A postbiotic containing the phytogenic substance saponin could assist as a useful tool to help broiler producers reduce the impact of Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), which causes colibacillosis.
By Muhammad Ali, DVM
PhD student
Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia
Optimizing broiler growth and health requires a diet that delivers uniform nutrients to all birds. But that involves more than getting the diet formulation right.
By Aaron Stephan, PhD
Research and Innovation Director
ONCE by Signify
By Ken Opengart, DVM, PhD, DACPV
3 Birds Consulting
Signal Mountain, Tennessee
While most chicks are vaccinated for coccidiosis at the hatchery, it’s the first few weeks in the grower barn that determine coccidia exposure, cycling and eventual immunity.
The first comprehensive literature review in 40 years presents up-to-date research and best practices to prevent floor egg laying.
Today’s pullets are bred to reach sexual maturity sooner, are more efficient once they reach the egg-laying stage and remain productive longer than layers of past years. Those are all positives for egg producers, but is the industry keeping pace with their protein needs?
Coccidiosis vaccination is a critical tool to mitigate economic losses for broiler producers. However, dry litter conditions and low placement densities can complicate successful vaccine replication and subsequent immunizing exposure.
Ultrasonic water meters enabled rapid and early identification of potential problems in cage-free layer houses, including feed shortages and water restrictions, according to research presented at the 2024 IPSF by William Strickland, graduate research assistant, University of Georgia.
Drinker management is a key aspect of poultry welfare, as water is a crucial resource involved in thermal regulation, nutrient absorption, digestion, waste elimination and overall homeostatic balance in birds.
Research conducted in the US and Germany showed that feeding broilers Quillaja saponaria trees and Yucca schidigera plants improved performance, nutrient digestibility and the physical condition of their intestinal tract, both when the birds were healthy and when they faced a parasitic disease challenge.
