Feed - Modern Poultry

New research explores phytase, dacitic tuff breccia supplementation to maintain eggshell quality in older hens

The poultry industry is increasingly focused on extending the productive lifespan of laying hens beyond 100 weeks to enhance welfare, sustainability and profitability. A major challenge in achieving this goal is the age-related decline in eggshell quality. Supplementation with phytase and dacitic tuff breccia could be the answer, according to a study from North Carolina State University.

Well-known, emerging mycotoxins are similar to antinutritional factors in poultry

Mycotoxins are poisonous metabolites produced by naturally occurring mold organisms that contaminate corn, soybean meal and other feedstuffs. Even in very low concentrations, they can hurt animal health and productivity. Research has revealed a host of emerging mycotoxins that are not yet regularly determined or regulated. What does this mean for producers?

Evidence builds for quillaja benefits beyond coccidiosis control

Three recent studies by Huvepharma found that birds receiving quillaja, which is derived from the bark of the South American soapbark tree, alongside different anticoccidials achieved significantly better feed-conversion than those receiving the anticoccidials alone.

Video: Artificial intelligence-powered platform helps translate microbiome data into practical management decisions

Although links between the gut microbiome and broiler performance are well established, translating microbiome data into practical decisions has been a challenge, said Fernanda Castro, PhD, micronutrition and health technology lead for Cargill Animal Nutrition.

Mild feed restriction has variable effects on cage-free pullets’ weight, activity and egg production

Today’s cage-free laying systems provide extra vertical space for birds to be physically active, which can lead to variability in feed intake and body composition. If feed was restricted, would chickens change their activity levels, or would a hypothalamic response be triggered to increase feed intake?

Could green feed cues give poults a stronger start?

Research from the University of Arkansas suggests that giving turkey poults feed cues with green, moisture-rich feed attractants may help them find feed sooner, forage earlier and gain more weight during the first 10 days after placement.

Six hours: Why the feed-deprivation clock impacts feed conversion, yield, food safety and profit

By Douglas L. Fulnechek, DVM,
Senior Public Health Veterinarian,
GTS Health

Impact of dietary amino acid levels on body fat, laying-hen performance

Amino acid requirements for laying hens are not well understood, primarily because data are lacking for the pullet stage. This gap is increasingly important as the table-egg industry wants to extend the hen’s life cycle to 100 weeks or more. Jo Ann Chew, graduate research assistant, University of Alberta, investigated how amino acid levels during rearing might impact body fat and the onset of lay.

Protected: Feed efficiency in broilers: why immune function matters

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Examining feeding restrictions through a welfare lens

Breeding for increased appetites and fast growth has resulted in meatier birds. But these heavier birds experience health complications and decreased reproduction. Feed restrictions are used to maintain the lower bodyweight required for broiler breeders. University of Arkansas graduate student Allison Weaver is researching how feed restrictions affect bird welfare.

Study links postbiotic and phytogenic combinations to improved blackhead outcomes

For turkey producers, blackhead remains a high-impact threat, particularly in young birds, where infection can spread quickly and cause major losses. Unfortunately, there are limited approved treatment options compared with past decades.

Field experience with postbiotic/phytogenic blend supports improved livability in APEC-challenged layers

Field data from a large commercial layer enterprise confirm that Cargill’s Biostrong™ C-Protect — a postbiotic/phytogenic blend — supports improved livability in layers in the face of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC).

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Category: Feed