal content and tibia bones were collected for analysis.

During the starter and grower period, both 10% addition of rapeseed meal and addition of sulfur aligned to the same level (groups 3 and 5) caused a statistically significant increase in FCR (P
The results of these studies clearly suggest that the high sulfur content (served as ions or derived from rapeseed meal) in the diet for chickens negatively affects the production results and calcium digestibility. This suggests that sulfur affects the mineral balance of the birds' body.
EFFECTS OF GUANIDINO ACETIC ACID SUPPLEMENTATION TO CORN, SOYBEAN MEAL BASED DIETS AND ENERGY LEVELS ON PERFORMANCE, INTESTINAL MORPHOLOGY AND CARCASS QUALITY OF BROILERS

N. Ceylan\*(1), S.Koca(2), N.Kahraman(2), S.Golzar adabi(3), M.Bozkurt(4), O.Kiyak(5), M.Bhaya,(6)

(1)Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey

(2) Beypiliç Broiler Company, Bolu, Turkey

(3)Huvepharma Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey

(4)Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyonkarahisar,, Turkey

(5)Evonik Turkey, İstanbul, Turkey

(6)Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey

Creatine has a key role in cellular energy metabolism and could be synthesised from Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) however, its de novo synthesis is not able to fulfil the demand of energy metabolism in modern broilers. Vegetable based broiler diets which are free of creatine should be supplemented with an exogenous source of creatine such as GAA. So, the research was carried out in Beypiliç Broiler Company in Turkey to evaluate the energy contribution of GAA (CreAMINO®, 96% GAA) in reduced energy diets on performance, intestinal development. 10260 one-day-old Ross-308 chicks were randomly allocated to 6 dietary treatments with 9 replicates. Dietary treatments were arranged as 3*2 factorial arrangement with three levels of ME (ross recomended, 50 and 100 kcal/kg reduced) and two levels of GAA supplementation (0.00 and 0.06%). Diets were based on corn, soybean meal and wheat produced as pellet form in Beypiliç Feed Mill. Feed intake(FI), body weight (BW), carcass yield and ileum morphological measurements were determined on pen basis. Statistical analysis was performedby one-way Anova for main effects and interaction, followed by Tukey's test (P

Dietary treatments showed no significant effects on FI, carcass parameters and mortality. However GAA supplementation significantly improved final BW, BWG and FCR compared to unsupplemented groups. The lowest FCR was obtained from the birds received regular( recomended by Aviagen) ME diet supplemented by GAA. BW and FCR was improved 1.63% and 1.43 respectively in the GAA supplemented treatments compared to unsupplemented.

ME level did not have significant effects on the final BW and, interestingly 50 and 100 kcal energy reduction from control diet dit not cause any significant impairment on BW, but FI and FCR were significantly increased as both reduced ME level.

There was an significant interaction effect on FCR such that within the ME levels, FCR increased in 100 kcal reduced ME treatment with GAA supplementation, while no significant change observed in treatments without GAA. The interaction effect was also found for BW where 100 kcal lower ME reduced the final BW in the treatment with GAA, while no impairment was observed in the birds received no GAA.

This results supported by ileal development as measured villus height (VH), crypt depth (CD), villus vide (VW) and villus surface area (VSA). Carcass and breast meat yield were not significantly affected by either dietary energy level or GAA supplementation.

It might be concluded that 0.06% GAA supplementation may improve BW and FCR and save 50 kcal/kg ME

<footnote>* Corresponding author: ceylan@agri.ankara.edu.tr</footnote>
EFFECTS OF ORANGE PEEL OIL AS A DIETARY SUPPLEMENT ON EGG PRODUCTION AND OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF EGG YOLK IN LAYING QUAIL

M. Çabuk\*(1), S.Eratak(2), B.Gelir(2)

(1) Manisa Celal Bayar University,, Manisa, Turkey

(2) Department of Poultry Science, Akhisar Vocational School of Celal Bayar University, Manisa-Turkey, Manisa, Turkey

\* Corresponding author: metin.cabuk@deu.edu.tr

In recent years, essential oils have been used as feed additives instead of antibiotics for poultry nutrition. Besides, the effects of essential oils on poultry products are the subject of research. In fruit juice industry, after orange fruit processing, orange peel are obtained as waste. In this way, significant amounts of orange peels are obtained each year in fruit industries throughout the world. D-limonene is one of the most common terpenes in nature and it is mostly found in the peels of orange.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary orange peel essential oil supplementation on performance and egg yolk antioxidant status in quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total of 120 twenty-week old quails were allocated randomly to 1 of 3 dietary treatments. Basal diet and basal diet supplemented with 200 or 300 mg of orange peel essential oil /kg of diet. Each treatment comprised 4 replications with 4 cages (10 quail per cage), amounting to 40 quail per treatment group. Diets (in mash form) and water were provided for ad libitum consumption. To investigate the effect of diet with orange peel essential oil on lipid oxidation of shell eggs during refrigerated storage, four eggs from each replicate collected during the last week of the feeding trial, totalling 16 eggs from each dietary treatment were placed in a refrigerated cabinet at 4 °C to be analyzed for yolk malondialdehyde content at 0, 15, 30 days of storage. Dietary supplementation of orange peel essential oil significantly increased egg production compared with control (P < 0.05). Moreover Egg production was the highest in 200 mg/kg orange peel essential oil treatment group. There were no significant differences in feed consumption between treatments, whereas feed conversion ratio was significantly improved by 200 mg/kg orange peel essential oil supplementation. There were no differences between the treatment groups with regard to egg weight. Supplementation of orange peel essential oil to diet had positive effect on oxidative stability of eggs during storage. The extent of lipid oxidation in shell eggs differed among the dietary treatments. Lipid oxidation was higher in the control group compared to other groups. The results of this study showed that supplementing the diet with orange peel essential oil have beneficial effect on egg production and feed conversion ratio. Orange peel essential oil could be considered as a potential natural feed additive in poultry diets.
RESPONSE OF EGG-TYPE PULLETS TO DIETARY INCLUSION OF HEAT TREATED GUAR SEEDS (CYAMOPSIS TETRAGONOLOBA) AS PROTEIN SOURCE FORTIFIED WITH ENZYME

M. Mahmoud\*(1), E.Elfadil(2), A.Tameemeldar(2)

(1)University of Gezira - Faculty of Animal Production, Wad medani, Sudan

(2)University of Gezira, Wad medani, Sudan

\* Corresponding author: mutaz_babiker@yahoo.com

Dietary inclusion of non-conventional feedstuffs for poultry could be used as a valuable source of
nutrients and efficient strategy to reduce the production cost. A (2 × 3) factorial arrangement was used
in a completely randomized design to study the effect of different four levels of boiled guar seeds (0,
5, 10 and 15 %) and two levels of commercial multienzyme (Natuzyme) supplementation (0 and 500
mg/kg) on egg-type pullets. A total of 240 one day-old (Hy-Line W-98) pullets were allotted to 8
treatments and each treatment was replicated three times with 10 birds each. The experimental diet
without guar and multienzyme was considered as the control treatment. The experimental diets were
iso-energetic and iso-nitrogenous to meet or exceed the requirements of pullets' growing phases
(starter, grower and developer). Feed consumption (FC), weight gain (WG), and feed conversion ratio
(FCR) were recorded weekly and at the end of each growing phase. Blood samples were collected for
determination of some constituents and hematological profile. Results showed that guar phytate and
tannin content were reduced by boiling processing. During the entire growing period, WG and FCR
were deteriorated as the dietary level of guar increased (p≤0.01). The WG and FCR were improved
when diets were supplemented with Natuzyme (p≤0.05). Feed consumption was not affected by
experimental treatments. At the end of developer period, protein, cholesterol, calcium and
phosphorus were not influenced by Natuzyme. However, cholesterol and calcium were affected by
incorporation of guar. Hematological parameters at 18 week of age were not affected by experimental
treatments The only exception was the white blood cells account which affected by dietary guar. Ages
at onset of egg were postponed as the level of guar increased. Birds fed on diets supplemented with
multienzyme had earlier age of onset of egg production. Based on the present results, it can be stated
that high levels of boiled guar in egg-type pullet diets may cause significant adverse effects on the
performance. Dietary supplementation of Natuzyme improved pullets' performance.
HYDROLYSABLE TANNINS RICH PHYTOGENIC REDUCE THE INCIDENCE OF KEEL BONE DAMAGE

M. Brus\*(1), M.Javrnik(2), N.Rokavec(3), M.Zupan šemrov(3)

(1) University of Maribor, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chair of Livestock Breeding and Nutrition, Hoče, Slovenia

(2) University of Maribor, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chair of Livestock Breeding and Nutrition, Hoče, Slovenia

(3) University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical faculty, Department of Animal Science, Domžale, Slovenia

* Corresponding author: maksimiljan.brus@um.si

Phytogenic substances rich in hydrolysable tannins reduce the incidence of keel bone damage in hens. A growing number of studies have shown the extraordinary bioactive properties of hydrolysable tannins rich extracts used in small concentrations of, which improved health status, nutritional and production efficiency in the monogastric domestic animals. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of phytogenic substances rich in hydrolysable tannins on reducing the incidence of keel bone damage in different parts of the keel bone in commercial laying hens. The hens were traditional Slovenian breeds of Prelux-G housed in a deep litter system. Animals included in the experiment, we randomly divided into two groups (n = 18 birds per group) and three pens per group. The control group (K) had a standard complete feed mixture for laying hens while the test group (HTBCO) had an additive comprise of 75% hydrolysable tannins, 15% simple sugars and encapsulated calcium butyrate (Tanin Sevnica, Slovenia). HTBCO concentration in feed was 250 g/t from week 20 to 30 and 500 g/t from week 30 until the end of breeding. The pens differ in the number (1-3) and level of the perches (one or two levels). They had 1 or 2 perches in one level or three perches in two levels, respectively, according to recommendations. In each pen 6 individually marked hens the same age was followed. During the laying period, we performed the observations from the 20th to the 34th week of age. At the end of the weeks 25th, 30th, 34th we had control day when we performed a palpation and ultrasound analysis of keel bone, egg productivity, the physical parameters of the eggs and behavior characteristics. For statistical analyses, we used SPSS 25.1 for Windows. The χ2 test we used for analyses of the effect of HTBCO on keel bone injuries incidence and the characteristic behavior traits of the hens. The t-test we used to analyses the effect of HTBCO between pens with the same furnishing type on the physical parameters of the eggs and egg productivity. Results indicated that the behavior of hens and the physical parameters of eggs were not affected by HTBCO as well as the rearing system. However, we found a significant (P
EGG PRODUCTION, EGG QUALITY AND IMMUNE STATUS OF LAYING HENS FED DIETS CONTAINING SYNTHETIC AFLATOXIN B1 AND CALCIUM BENTONITE CLAY AS A MYCOTOXIN BINDER

T. Poeikhampha\*(1), E.Khamphong(1), S.Prasongsook(1), L.Li(3), P.Ader(2)

(1) Kasetsart University, Bkk, Thailand

(2) BASF SE, Lampertheim, Germany

(3) BASF SEA Pte Ltd., Singapore, Singapore

* Corresponding author: agrtrw@ku.ac.th

Corn is a major ingredient of layer feed and may be contaminated with aflatoxins, which potentially decrease the productive performance of laying hens and can cause significant depression on immune response. This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of synthetic aflatoxin B1 and calcium bentonite clay as a mycotoxin binder in the laying hen diet on egg performance, egg quality and immune response to vaccination. A total of 90 Lohmann brown-classic hens (22 weeks old) were divided into 3 groups of 6 replications with 6 hens each. This experimental design was completely randomized design and there were 3 experimental diets: (1) Positive control diet (2) Positive control diet +200 ppb aflatoxin B1 (negative control) and (3) Positive control diet +200 ppb aflatoxin B1 and +0.25% calcium bentonite clay. All hens were vaccinated with ND and IB vaccine. At the end of the 24 weeks of feeding trial, dietary treatments did not affect the egg production, egg mass, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and IB titer of laying hens; however, aflatoxin B1 significantly decreased final body weight (P<0.05) and tended to decrease the eggshell color score (P=0.05). Moreover, the ND titer was reduced by aflatoxin B1 at 8th and 12th weeks of feeding trial (P=0.05 and <0.05; respectively). Interestingly, supplementation of 0.25% calcium bentonite clay in feed improved body weight, eggshell color and ND titer of laying hens similar to those fed the positive control diet. Supplementation of calcium bentonite clay as a mycotoxin binder improves the egg quality and immune response of laying hens without the negative effect on egg production during 24 weeks feeding trial.
EFFECTS OF POMEGRANATE SEED PULP AND SUMAC SEED POWDER ON PERFORMANCE AND SOME BLOOD INDICES IN BROILER CHICKENS

R. Vakili\*(1), J.Sedaghat jafari(1), F.Akbaroghli(2)

(1) Department of Animal Science, Kashmir Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashmir, Iran

(2) Payam Noor University, Mashhad, Iran

* Corresponding author: rezavakili2010@yahoo.com

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of medicinal plants- of pomegranate seed pulp and sumac seed powder on performance traits such as- feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, carcass and internal organs weight and blood parameters such as cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, Albumin, total protein, urea, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were performed using 280 broiler from Ross 308 bred. Treatments were including control, treatment 1, 2 and 3% of pomegranate seed pulp, treatment of 0.25, 0.5 and 1% sumac seed powder. Data were analyzed by SAS statistical software and GLM procedure. The results showed that during the whole period of growth (1-42 days), growth period (14-28 days) and the end period (28-42 days), feed intake were increased significantly in 1% sumac treatment compared to control treatment (0.05>P). The amount of weight gain during growth period was significantly different between treatments of 2% pomegranate seed pulp with 0.25% sumac powder treatment. Feed conversion ratio did not showed any significant difference between treatments (P >0.05). There was no significant difference between the treatments in relation to the oral organs (thigh, breast, wing, back and neck, gizzard, heart). The percentage of carcass was significantly higher in treatment of 1% sumac powder than other treatments (P <0.05). There was no significant difference at the percentage of weights of non-femoral internal organs (liver, spleen, pancreas, bursa, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, preventricle and abdominal fat) in experimental treatments. The amount of glucose at 0.5 and 1% sumac powder treatments were increased compared to the control treatment significantly. The total protein concentration in treatments of 0.5 and 1% sumac powder was significantly higher than 1, 2 and 3% pomegranate seed pulp Also, the amount of urea in treatments of 0.5 and 1% sumac powder was significantly different with control and 1, 2 and 3% pomegranate seed pulp (P <0.05). The treatment of 1% sumac powder showed the highest amount of urea (9.25 g/dl). In general, treatment of 1% sumac powder showed a significant effect on feed intake and carcass weight, that can be considered to future studies.
EVALUATION OF CARAWAY AND LEMON BALM WASTE ON CARCASS YIELD AND MICROBIAL POPULATION OF BROILERS

R. Vakili\*(1), H.Mirzayi(1)

(1)Department of Animal Science, Kashmir Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashmir, Iran

\* *Corresponding author:* rezavakili2010@yahoo.com

The use of antibiotic growth promoters because of the risk of bacterial resistance, as well as transfer of manufacturing products to consumers is limited. Medicinal plants with antimicrobial effects as well as decreasing serum lipids as viable alternatives to antibiotics have been proposed. In this study, 280 chicks from Ross in the form of a completely randomized design with 6 treatments and 1 control group and 4 replicates and 10 chicks were used in each iteration. The experimental diets based on corn - soybeans, according to all requirements of broilers based company advised Ross (2014) was used and herbs Lemon Balm 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 and plantain respectively values of 0.2 and 0 / 4 and 0.6 percent in the diet in the form of powder was added to the diet. Cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL serum test kits Pars Commercial and enzymatically - Kali meters were measured as well as the carcass was examined in each of the groups. The results showed that there was no significant difference between treatments on feed consumable. Body weight at 42 days was significant (0.05> P). So that the treatment Lemon Balm showed the highest body weight. FCR 42 days in between treatments was significant (0.05> P). So that the highest and lowest FCR was belonge to Lemon Balm 0.3 and plantain 0.9, respectively. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels were also affected by treatments (0.05> P). The highest and lowest amount of cholesterol in order for the treatment evidence and Lemon Balm 0.3.
# THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF POULTRY BY PRODUCT MEAL (PBPM) AND ACIDIFIER ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND BLOOD PARAMETERS IN BROILERS

R. Vakili\*(1), M.Moradipour(1), F.Akbaroghli(2)

(1) Department of Animal Science, Kashmar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashmar, Iran

(2) Payam Noor University, Mashhad, Iran

* Corresponding author: rezavakili2010@yahoo.com

A trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of poultry by product meal (PBPM) and acidifier on growth performance and blood parameters in broilers. 200, one day-old broiler chickens (Ross 308) were used in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments of 4 replicates/treatment and 10 birds/replicate. Five treatments including (control), %5 PBPM and % 0.1 acidifier, %8 PBPM and % 0.1 acidifier, %5 PBPM and % 0.2 acidifier and %8 PBPM and % 0.2 acidifier with four replicates were added to the basal diets and fed to birds for a period of 42 days. The variables measured at the end of 10, 24 and 42 days, include body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Blood samples were collected to measure blood parameters at the end of experiment. The broilers were slaughtered according to health instructions and their body quality was evaluated. The results show that increasing the levels of PBPM to the extent of %8 with %2 acidifier has no significant effect on body weight, carcass weight, feed intake and conversion ratio. Mortality in treatment without acidifiers were higher than other treatments. The effect different treatments on blood cholesterol (P=0.00) and Ca(P=0.037) was significant, but it did not on high density lipoprotein blood P and Newcastle titer significantly (P=0.05). The results of experiments showed that in broilers fed with PBPM, acidifier can on growth performance and Mortality in broilers.
EFFECT OF SODIUM BUTYRATE PROTECTED WITH SALT OF MEDIUM-CHAIN FATTY ACIDS ON GASTROINTESTINAL MICROBIOTA AND MORPHOLOGY IN BROILER CHICKENS

M. Sadurní\*(1), A.Barroeta(1), R.Sala(1), C.Sol(2), M.Puyalto(2), L.Castillejos(1)

(1)Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain

(2) Norel S.A., Madrid, Spain

\* Corresponding author: meritxell.sadurni@uab.cat

Butyric acid is associated with antimicrobial activity and plays an important role in the development of the intestinal epithelium. The use of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) as a protection for sodium butyrate may widen the spectrum of action to promote gastrointestinal health. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a protected butyrate with sodium salts of MCFA from coconut distillates (BUT+) on microbial population and morphology of jejunum and ileum in broilers at 10 and 39d of age. A total of 192 one-day-old female broilers Ross 308 were randomly distributed into 4 dietary treatments (6 cages / treatment). A basal diet (CTR) was supplemented with increasing levels of BUT+: 0.5, 1 and 2 kg/t of BUT+. Diets were provided ad libitum: a started feed until day 21 and a grower-finisher feed from day 22 to 39. Feed intake and live body weight were monitored for each period and during the whole experiment. At 10d and 39d of age, digestive content was collected to analyse microbiota population (lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and total Enterobacteriaceae (E) to calculateLAB/E ratio and total coliforms) by traditional count. To characterise histomorphometry, tissue from the posterior jejunum and the middle of ileum were removed. Ileum analysis was carried out at both ages; jejunum data were only from 39d animals. Data was analysed by one-way ANOVA. Tukey's multiple range test was performed to determine whether means were significantly different (P<0.05). There were no significant differences on performance or in ileum microbiota counts. However, in jejunum content at 39d of age, the highest dose (0.2%) tended (P=0.082) to increase Enterobacteriaceae, so that LAB/E ratio was significantly reduced in opposition to the others doses (0.05% and 0.1%) that had the highest ratio (P=0.025). Focusing on histological parameters, the supplementation of BUT+ did not modify villi high and crypt depth at any age. However, the animals receiving the highest dose of BUT+ also had higher mitosis count in jejunum than the animals that received non-supplemented diet (P=0.027). In the ileum, the highest dose of BUT+ had the lowest number of goblet cells at 10d (P=0.005) and reduced the goblet cells in comparison with BUT+ at 0.5 kg/t at 39d (P=0.025) that had the highest goblet cells counts. Results confirm the potential activity of this butyrate protected with sodium salt of MCFA on gut barrier modulating jejunum microbiota and mucus layer from ileum in 39d broilers.
A BROILER DIET OF HIGH-OLEIC PEANUTS ENHANCES THE UNSATURATED FATTY ACID PROFILE OF THE
MEAT PRODUCED

O. Toomer*(1), M.Livingston(2), T.Vu(1), B.Wall(3), E.Sanders(3), R.Malheiros(3), K.Livingston(2), L.Carvalho(3), P.Ferket(3), L.Dean(1)

(1) Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Raleigh, United States

(2) Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, United States

(3) Prestage Department of Poultry Science, Raleigh, United States

* Corresponding author: Ondulla.Toomer@ars.usda.gov

Early feeding trials using peanut meal prepared from normal-oleic peanuts helped to identify peanuts
as a suitable alternative feed ingredient for poultry. Yet, no studies to date have examined the use of
high-oleic peanuts (HO-PN) as a feed ingredient for broiler meat-type chickens. Therefore, this study
aimed to determine the effect of feeding whole unblanched HO-PN on the fatty acid profile of the meat
produced from broilers. At hatch male chicks were randomly placed in raised wire cages, in 10 replicate
pens per treatment with 10 chicks per pen, and fed with one of the 3 isocaloric, isonitrogenous diets
ad libitum for 42 days: (1) conventional control of soybean meal + corn(2) 10 to 12% HO-PN and corn
diet, or (3) control diet spiked with ≈6.0% oleic acid oil. All body weights (BW) were collected, and
broiler selection for processing was determined by individual BW within one-half a standard deviation
of the experiment 42-D mean BW, with one bird selected per pen (10 replicate pens per treatment, 3
treatments, 10 birds selected per treatment, yielding a total sample size of 30 birds). Performance was
determined weekly and breast samples were analyzed for fatty acid and amino acid profile. All data
was analyzed using analysis of variance, with t-test mean comparisons at p
< 0.05.

< 0.05. Body weights were similar between broilers fed the HO-PN and control diets, while the feed conversion ratio of broilers fed the HO-PN diet were significantly higher at week 2, 4 and 6 relative to the other treatments (p≤0.03). HO-PN broilers had reduced hot carcass and cold carcass weights, and pectoralis major breast weights relative to the other treatments. Chicken breast produced from broilers fed the HO-PN diets had significantly reduced saturated and trans-fatty acid content relative to the controls (p≤0.0002). While additional studies must be conducted, this study suggests that feeding whole unblanched high-oleic peanuts to broiler chickens may serve as a means to enrich the meat produced with unsaturated fatty acids.
ALLERGENIC PROTEINS PEANUT AND/OR SOY POULTRY FEED INGREDIENTS ARE NOT DETECTED IN THE
MEAT AND/OR EGGS PRODUCED

O. Toomer*(1), E.Sanders(2), T.Vu(1), M.Livingston(3), B.Wall(4), R.Malheiros(5), L.Carvalho(5), K.Livingston(3), P.Ferket(4), K.Anderson(4)

(1) Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Raleigh, United States

(2) Prestage Department of Poultry Science, Raleigh, United States

(3) Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, United States

(4) Prestage Department of Poultry Science, Raleigh, United States

(5) Prestage Department of Poultry Science, Box 7608, Raleigh, United States

* Corresponding author: Ondulla.Toomer@ars.usda.gov

Previous studies have demonstrated that allergenic feed proteins from peanuts in the diets of layer
hens are not detected in the eggs produced. Hence, in this study we aimed to determine if soy and/or
peanut proteins in poultry feed rations of broiler chickens or layer hens would be transferred or
detectable in the meat or eggs produced. To meet this objective, 99 layer hens and 300 broiler chickens
were equally divided into treatment groups and fed one of three experimental diets, (1) control
soybean meal and corn diet(2) whole unblanched high-oleic peanut and corn diet (HO PN), or (3) a
control diet spiked supplemented with oleic acid oil (OA). At termination, broiler chickens were
processed and chicken breast samples of the left pectoralis muscle were collected, and pooled egg
samples were collected from layers. Total protein extracts from pooled egg samples and chicken breast
samples were subjected to ELISA methods and immuno-blotting analysis with rabbit anti-peanut
agglutinin antibodies and rabbit anti-soy antibodies for detection of peanut and soy proteins. Peanut
and soy proteins were not detected in all pooled egg samples and individual chicken breast meat
samples using immuno-blotting techniques with rabbit anti-peanut agglutinin and rabbit anti-soy
antibodies. Moreover, quantitative ELISA allergen detection methods determined that all pooled egg
samples and individual meat samples as "not containing" peanut or soy allergens. Therefore, this study
helps to evaluate the risk associated with the potential transfer of allergenic proteins from animal feed
to the products produced human consumption.
STARCH DIGESTIBILITY IN BIRDS FED AMYLASE SUPPLEMENTED DIET OVER A 42-DAY STUDY

S. Kaczmarek*(1), B.Svihus(2), A.Cowieson(3), M.Hejdysz(1), M.Kubiś(1), J.Berti-sorbara(3)

(1)Poznań University of Life Sciences, Poznań, Poland

(2)Norweigan University of Life Science, Os, Norway

(3)DSM Nutritional Products, Kaiseraugust, Eswatini

The application of amylase has been driven by the idea that newly hatched chicks may be deficient in this enzyme. It could be hypothesized that exogenous amylase supplementation will improve starch digestibility in birds.

The aim of the study was to assess individual variation on starch digestibility of broiler chickens at different ages, with and without exogenous amylase supplementation.

The study was conducted with 120 day-old ROSS 308 chickens raised in individual cages. Birds were randomly and equally assigned to a control treatment (CON) and a amylase-supplemented treatment (CON+AMY). Excreta were collected individually, three times per week (16 collections in total) and at the end of the experiment (day 42nd), birds were killed and ileal digesta was collected.

Amylase supplementation increased (P<0.05) amylase activity in duodenal digesta (from 18.7 to 51.6 U/g). The CON+AMY birds were characterised by higher BWG (P<0.05) and lower FI and FCR (P<0.05).

Total tract starch digestibility was improved after amylase supplementation (P<0.05) and the average improvement was 0.88 percentage points (P<0.05). Irrespective of amylase supplementation, we found individual birds' effect (P<0.05) and age effect (P<0.05) in starch total tract digestibility. Surprisingly, total tract starch digestibility decreased, as birds got older (P<0.05). There was a tendency for that the same birds constantly (from day 7 to day 42nd) exhibited low starch digestibility and this was more obvious for unsupplemented birds (CON). Additionally, we observed lower variation in total tract starch digestibility in birds fed diets supplemented with amylase (CON+AMY).

The results of the trial, suggest that starch digestion is incomplete in birds and could be improved by amylase supplementation. Additionally, it seems that starch total tract digestibility reaches a maximum at day 10, and slowly decreases with age.

<footnote>* Corresponding author: sebastian.kaczmarek@up.poznan.pl</footnote>
FEEDING BACILLUS SUBTILISQST713 COULD BE AN EFFECTIVE ANTIBIOTIC ALTERNATE GROWTH PROMOTER FOR BROILER CHICKEN: AN INDIAN CONTEXT STUDY

J. Rokade\*(1), G.M(2), V.Saxena(1), S.Tomar(1), S.Saran(1), C.Ghotekar(3), C.Prajapati(1)

(1)ICAR-CENTRAL AVIAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE, Bareilly, India

(2)ICAR- Central Avian Research Institute, Bareilly, India

(3)Bayer Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, Bareilly, India

* Corresponding author: jaydeepvet@gmail.com

The use of antibiotics as growth promoters is one of the major concerns for the Indian poultry industry. Accordingly, the purpose of the experiments was to evaluate the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis QST713 (Grobig® BS) as a growth promoter in comparison to two conventional antibiotic agents. The effect on performance, gut health, and immunity in broilers were studied. A total of 400 chicks were randomly divided into four groups of four replicates with each having twenty-five birds. Four treatments are respectively T1 (Basal diet), T2 (Bacillus subtilis QST713 1×10¹⁰ CFU/g @ 50g/ton), T3 (Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate @250g/ton), T4 (EnramycinHCl @63g/ton). During the first three-week weekly weight gain of the probiotic (T2) group was less than the antibiotic (T4) group but at the end of the sixth week, the bodyweight of T2 was significantly higher than the other groups. The T2 group had the highest weight 1855.20±18.36 g compare to control (1633.46±11.93g) and antibiotic T3 (1710.09±2.36g) as well as T4 (1686.56±10.57g) group. The feed efficiency in Bacillus subtilis QST713 (T2) group (1.78±0.06) was significantly (P>Bacillus subtilis QST713 in the broiler diet resulted in better production performance, immunity and gut health by favoring the growth of beneficial microbes leading to the development of intestinal morphology. Hence, Bacillus subtilis QST713 (Grobig® BS) @ 50g/ton could be an effective alternative to antibiotic growth promoter in broiler chickens.

Reference-

Baurhoo B., A. Letellier X. Zhao, and C.A. Ruiz-Feria. 2007. Cecal populations of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria and Escherichia coli populations after in vivo Escherichia coli challenge in birds fed diets with purified lignin. Poultry Science, 86 2509-2516.
ID: 1130

DO THE EMULSIFIERS AND CARBOHYDRASES ACT SYNERGICALLY ON PERFORMANCE TRAITS AND INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA ACTIVITY IN BROILERS FED RAPESEED MEAL DIETS?

Z. Wiśniewska*(1), M.Hejdysz(2), M.Kubis(3), P.Konieczka(4), P.Gorka(5), J.Flaga(5), S.Kaczmarek(6)

(1)Poznan University of Life Sciences/ Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań, Poland

(2)Poznan University of Life Sciences/Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań, Poland

(3)Poznan University of Life Sciences/Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznań, Poland

(4) The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition Polish Academy of Sciences, Jablonna, Poland

(5) University of Agriculture in Krakow, Department of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Krakow, Poland

(6)Poznan University of Life Sciences/Department of Animal Nutrition, Poznan, Poland

* Corresponding author: zuzanna.wisniewska@up.poznan.pl

Intensive broiler production under sustainable conditions of development enforces greater feed conversion. Successful usage of enzymes in poultry diets is well known, however, no data are available in the literature about the use of emulsifiers and carbohydrate in birds. Presumably, improved fat digestibility decrease the fat content in digesta and, consequently, enhance carbohydrate availability for microbial enzymes.

The objective was to evaluate the possible synergic effect of emulsifiers and carbohydrates on performance traits and intestinal microbiota activity of broilers fed rapeseed meal diets.

During 42 days of a trial, 384 individuals were divided into 4 groups (12 repetitions/group, 8 individuals/cage). Each group was fed by diets containing 5%, 7%, 15% of rapeseed meal (starter, grower, finisher period, respectively) without the addition of enzyme or emulsifier (control group), with the addition of emulsifier or enzyme, and with the addition of both. Bodyweight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) data were calculated at the end of each trial period to obtain the feed conversion ratio (FCR). After 36 days of trial 25 birds from each group were euthanized for cecum digesta collection to determine volatile fatty acids (VFAs) content and microbiota enzyme activity.

A greater (P1) than in group with emulsifier and carbohydrates (1,55 [U/g]1), however none of both differ significantly from the control group.

Current trial revealed positive effect of emulsifiers and carbohydrates and their mixture in rapeseed meal diets on performance traits and intestinal microbiota activity in broilers.
ID: 1176

ANTIOXIDANT STATUS OF BROILER CHICKENS IN RESPONSE TO GRADED LEVELS OF DIETARY LEVELS OF
MYO-INOSITOL.

C. Arthur\*(1), S.Mansbridge(2), S.Rose(2), I.Kuehn(3), V.Pirgozliev(2)

(1)Harper Adams University, Shropshire, United Kingdom

(2)Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(3)AB vista, Darmstadt, Germany

* Corresponding author: carthur@harper-adams.ac.uk

Levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) above the antioxidant capacity of a cell can cause the oxidation of lipids, proteins and DNA. myo-Inositol (Ins) has been linked to improving the antioxidant status of fin fish and humans. The objective of the experiment was to assess different levels of free Ins in diets on the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT), and the contents of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde (MDA)), and protein oxidation (protein carbonyl) in blood plasma in order to understand the interactions Ins and the antioxidant status of broiler chickens. One day old broilers (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to four treatment groups supplemented with different levels of dietary Ins (0 g/kg, 1.5 g/kg, 3 g/kg or 30 g/kg). Each diet was fed to 10 pens as mash from 0-21 days of age, with eight birds per a pen. At day 21, one bird per pen was electrically stunned and blood collected. Antioxidant status of plasma samples were analysed using premade colorimetric kits according to manufacturer's recommendations. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA with a protected Fisher's least significant difference test to separate means. Graded levels of Ins tended to effect SOD activity in plasma (P=0.08), with the highest level of Ins (30 g/kg), significantly reducing the activity compared to the unsupplemented diet (P<0.05). There was no significant effect on levels of CAT (P=0.556), MDA (P=0.1), GR (P=0.756) or protein carbonyl (P=0.544) due to the treatment diets. In addition, there was a tendency of a numerical decrease of MDA with increasing Ins levels suggesting that Ins may play a role in reducing lipid peroxidation and can protect the lipid membrane of cells from ROS. Further investigation into the role of dietary Ins to improve antioxidant status of broiler chickens is warranted and high inclusion rates of Ins reduce some enzyme activities.
ID: 1178

THE EFFECTS OF MYO-INOSITOL AND PHYTASE SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE BODY WEIGHT OF BROILER CHICKENS REARED TO 21 DAYS AND PRE-CAECAL DRY MATTER AND NITROGEN DIGESTIBILITY.

C. Arthur\*(1), S. Mansbridge(2), S. Rose(2), I. Kuehn(3), V. Pirgozliev(2)

(1) Harper Adams University, Shropshire, United Kingdom

(2) Harper Adams University, Newport, United Kingdom

(3) AB Vista, Darmstadt, Germany

\* Corresponding author: carthur@harper-adams.ac.uk

The effects of super-dosing phytase (PHY) in poultry studies is well researched, whereby there is an increase of free Ins into the ileal digesta of broiler chickens. Understanding what effect free Ins has on the nutritional value of the feed is important. The aim of the study was to quantify the growth performance to feeding graded levels of myo-inositol and phytase to broiler chickens on the body weight of birds and pre-caecal dry matter (DM) and nitrogen (N) digestibility. The basal mash diet was split into six parts, with each part supplemented either with two levels of PHY (1,500 or 4,500 FTU/kg; Quantum® Blue, ABVista, UK), or with three levels of Ins at 1.5 g/kg, 3 g/kg or 30 g/kg, with one part left un-supplemented. Each diet was fed to 10 pens from 0-21 days, with eight birds per a pen. Four birds per pen were killed by cervical dislocation and ileal digesta removed and dry matter and nitrogen digestibility determined. Results were analysed using one-way ANOVA with a Tukey test to separate means. The effect of diets on body weight of broiler chicks at day 7 and 14 was not significant (P>0.05). By day 21, the diets did have a significant effect (P<0.001), with the diet containing 4500 FTU/kg having a significant (P<0.05) improvement compared to 3 g/kg and 30 g/kg Ins. Inclusions of 30 g/kg of Ins in diets significantly differed from the addition of 3 g/kg Ins, reducing overall ileum DM digestibility by 1.6% compared to the basal diet. Ins included at 3 g/kg improved DM digestibility compared to the control and there was an overall significant effect of treatments on DM (P<0.05). The treatment with 1.5 g/kg of Ins was significantly different (P<0.05) from the other treatments, reducing N to 30.8%. Based on the findings the nutritional value of myo-inositol is based on its inclusion level.
ID: 1215

NUTRITIONAL EFFECTS OF DIETARY INCLUSION OF MANIHOT ESCULENTA CRANTZ LEAF ON BROILER'S GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS

O. Ngeuda djeuta*(1), K.Voemesse:(2), O.N'nanle(2), E.Decuypere(3), K.Tona(2)

(1)Centre d' Excellence Regional sur les Sciences Aviaires (CERSA)-University of Lome, Lome, Togo

(2)CERSA-UL, Lome, Togo

(3)KU LEUVEN, Belgium, Leuven, Belgium

* Corresponding author: djeutaraphaelle@yahoo.fr

Insufficient supply, high prices and competition with the human food and biofuel industries means there is a continuous demand for alternative sources for poultry. As a result, cassava leaves is becoming an increasingly important ingredient in poultry diets, largely due to its high availability (Verot, 1994). This study investigated the effect of Manihot esculenta leaf (MEL) on growth performance and haematological parameters of Coob500 broilers. A total of three hundred (300) Cobb500 chicks, were used and equally divided into 3 dietary treatments with 4 replications of 25 birds each reared on deep litter system. Treatments diets were :[( FM0 (0% MEL), FM2.5 (2.5% MEL) and FM 5% (5% MEL). During the experimental period, feed intake, feed conversion ratio as well as body weight and weight gain were recorded weekly. The blood samples for Red Blood Cell (RBC), and White Blood Cell (WBC) analysis were taken in 16 birds (4/replicate) at 6th weeks of age. Statistical analysis was performed by using Graph Pad Prism5. One way ANOVA was used to evaluate the effects of cassava leaves on growth performance and blood haematological values. Tukey multiple range test was used for testing difference of means. Results showed that feed intake (FI) were higher (p<0.05) for FM2.5 and FM5 as compared to negative control. Birds in the FM5 group showed the highest feed conversion ratio value (p<0.05). Average body weight and weight gain of birds in the FM0 and FM2.5 groups were similar and statistically higher (P0.05). The liver, gizzard, heart and intestine weight showed no significant differences among treatments. Except abdominal fat in the FM2.5 and FM5 group who were respectively lowest compared to negative control. Hematocrit (%) and lymphocyte rate (%) increased significantly (p<0.05) in birds fed 2.5% and 5% of MEL. While Hemoglobin volume was higher in the group FM5 compared to negative control. In conclusion, Manihot esculenta leaves (MEL) have proven to be a good alternative source of food ingredients for broilers, which can be used up to 2.5% to improve poultry yields.

Key words: Manihot esculenta, broilers, growth performance, haematological
FIBROUS FEEDS ALTERNATIVES TO OAT HULLS AS A SOURCE OF FEED STRUCTURE IN PELLETED BROILER FEEDS

A. Navarro-villa*(1), J.De los mozos(2), C.Alfonso(1), A.García-ruiz(1)

(1)Trouw Nutrition R&D, Casarrubios del monte, Spain

(2)Trouw Nutrition Spain, Tres cantos, Madrid, Spain

* Corresponding author: Alberto.Navarro.Villa@trouwnutrition.com

Unground oat hulls (OH) are often added to pelleted broiler feeds to alleviate the lack of physical structure that effectively stimulate gizzard development and, subsequently, improve gut functioning and feed efficiency. Due to its relatively poor availability in certain markets the current study aimed to identify potential fibrous feedstuffs alternatives to OH. A total of 4160 day old Ross 308 chicks were randomly allocated across 80 collective pens (52 birds/pen). Birds underwent a 3 phase feeding program (0-14d; 14-28d; 28-36d) based on a wheat-soya diet. The study followed a complete randomized block design with collective pens as experimental replicates (n=10). The control treatment was formulated following CVB recommendations, whereas for the other dietary treatments 3% of wheat in the control treatment formula was replaced by the corresponding feedstuff (i.e. OH, soya hulls [SH], carob bean [CB], beet pulp [BP], wheat straw [WS], rice hulls [RH] or wheat bran [WB]) thereby applying a certain nutrient dilution relative to control treatment. At the end of each feeding phase, one bird per pen was killed to determine proventriculus and gizzard weights relative to body weight (P+G/BW). At 14 d, 6 birds from each pen were transferred to individual cages and after a 7 d acclimatization a composite excreta sample was analyzed for digestibility determination. Most treatments with fibrous feed supplementation grew to a comparable level than the control treatment despite the dilution applied to the diet. However, BP led to a lower (P<0.05) body weight relative to control (2799 g vs. 2858 g) mainly due to a 3 g/d lower daily feed intake (P<0.05) compared to control. Regarding feed conversion ratio (FCR), OH resulted in lower (P<0.05) and CB in higher (P<0.01), FCR than the rest of dietary treatments including control. Also, BP and OH led to a heavier P+G/BW (P<0.05) compared to control. Digestibility assessment revealed that the use of OH led to a greater (P<0.05) starch digestibility and BP greater (P<0.05) fat digestibility than the control treatment. In summary, OH seemed to provide the best performance above that found among the rest of the fibrous feeds tested. However, in light of these results the use of OH, SH, WS, RH and WB partially replacing wheat led to similar or better animal performances than the control treatment and, therefore, can be potentially considered to alleviate the lack of feed structure in broiler feeds.
ID: 1237

# IMPACT OF PHYTATE FROM CORN ALONE OR CORN AND SOYBEAN MEAL ON ILEAL INOSITOL HEXAPHOSPHATE DIGESTIBILITY IN THE PRESENCE OR ABSENCE OF PHYTASE

R. Angel\*(1), W.Li(2), H.Enting(3), T.Christensene(4)

(1)University of Maryland, College park, United States

(2)DuPont Animal Nutrition, Wilmington, United States

(3)Cargill, Velddriel, Netherlands

(4)DuPont, Brabrand, Denmark

\* Corresponding author: wenting.li@dupont.com

Work was done to determine the impact of limestone (LS) and phytate source on ileal inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) digestibility (IP6dig) in the presence or absence of Buttiauxella sp. phytase in broilers. A total of 3 treatments (TRT) without phytase were formulated as follow: A) corn and corn germ-based diet without limestone (0.02% Ca, 0.23% phytate-P, PP); B) same as A but with 0.8 mm LS (0.71% Ca, 0.23% PP); C) corn-SBM-based diet with the same 0.8 mm LS (0.77% Ca, 0.23% PP) of which 72% came from SBM). Phytase at 1000 FTU/kg was added to diets A-C to produce TRT D, E, and F, respectively. TRT A, B, D and E were used to determine LS and phytase effects, whereas TRT B, C, E and F were used to determine the impact of phytate source (corn/corn germ vs. corn/SBM) and phytase on IP6 digestibility. Broilers were fed the mash diets ad lib for 36 h from 20 to 22 d of age (4 birds/rep, 7-14 reps/TRT based on pre-planned contrasts). At the end of the trial, distal ileal digesta were collected from all birds and pooled by pen. Impacts of LS, phytase source and phytase on IP6dig were analysed by MIXED procedure (SAS 9.4). There was an interaction between phytase and LS (P<0.05). In the absence of phytase, 93% reduction on IP6dig was observed with LS inclusion (88.5 vs. 6.5%; P<0.05). With 1000 FTU phytase/kg, IP6dig was 98.43%, indicating almost complete degradation of IP6 by the distal ileum when Ca from LS was not included in the diet, compared to 85.1% when LS was added (P<0.05). There was no interaction between phytate source and phytase. Phytate source did not impact the IP6dig regardless of phytase. In the presence of Ca from LS IP6dig for both corn (6.5%) and corn/SBM (3.16%) TRT was low without phytase. Phytase significantly improved the IP6dig from 4.8 to 83.3% across the two different phytate sources (P<0.05). In summary, inclusion of LS negatively affected IP6dig, with a greater impact on IP6dig when phytase was not included. Phytase at 1000 FTU improved IP6 dig irrespective of phytate source (more focus on phytase effect than phytate source effect)
IMPACT OF PHYTATE CONCENTRATION FROM CORN ON ILEAL INOSITOL HEXAPHOSPHATE DIGESTIBILITY IN THE PRESENCE OR ABSENCE OF PHYTASE

W. Li\*(1), R.Angel(2), H.Enting(3), T.Christensene(4)

(1)DuPont Animal Nutrition, Wilmington, United States

(2)University of Maryland, College park, United States

(3)Cargill, Velddriel, Netherlands

(4)DuPont, Brabrand, Denmark

* Corresponding author: wenting.li@dupont.com

Work was done to determine the impact of increasing concentration of inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) from the same source (corn) on ileal IP6 digestibility (IP6dig) in the presence or absence of Buttiauxella sp. phytase in broilers. Treatments (TRT) were based on a 4x2 factorial arrangement of 4 IP6 levels 0.57, 0.83, 1.02 and 1.22% (0.16, 0.23, 0.29, and 0.34% phytate-P, respectively), and 2 phytase (0 or 1000 FTU/kg) levels. The TRT were fed for 36 h from 20 to 22 d of age (4 birds/pen, Ross 708 male broiler). By analysis, the total P was 0.20, 0.30, 0.37, and 0.45%, respectively for the 0.57, 0.83, 1.02 and 1.22% IP6 TRT. Unequal replications (reps) of TRT were used based on planned-contrasts. Diets only contained corn, soy oil, vitamins and oils. Different concentrations of corn and corn germ meal were mixed to achieve desired concentration of IP6 from the same grain source. The same limestone (LM) with a geometric mean diameter of 0.8mm was added to contribute 0.67% Ca, so the final diets all contained 0.7% total Ca. Distal ileal digesta were collected from all birds and pooled by pen. Digesta were analyzed for Ca, P, IP6 and Ti (marker). Digested (DigIP6) and undigested IP6 (UndigIP6) were determined based on Ti, ileal digesta, and diet IP6 concentrations. Impacts of IP6 concentration and phytase on digestibility were analysed by MIXED procedure (SAS 9.4). There were interactions between phytate and phytase for IP6dig, DigIP6 and UndigIP6 (P<0.05). In the absence of phytase, IP6dig was 1.22, 6.50, 43.47 and 67.05% for TRT containing 0.57, 0.83, 1.02 and 1.22% IP6, respectively (P<0.05). As a result, of the IP6 in the specific treatments, 0.56, 0.78, 0.58 and 0.40% was undigested with IP6 level increased from 0.57 to 1.22% (P<0.05). Because of the difference in TRT IP6 concentration, even though there was no difference in IP6dig with 1000 FTU phytase/kg, the resulting DigIP6 was increased from 0.48 (0.57% IP6) to 1.05% (1.22% IP6; P<0.05). In summary, with 0.7% dietary Ca, of which, 0.67% was derived from limestone, IP6 digestibility varied considerably depending on dietary IP6 concentration (1.22 to 67.05%) in the absence of phytase. The Buttiauxella sp. phytase at 1000 FTU/kg was capable of degrading an average of 84% IP6 irrespective of dietary IP6 concentration.
ID: 1347

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT ADDITIVES ALONE OR IN COMBINATION ON PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS OF BROILERS

C. Sol\*(1), M.Puyalto(2), B.Canal(2), J.Mallo(2)

(1)NOREL SA, Lliça de vall, Spain

(2)NOREL SA, Madrid, Spain

* Corresponding author: csol@norel.net

Since the ban of antimicrobials as growth promoters in 2006, several alternatives like feed additives have been used. Among those, short-chain fatty acids, including butyric acid and its salts, and essential oils (EEOO) have been used alone as health and performance boosters in poultry production. The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effect of sodium butyrate, EEOO and their combination on broilers performance. A total of 3000 one day old chicks were distributed in 5 treatments (n=6). The treatments were: T1, Control feed without additives nor antibiotics; T2, Control feed with antibiotics; T3, GUSTOR N'RGY (1 Kg/t of feed), based on 70% sodium butyrate protected with sodium salts of palm fatty acids distillates; T4, EO-Fit Poultry (1Kg/t), based on essential oils combination; and T5, Combination of GUSTOR N'RGY (0.75 Kg/t) + EO-Fit Poultry (0.25 kg/t). All additives were supplied by NOREL, SA. Performance parameters were recorded weekly. On day 21 and 35, one bird in each treatment was euthanized for carcass and intestinal analysis. Data were analysed by one-way ANOVA using the software package SAS 9.0. No significant differences were observed neither in feed intake nor in feed conversion ratio. However, there were significant differences in body weight at 21 days, being the animals in T4 the heaviest (997g a, 1018g ab, 1017g ab, 1020g b and 1001g ab, for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively, P=0.028). At 35d, although differences were not significant, animals in T3 and T5 were heavier than the others (2173, 2155, 2188, 2175, 2199, for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5). The accumulated mortality at 35 days showed also significant differences among treatments (4%a, 6.2%b, 6.0%b, 4.8%ab, 3.0%a, for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, P=0.006). Those differences were also reflected in the European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF) where the combination of the additives achieved the highest EPEF (416xy, 387x, 421xy, 398x, 434y, for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, P=0.061). On the other hand, there were no significant differences in carcass weights. At 21d, the length of jejunum and large intestine was longer for T3 followed by T5 (P=0.012 and P<0.001, respectively). At 35d, no differences were found. Both feed additives, GUSTOR N'RGY and EO-FIT POULTRY, and their synergistic combination, have demonstrated improvements on performance, even better results than treatment with antibiotics, that could be partially explained by the better development of the gut in the early stages of life.
EFFECT OF FEEDING THE SACHA INCHI SEED POWDER ON THE OMEGA-3 FATTY ACID CONTENT OF
GUINEA FOWL MEAT AND EGG YOLK

H. Ogawa*(1), W.Daisuke(2), K.Maebashi(3), T.Sakai(4), T.Kuwayama(5)

(1) Department of Bioresource Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture,
Atsugi, Japan

(2) Faculty of International Agriculture and Food Studies, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya,
Japan

(3) Department of Human and Animai-Plant relationships, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo
University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Japan

(4) Fuji Farm, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Fujinomiya, Japan

(5) Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Japan

* Corresponding author: ogawah@nodai.ac.jp

To increase the concentration of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids in the thigh and breast meat, and in
eggs of the guinea fowl, layer feed with 5% sacha inchi seed powder was fed ad libitum to the test
group. Measurement of fatty acid content was entrusted to Japanese food research laboratories. The
samples were analyzed by gas chromatography after saponification, either by acid decomposition or
chloroform-methanol mixed liquid extraction, and methyl esterification. The test birds were
slaughtered and dissected after 2 weeks of being fed the sacha inchi feed, and the fatty acid
concentration in the meat was measured. Total fatty acid content in the experimental group decreased
to 78% in the thigh meat and to 61% in the breast meat compared to that in the control. Saturated
fatty acids decreased to 72% in the thigh meat and to 55% in the breast meat. Omega-6 unsaturated
fatty acid decreased to 73% in the thigh meat. In contrast, the content of omega-3 unsaturated fatty
acids increased by 3.8 times in the thigh meat and by 5 times in the breast meat. The ratios of omega-
6 to omega-3 (n-3/n-6 ratio) fatty acid in the experimental groups were 2.6 and 0.3 in the thigh meat
and the breast meat, respectively. These ratios were 3.9 times higher in the thigh meat and 7.6 times
higher in the breast meat compared to those in the control group. The concentration of fatty acids in
the egg yolk was measured after feeding the test group with sacha inchi-supplemented feed for 8 days.
The concentration of unsaturated fatty acid was about 1.3 times higher than that of the control group,
and the concentration of omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids was about 3.3 times that of the control
group. The n-3/n-6 ratio of fatty acids was 0.18 in experimental group and was 3 times higher than that
of the control group. In particular, the contents of the omega-3 fatty acids alpha-linoleic acid and
docosahexaenoic acid were 6 and 2 times higher than those in the control, respectively.

The above results showed that the addition of sacha inchi seed powder in feed of guinea fowl increased
the omega-3 fatty acid content of its egg and meat. Higher omega-3 fatty acid content in guinea fowl
products is a factor that would appeal to health-oriented consumers.
EVALUATION OF FEED INTAKE, GROWTH PERFORMANCES, SURVIVAL RATE AND CARCASS TRAITS IN SILKIE CHICKENS WITH ARTEMISIA AND PLECTRANTHUS LEAF POWDER SUPPLEMENTATION IN DIET

H. Kuo\*(1), M. Tsai(1)

(1)Livestock Research Institute, Taiwan, Tainan, Taiwan

\* Corresponding author: hsiaoyun.kuo@gmail.com

Phytobiotics are regarded as substitutes for antibiotic growth promoters or immune booster in animal feeding. Also, there are a variety of herbal medicines that can be as supplementation in animal feeds, and their effects vary with different species, environments and growth periods. The purpose of this study was to evaluate growth performances and carcass traits in chickens with Artemisia and Plectranthus leaf powder supplementation in the diet. The silkie chickens weighted at hatch and were divided into the control diet group which basic on corn and soybean meal, 2% Artemisia leaf powder supplementation group, 2% Plectranthus leaf powder supplementation group, 1% Artemisia and 1% Plectranthus leaf powder supplementation group or 50 ppm tylosin supplementation group. Each group consisted of four repeats and each repeat included 12 chickens for a total of 320 chickens with ad libitum feed and water. Body weight, feed intake, survival rate, and feed conversion efficiency were collected and measured during the feeding period. Carcass traits, breast meat color, and skin color were determined at sixteen weeks of age. The results showed that there was no significant difference among groups for body weight, feed intake, feed efficiency, heart part ratio, testis part ratio, abdominal fat part ratio, and a value in the breast skin and meat. The survival rate of each group was, respectively, 93.75%、91.67%、83.33%、100% and 97.91%. The control diet group and the 1% Artemisia and 1% Plectranthus supplementation group, which compare to the 2% Plectranthus supplementation group and tylosin supplementation group, had higher dressing rate and L value in the breast skin color and had lower b value in the breast meat color (P < 0.05). Taken together, the diet with 2% Artemisia or 2% Plectranthus supplementation had no adverse effects on the performance of growth and carcass traits. Furthermore, a diet with 1% Artemisia and 1% Plectranthus supplementation had beneficial effects on dressing rate and survival rate. The results could be used as a reference for the diet supplementation strategy of silkie chickens.
EFFECT OF DIETARY SODIUM BUTYRATE SUPPLEMENTATION ON PERFORMANCE, THE INTESTINAL MORPHOLOGICAL STRUCTURE AND GUT FLORA IN BROILERS

J. Melo*(1), F.Prosdócimo(2), M.Batallé(2), E.Vignoni(2), S.Pinto(3), M.Biondi(2), N.Sosa(2), H.Barrios(4)(2)

(1) UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA ARGENTINA, Escobar, Argentina

(2) Universidad Nacional de Luján, Departamento de Tecnología, Luján, Argentina

(3) Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos aires, Argentina

(4) Universidad Nacional de Luján, Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Luján, Argentina

* Corresponding author: jemelo@uca.edu.ar

Uncoated-buffered synthetic sodium butyrate (SB) can have effect on the upper part of the digestive tract of the broilers. The positive influence of SB on intestinal cells of small intestine could improve the intestinal health of this part of the GIT, feed digestibility and performance. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation SB on the performance, on the jejunum histomorphology and on the coliform and lactic acid bacteria populations in the proximal part of the GIT of broilers. Day-old male Cobb chicks (144) were allocated in cages in a completely randomized block (8 replicates/treatment). A starter (0-14 d) and a grower (15-28 d) diets were used for dietary treatments: with (SB) or without (CT) the inclusion of 600 ppm of SB additive (54% SB of Dietaxion SAS, France). Birds and feed were weighed weekly individually and by cage, respectively, and the mortality recorded daily. At 14 and 28 days of age, one bird per cage was selected and euthanized. The content of the last part of duodenum was used to examine microbial population (total coliforms and lactic acid bacteria were analyzed as log10 cfu/g). The jejunum was fixed with buffered formalin for histomorphological examination. Villus height (VH) and crypt depth (CD) of each animal was the mean of 5 determinations. Data were analyzed as a 2-way ANOVA. Model included block, SB and their interaction. Cage was considered the experimental unit. There were not significant differences in performance traits, colony counts of total coliforms and of lactic acid bacteria at any time (P>0.05). Histomorphological traits VH and CD also were not different between treatments (P>0.05) and the same happened at 14 days for the ratio VH/CD (VCR), but at 28 days supplemented broilers obtained a higher VCR than the CT ones (P<0.05): 9.42 vs. 7.17 ± 2.06. These results suggest the evaluated SB could be a good therapy to improve the development of the upper part of the GIT during the first 28 days of growth. Tendency is consistent with a better digestibility of feed, but this must be confirmed in future experiments.
PROTEIN NUTRITION
EFFECTS OF LYSINE SUPPLEMENTATION IN LOW PROTEIN DIETS ON THE BROILERS PERFORMANCE IN THE TROPICAL REGION

N. Mulyantini s.s*(1)

(1) University of Nusa Cendana, Faculty of Animal Science, Kupang ntt, Indonesia

* Corresponding author: ngamulyantini@yahoo.com.au

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of lysine supplementation in low crude protein (CP) diets on performance of broiler chickens finisher. Five test diet series were used: 1) the 19% CP diet; 2) the 18% CP diet; 3) the 18% CP diet plus additional amino acids (18.18% total CP) to provide at least as much of the essential amino acids as present in the 19% CP diet; 4) the 17% CP diet and 5) the 17% CP diet plus additional amino acids (17.81% total CP) to provide at least as much of the essential amino acids as present in the 19% CP diet. For each of the five test diets series, additional Lys was added to provide total lysine levels of 1.10%, 1.20%, 1.30%. This resulted in a total of 15 final experimental treatments in a 5 x 3 factorial arrangement. Each treatment was fed to 5 replicate pens of 5 broilers in floor pens from 22-42 days of age. Chicks fed diet containing 17%CP without additional lysine had significantly (P
DIETARY PROTEIN WAS SUCCESSFULLY REDUCED IN TURKEY FEED WHILE BLENDING DIETS WITH WHOLE WHEAT IMPAIRED PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMICS

A. Lemme*(1), M.Kenny(2), H.Glawatz(3), H.Meyer(3), J.Ralph(2)

(1)Evonik Nutrition & Care GmbH, Hanau, Germany

(2) Aviagen Turkeys Ltd, Tattenhall, United Kingdom

(3) Moorgut Kartzfehn von Kameke GmbH & Co KG, Bösel, Germany

* Corresponding author: andreas.lemme@evonik.com

Introduction and Objective:

Minimising nitrogen emissions from turkey production systems is a major priority for both the industry and turkey breeding sector. Nitrogen was reduced in diets for male BUT Big 6 turkeys applying various strategies.

Materials and Methods:

Day old turkeys were grown on a six phase feeding program. In phases 1 (P1, weeks 1,2) and 2 (P2, weeks 3-5) all birds received the same feed while in phases 3 to 6 (P3 to P6, weeks 6-9, 10-13, 14-17, 18-21) dietary crude protein (CP) was reduced to varying degrees. CP levels of the control (TRT1) represented German recommendations. CP was reduced by 1% in absolute terms in different phases; for TRT2 in P3 and P4 feeds, TRT3 in P5 and P6 feeds, TRT4 in P3 to P6 feeds while maintaining first order amino acids (AA) lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine+cysteine and valine levels across all treatments at levels of TRT1. TRT5 was the same as TRT4 but also isoleucine and arginine were balanced to the same levels at TRT 1. TRT6 was based on TRT5 with unground wheat added at 5, 10, 20, and 15% resulting in additional CP and AA dilution.

Results and Discussion:

After 21 weeks final bodyweights of birds fed TRT 1, 2 and 5 diets were similar while, although not significant (p>0.05), bodyweights of TRT's 3 and 4 relative to TRT1 suggesting that ignoring lower order AA is counterproductive in a nitrogen (N) reduction strategy. TRT6 had the lowest bodyweights (p>0.05) suggesting further dilution of AA density by addition of wheat limits growth. Breast meat yield (BMY) of TRT 4 and 6 was lower (p<0.05) compared to TRT 1 while BMY decreased gradually from TRT 1 to TRT 4. Interestingly, AA balancing in TRT 5 did not allow for complete restoration of meat deposition to the level of TRT 1. Further adjustment of the AA profile might be needed. Foot pad lesion scoring was worst for TRT 1 and 2 while scores for TRT 3 to TRT 5 were better, TRT 6 was better than all other treatments. N-excretion of TRT 6 and TRT 5 was lower than that of TRT 1 and 2 (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Reducing the CP-level of turkey diets resulted in a trend towards lower liveweight and worse FCR compared to birds fed diets with recommended dietary CP however redressing the AA balance, through supplementation with low order AAs, provided a similar response to the control. Reducing CP levels in feeds reduced N excretion. Diluting compound feed with whole wheat impaired performance and economics while it was beneficial for foot pad health.
NITROGEN AND AMINO ACID DIGESTA FLOWS IN BROILERS FED HEAT DAMAGED PROTEIN INGREDIENTS

M. Elling-staats\*(1), A. Kies\(2), M. Gilbert\(1), R. Kwakkel\(1)

(1) Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Science, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands

(2) DSM Nutritional Products, Animal Nutrition and Health - EMEA, Kaiseraugst, Switzerland

* Corresponding author: miranda.elling-staats@wur.nl

Due to an increasing feed-food competition for protein, less digestible protein is expected to be fed to broilers in the future. However, pre-cecal indigestible protein may lead to hind-gut protein fermentation (PF) and the production of potentially health detrimental metabolites. To evaluate effects of PF on gut health, an experimental contrast in ileal N flow is required. Often, such a contrast is realized by replacing a highly digestible protein source with a less digestible one. However, this does not always increase PF metabolites in the ceca, as other nutrients, such as fibers, may confound the effects of PF. Therefore, our objective was to develop a model that creates a contrast in PF by reducing protein digestibility within ingredients. To this end, we used severe toasting of protein sources and evaluated the effect on ileal nitrogen (N) and amino acid (AA) flows.

Pre-cecal ileal content, excreta and ceca content were collected from 240 broilers fed one of six diets (8 replicate pens) for 30 days. Diets contained 20% soybean meal (SBM), high protein sunflower meal (SFM) or dehulled rapeseed meal (dRSM) as is, or heat damaged by secondary toasting at 136°C for 20 minutes (tSBM, tSFM or tdRSM). TiO 2 (1g/kg) was included as inert marker in diets for the determination of digesta flows. The effect of toasting was evaluated per ingredient separately, using the GLM procedure of SAS 9.4.

Toasting SBM increased the ileal flow of N (851 vs. 744 mg/d) and most of the AA (mean increase 35 mg/d). The daily excreted N (excl. uric acid N) did not differ significantly between SBM and tSBM diets, but excretions of some AA did increase (mean 34 mg/d).

Toasting SFM did not affect ileal flow or excretion of N and AA. Toasting dRSM increased the ileal flow of N (862 vs. 665 mg/d) and all AA (mean 56 mg/day), as well as daily excretion of N (999 vs. 761 mg/d, excl. uric acid N) and AA (mean increase 71 mg/d).

Toasting dRSM, and to a lesser extend SBM, increased the flow of PF substrate into the hindgut of broilers, making these potential models for examining PF. The increase in N and AA from ileum to excreta might be the result of microbial growth. Microbe quantification will be needed to elucidate whether this is the case.
ID: 467

INFLUENCE OF DIETARY METFORMIN ON MUSCLE WEIGHT AND GLYCATION IN TWO TYPES OF CHICKENS.

R. Makino\*(1), M. Uda(1), T. Tachibana(2)

(1) Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan

(2) Ehime University, Matsuyma, Japan

\* Corresponding author: makino.ryosuke.cu@ehime-u.ac.jp

Glycation is a non-enzymatic reaction binding amino acids and proteins with glucose and α-dicarbonyl compounds. Glycated amino acids lost the capability to synthesize peptide bonds with other amino acids since these compounds lack the α-amino group. Because chickens have a high blood glucose level compared to mammals, their amino acids might be more converted to glycated amino acids. Glycation in chicken might reduce the efficiency of amino acids utilization because glycated amino acids could not be a precursor of protein synthesis. The attempts to improve the efficiency of amino acids utilization by inhibiting glycation have not been investigated. Here we show that metformin (MF), which is an anti-glycation reagent, feeding increase the muscle weight in layer and broiler chickens. Dietary MF increased the mass of the pectoralis major muscle in both layer and broiler chickens. The plasma Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), as an index of glycation, levels were decreased in layer chickens but were not changed in broiler chickens. The plasma concentration of precursors of CML, α-dicarbonyl compounds, were increased in layer chickens fed the diet including MF but were not affected in broiler chickens. In addition, dietary MF supplementation significantly increased the plasma concentrations of amino acids in layer chickens. On the other hand, there were no significant differences observed in the plasma concentrations of amino acids among any groups of broiler chickens. Our results suggest that anti-glycation reagent might have the potency to increase muscle production in chickens. However, it has not been clarified the mechanism how MF increases muscle weight. Further investigation should be conducted in the future.
COMBINATION OF FUNCTIONAL AMINO ACIDS CAN RESTORE PERFORMANCE OF BROILERS FACING
COCCIDIOSIS

W. Lambert(1), E.Corrent(1), T.Chalvon-demersay*(1)

(1)Ajinomoto Animal Nutrition Europe, Paris, France

* Corresponding author: chalvon-demersay_tristan@eli.ajinomoto.com

In broiler chickens, coccidiosis is caused by the infection of Eimeria species which colonize different parts of the intestinal tract. Coccidiosis condition decreases feed intake and growth and is a predisposing factor of necrotic enteritis further impairing performance. Literature reports that amino acids such as arginine, threonine, glutamine and glutamate, based on different modes of action (increased immunoglobulins and mucins, decreased inflammation, reduced oocyst shedding) could exert beneficial effects in broilers facing this challenge. In addition, glycine and tryptophan seem to be particularly critical for growth and stress response in broilers chickens, respectively. However, the effect of the supplementation of these amino acids, when combined, has been poorly investigated in this context.

Nine hundred sixty newly hatched male chicks (ROSS 308) were allocated to six different treatments (10 repetitions of 16 birds per treatment) for 35 days. At day 14, all birds were artificially challenged with a Paracox vaccination 10x dose by oral gavage to induce coccidiosis. Basal diet was formulated following Ajinomoto recommendations. For all except one treatment (Infected Untreated Control – IUC) birds received one of the following supplementation: 80 g/ton of the anticoccidial drug Maxiban G160 (Infected treated Control – ITC) or 4 kg/ton Glutamine + Glutamate + Arginine (MIX) or MIX + 1 kg/ton Threonine (MIX+THR) or MIX + 1 kg/Ton Glycine (MIX+GLY) or MIX + 0.5 kg/ton Tryptophan (MIX+TRP). Performance was followed. Oocyst counting and classification in feces were performed at day 21. All data were subjected to an ANOVA and differences among mean were detected by multiple range tests.

All treatments, except the one receiving Maxiban, exhibited high counts of Eimeria tenella in feces. Compared to ITC birds, IUC birds had a lower body weight gain (-3.7%), a higher FCR (+2.6%) with a similar feed intake during the trial. The supplementation of the amino acid combinations increased performance to the level of ITC birds without affecting the counts of Eimeria, MIX+THR being the most efficient combination of amino acids.

This study reported that supplementation of a selected combination of functional amino acids restored fully performance of coccidiosis-challenged birds, at the same level as the coccidiostat drug. This mode of action does not rely on a direct effect on oocyst and remains to be determined.