Barley-based Diets Research Articles

Feeding a Multi-Enzyme Blend to Enhance the Nutrient Digestibility of Wheat-Canola Expeller Diets in Ileal-Cannulated Weaned Pigs.

Canola expeller (CE) contains ~200 g/kg residual oil, but also fiber that impairs nutrient digestibility in weaned pigs. To study if feed enzymes increase digestibility, six diets containing either the basal or two CE samples mixed in at 250 g/kg (CE-A or CE-B) were formulated with or without a multi-enzyme blend containing cellulase, xylanase, glucanase, amylase, protease, invertase, and pectinase. The basal diet containing 620 g/kg wheat and 150 g/kg barley served as control. Twelve ileal-cannulated barrows (9-15 kg) were fed the six diets in a replicated 6 (pigs) × 3 (periods) Youden square. Ileal digestibility of gross energy and amino acids was 5% greater for basal than CE diets without differences between CE samples. Diet energy values were 4% greater for CE than basal diets due to residual oil in CE. Inclusion of the multi-enzyme blend increased total tract digestibility of energy of the basal but not CE diets by 2%. Net energy value was greater for CE-A than CE-B because CE-A contained more residual oil. In conclusion, feeding 250 g/kg CE increased diet energy values; thus, CE can substitute added fat in weaned pig diets. Feeding the multi-enzyme blend increased the energy digestibility of wheat and barley-based diets fed to weaned pigs. However, research is needed to identify enzyme combinations that increase the nutrient digestibility of CE.

168 Effects of feeding barley-based diets differing in fermentable starch and fiber on nutrient digestion and body composition in weaned pigs

Abstract Hulled and hull-less barley grains containing low insoluble fiber are alternative energy sources in weaning diets but are typically not part of weaned pig diets. The range in fermentable starch and fiber content among barley cultivars presents opportunities to investigate whether these fermentable carbohydrates of barley grain do influence nutrient digestion, gut short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profile and body composition. To explore, pigs [n = 40; body weight (BW) = 8.6 kg; 1-wk post-weaning] were housed individually and fed 1 of 4 diets containing 600 to 705 g of cereal grain/kg: 1) low-fermentable wheat (LFW); 2) high β-glucan, hull-less barley (HFBB); 3) high amylose, hull-less barley (HFAB); or 4) low-fermentable hulled barley (LFB). Diets provided 10.2 and 9.8 MJ NE/kg, and 1.32 and 1.21 g standardized ileal digestible (SID) lysine/MJ NE for phase 1 (d 0–14) and phase 2 (d 15–28), respectively. At the end of the trial, feces were collected, and pigs were slaughtered to collect digesta and the carcass that was subsequently ground. Subsamples of feces, digesta, and carcasses were freeze-dried and analyzed. The apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of crude protein (CP) and gross energy (GE) did not differ among diets. The AID of β-glucan was 3 times greater (P < 0.05) for LFW than HFBB and HFAB, while AID of starch was 12% less (P < 0.05) for HFAB than the other diets. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of GE and CP was 4.2 and 8.9% less (P < 0.05), respectively, for the 3 barley diets than the wheat diet. The apparent hindgut fermentation (AHF) of β-glucan was 2.6 times greater (P < 0.05) for HFAB and HFBB than LFW, while AHF of starch was 7.5 times greater for HFAB than LFW. The calculated NE value was greatest (P < 0.05) for LFW, intermediate for HFBB and HFAB, and least for LFB. Among diets, HFAB increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of butyrate (indicator of gut health) and propionate in cecal and colonic digesta, with butyrate up to 50% more (P < 0.05) than that of LFW. Carcass protein and lipid concentration did not differ among pigs fed the 4 diets. In conclusion, feeding barley instead of wheat grain to weaned pigs reduced diet nutrient digestibility but did not affect carcass protein and lipid concentration. Feeding high amylose barley increased gut SCFA concentration. Barley grain with increasing fermentable carbohydrates can thus be included as alternative ingredient in diets of young pigs.

Insoluble fibre and enzyme supplementation in mash or pellets diets on growth performance, apparent ileal digestibility and intestinal morphology of broiler chickens fed barley containing diets.

Enzyme supplementation and the inclusion of fibre in the barley-based diets have been some of the alternatives proposed to improve productivity in the absence of growth promoters. This study was performed to investigate the effect of adding sunflower hulls (SFH), a multi-enzyme carbohydrate, and feed forms (mash and pellet) on performance and some physiological parameters in broiler chickens fed barley containing diets. Treatments were two feed forms (mash vs. pelleted), and four diets consisted of a barley-based diet (control, CTL) or test diets which contained either SFH at 30g/kg, enzyme (ENZ; 0.2g/kg) or combination of SFH and enzyme (SFH+ENZ). The results showed that average daily feed intake and average daily gain were significantly increased in chickens that were fed ENZ (p<0.05). The highest digestibility of ether extract (EE) was observed in the treatment containing SFH and SFH+ENZ (p<0.05). The highest population of Lactobacillus spp. was observed in the treatment containing SFH (p<0.05). The villus height and villus height to crypt depth ratios of duodenum and jejunum were significantly higher (p<0.05) in broilers fed pellet diets compared to the mash. It can be concluded that pellet diets reduce digesta viscosity and harmful microorganisms (Escherichia coli), increase growth performance, and improve intestinal morphology in barley-based diets. Moreover, SFH and ENZ had favourable effects on EE digestibility and caecal microbial population of broilers fed with barley containing diets.

Growth performance and gut function of broiler chickens received barley-based diets with or without an enzyme mixture

An experimental study was performed to evaluate the responses of broiler chickens to dietary substitution of barley for corn. A total of 252 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed among 18 floor pens. Six such pens were then randomly assigned to each dietary treatment. Dietary treatments consisted of a corn-based diet, a barley-based diet, and the barley-based diet plus an enzyme mixture. Results indicated that barley substitution for corn significantly (p&lt; 0.0001) impacted broiler performance criteria. However, enzyme supplementation significantly (p= 0.02) improved the feed conversion ratio to the extent obtained in the corn control. The villus absorptive surface area was shrunk in birds fed a barley diet compared to the corn diet. Nevertheless, supplementation of the barley diet with the enzyme mixture significantly (p= 0.02) restored the situation. The expression of the TLR2 gene was significantly down-regulated by replacing barley with corn. Enzyme supplementation of the barley diet significantly (p&lt; 0. 001) up-regulated TLR2 gene expression but not to the extent observed in the corn control group. Significant increases were observed in circulatory levels of uric acid (p&lt; 0.05), total protein (p&lt;0.01), and albumin (p&lt; 0.001) when barley was substituted for corn. Enzyme supplements did not make any significant difference to these variables. In conclusion, the substitution of barley for corn was associated with the poor performance of broilers. However, supplementing barley-based diets with the enzyme mixture improved chicken's performance through enhanced villus absorptive surface area. It reduced the turnover of enterocytes, as reflected in a lower crypt depth in the jejunum.

The Impact of Barley-based diet on Diabetes: A Case-Report

Background: Diabetes is becoming more prevalent in India. The increase in prevalence in most populations has probably been driven by modifiable risk factors, including lack of exercise and an increasing prevalence of overweight/obesity and unhealthy diets and habits. Yava(Barley)is one among the food articles and its preparation is extensively suggested in Prameha(Diabetes) and other lifestyle disorders. Diet intervention is the primary and effective way to control sugar levels. Diet therapy without much alteration of one’s habits will be acceptable to individuals. A barley-based diet is formulated and evaluated for its effectiveness in the case of diabetics.&#x0D; Aim: To study the effectiveness of a Yava-based diet on fasting and postprandial blood sugars, fasting and postprandial urine sugars and lipid profile. &#x0D; Study Design: Modified crossover study&#x0D; Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Swasthavritta, Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda and Hospital, Hassan, between December 2022 and February 2023.&#x0D; Methodology: A single case study was designed and a barley-based diet was planned as a flatbread, suggested for a month as a dietetic intervention along with the routine dietary habit. The diabetic subject was screened in the outpatient department. Laboratory investigations were carried out at one-month intervals three times. Subject studied for observation period and intervention period with the follow-ups. &#x0D; Results: There were decreases in blood sugar and urine sugar levels and in lipid profile. Symptoms like polyphagia, heaviness in the body are also reduced.&#x0D; Conclusion: Ayurveda literature opines Prameha is a disease of vitiated Kapha and fat tissue. Yava has the properties of pacifying Kapha and fat. The diet plan acts as a potential antidiabetic food. Yava can be an alternative to other grains and more beneficial for diabetes.

Influence of partial replacement of ground barley with whole barley and exogenous enzyme supplementation in pelleted diets on growth performance, nutrient utilisation and foregut development in broiler starters

A 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments, evaluating three inclusion levels of whole barley (WB; 0, 141, 282 g/kg) in a barley-based diet and two levels of carbohydrase (Carb; 0 and 0.15 g/kg of feed), was used. The AMEn and standardised digestible amino acid contents of the test barley were used in formulating the basal diet. Whole barley was added to the diet at the expense of ground barley (GB; 3.0 mm sieve size). The diets contained 5.0 g/kg titanium dioxide as an inert marker. Each of the six experimental diets was pelleted and offered ad libitum to six replicate cages (eight birds/cage). Body weights and feed intake were recorded weekly throughout the 21-d trial. The AMEn was determined using the classical total excreta collection method (17–20 d). On d-21, ileal digesta were collected from the terminal ileum to determine the coefficient of apparent ileal digestibility of nutrients. Jejunal digesta were collected for the determination of intestinal digesta viscosity. There was no significant (P > 0.05) interaction between WB and Carb for any measured parameter. Compared to the birds fed GB diets, those fed WB at 141 g/kg had a higher (P < 0.05) weight gain by 36 g/bird, with no effect on the feed intake or feed efficiency. The inclusion of WB tended (P = 0.058) to enhance N digestibility from 0.741 in GB diets to 0.775 in diets with 282 g/kg WB. Irrespective of Carb supplementation, compared to the GB diet, WB inclusion at 141 and 282 g/kg improved (P < 0.001) starch digestibility (by 3.6 % and 5.7 %, respectively) and AMEn (by 1.85 % and 2.89 %, respectively). These improvements were not associated with any impact (P > 0.05) on gizzard development. Jejunal digesta viscosity was not influenced (P > 0.05) by WB inclusion. Adding Carb increased starch digestibility and energy utilisation by 2.24 % and 0.12 MJ/kg, respectively, possibly due to 0.35 cP reduction in jejunal digesta viscosity (P < 0.05) by the supplemental Carb. Overall, WB could be included in barley-based broiler starter diets up to 282 g/kg of diet with no adverse effects on performance.

Quantitative TMT-based proteomics revealing host, dietary and microbial proteins in bovine faeces including barley serpin Z4, a prominent component in the head of beer

There has been little information about the proteome of bovine faeces or about the contribution to the faecal proteome of proteins from the host, the feed or the intestinal microbiome. Here, the bovine faecal proteome and the origin of its component proteins was assessed, while also determining the effect of treating barley, the major carbohydrate in the feed, with either ammonia (ATB) or sodium propionate (PTB) preservative. Healthy continental crossbreed steers were allocated to two groups and fed on either of the barley-based diets. Five faecal samples from each group were collected on Day 81 of the trial and analysed by quantitative proteomics using nLC-ESI-MS/MS after tandem mass tag labelling. In total, 281 bovine proteins, 199 barley proteins, 176 bacterial proteins and 190 archaeal proteins were identified in the faeces. Mucosal pentraxin, albumin and digestive enzymes were among bovine proteins identified. Serpin Z4 a protease inhibitor was the most abundant barley protein identified which is also found in barley-based beer, while numerous microbial proteins were identified, many originating bacteria from Clostridium, while Methanobrevibacter was the dominant archaeal genus. Thirty-nine proteins were differentially abundant between groups, the majority being more abundant in the PTB group compared to the ATB group. SignificanceProteomic examination of faeces is becoming a valuable means to assess the health of the gastro-intestinal tract in several species, but knowledge on the proteins present in bovine faeces is limited. This investigation aimed to characterise the proteome of bovine faecal extracts in order to evaluate the potential for investigations of the proteome as a means to assess the health, disease and welfare of cattle in the future. The investigation was able to identify proteins in bovine faeces that had been (i) produced by the individual cattle, (ii) present in the barley-based feed eaten by the cattle or (iii) produced by bacteria and other microbes in the rumen or intestines. Bovine proteins identified included mucosal pentraxin, serum albumin and a variety of digestive enzymes. Barley proteins found in the faeces included serpin Z4, a protease inhibitor that is also found in beer having survived the brewing process. Bacterial and archaeal proteins in the faecal extracts were related to several pathways related to the metabolism of carbohydrates. The recognition of the range of proteins that can be identified in bovine faeces raises the possibility that non-invasive sample collection of this material could provide a novel diagnostic approach to cattle health and welfare.

Effect of Blend-Pelleted Products Based on Carinata Meal or Canola Meal in Combination with Lignosulfonate on Ruminal Degradation and Fermentation Characteristics, Intestinal Digestion, and Feed Milk Value When Fed to Dairy Cows

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of newly developed blend-pelleted products based on carinata meal (BPPCR) or canola meal (BPPCN) in combination with peas and lignosulfonate on ruminal fermentation characteristics, degradation kinetics, intestinal digestion and feed milk values (FMV) when fed to high-producing dairy cows. Three dietary treatments were Control = control diet (common barley-based diet in western Canada); BPPCR = basal diet supplemented with 12.3%DM BPPCR (carinata meal 71.4% + pea 23.8% + lignosulfonate4.8%DM), and BPPCN = basal diet supplemented with 13.3%DM BPPCN (canola meal 71.4% + pea 23.8% + lignosulfonate 4.8%DM). In the whole project, nine mid-lactating Holstein cows (body weight, 679 ± 124 kg; days in milk, 96 ± 22) were used in a triplicated 3 × 3 Latin square study for an animal production performance study. For this fermentation and degradation kinetics study, the experiment was a 3 × 3 Latin square design with three different dietary treatments in three different periods with three available multiparous fistulated Holstein cows. The results showed that the control diet was higher (p &lt; 0.05) in total VFA rumen concentration (138 mmol/L) than BPPCN. There was no dietary effect (p &gt; 0.10) on the concentration of rumen ammonia and ruminal degradation kinetics of dietary nutrients. There was no significant differences (p &gt; 0.10) among diets on the intestinal digestion of nutrients and metabolizable protein. Similarly, the feed milk values (FMV) were not affected (p &gt; 0.10) by diets. In conclusion, the blend-pelleted products based on carinata meal for a new co-product from the bio-fuel processing industry was equal to the pelleted products based on conventional canola meal for high producing dairy cattle.

Barley, Triticale, or Rye? The Type of Grain Can Affect the Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Sustainable Raised Pigs.

The effect of high level of barley, triticale, or rye as base of complete mixtures for growing-finishing pigs on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and fatty acid profile in meat and backfat was investigated. The 100-day experiment involved 72 pigs, assigned into three groups (24 animals each). Pigs of each group were kept in six pens (two gilts and two barrows per pen). Diets offered to pigs differed in the proportion of cereals as the leading ingredients in the mixture formulation: I-barley, II-triticale, III-rye. The results showed diversified grain influence on the production results and meat quality. Triticale- and barley-based diets ensured better weight gain and lower carcass fatness than rye (p ≤ 0.05). The basic nutrients digestibility of mixtures containing triticale was comparable to that containing barley and higher than that of rye (p ≤ 0.05). The meat and backfat of pigs receiving diet with triticale or barley was characterized by more favorable fatty acids profile in respect to the health-promoting indicators (atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indexes; hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio). The cholesterol level in various tissues was the lowest in pigs fed with rye diet, and their meat characterized by better water holding capacity and more SFA. Higher fat saturation indicate better resistance to oxidation during storage and longer meat shelf life. It seems that the supplementation of triticale to diet may improve the growth efficiency of pigs and the health-promoting value of meat, while the supplementation of rye may be better for the production of traditional or long-matured meat products.

Effects of Barley- and Oat-Based Diets on Some Gut Parameters and Microbiota Composition of the Small Intestine and Ceca of Broiler Chicken

Barley and oats can be alternatives of corn and wheat in poultry nutrition and used at higher inclusion rates. Both cereals contain hulls, a structural fiber source, that can be beneficial for the gizzard function of birds. They also contain high amounts of β-glucans, of which about 60–70% is water soluble. Soluble β-glucans increase gut viscosity, impair digestion, and modify gut microbiota. The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effects of feeding oats and barley at high inclusion rates and with exogenous glucanase on some relevant gut parameters and the microbiota composition of jejunum content (JC), jejunum mucosa (JM), and cecal content (CC). A total of 360 male, Ross 308 broiler chickens were allocated randomly into three treatment groups of 5 replicate pens with 24 chickens. Beside a corn and soybean meal-based control diet (C), a barley (B)- and oat (O)-based treatment was used. In all feeding phases, barley was fed at 40, while oats at 20% inclusion rate. At day 40, 10 birds per treatment were slaughtered and gut viscosity, the cecal short chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration, and the microbiota composition of the different gut parts determined. In spite of the glucanase enzyme addition, the barley-based diet significantly increased the viscosity of the ileal content and this was also the diversity of the bacteriota in the small intestine. On the other hand, this treatment decreased the microbial diversity in the ceca and resulted in lower SCFA contents. Barley increased the abundance of the phyla Bacteroidetes and decreased that of Firmicutes and some of them genera in the JC and CC. Oats had only a slight effect on the measured parameters. The results highlight the importance of also taking into account the soluble fiber fractions of the feedstuffs in diet formulation and to adapt the exogenous enzyme supplementation of to the actual soluble fiber contents.

Effect of 3-nitrooxypropanol on enteric methane emissions of feedlot cattle fed a tempered barley-based diet with canola oil.

A dose-response experiment was designed to examine the effect of 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) on methane (CH4) emissions, rumen function and performance of feedlot cattle fed a tempered barley-based diet with canola oil. Twenty Angus steers of initial body weight (BW) of 356 ± 14.4kg were allocated in a randomized complete block design. Initial BW was used as the blocking criterion. Cattle were housed in individual indoor pens for 112 d, including the first 21 d of adaptation followed by a 90-d finishing period when five different 3-NOP inclusion rates were compared: 0mg/kg DM (control), 50mg/kg DM, 75mg/kg DM, 100mg/kg DM and 125mg/kg DM. Daily CH4 production was measured on d 7 (last day of starter diet), 14 (last day of the first intermediate diet), and 21 (last day of the second intermediate diet) of the adaptation period and on d 28, 49, 70, 91 and 112 of the finisher period using open circuit respiration chambers. Rumen digesta samples were collected from each steer on the day prior to chamber measurement post-feeding, and pre-feeding on the day after the chamber measurement, for determination of rumen volatile fatty acids (VFA), ammonium-N, protozoa enumeration, pH and reduction potential. Dry matter intake (DMI) was recorded daily and BW weekly. Data were analyzed in a mixed model including period, 3-NOP dose and their interaction as fixed effects, and block as a random effect. Our results demonstrated both a linear and quadratic (decreasing rate of change) effect on CH4 production (g/d) and CH4 yield (g/kg DMI) as 3-NOP dose increased (P < 0.01). The achieved mitigation for CH4 yield in our study ranged from approximately 65.5% up to 87.6% relative to control steers fed a finishing feedlot diet. Our results revealed that 3-NOP dose did not alter rumen fermentation parameters such as ammonium-N, volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentration nor VFA molar proportions. Although this experimental design was not focused on the effect of 3-NOP dose on feedlot performance, no negative effects of any 3-NOP dose were detected on animal production parameters. Ultimately, the knowledge on the CH4 suppression pattern of 3-NOP may facilitate sustainable pathways for the feedlot industry to lower its carbon footprint.

Barley, an Undervalued Cereal for Poultry Diets: Limitations and Opportunities.

Simple SummaryWith the ever-increasing demand for poultry products, the continuous supply of conventional cereal grains such as maize has become a challenge. Barley has been recognised as a potential alternative feed ingredient that can replace common cereal grains in poultry diets. However, due to several limitations such as the presence of various anti-nutritive factors and the variability in nutrient composition and quality, the use of barley in poultry diets remains comparatively low. The previous findings on the optimum use of barley in poultry diets are also inconsistent primarily due to differences in research methodologies. The importance of using accurate nutrient profiles for specific barley cultivars to formulate barley-based diets is emphasised in this review. Moreover, the need to adapt feed processing conditions suitable to different barley cultivars to increase the inclusion of barley in poultry diets is highlighted in this review.The supply of conventional cereal grains, especially of maize, will be a significant constraint to the future growth of the poultry industry. Various alternative feed ingredients are being tested to replace maize in poultry diets. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one such feed ingredient, the use of which remains limited in poultry diets due to its low metabolisable energy, presence of anti-nutritive, soluble non-starch polysaccharides and consequent inter-cultivar variability. Differences in research methodologies used in published studies have also contributed to the inconsistent findings, preventing a good understanding of the nutritional value of barley for poultry. The importance of using accurate nutrient profiles, specifically metabolisable energy and digestible amino acids, for specific barley cultivars to formulate barley-based diets is emphasised. Nutritionists should also pay close attention to feed processing conditions tailored to the specific barley cultivars to increase the barley inclusion in poultry diets.

Effect of Exogenous Enzyme Mixture on Growth Performance, Digestibility and Some Rumen Parameters of Finishing Lambs Fed High Whole Grain Hulled Barley Diet

Background: Whole grain hulled barley has several nutritional limitations in diets for ruminants. Its fibrous hull which is resistant to ruminal microbial degradation and this could decrease performance. Therefore, tools that optimize the use of barley hull are required. Exogenous enzyme products including fibrolytic enzymes may be an important tool to improve the digestibility of whole grain, feed and improve the efficiency of lambs. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the supplementary exogenous enzyme mixture at three different levels on growth performance, digestibility and ruminal fermentation of male finishing lambs fed diets containing whole barley grain. Methods: Twenty-one Karayaka lamb (29.36±1.32 kg initial weight) were assigned to three experimental treatments: (1) Control, diet without exogenous enzyme; (2) 5 exogenous enzyme, diet with 5 g exogenous enzyme/head/day) and (3) 10 exogenous enzyme, diet with 10 exogenous enzyme g/head/day). Forage-free finishing diets were composed of 70% whole barley and 30% protein supplement. The experimental diet was offered to the animals for 56 days. Nutrient digestibility was determined during the last 4 days of the experiment. Result: The supplementation of exogenous enzyme did not affect dry matter intake. Increasing exogenous enzyme in whole barley grain-based diets did not alter digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fibre. Regarding, mean ruminal pH, NH3-N and ruminal total volatile fatty acid, there was no difference between control and both exogenous enzyme mixture levels. The findings of the current study indicate that there was no effect of exogenous enzyme mixture on lamb performance, digestibility and ruminal fermentation fed whole grain hulled barley-based diets in Karayaka lambs. Therefore, supplementing such diets with exogenous enzyme for fatting Karayaka lambs is not recommended.

The Effect of Manure from Cattle Fed Barley- vs. Corn-Based Diets on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Depends on Soil Type

Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cattle production have led to modifications of livestock diet composition aimed at reducing CH4 emissions from enteric fermentation. These diet modifications can result in varied manure types that may differentially affect GHG emissions when applied to soil. The purpose of this experiment was to examine the effect of different manure types on GHG emissions. We conducted an incubation experiment, comparing the manure from livestock fed a corn-based diet (CM) to that from livestock fed a traditional barley-based diet (BM). The manures were applied to three soil types (with varied soil fertility and pH) and compared to a control (without manure application). Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions were greater from CM than from BM across all soil types (29.1 and 14.7 mg CO2-C kg−1, respectively). However, CM resulted in lower N2O emissions relative to BM in the low fertility soil (4.21 and 72.67 μg N2O-N kg−1, respectively) and in lower CH4 emissions relative to BM in the two acidic soils (0.5 and 2.5 μg CH4-C kg−1, respectively). Total GHG emissions (sum of CO2, N2O, and CH4) were similar between CM and BM across all soil types, but CM (unlike BM) had 52–66% lower emissions in the low fertility soil relative to both CM and BM in the high fertility soil. Our study shows that manure and soil type interact to affect GHG emissions and that CM may mitigate N2O emissions relative to BM when applied to low fertility soils.

Non-starch polysaccharide degradation in the gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens fed commercial-type diets supplemented with either a single dose of xylanase, a double dose of xylanase, or a cocktail of non-starch polysaccharide-degrading enzymes

The aim of this study was to examine non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) degradation in the gastrointestinal tract of chickens fed a range of commercial-type diets supplemented with a commercial dose of xylanase, a double dose of xylanase or a cocktail of NSP – degrading enzymes. Cobb 500 broilers (n = 1,080) were fed 12 dietary treatments; 4 diets with differing primary grain sources (barley, corn, sorghum, and wheat) and three different enzyme treatments (commercial recommended dose of xylanase (16,000 BXU/kg), a double dose of xylanase (32,000 BXU/kg) or an NSP-degrading enzyme cocktail (xylanase, β-glucanase, cellulase, pectinase, mannanase, galactanase, and arabinofuranosidase at recommended commercial levels). There were 108 pens, approximately 10 birds per pen, 9 replicates per dietary treatment. The diets were fed as 3 phases, starter (d 0–12), grower (d 12–23), and finisher (d 23–35). On bird age d 12, 23, and 35, performance (total pen body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio corrected for mortality [cFCR]), litter and excreta dry matter content, and ileal and total tract soluble and insoluble NSP degradability and free oligosaccharide digestibility was determined. On d 35, the quantity of NSP in the gizzard, jejunum, ileum and excreta was determined. Results from this study showed that the double xylanase dose and NSP-ase cocktail had positive impacts on starter phase performance in birds fed the corn- and wheat-based diets. In the grower phase in birds fed the barley-based diet, these enzyme treatments improved cFCR and increased litter dry matter content. The NSP-ase cocktail had a negative impact on finisher phase cFCR in birds fed the sorghum-based diet. The double xylanase dose induced a positive impact on NSP degradability and free oligosaccharide digestibility. In conclusion, there appears to be advantages to feeding broilers a double xylanase dose, but lack of consistency when using an NSP-ase cocktail containing many enzymes.

Supplemental effect of coated refined fish oil on the performance of finishing pigs fed diets containing soybean meal as a partial alternative to barley or wheat feed ingredient

A total of 195 finishing pigs with an average body weight (BW) of 78.65 ± 0.09 kg were assigned to one of three dietary treatments in a 28-d trial. The designated nutritional diets were as follows: CON; TRT1, CON + 0.2% coated refined fish oil; and TRT2, CON + 10% barley + 0.2% coated refined fish oil. The inclusion of coated refined fish oil with the barley-based diet significantly increased BW, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio of finishing pigs throughout the experimental period. At the end of the experiment, pigs fed coated refined fish oil with the barley-based diet showed a significant improvement on nutrient digestibility of dry matter and nitrogen. Moreover, gas emission of NH3and H2S concentration were significantly reduced. Also, drip loss during days 5 and 7 was significantly decreased in meat quality analysis of pigs fed coated refined fish oil supplemented to a barley-based diet. Furthermore, dietary coated refined fish oil with barley-based diet had significantly increased fatty acid profile of belly meat and reduced belly fat. In summary, the inclusion of coated refined fish oil with barley diet positively impacts on growth performance and nutritional values of meat quality in finishing pigs.

Effects of Dietary Barley Starch Contents on the Performance, Nutrient Digestion, Rumen Fermentation, and Bacterial Community of Fattening Hu Sheep.

The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of substituting corn starch (CS) with barley starch (BS) on the growth performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and bacterial community of fattening Hu sheep. Seventy-two Hu lambs with similar initial body weight (BW, 29.70 ± 1.70 kg) were randomly assigned to four treatments, with 18 lambs per group. The four experimental diets have identical starch contents but with different starch sources as 100% starch from corn (BS-0), 33% starch from barley and 67% starch from corn (BS-33), 67% starch form barley and 33% starch from corn (BS-67), and 100% starch from barley (BS-100). All lambs were reared in individual units and fed high-concentrate diets (85% concentrate in diets based on dry matter [DM]). The experimental period included 7 days for adaptation and 63 days for data collection. Sixteen ruminal cannulated Hu sheep were divided into 4 groups and received the four experimental diets to determine the dynamics of ruminal pH. The average daily gain (ADG), and BW gain of lambs linearly decreased (p < 0.05), whereas the feed to gain ratio linearly increased (p < 0.05) with increasing dietary proportions of BS. Digestibility of DM, organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, starch, and gross energy (GE) decreased (p < 0.05) with increasing dietary BS contents. Ruminal mean pH decreased (p < 0.05) with increasing proportions of dietary BS, accompanied with linearly increased (p < 0.05) time and area of ruminal pH below 5.80 or 5.60. Increasing dietary proportions of BS linearly decreased (p < 0.05) the molar proportion of acetate, but linearly increased (p < 0.05) the molar proportion of propionate. Sheep of the BS-0 and BS-33 treatments had a less (p < 0.05) relative abundance of Selenomonas ruminantium than that of sheep of the BS-67 treatment, but a greater (p < 0.05) relative abundance of Ruminococcus albus than that of sheep of the BS-100 treatment (p < 0.05). In conclusion, feeding a high-concentrate corn-based diet for fattening Hu sheep improved the performance and rumen fermentation parameters when compared to the barley-based diet.

Effects of diet hulless barley and beta-glucanase levels on ileal digesta soluble beta-glucan molecular weight and carbohydrate fermentation in laying hens

Exogenous β-glucanase (BGase) improves nutrient digestibility and production performance in laying hens fed barley-based diets, but the effect of enzyme and the dosage on β-glucan depolymerization and fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract is poorly understood. The objectives of the study were to determine the effects of hulless barley (HB) and BGase levels on digestive tract β-glucan depolymerization and fermentation in laying hens. A total of 108 Lohman-LSL Lite hens were housed in cages and fed 2 levels of HB (CDC Fibar; 0 and 73%) by substituting wheat in the diet and graded levels of BGase (Econase GT 200 P from ABVista; 0, 0.01 and 0.1% – 0, 20,000, and 200,000 BU/kg) in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement. Birds were fed experimental diets for 8 weeks, starting at 35 wk of age. Digestive tract samples were collected at the end of the experiment. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. Beta-glucan peak molecular weight was lower with the 0.1 compared to both 0 and 0.01% BGase levels, whereas weight average molecular weight was lower with the 0.1 compared to 0% BGase for 73% HB. The maximum molecular weight for the smallest 10% β-glucan molecules decreased with the increasing BGase. Overall, β-glucan molecular weight in the ileum was higher when the birds were given 73 in comparison to 0% HB diets. Total and major short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the ileum were lower with 0.1 and 0.01 (except propionic acid) compared to 0% BGase in the birds fed 73% HB, but not 0% HB. Interactions between the main effects were found for the cecal acetic and isobutyric acids. In conclusion, exogenous BGase depolymerized high molecular weight β-glucan in HB and wheat. The effects of HB and BGase on carbohydrate fermentation were not apparent, although it appears ileal SCFA concentrations were lower with increasing levels of BGase.

Effect of feeding acidified or fermented barley using Limosilactobacillus reuteri with or without supplemental phytase on diet nutrient digestibility in growing pigs.

Fermentation of cereal grains may degrade myo-inositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis (dihydrogen phosphate) (InsP6) thereby increasing nutrient digestibility. Effects of chemical acidification or fermentation with Limosilactobacillus (L.) reuteri with or without phytase of high β-glucan hull-less barley grain on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and gross energy (GE), standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AAs), and standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of P were assessed in growing pigs. Pigs were fed four mash barley-based diets balanced for water content: 1) unfermented barley (Control); 2) chemically acidified barley (ACD) with lactic acid and acidic acid (0.019 L/kg barley grain at a ratio of 4:1 [vol/vol]); 3) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 (Fermented without phytase); and 4) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 and phytase (Fermented with phytase; 500 FYT/kg barley grain). The acidification and fermentation treatments occurred for 24 h at 37 °C in a water bath. The four diets were fed to eight ileal-cannulated barrows (initial body weight [BW], 17.4 kg) for four 11-d periods in a double 4 × 4 Latin square. Barley grain InsP6 content of Control, ACD, Fermented without phytase, or Fermented with phytase was 1.12%, 0.59%, 0.52% dry matter (DM), or not detectable, respectively. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, and GE, digestible energy (DE), predicted net energy (NE) value, and urinary excretion of P were greater (P < 0.05) for ACD than Control. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, GE, DE and predicted NE value, urinary excretion of P was greater (P < 0.05), and diet AID of Ca and ATTD and STTD of P tended to be greater (P < 0.10) for Fermented without phytase than Control. Diet ATTD of GE was lower (P < 0.05) and diet ATTD and STTD of P, AID and ATTD of Ca was greater (P < 0.05) for Fermented with phytase than Fermented without phytase. Acidification or fermentation with/without phytase did not affect diet SID of CP and AA. In conclusion, ACD or Fermented without phytase partially degraded InsP6 in barley grain and increased diet ATTD of DM, CP, and GE, but not SID of CP and most AA in growing pigs. Fermentation with phytase entirely degraded InsP6 in barley grain and maximized P and Ca digestibility, thereby reducing the need to provide inorganic dietary P to meet P requirements of growing pigs.

Effects of exogenous β-glucanase on ileal digesta soluble β-glucan molecular weight, digestive tract characteristics, and performance of coccidiosis vaccinated broiler chickens fed hulless barley-based diets with and without medication.

Limited use of medication in poultry feed led to the investigation of exogenous enzymes as antibiotic alternatives for controlling enteric disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of diet β-glucanase (BGase) and medication on β-glucan depolymerization, digestive tract characteristics, and growth performance of broilers. Broilers were fed hulless barley (HB) based diets with BGase (Econase GT 200P from AB Vista; 0 and 0.1%) and medication (Bacitracin and Salinomycin Na; with and without) arranged as a 2 × 2 factorial. In Experiment 1, 160 broilers were housed in cages from d 0 to 28. Each treatment was assigned to 10 cages. In Experiment 2, broilers (2376) were housed in floor pens and vaccinated for coccidiosis on d 5. Each treatment was assigned to one floor pen in each of nine rooms. In Experiment 1, the soluble β-glucan weighted average molecular weight (Mw) in the ileal digesta was lower with medication in the 0% BGase treatments. Peak molecular weight (Mp) and Mw were lower with BGase regardless of medication. The maximum molecular weight for the smallest 10% β-glucan (MW-10%) was lower with BGase addition. In Experiment 2, Mp was lower with medication in 0% BGase treatments. Beta-glucanase resulted in lower Mp regardless of medication, and the degree of response was lower with medication. The MW-10% was lower with BGase despite antibiotic addition. Body weight gain and feed efficiency were higher with medication regardless of BGase use through-out the trial (except d 11-22 feed efficiency). Beta-glucanase resulted in higher body weight gain after d 11 and worsened and improved feed efficiency before and after d 11, respectively, in unmedicated treatments. BGase and medication caused the depolymerization of soluble ileal β-glucan. Beta-glucanase acted as a partial replacement for diet medication by increasing growth performance in coccidiosis vaccinated broilers.