Broiler Production Research Articles

Systematic Literature Review: Optimizing Broiler Chicken Cage Temperature and Humidity

Broiler production is highly dependent on environmental conditions, especially temperature and humidity in the cage. This research is a Systematic Literature Review that uses the PRISMA method to optimize the temperature and humidity of broiler cages. A total of 202 journals were found through Google Scholar and other repositories, with an additional 16 journals manually. After filtering, 38 journals were selected based on publication year 2019-2024. From the review of the selected literature, five research questions were derived that led to new understanding and solutions to the problems in the research topic. The results show that temperature and humidity significantly impact broiler performance, including health, welfare, and productivity. An IoT-based monitoring and control system is proven to assist with real-time monitoring and control of temperature and humidity, improving farm efficiency and effectiveness. Supporting factors for implementing this system include a friendly user interface, mobile applications, and real-time notifications. The application of IoT technology in broiler farming has the potential to provide significant benefits to farmers and the livestock industry as a whole.

Health and Production Performance of Broiler strain Cobb with Closed House IoT system in Cimahpar, Bogor

One source of affordable protein for the Indonesian was broiler chickens. Farmer were competing to do optimal broiler production. For independent farmers, it is difficult to carry out efficient production because of global warming which triggers rapidly changing microclimate condition. Therefore, the closed house system can be an alternative. The purpose of this study was to observe the performance of strain cobb broilers reared in a closed house system supported by the Internet of Things (IoT). A total of 12,000 DOC were divided into 2 types of cages and 2 maintenance periods. The types of cages used were closed and open house and the maintenance period was January-February and April-May 2022. Each cage contain of 3,000 individuals and were maintained with a standard system. IoT systems were used to monitor the microclimate conditions. The results of the recording show that the closed house system gives better results. The comparison of the average body weight per chicken between closed and open house on days 4, 15, 25, and 30 respectively was 88 and 86 g; 520 and 495 gr; 1.73 gr and 1.127; 1,630 and 1,520 gr. The total harvest weight gave an increase of 5.21% (4,259 to 4,481.8 kg) and a better FCR from 1.49 to 1.40 in the closed house system. The closed house system for independent farmer was able to increase the efficiency because it provides comfortable microclimate so that the chickens grow better. The independent farmers can use closed house system for more profitable broiler production.

Optimizing broiler growth, health, and meat quality with citric acid- assessing the optimal dose and environmental impact: Citric acid in Broiler Health and Production.

The need for sustainable and safe alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters has driven researchers to explore organic acids (OAs) inclusion in broiler diets. Citric acid (CA), a notable OA, has emerged as a promising alternative due to its various physiological benefits, including improved nutrient digestibility, antioxidant properties, and enhanced weight gain. Despite the improved growth performance, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) does not seem to be consistently affected by CA inclusion. A considerable number of research papers suggest that CA can replace antibiotic growth promoters and has proved to be more effective when combined with other additives like probiotics and microbial phytase. However, despite numerous trials, the near-accurate dose remains in doubt. Dietary addition between 1.65 % and 2.65 % seems to positively affect broiler performance. Being an organic acid, CA brings no risk to the environment and does not economically burden producers. It has the capability to enhance certain meat qualities and extend shelf life. However, there is a risk of acidic stress and liver damage with excessive inclusion. This review study seeks to offer a thorough and all-encompassing summary of the present level of understanding regarding the use of CA supplementation in broiler diets by describing its impacts on growth efficiency, nutrient utilization, intestinal condition, immune response, meat quality, optimal dose, and environmental sustainability. Further research focused on determining precise dosage levels and understanding the synergistic or antagonistic effects of citric acid when combined with other feed additives is essential for optimizing broiler performance.

Evaluation of Herbal Anticoccidials on Growth Performance in Experimentally Infected Broiler Chickens

Avian diseases, especially coccidiosis, represent a significant threat to poultry production, demanding research into the use of herbal supplements in birds’ diets. So, the aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of selected herbal components in mitigating coccidiosis in broilers and to examine their overall impact on the productivity traits of broilers. A 35-day feeding trial was conducted with 1200 male ROSS 308 broiler chickens in two poultry facilities, one non-infected, using either usual coccidiostats (UC−) or 500 g/t herbal additive (consisting of Holarrhena antidysenterica, Ficus religiosa, Berberis aristata, Allium sativum, Embelia ribes, and Azadirachta indica; HA−) and the other intentionally exposed to Eimeria via drinking water at 7 days old, with corresponding control and experimental groups (UC+ and HA+). Dietary interventions significantly influenced broiler chicken body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) throughout the trial, notably on day 21, with UC+ treatment yielding the highest values. Herbal supplements did not affect the feed conversion ratio (FCR) or liveability. Under infection, litter dry matter (DM) content differences were notable on days 14 and 21, favouring herbal additive treatments (HA− and HA+). Herbal supplements also impacted Eimeria presence in the duodenum and jejunum on day 21, with notable differences between treatments. Despite several limitations, the study reveals that herbal additions may effectively manage Eimeria infection and enhance litter quality in broiler production, since control treatments demonstrated improved development and anatomy.

Lighting in broiler poultry houses: optimization for growth, welfare and sustainability

Broiler production plays a crucial role in the global economy, directly impacting sectors such as exports, imports and the economies of the countries that consume and produce this important source of animal protein. However, the relevance of this sector goes beyond the economic aspects, encompassing issues related to the health and welfare of the birds, which directly influence their productivity and quality. Among the various factors that affect broiler performance, lighting stands out as an essential element, with the potential to impact both the behavior and development of the birds, directly interfering with productive efficiency. This study explores poultry farming with a focus on the importance of adequate lighting systems, considering their effects on poultry health and growth, as well as the associated economic impacts. Efficient lighting can improve the quality of life of animals, optimizing their development and contributing to the sustainability of production. On the other hand, failures in this aspect can cause significant damage, compromising both production and animal welfare. By addressing these interrelationships, this paper seeks to reinforce the need for practices that balance productivity, sustainability and respect for the living conditions of broiler chickens, promoting advances in the poultry industry.

Effects of Different Dietary Fat Sources on Oxidative Stress Parameters in Broiler Chickens

Introduction: Certain types of dietary fats may elevate the generation of free radicals, resulting in oxidative stress and potential cellular damage. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of high-energy diets derived from various fat sources on broiler chicken welfare and production. Materials and methods: A total of 216-day-old unsexed Arbor Acre broiler chickens were assigned to four treatment groups. The groups, including control, beef tallow (high energy diet animal source, HEDAS), palm oil (high energy diet plant source, HEDPS), and low energy diet (LED), each consisting of three replicates with 18 birds, were investigated in a completely randomized design over 42 days. Results: According to the results, the HEDPS group had the highest live weight, while the HEDAS group indicated the highest dressing percentage. Significant differences were noted in alanine transaminase and alanine phosphatase in the treatment group compared to the control group. Cholesterol levels were significantly high in the HEDAS group and LDL levels were the lowest compared to the control group. The HEDAS group also exhibited the highest triglyceride level compared to other treatments. The HDL levels were higher in the LED and HEDPS groups compared to the HEDAS group. The VLDL concentration was significantly higher in the HEDAS group in comparison with other groups. Conclusion: The HEDPS diet positively affected serum biochemistry and carcass characteristics, highlighting its potential in broiler chicken welfare and production.

Impact of Stocking Density on Welfare and Performance of Ross 708 and Cobb 700 Broilers

Stocking density (SD) may affect broiler productivity and welfare. This study investigated the performance and welfare of Ross 708 and Cobb 700 broilers as affected by four SDs (27, 29, 32, and 44 kg/m2) until day 56. A total of 432 birds per strain were used, with 10, 12, 14, and 18 birds per pen (1.1 m × 1.5 m), corresponding to the respective SDs. Each SD treatment comprised eight replicates. The target SD was determined based on the projected market weight of 4 kg at 56 days of age. The average body weight (BW), feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured biweekly. Welfare indicators (four broilers per pen), including gait score, feather cleanliness, feather coverage, body temperature, and footpad condition, were evaluated on days 28 and 56. Tibia strength (two broilers per pen) was measured on day 56. The results show that the BW and FCR of both broiler strains were not affected by SD. For both strains, the male broilers exhibited greater bone strength compared to that of the female broilers (129.06 lbf M vs. 91.70 lbf F for Ross, and 130.86 lbf M vs. 117.40 lbf F for Cobb), but the influence of SD on bone strength was found to be significant only for the Ross male broilers. Most welfare indicators were not affected by the SD on days 28 and 56 for either broiler strain, except for feather cleanliness in Ross broilers and footpad in Cobb broilers on day 56, which improved at lower SDs. Strong age and sex effects on the welfare indicators were also identified for both broiler strains. It was concluded that the SD is not a significant factor for broiler productivity, and it has a minor influence on broiler welfare compared to those of age and sex.

Quantification of Antimicrobial Use on Commercial Broiler Farms in Pakistan.

Pakistan has a large, intensive broiler production industry, where antimicrobials are extensively used for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Monitoring antimicrobial use (AMU) at the farm level is crucial to guide interventions for antimicrobial stewardship. The objective of this study was to comprehensively quantify AMU on commercial broiler farms in Pakistan using different metrics. Data on on-farm AMU (both therapeutic and prophylactic) were collected from intensive commercial broiler farms in Punjab, Pakistan. AMU was quantified using four different metrics: treatment incidence (TI) based on defined daily dose (TIDDDvetPK), TI based on defined course dose (TIDCDvetPK), TI based on used daily dose (TIUDDvetPK), and mg/kg biomass. The median TIDDDvetPK, TIDCDvetPK, TIUDDvetPK, and mg/kg biomass values were 57.7 (7.5-257.9), 13.3 (1.8-52.5), 75.3 (21.1-182.9), and 301 (46.8-1009.6), respectively, based on 741 group treatments given at 100 participating farms with 225 flocks. About 34% treatments were administered for therapeutic purposes, with 66% administered as prophylaxis. A total of 41 active substances, distributed across 17 antimicrobial classes, were identified from 139 commercial antimicrobial products used. The most commonly used active substances (AS), out of total 741 group treatments, were colistin (polymyxins) at 17%, enrofloxacin (quinolones) at 8%, neomycin (aminoglycosides) and amoxicillin (aminopenicillins) at 7% each, and procaine penicillin (NS penicillins) and streptomycin (aminoglycosides) at 6% each. According to the WHO categorization, 57% of the used AS were found to be critically important antimicrobials (CIAs) for human medicine. As many as 30% of treatments were administered in the first week (13% on the first day of production), and the main indication was prophylaxis for early chick mortality, followed by 21% in week 5, with main indication being feed supplements for necrotic enteritis. The average weight at slaughtering was 2.25 kg, gained after an average of 44 days of the production cycle. The alarmingly high AMU in Pakistani broiler production emphasizes the urgent need to reduce AMU, particularly involving CIAs and the prophylactic use of antimicrobials. This can be achieved by improving farm management practices and strengthening regulatory oversight to enable prudent antimicrobial use, eventually reducing the risk of AMR.

Effects of breed and early feeding on intestinal microbiota, inflammation markers, and behavior of broiler chickens.

Recently, the Netherlands has shifted toward more welfare-friendly broiler production systems using slower-growing broiler breeds. Early post-hatch feeding (EF) is a dietary strategy that is currently used in commercial broiler production to modulate the gut microbiota and improve performance and welfare. However, there is a knowledge gap in how both breed and EF and their interplay affect gut microbiota composition and diversity, inflammatory status, and broiler behavior. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of breed (fast vs. slower-growing), EF, and their interaction on jejunum microbiota, inflammation, and behavior of broiler chickens. The study included a total of 416 Ross 308 and 416 Hubbard JA757 day-old male broiler chickens, observed until they were 37 days and 51 days old, respectively. Within each breed, one-half of the chickens received EF and the other half did not. A total of two chickens per pen were euthanized at two time points, that is, target body weight (BW) of 200 g and 2.5 kg, and jejunum samples were collected. The jejunum content samples (N = 96) were analyzed for their microbiota, whereas the jejunum tissue (N = 96) was used for the detection of mRNA levels of cytokines (IL-17, IL-22, and IFNγ). Two behavioral tests were performed to assess fear responses: (1) a novel environment test at a target BW of 200 g and (2) a tonic immobility test at a target BW of 2.5 kg. Breed affected the microbiota at a target BW of 2.5 kg (p = 0.04). A breed × EF interaction (p = 0.02) was present for IFNγ at a target BW of 200 g. During the novel environment test, Ross 308 chickens exhibited a shorter latency to vocalize and a higher number of vocalizations compared to Hubbard JA757 chickens (p < 0.05). Early-fed broiler chickens vocalized less compared to not early-fed chickens (Δ = -27.8 on average; p < 0.01). During the tonic immobility test, Hubbard JA757 chickens exhibited a shorter latency to stand compared to Ross 308 chickens. In conclusion, using a slower-growing breed has beneficial effects on gut microbiota and fear responses of broilers, especially at slaughter age, whereas EF seems to have an impact only at an early stage of the life of broilers.

Effects of Perch on Productivity, Welfare, and Physiological Indicators of Broiler Chickens Reared in Animal Welfare-Certificated Farms.

This study explored the impact of perches on the productivity and welfare of broilers raised on two animal welfare-certified farms (designated as Farm A and B) in South Korea. Broiler houses in each farm were provided with or without wooden square-shaped perches (2 × 2 cm) at a rate of 2 m per 1000 birds. The study aimed to assess whether perches could influence productivity measures, such as weight and uniformity, and animal welfare indicators, including corticosterone levels and physical health markers. The findings showed that the effects on productivity were inconsistent, varying by farm and period. Corticosterone levels, as an indicator of stress, were significantly lower in the perch group on farm B, but not on farm A. There were no significant differences in welfare indicators such as footpad dermatitis or feather cleanliness, although gait scores improved in farm B with perch provision. Litter moisture was higher in the perch group of farm A, but showed no difference in farm B. The study concluded that while perches did not consistently improve productivity or welfare, they did help reduce stress in broilers, as indicated by lower corticosterone levels.

Effect of Addition of Pandan Leaf Infusa (Pandanus amaryllifous, R) on Carcass Weight, Carcass Percentage and Abdominal Fat of Broilers

Many natural components are currently being looked for as substitute feed additives in broiler feed and drinking water to increase the effectiveness and quality of broiler production. Pandan leaves are one possible herbal component. The study's goal was to determine the optimal pandan infusion dosage for broiler carcasses, abdominal fat deposition. In this study, one hundred broiler aged one day were divided into 4 treatments and 5 replicates using a completely randomized design (CRD). The trial lasted four weeks in the Payakumbuh State Agricultural Polytechnic production laboratory's broiler stage cage. Twenty broilers per treatmnets were given pandan leaf infusa to drinking water. The four tretamnets were as follows: no additon of pandan infusion (A0), 1% addition (A1), 2% addition (A2) and; 3% addition (A3). The findings demonstrated that the research variables were not significantly impacted (P̃ &gt; 0.05) by the addition of pandan leaf infusa to drinking water. The percentage of carcass ranged from 66.52% to 71.56%, and the percentage of abdominal fat ranged from 0.92% to 0.77%. These findings lead to the conclusion that adding up to 3% of leaf infusion to drinking water did not improved carcass and abdominal fat deposition.

The Effect of Butterfly Pea Flower Extract on Broilers Raised in High-Density Environments (Impact on Performance, Blood Profile and Gut Microbes)

Background: High-density farming systems can lead to oxidative stress and negatively impact broiler performance. Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) were used to improve broiler performance under stress conditions. However, long-term use of AGPs can lead to antibiotic resistance in humans as consumers. Therefore, the use of AGPs is now banned in broiler production. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of butterfly pea flower extract on the performance, blood profile and gut microbes of broilers raised in high-density environments. Methods: After 15 days of rearing, 370 unsexed Lohmann broiler chicks were assigned to five treatments in a completely randomized design, consisting of CONT+, CONT-, BPE0.5, BPE1.0 and BPE1.5. Sampling was conducted on day 35. Result: The results indicated that the inclusion of butterfly pea flower extract in the diet of broilers raised at a high density (16 birds/m²) significantly (p less than 0.05) improved performance, lowered the pH in the ileum and cecum, increased lactic acid bacteria and reduced coliform bacteria in both the ileum and cecum. There was no significant effect (p greater than 0.05) on the blood profile of broilers.

Preliminary Evaluation of an Advanced Ventilation-Control Algorithm to Optimise Microclimate in a Commercial Broiler House.

This study aims to improve the microclimate conditions in a mechanically ventilated broiler house by proposing and evaluating a ventilation-control algorithm based on heat-energy balance analysis. The new algorithm is designed to optimise the ventilation-rate requirement and thereby improve control of the indoor temperature. The analysis of one year of operational data collected at the experimental farm indicates that the current ventilation-control system successfully maintained optimal indoor temperatures for 74% of the time. In contrast, the proposed algorithm has the potential to improve this number significantly (up to 92%). The new algorithm was implemented and evaluated at two broiler houses (control and experimental) starting from day 20 to day 34 during one rearing period under high-temperature conditions. The results confirm that the new algorithm effectively reduced indoor temperatures by 1.5-2 °C during the day, which reduces heat stress significantly. Even though cooling pad usage increased to about eight times, the reduction in tunnel fan usage (to about 52%) led to significant energy savings. Furthermore, broiler mortality was reduced by 16.5%, which means there is also potential for improved productivity. The proposed ventilation control algorithm can effectively enhance microclimate conditions and energy efficiency in broiler production, though longer-term studies are required to fully assess its impact on growth performance.

Effects of Phytochemical Antioxidants and Amino Acid Supplement (X-VIRUS) on the Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Immune Response, Blood Biochemical Parameters and Antioxidant Capacity of Broilers

Background: The poultry industry continues to grow due to the availability, affordability, and nutritional value of eggs and meat. Factors influencing this growth include genetics, feed quality, disease prevention, and the use of antibiotics. However, the search for alternatives to antibiotics has gained momentum due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and consumer demand. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding various doses of the commercial compound X-VIRUS solution (containing antioxidants and essential amino acids) to drinking water, with the goal of determining the optimal dose for improving broiler productivity. Methods: A total of 360 unsexed Ross 308 broilers were assigned to four treatments. Each treatment group was divided into six pens, with 15 chicks per pen. Treatments included: T1) control group (did not receive any additives), T2) 0.5 ml of X-VIRUS per liter of water, T3) 1 ml of X-VIRUS per liter of water, and T4) 1.5 ml of X-VIRUS per liter of water. Performance, carcass traits, biochemical blood variables and antioxidant capacity of broilers were assessed. Results: Administering X-VIRUS solution at a dose of 1.5 ml/l in broilers' drinking water increased body weight and weight gain compared to the lower doses. Additionally, higher X-VIRUS doses improved feed intake and feed conversion ratios. X-VIRUS solution increased significantly the relative weight of carcass, breast, and thigh in the fifth week. Higher X-VIRUS doses (1 and 1.5ml/l) led to higher antibody titers compared to lower doses. X-VIRUS solution reduced triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL, glucose, ALT and MDA levels and increased HDL, total protein levels and GSH-Px activity, while albumin and globulin levels remained unchanged. Conclusions: administering a dose of 1.5ml/l of X-virus solution showed the best results in the performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters and antioxidant capacity of broilers.

Investigating a propagation of emerging carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in Dutch broiler production pyramid through stochastic simulation

Simulating resistant bacteria transmission in livestock informs surveillance strategies for emerging threats like Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), aiding targeted surveillance and detecting CPE through active methods. We employed a simulation model to assess three potential scenarios for introducing CPE: 1) a single import of live animals, 2) the use of contaminated feed, and 3) multiple imports of live animals. Employing the SimInf package, we constructed a population model for broiler production, encompassing rearing farms, multiplier farms, hatcheries, and broiler farms. Subsequently, we introduced CPE and allowed it to spread throughout the population using the Susceptible-Colonized (Infectious)-Susceptible model. The model ran for 10 years with 100 runs.In the single import scenario, 1–2 rearing and multiplier farms saw major outbreaks in all 100 runs, while the broiler farm experienced major outbreaks in only 10 out of 100 runs; in the feed scenario, major outbreaks occurred in rearing farms in 32 runs and in multiplier farms in 26 runs, with major outbreaks in broiler farms observed in all 100 runs; in the multiple import scenario, outbreaks in rearing and multiplier farms happened in all 100 runs, with these major outbreaks reaching the broiler farm in 91 out of 100 runs. CPE transmission from imported or colonized broilers is rapid but short-lived within the broiler population, contrasting with the sporadic and prolonged emergence of CPE from contaminated feed, resulting in lower cumulative probabilities of detection from imported or colonized animals (0–0.50) compared to contaminated feed (0.9–0.97) over a 10-year period. Sensitivity analysis indicated that key outcomes such as farm outbreaks, chicken colonization, and outbreak duration are highly correlated with age-associated reductions in transmission (ψ).

Impact of nutrient density diet with emulsifier supplementation on apparent total tract digestibility and ileal amino acid digestibility in broilers

Emulsifiers play a diverse role in the livestock industry. As a feed additive, it aids the digestion and absorption of added fat in feed to increase the productivity of broilers. The study aimed to investigate the effect of nutrient density levels and emulsifier supplementation on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) and apparent ileal digestibility (AID) in broilers. A total of 60 14-days- old Ross broiler chickens were randomly allocated into 4 group with 5 replicates and 3 chicks per cage for 14 days (phase 1 days 1 to 7 and phase 2 days 8 to 14). ATTD and AID were evaluated on days 7 and 14 using indigestible indicator method. Dietary treatment included: TRT1, Low nutrient diet without emulsifier; TRT2, Low nutrient diet + 0.05% emulsifier; TRT3, High nutrient diet without emulsifier; TRT4, High nutrient diet + 0.05% emulsifier. Results showed that the nutrient density diets have no effect (P>0.05) on ATTD and AID of amino acids. However, ATTD of dry matter, nitrogen, gross energy (GE) and crude protein and essential amino acid of lysine, valine, tryptophan and total essential amino acid and non-essential amino acid of proline and alanine, AID of dry matter and GE and essential amino acid of histidine and tryptophan and non- essential amino acid of proline and alanine were significantly increase (P <0.05) in chickens fed the emulsifier compared with the nutrient density. Therefore, high nutrient density diets emulsifier supplementation had a beneficial effect on ATTD and AID of amino acids.

Categorization of early embryonic malformations in broilers by a new classification method combining light microscopy and high-resolution Episcopic Microscopy

Hatchability rates in broilers pose a significant challenge in the poultry industry. Despite advancements in breeding and incubation technology, hatch rates remain suboptimal due to factors like genetics, egg management, environmental stress, nutrition, and breeder age. Understanding the mechanisms behind compromised hatchability is crucial for improving broiler production. Since the embryonic phase accounts for ∼40% of a broiler's lifespan, poor embryonic development significantly contributes to malformations and mortality, adversely affecting both hatching and post-hatching performance.The foundations for proper embryogenesis are established within the first days of incubation during the formation of the three-germ layers and onset of organogenesis. These early days are critical, as malformations acquired during this period may severely affect growth and development of both the embryo and the hatchling chick. However, understanding of the types and prevalence of early embryonic malformations in broiler eggs remains incomplete.Here we present a novel tool for categorizing abnormalities in 3-day-old broiler embryos through a standardized classification system. Systematic mapping of malformation types and severities was conducted using light microscopy combined with High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM), resulting in a new 'malformation atlas.' This detailed atlas identified various abnormalities, including lethal defects, axis duplications, neural tube and cardiovascular malformations, growth retardation, and head malposition, many of which are difficult to detect in young stages with traditional methods.To validate this classification tool, we next analyzed the impact of various egg management practices, such as storage and incubation conditions, on malformation types and prevalence in embryos from young and old breeding flocks. The atlas revealed significant variations in the types and occurrences of malformations, influenced by flock age and egg managements.Our findings highlight the value of implementing a novel malformation categorization tool for systematic understanding of poultry embryology. This knowledge could help reduce malformations, enhancing hatchability and improving broiler production efficiency.

Early-life cold stress and broiler breeder age: effects on metabolism and performance in broiler chicks

Context Understanding the interaction between breeder age and environmental stressors, such as cold, is crucial for poultry production. Previous research has highlighted the impact of these factors on chick development, but there is limited information on how breeder age specifically influences stress resilience and growth performance in broilers, particularly under suboptimal conditions. Aims The study aimed to assess the impact of broiler breeder age and 8-h exposure to cold stress on chicks during the first 7 days of rearing. Methods A total of 600 male chicks from two Cobb flocks were divided into groups based on breeder age (29 or 42 weeks) and rearing temperature (thermoneutral or cold-stressed for 8 h/day during the first week). Key results Chicks from 42-week-old breeders exhibited faster yolk sac absorption under thermal comfort conditions (P &lt; 0.05). Corticosterone levels were higher in chicks from 29-week-old breeders exposed to cold stress (P &lt; 0.05). Cold-exposed birds showed elevated heterophil/lymphocyte ratios regardless of breeders’ age (P &lt; 0.05). Feed intake and weight gain were superior in birds from 42-week-old breeders up to 35 days, whereas cold stress negatively impacted the feed conversion ratio (P &lt; 0.05). Viability was lower in chicks from 29-week-old breeders and those subjected to cold stress (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion Although cold stress did not affect weight gain at 35 days, it impaired the feed conversion ratio. Moreover, chicks from 29-week-old breeders were more susceptible to cold stress during the first week of life compared with those from 42-week-old breeders. Implications The study reveals that breeder age significantly influences chick resilience to cold stress, with older breeders (42-week-old) producing more robust offspring. The findings suggest that optimizing the management of thermal conditions is critical for enhancing feed efficiency, growth performance and overall viability in broiler production.

Dietary ginger (Zingiber officinale) enhances performance traits, biochemical and haematological indices of Turkey targeting mRNA gene expression

Ginger rich in polyphenols, possesses various biomedical properties. Researchers investigated the effects of dietary ginger supplementation on turkey performance traits, biochemical parameters, haematological parameters and mRNA gene expression. Ginger root powder was administered at different doses (0, 10, 20 and 40 g/kg) to the turkeys. Notably, the 20 g/kg group exhibited improved performance traits and a higher broiler production efficiency factor (BPEF). Importantly, ginger was found to be safe for turkeys based on serum indices. Furthermore, the expression of several growth-related genes, including growth hormone receptor (GHR), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT), cyclooxygenase 3 (COX-3) and uncoupling protein 3 (UCP-3), was upregulated in the 20 g/kg enhancing their growth performance and economic efficiency in addition to keeping their health status safe. Therefore, Ginger root powder can be supplemented for turkey at a concentration of 2% as the addition of ginger powder is a long-term process.

Impact of Growth Rate on the Welfare of Broilers.

Selection for the more efficient production of broilers has resulted in rapid growth rates. The aim was to review the existing knowledge on the effect of growth rate on broiler welfare. Genotypes with faster growth rates consistently demonstrate poorer gait scores and increased prevalence of disorders affecting their legs than slower-growing genotypes. Reduced mobility places faster-growing broilers at an increased risk of developing contact dermatitis, as they spend increased durations sitting in contact with litter. Poor walking ability, heavy body weights, and conformational differences such as proportionally larger breast muscle in genotypes with faster growth can impact a bird's ability to walk and navigate the environment, making it difficult to access resources and express natural behaviors. Faster growth has also been associated with poor cardiovascular health, increased susceptibility to heat stress, increased prevalence of mortality, ascites, as well as multiple breast muscle myopathies. Feed restriction, a practice associated with hunger and frustration, may be used to control the growth of broiler breeders, with birds having higher growth potential typically experiencing higher restriction levels. Overall, there is strong evidence that fast growth rates negatively impact welfare, and that slower-growing genotypes show significantly improved welfare. Furthermore, some evidence suggests that even minor reductions in growth rate can lead to welfare improvements.