One of the many challenges affecting layer flocks is avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), an opportunistic challenge that impacts at least 30% of US commercial layer flocks,1 resulting in decreased egg production, increased bird mortality and significant economic losses, especially during peak egg production.
To help poultry producers mitigate the effects of APEC, Cargill Animal Nutrition has introduced Biostrong™ C-Protect, delivering science-driven poultry-health support by combining two unique product categories: a postbiotic (XPC™) with a phytogenic. This unique combination supports bird immunity and enhances gut health, which have been shown to help layers become more resilient to an APEC challenge.
“Cargill understands that raising layers for egg production is a long game with significant upfront investment. Supporting performance and bird livability is paramount for business sustainability,” says Manuel Da Costa, PhD, strategic marketing and technology/innovation director–poultry, at Cargill.
“Biostrong C-Protect, as part of good farm practices, can help mitigate the effects of APEC, improving bird well-being and egg production during a challenge.”
Science-driven support
Cargill feeding trials aimed at evaluating the efficacy of Biostrong C-Protect showed that APEC-challenged hens receiving Biostrong C-Protect late in the layer production cycle produced eggs at a rate of 82.9%, significantly higher than the Challenged Control group at 65.5% (Figure 1).
Another feeding trial evaluating the impact of Biostrong C-Protect on mitigating the adverse effects of APEC showed that APEC-challenged broilers receiving Biostrong C-Protect demonstrated a drop in mortality by 26% compared to the Challenged Control group (Figure 2).
A proven advantage
Biostrong C-Protect also helps reduce pre-harvest foodborne pathogens through an industry-recognized XPC postbiotic technology. Integrating Biostrong C-Protect into a feed program is easy. This one product helps solve two common layer challenges, reducing the need for micro bin space in the feed mill.
Biostrong is a trademark of Micronutrition and Health Solutions (MHS), a Cargill Animal Nutrition & Health business.
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Reference
1. Kathayat D, Lokesh D, Ranjit S, Rajashekara G. Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC): An overview of virulence and pathogenesis factors, zoonotic potential, and control strategies. Pathog. 2021 Apr 12;10(4):467.
