Chestnut Tannins Research Articles

Light-Struck Taste in White Wine: Protective Role of Glutathione, Sulfur Dioxide and Hydrolysable Tannins.

Light exposure of white wine can cause a light-struck taste (LST), a fault induced by riboflavin (RF) and methionine (Met) leading to the formation of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), including methanethiol (MeSH) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS). The study aimed to investigate the impact of different antioxidants, i.e., sulfur dioxide (SO2), glutathione (GSH) and chestnut tannins (CT), on preventing LST in model wine (MW) and white wine (WW), both containing RF and Met. Both MW and WW samples were added with the antioxidants, either individually or in different combinations, prior to 2-h light exposure and they were stored in the dark for 24 months. As expected, the light induced the degradation of RF in all the conditions assayed. Met also decreased depending on the antioxidants added. The presence of antioxidants limited the formation of LST as lower concentrations of VSCs were found in both MW and WW samples. In the latter matrix, neither MeSH nor DMDS were detected in the presence of CT, while only DMDS was found in WW+GSH, WW+SO2+GSH and WW+CT+SO2 samples at a concentration lower than the perception thresholds. Considering the antioxidants individually, the order of their effectiveness was CT ≥ GSH > SO2 in WW under the adopted experimental conditions. The results indicate tannins as an effective enological tool for preventing LST in white wine and their use will be further investigated in different white wines under industrial scale.

Effects of Hydrolysable Tannin with or without Condensed Tannin on Alfalfa Silage Fermentation Characteristics and In Vitro Ruminal Methane Production, Fermentation Patterns, and Microbiota.

Simple SummaryThe sustainability of livestock husbandry requires efficient nitrogen and energy utilization by ruminants fed high-forage diets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of hydrolysable tannin (HT) without or with condensed tannin (CT) on modulating the ensiling characteristics, methane production, ruminal fermentation profile, and microbiota of alfalfa silage. The results showed that adding HT, alone or in combination with CT, to alfalfa at ensiling improves fermentation quality and reduces ruminal methane production of alfalfa silage. Moreover, HT and CT in combination are more potent in modulating fermentation quality and methanogenesis than HT only; however, the high level of inclusion will impair silage degradation and microbiota in the rumen. Importantly, the results from this study revealed that a combination of HT and CT with complementary mechanisms at low doses can improve N utilization efficiency and methane mitigation of silage feed without adverse effects on ruminal fermentation patterns and microbiota. The findings in this study are of practical importance for the effective use of tannins as an additive for improving silage quality and utilization by ruminants.This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of hydrolysable tannin (chestnut tannin, CHT) without or with condensed tannin (quebracho tannin, QT) for modulating alfalfa silage fermentation characteristics and in vitro ruminal methane (CH4) production, fermentation profile, and microbiota. Alfalfa (235 g/kg fresh weight) was ensiled with no tannins (control), 2% CHT (CHT2), 5% CHT (CHT5), the combination of CHT and QT at 1% each (CHQ2), and CHT and QT at 2.5% each (CHQ5) of forage dry matter (DM). The CHQ2 treatment was more effective in reducing DM losses, pH, and ammonia–nitrogen to total nitrogen ratios of alfalfa silage than CHT2 and CHT5 treatments. All tannin treatments decreased ruminal CH4 production, and the magnitude of the decrease was greater for the combinations than the individual ones. Total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations and DM degradation decreased by tannin treatments, but microbial protein (MCP) synthesis increased. The total VFA concentrations and DM degradation were lower with CHQ2 treatment than with CHT5 and CHQ5 treatments, but the MCP concentrations were comparable among these treatments. Tannin inclusion decreased the abundance of the anaerobic fungi Ruminococcus albus and Ruminococcus flavefaciens, but enhanced Fibrobacter succinogenes. The combination of CHT and QT alleviated the inhibition of CHT supply alone in Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Ruminobacer amylophilus, and Prevotella ruminicola as well as protease. The results revealed that a combination of HT from CHT and CT from QT at a low level can reduce proteolysis and CH4 production of alfalfa silage without impairing ruminal fermentation and microbiota.

Evaluation of Tannin Extracts, Leonardite and Tributyrin Supplementation on Diarrhoea Incidence and Gut Microbiota of Weaned Piglets.

Simple SummaryReplacing and reducing antimicrobial treatments in livestock farming has become crucial for animal, human and environmental health due to global concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance. Weaning is a stressful phase in which piglets can develop enteric disorders leading to the massive use of antibiotics. In this scenario, functional nutrition represents one alternative to reducing antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the dietary administration of the combination of tannin extracts, leonardite and tributyrin supplementation on weaned piglets. After weaning, piglets were divided into two experimental groups: one fed a basal diet (CTRL) and one fed a basal diet supplemented with 0.75% Quebracho and Chestnut tannin extracts, 0.25% leonardite and 0.20% tributyrin (MIX), respectively, for 28 days. Zootechnical performance and diarrhoea incidence were recorded. Microbiological and microbiota analyses were performed on faecal samples, and metabolic profile of blood serum was evaluated. The MIX group revealed a reduced incidence of diarrhoea and improved faecal consistency compared to the CTRL group. After 28 days, MIX revealed an increased lactobacilli:coliform ratio compared to CTRL, and the serum metabolic profile showed lower levels of low-density lipoproteins, suggesting a modulation of the lipid metabolism. The results suggest that the combination of tannin extracts, leonardite and tributyrin could improve animal health, thus reducing diarrhoea occurrence in weaned piglets.The effects of the dietary administration of a combination of Quebracho and Chestnut tannins, leonardite and tributyrin were evaluated in weaned piglets. A total of 168 weaned piglets (Landrace × Large White) were randomly allotted to two experimental groups (6 pens/group, 14 piglets/pen). Animals were fed a basal control diet (CTRL) and a treatment diet (MIX) supplemented with 0.75% tannin extracts, 0.25% leonardite and 0.20% tributyrin for 28 days. Individual body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly. Diarrhoea incidence was recorded by a faecal scoring scale (0–3; considering diarrhoea ≥ 2). At 0 and 28 days, faecal samples were obtained from four piglets/pen for microbiological and chemical analyses of faecal microbiota, which were then assessed by V3-V4 region amplification sequencing. At 28 days, blood from two piglets/pen was sampled to evaluate the serum metabolic profile. After 28 days, a reduction in diarrhoea incidence was observed in the MIX compared to CTRL group (p < 0.05). In addition, compared to CTRL, MIX showed a higher lactobacilli:coliform ratio and increased Prevotella and Fibrobacter genera presence (p < 0.01). The serum metabolic profile showed a decreased level of low-density lipoproteins in the treated group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, a combination of tannin extract, leonardite and tributyrin could decrease diarrhoea incidence and modulate the gut microbiota.

Effects of two tannin extracts at different doses in interaction with a green or dry forage substrate on in vitro rumen fermentation and biohydrogenation

Extensive ruminant farming systems often face fluctuating pasture availability, resulting in two periods with very different forage quality. Tannins are natural bioactive compounds able to modify ruminants’ digestive metabolism thanks to their bioactive properties. To evaluate a differential effect of tannins in different feeding situations, according to the availability of pasture along the year, an in vitro rumen incubation trial was performed. Buffered sheep rumen content was incubated in vitro with two different substrates, vetch pasture (VP) and vetch hay (VH), in the presence of two different tannin extracts, from quebracho (QUE) and a mixture of quebracho and chestnut tannins (MIX). Each of the tannin extract was tested at 0, 15 and 30 g of tannin/kg DM. The gas production was determined at 3.5 and 24 h of fermentation. After 24 h in anaerobic conditions, volatile fatty acids (VFA), ammonia and fatty acids (FA) were analysed. Interesting significative two-way interactions with different tannin extracts were observed in some fermentation parameters. Adding MIX to VH treatment resulted in a higher depression (P < 0.050) of ammonia production and iso-VFA proportions, compared to QUE supplementation, while no differences were observed in VP treatment. QUE was more effective than MIX (P < 0.050) in reducing acetate/propionate ratio when supplemented to VH treatment. However, the MIX treatment showed a higher increase (P < 0.050) of CO2/CH4 ratio after 24 h of incubation when supplemented at 30 g/kg, compared to QUE treatment. MIX and QUE exerted similar effects on rumen biohydrogenation. Tannin extracts decreased the rumenic/linoleic acid ratio and iso-FA proportions (P < 0.050) only when added to the VH treatment. These results demonstrate that tannin extracts are more effective in modulating rumen metabolism when associated with a hay-based diet. Also, the MIX treatment was more effective in protecting proteins from ruminal degradation, a key point in grazing periods. Therefore, extensive husbandry could benefit from different strategies for using dietary tannin extracts according to season and pasture availability.

A mixture of quebracho and chestnut tannins drives butyrate-producing bacteria populations shift in the gut microbiota of weaned piglets.

Weaning is a critical period for piglets, in which unbalanced gut microbiota and/or pathogen colonisation can contribute to diseases that interfere with animal performance. Tannins are natural compounds that could be used as functional ingredients to improve gut health in pig farming thanks to their antibacterial, antioxidant, and antidiarrhoeal properties. In this study, a mixture of quebracho and chestnut tannins (1.25%) was evaluated for its efficacy in reducing the negative weaning effects on piglet growth. Microbiota composition was assessed by Illumina MiSeq 16S rRNA gene sequencing of DNA extracted from stools at the end of the trial. Sequence analysis revealed an increase in the genera Shuttleworthia, Pseudobutyrivibrio, Peptococcus, Anaerostipes, and Solobacterium in the tannin-supplemented group. Conversely, this dietary intervention reduced the abundance of the genera Syntrophococcus, Atopobium, Mitsuokella, Sharpea, and Prevotella. The populations of butyrate-producing bacteria were modulated by tannin, and higher butyrate concentrations in stools were detected in the tannin-fed pigs. Co-occurrence analysis revealed that the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to the families Veillonellaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Coriobacteriaceae occupied the central part of the network in both the control and the tannin-fed animals. Instead, in the tannin group, the OTUs belonging to the families Acidaminococcaceae, Alcaligenaceae, and Spirochaetaceae characterised its network, whereas Family XIII Incertae Sedis occupied a more central position than in the control group. Conversely, the presence of Desulfovibrionaceae characterised the network of the control group, and this family was not present in the network of the tannin group. Moreover, the prediction of metabolic pathways revealed that the gut microbiome of the tannin group possessed an enhanced potential for carbohydrate transport and metabolism, as well as a lower abundance of pathways related to cell wall/membrane/envelope biogenesis and inorganic ion transport. In conclusion, the tested tannins seem to modulate the gut microbiota, favouring groups of butyrate-producing bacteria.

Effects of chestnut tannins supplementation of prepartum moderate yielding dairy cows on metabolic health, antioxidant and colostrum indices

Abstract This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with chestnut tannins (CNT) on metabolic and antioxidant status of prepartum cows along with their colostrum quality. Pregnant multiparous Holstein cows were paired according to parity and body condition score, and assigned either to a diet supplemented with 20 g/d of commercially available product containing chestnut tannins (CNT, n=20) or to an unsupplemented control diet (CON, n=20) for the last 25±2 d of pregnancy. Serum metabolite, insulin and antioxidant capacity indices were measured in blood samples taken at d 25 and d 5 before expected parturition. Chemical composition and IgG concentration were determined in colostrum samples collected from the first milking postpartum. The addition of CNT led to lower BUN (P=0.02) and consequently higher serum glucose (P=0.02) and insulin (P&lt;0.01) concentrations which were associated with lower circulating NEFA (P&lt;0.01) and BHBA (P&lt;0.01) in CNT group than those of CON. The serum paraoxonase 1 (PON 1) activity and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) were higher at -5 d in CNT than in CON (P&lt;0.01, P=0.03; respectively). Close-up CNT improved lactose percentage and IgG concentration (P=0.03, P=0.04; respectively) and tended to improve percentage of protein and SNF (Solid Not Fat) in primary colostrum (P=0.06, respectively), without affecting colostrum fat and total solid (P=0.98, P=0.43; respectively). Supplementation of CNT in the diet during close-up period did not have adverse effects on metabolic profiles prepartum. Instead, this feeding regimen was more beneficial to antioxidant capacity and colostrum quality than feeding the control diet.

Inhibitory effect of tannin extract from Acacia bark (Acacia mangium Willd.) against gastro-intestinal pathogenic bacteria

Acacia (Acacia mangium Willd) is a fast growing tree species that widely found in Indonesia. Acacia bark contains a number of secondary metabolites such as tannin, saponin and flavonoid that may inhibit the growth of undesirable microbes incuding the pathogenic ones. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of tannin extract obtained from Acacia bark against common pathogenic bacteria species present in the gastro-intestinal tract of livestock, i.e., Salmonella typhimurium and Eschericia coli as Gram negative bacteria. The disc diffusion method was employed for assessing the antimicrobial activity of Acacia tannin extract. Treatments consisted of negative control (NC), positive control by using chloramphenicol (PC), Acacia tannin extract at two concentrations, i.e., 1% (AT1) and 2% w/v (AT2), and commercial chestnut tannin at 1% (CT1) and 2% w/v (CT2). Data were analyzed by using analysis of variance and followed by a post-hoc test namely Duncan’s multiple range test. Results showed that the inhibitory diameters formed on the activity assay of AT in the form powder, liquid and CT with concentration of 2% against Salmonella typhimurium bacteria were 17.3, 7 and 16 mm, respectively. Inhibitory diameters of AT powder, AT liquid and CT against Eschericia coli bacteria were 17.3, 0 and 17 mm, respectively. The AT powder resulted in a higher inhibition of both pathogenic bacteria species than that of liquid form (P<0.05), whereas its inhibitory effect was similar to commercial CT. In conclusion, 2% AT can be used to inhibit the growth of Salmonella typhimurium and Eschericia coli bacteria in which its magnitude of inhibition is comparable with commercial tannin extract from chestnut.

Natural Tannins as New Cross-Linking Materials for Soy-Based Adhesives.

Human health problems and formaldehyde emission from wood-based composites are some of the major drawbacks of the traditional synthetic adhesives such as urea formaldehyde resins. There have been many attempts to decrease formaldehyde emission and replace urea formaldehyde resins with bio-based adhesives for wood-based composites. Because of some weakness in soy-based adhesive, chemicals have been used as modifiers. Modified soy-based adhesives without any formaldehyde have been successfully used to prepare wood panels. To achieve this, different synthetic cross-linking chemicals such as phenol formaldehyde resins and polyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin were used. However, in reality, what we need are totally green adhesives that use natural materials. In our previous research work, the use of tannins in combination with soy-based adhesives to make wood composites was investigated. Thus, in this research work, the feasibility of using three types of natural tannins (quebracho, mimosa and chestnut tannins) as cross-linking materials for soy adhesive was studied. The chemical bond formation and adhesion behaviors of tannin-modified soy adhesives were also investigated by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-ToF-MS) and thermo-mechanical analysis (TMA). The results showed that at ambient temperature, both ionic and covalent bonds formed between tannin constituents and amino acids; however, at higher temperature, covalent bonds are largely predominate. Based on the results obtained from the thermo-mechanical analysis, the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of soy adhesive is increased by adding tannins to its formulation. In addition, the chemical bond formation was proved by MALDI-ToF-MS.

Effect of Hydrolysable Tannins and Anthocyanins on Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections in Nephropathic Patients: Preliminary Data

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by uropathogenic microorganism colonization. UTIs often require an antibiotic therapy that can cause the selection of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. A natural bioactive compound may represent a valid therapeutic adjuvant approach, in combination with drug therapy. In this paper, we present a pilot study, based on the administration of an oral food supplement (OFS), containing chestnut tannins and anthocyanins, to nephropathic patients suffering from recurrent UTIs (16 treated patients with 1 cp/day and 10 untreated patients). We performed laboratory tests and quality of life and body composition assessments, at T0 (baseline) and T1 (after 6 weeks OFS assumption). The analysis of OFS was performed by HPLC-DAD-MS for its content in polyphenols and by in vitro tests for its antioxidative and anti-free radical activities. In each capsule, polyphenol content was 6.21 mg (4.57 mg hydrolysable tannins, 0.94 mg anthocyanosides, 0.51 mg proanthocyanidins, 0.18 mg quercetin derivatives). A significant reduction of erythrocyte sedimentation rate was observed only in male patients. Urinalysis showed a significant reduction of leukocytes in both genders, whereas urinary bacterial flora at T1 significantly decreased only in male subjects. Tannins seem to exert an antimicrobial action according to gender, useful to counteract the recurrence of UTIs.

Vegetable tannins-based additive as antioxidant for biodiesel

The development of more sustainable antioxidants alternatives for the improvement of biodiesel oxidation stability is gaining importance. Vegetable tannins are known for their antioxidant properties. In this work, acacia (Acacia mearnsii), chestnut (Castanea sativa) and quebracho (Schinopsis lorentzii) tannins extracts were used in mixture with triethanolamine as antioxidants for soybean biodiesel. Tannins were characterized by Folin-Ciocalteau method for the determination of total phenolic content (TPC) and against DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydracyl) radical for scavenging capacity. When applied to the biodiesel at a concentration of 350 mg L−1 in mixture with 1.59 %wt of triethanolamine, tannins were highly effective in enhancing oxidative stability with superior performance than synthetic antioxidant tert-Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). These findings indicate that vegetal tannins can be used as a renewable alternative to enhance biodiesel oxidation stability.

Role of JAK-STAT Pathway in Broiler Chicks Fed with Chestnut Tannins.

Simple SummaryCurrent bans on the use of antibiotics in livestock feed have led to increasing demand for alternatives to antibiotics (ATA). One popular alternative is chestnut tannins (ChT). While there is growing evidence of the immune benefits of using phytobiotics, such as ChT, there is currently minimal information on the effect of tannins on the immune pathway of the host. A previous study discovered a large upregulation of IL-6 in broiler chicks at day 6 when provided with 1% ChT from hatch. In regard to potential immune modulation, ChT appear to influence host immunity via an IL-6 mediated response, which could be beneficial in host defenses against pathogens at the early stages of broiler growth and development. A critical pathway identified in the regulation of the immune system is the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. The role of JAK-STAT pathway is altered by the addition of ChT in the diet. By demonstrating the changes in the kinome of the broiler model, the information in this study will provide further insights into potential ATA to improve poultry health.The objective of this study was to identify the phosphorylation events associated with host immunity with the inclusion of chestnut tannins (ChT) in the diet. A total of 200 male day-of-hatch Cobb 500 chicks were randomly assigned to two treatment groups, totaling 50 chicks per pen per experiment (this study was repeated two times). The treatments were as follows: (1) control feed—normal starter feed (n = 50), and (2) 1% ChT inclusion feed (n = 50). The ceca were collected on each necropsy day for analysis via (1) a peptide array to provide tissue immunometabolism information from the host, and (2) quantitative PCR for mRNA expression. Of the top three immune pathways, the data identified the T-cell receptor signaling pathway, the chemokine signaling pathway, and the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. The results showed significantly altered phosphorylation of JAK and STAT peptides within the JAK-STAT pathway. These results support the mRNA expression data with the upregulated IL-6 response, due to the significant phosphorylation of IL6ST, JAK, and STAT peptides. In regard to immune modulation, ChT appear to influence host immunity via an IL-6 mediated response which could be beneficial in host defenses against pathogens at the early stages of broiler growth and development. Therefore, it is suggested that the role of the JAK-STAT pathway is altered by including ChT in the diet.

Growth and bacterial dynamics of beef calves during transition from milk/pasture to a high-concentrate diet added with tannins or medium-chain fatty acids

Context Rumen fermentation modulation with feed additives during the transition period to high-concentrate diets might help to avoid bacterial dysbiosis. Aims Assessing the effects of the addition of tannins and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) to the adaptation diet of beef calves to a high-concentrate ration on the rate of intake, animal performance and rumen bacterial composition. Methods Eighteen 7-month-old beef calves were abruptly weaned and transitioned over a 28-day period from a milk/grass regime to one of the following diets: a non-supplemented high-concentrate diet plus wheat straw, both given ad libitum (C); C plus 20 g/kg of a 65:35 chestnut and quebracho tannin extract; and C plus 6 g/kg of a commercial mixture of MCFA. Concentrate and straw rate of intake were recorded. Rumen fluid was collected on Days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 0, 3, 6 and 9 h after feeding to characterise rumen fermentation. Samples from 0 h were analysed to assess the bacterial population using Ion Torrent sequencing. Key results The rate of intake of concentrates and straw, as well as daily gains and final weights, were similar (P &gt; 0.05) among diets. The addition of tannins or MCFA did not modify (P = 0.98) the rumen bacterial population, which was affected by sampling day (P &lt; 0.001). The additives inclusion did not affect relative abundances of the main bacterial taxa (P &lt; 0.05), most of them differing across days (P &lt; 0.001). Diversity indexes (Shannon and richness) declined over sampling days (P &lt; 0.05), although some genera emerged after concentrate inclusion. Conclusions At the doses used in the present experiment, tannins and MCFA did not exert any effect on intake, animal performance and bacterial population. Abrupt transition to high-concentrate diets modified the rumen environment and bacterial community, indicating bacterial adaptation to new environmental conditions. Implications Abrupt transition of 7-month-old calves from milk/pasture to a high-concentrate diet did not impair rumen microbiota or performance; therefore, the use of feed additives seems unnecessary.

Evaluation of oral administration of chestnut tannins in preventing calf diarrhoea

We evaluated the preventive effects of the oral administration of chestnut tannins (Castanea sativa) together with its potential metabolic effect on calf diarrhoea. Forty Italian Friesian female calves were included and divided into Group C (control group) and Group T (tannin-treated group). From the third day of life (T0) for the following 56 days (T56), calves from Group C received 2 L of warm water, while 10 g of chestnut tannin powder extract were added to Group T. Calves were weighed at birth and at T56. Daily faecal score evaluation was performed according to the literature. The age at diarrhoea onset (TDE) and the duration of the diarrhoeic episode were recorded. Blood methaemoglobin and liver enzymes were evaluated weekly starting from T0 to T56 by spectrophotometer and clinical chemistry analysis, respectively. The t-Student and chi-square tests were performed. The TDE was higher (p = .04) in Group T than in Group C (12.0 ± 8.2 and 7.7 ± 3.8 days, respectively). There were no differences for ADG between the groups. Group C spent 24.4% of the whole period with diarrhoea, whereas Group T experienced diarrhoea for 18.9% of the period (p = .001). All the blood and serum analytes were within physiological values. The administration of tannins in calves from the third day of life seemed to delay the onset of diarrhoea by almost four days, suggesting effective preventive action of chestnut tannins. HIGHLIGHTS The oral administration of chestnut tannins in calves seemed to delay the onset of diarrhoea by almost four days, thus showing a preventive effect. The oral administration of chestnut tannins may lead to a better and shorter recovery of the calf, thus decreasing the use of antibiotics.

Diets supplemented with condensed and hydrolysable tannins affected rumen fatty acid profile and plasmalogen lipids, ammonia and methane production in an in vitro study

The livestock sector constitutes 14.5% of global green-house gas (GHG) emissions and soil and water pollution due to nitrogen excretion. Methane and nitrogen excretions in ruminants can be mitigated by specific feeding strategies, and tannins reduce methanogenesis and ammonia syntheses. In our study, two kinds of condensed tannins (Mimosa and Gambier) and two kinds of hydrolysable tannins (Chestnut and Tara) were added (4 g/100 g DM) to a basal feed (barley: 48 g/100 g DM, wheat bran: 23 g/100 g DM, dehydrated alfalfa hay:15 g/100 g DM, soybean meal: 10 g/100 g DM and molasses: 2 g/100 g DM), inoculated with rumen fluid and fermented for 24 h. The methane, ammonia, fatty acid and plasmalogen lipid profile were determined. The results confirmed that tannins are an important family of heterogeneous compounds whose effect on rumen metabolism is strongly linked to their different characteristics. Chestnut tannin extract was shown to be a good compromise. It improved the sustainability of ruminant rearing by decreasing methanogenesis (control feed 0.159 vs chestnut feed 0.137 mmol/L rumen fluid; p = .0326), ammonia production (control feed 248 vs chestnut feed 179 mg/L rumen fluid; p < .0001) and enhancing acetate synthesis (production rate: chestnut 68.68% vs 49.64% of control). HIGHLIGHTS Tannin extracts from trees and shrubs can be used to modulate rumen fermentation. The positive effect of chestnut tannin extract was demonstrated on methane and ammonia production. Tannins showed no protective action on C18:2 trans 11.

PSXI-25 The effect of plant tannins on methane and nitrous oxide emissions from dairy manure under laboratory conditions

Abstract Emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG; methane, CH4; nitrous oxide, N2O) from dairy cattle manure contribute to global climate change. The aim of this study was to assess the associative effects of three different levels [0, 4 and 8% wet weight (WW) basis] of condensed tannins (CT; quebracho tannins) and hydrolysable tannins (HT; chestnut tannins) on CH4 and N2O emissions. The dairy manure consisted of a 50:50 volume mixture of fresh feces and dry manure scraped from the surface of an open-lot dairy in the Texas panhandle. Control (0% tannin), 4%, and 8% of CT or HT (w/w) were added to each bucket and homogenized with a hand mixer for 5 min. Aliquots of 220 g (WW) manure, with or without tannins, were placed into 1 L fermentation bottles (n = 3, total of 18 bottles) and incubated at 39o C for 14 days. A second set of 18 fermenters were set up in the same manner for sample collection at 0, 2, 3, 6, and 9 h to discern changes in pH and redox status. There were no differences in redox values with the addition of either tannin type to in vitro fermenters. However, application of CT to dairy manure reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05-0.01) cumulative CH4 emissions by 68 to 63% at the concentrations of 4 and 8% WW, respectively, compared with the non-tannin control group. Both CT and HT decreased cumulative N2O emissions (P &amp;lt; 0.02). Examination of the emission kinetics revealed a tradeoff (interchange or pollution swapping) between CH4 and N2O emissions when tannins were applied to manure. These results suggested that the inclusion of 4% CT (WW) is a promising technique for reducing CH4 and N2O emissions from excreted dairy manure. Further study is warranted to investigate the effects of feeding CT and HT on manure-derived GHG in dairy systems.

PSIX-12 Effects of tannin supplementation on zootechnical performance and blood parameters of weaned piglets

Abstract Weaned piglets often suffer from the enteric disorders and post-weaning diarrhoea. Natural extracts, due to its functional properties, such as tannins from chestnut and quebracho are often considered as feed additives against diarrhoea after the antibiotics ban (Reg. UE 1831/2003). The aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary effects of tannins on growth performance and blood parameters of weaned piglets. A total of 120 piglets (Large White x Landrace) weaned at d 28±2 were randomly allotted to one of two treatments (control vs. tannin) with 6 pens per treatment and 10 pigs per pen. The tannin diet was supplemented with 1.25% of chestnut and quebracho tannins (Silvateam, Italy). The experiment lasted 40 days. Individual body weight (BW) was recorded at d 0, 14, 28 and 40. Feed intake was measured weekly to calculate feed efficiency from d 0 to 14, d 14 to 28, and d 28 to 40. Blood samples were collected on d 40 from a subset of animals (4 pigs/pen). Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). Supplementation of tannins did not affect BW and feed intake throughout the experiment. However, addition of tannins showed tendency to increase the feed efficiency on d 14 to d 28, compared with control (P = 0.54; 60.4 vs. 52.3, respectively). Dietary addition of tannins significantly increase the serum concentration of albumin, and decrease of globulin, urea and creatinine compared with control (P &amp;lt; 0.05; 23.05 vs. 19.31 g/L, 30.13 vs. 33.58 g/L; 0.98 vs. 2.18 mmol/L; 53.92 vs. 78.92 μmol/L, respectively). In conclusion, tannin supplementation impacted the blood parameters that were related to protein utilization, although this benefit was not reflected in growth performance of weaned pigs.

Evaluation of Dietary Administration of Chestnut and Quebracho Tannins on Growth, Serum Metabolites and Fecal Parameters of Weaned Piglets.

Simple SummaryIn pig livestock, alternatives to in-feed antibiotics are needed to promote health status and to control enteric infections. Plant extracts containing biologically-active molecules may influence animal metabolism and performance, therefore potentially reducing the use of antibiotics in pigs. Tannins have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and have been adopted to enhance growth performance, modulate intestinal microbiota, and decrease the incidence of diarrhea, particularly during the post-weaning period. Despite their functional properties, tannins are known to be astringent compounds due to their ability to complex and precipitate proteins, particularly proline-rich proteins. The common use of non-standardized plant extracts generates results that are often controversial and difficult to interpret. In this study, attention was focused on the evaluation of the inclusion of a mixture of tannins extracted from chestnut and quebracho in the diet of piglets.In pig livestock, alternatives to in-feed antibiotics are needed to control enteric infections. Plant extracts such as tannins can represent an alternative as a natural source of functional compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro digestibility and in vivo effects of oral supplementation of combined chestnut (Ch) and quebracho (Qu) tannins in order to establish if they can induce a positive effect on weaned piglets’ performance, metabolic status and fecal parameters. In vitro digestibility (dry matter, DM) of diets was calculated using a multi-step enzymatic technique. In vitro digested diet samples were further tested on an intestinal porcine enterocyte cell line (IPEC-J2). Weaned piglets (n = 120; 28 ± 2 day old) were randomly allotted to two groups (12 pens in total with 10 pigs per pen): control (Ctrl) and treatment (Ch/Qu). After one week of adaptation (day 0), 35-day-old piglets in the Ctrl group were fed a Ctrl diet and the Ch/Qu group were fed with 1.25% Ch/Qu for 40 days. Body weight and feed intake per pen were recorded weekly. At day 40, blood and fecal samples were collected. Principal metabolic parameters were evaluated from blood samples by enzymatic colorimetric analysis. Total phenolic compounds, urea, and ammonia in feces were analyzed (Megazyme International, Bray, Ireland). In vitro digestibility and cell viability assays showed that the inclusion of 1.25% Ch/Qu slightly reduced diet digestibility compared with the Ctrl diet, while intestinal cell viability was not altered with low concentrations of Ch/Qu digesta compared with Ctrl. In vivo results did not show any adverse effects of Ch/Qu on feed intake and growth performance, confirming that dietary inclusion of Ch/Qu at a concentration of 1.25% did not impair animal performance. The decreased diet DM digestibility in the Ch/Qu diet may cause increased serum concentration of albumin (Ctrl: 19.30 ± 0.88; Ch/Qu: 23.05 ± 0.88) and albumin/globulin ratio (Ctrl: 0.58 ± 0.04; Ch/Qu: 0.82 ± 0.04), but decreased creatinine (Ctrl: 78.92 ± 4.18; Ch/Qu: 54.82 ± 4.18) and urea (Ctrl: 2.18 ± 0.19; Ch/Qu: 0.95 ± 0.19) compared with Ctrl. Pigs in the Ch/Qu group contained higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of fecal phenolic compounds and nitrogen than the Ctrl group, while fecal ammonia and urea were not affected by tannins. In conclusion, Ch/Qu tannin supplementation did not influence growth performance. Although lower digestibility was observed in the diet supplemented with Ch/Qu tannins, Ch/Qu supplementation did not show any adverse effect on intestinal epithelial cell viability.

Supplementing chestnut tannins in the broiler diet mediates a metabolic phenotype of the ceca

As the demand for alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) increases in food animal production, phytobiotic compounds gain popularity because of their ability to mimic the desirable bioactive properties of AGP. Chestnut tannins (ChT) are one of many phytobiotic compounds used as feed additives, particularly in South America, for broilers because of its favorable antimicrobial and growth promotion capabilities. Although studies have observed the microbiological and immunologic effects of ChT, there is a lack of studies evaluating the metabolic function of ChT. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the cecal metabolic changes induced by ChT inclusion and how they relate to growth promotion. A total of 200 day-of-hatch broiler chicks were separated into 2 feed treatment groups: control and 1% ChT. The ceca from all the chicks in the treatment groups were collected on day 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 after hatch. The cytokine mRNA quantitative RT-PCR was determined using TaqMan gene expression assays for IL-1B, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and interferon gamma quantification. The cytokine expression showed highly significant increased expressions of IL-6 and IL-10 on day 2 and 6, whereas the other proinflammatory cytokines did not have significantly increased expression. The results from the kinome array demonstrated that the ceca from birds fed with 1% ChT had significant (P < 0.05) metabolic alterations based on the number of peptides when compared with the control group across all day tested. The increased expression of IL-6 appeared to be strongly indicative of altered metabolism, whereas the increased expression of IL-10 indicated the regulatory effect against other proinflammatory cytokines other than IL-6. The ChT initiate a metabolic mechanism during the first 10 d in the broiler. For the first time, we show that a phytobiotic product initially modulates metabolism while also potentially supporting growth and feed efficiency downstream. In conclusion, a metabolic phenotype alteration in the ceca of chickens fed ChT may indicate the importance of enhanced broiler gut health.

Hydrolyzable vs. Condensed Wood Tannins for Bio-based Antioxidant Coatings: Superior Properties of Quebracho Tannins.

Tannins have always been the subject of great interest for their countless properties, first of all their ability to produce functional coatings on a variety of materials. We report herein a comparative evaluation of the antioxidant properties of wood tannin-based coated substrates. In particular, nylon membrane filters were functionalized with chestnut (hydrolyzable) or quebracho (condensed) tannins by dip coating under different conditions. The efficiency of functionalization was evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, which invariably highlighted the superior ability of condensed tannins to induce the formation of a functional and robust coating. The results of the antioxidant assays revealed also the deleterious effects of aerial or enzymatic oxidation conditions on substrate functionalization, being more significant in the case of hydrolyzable tannins. On the other hand, the use of oxidizing conditions allowed to obtain more stable coatings, still exhibiting good antioxidant properties, in the case of condensed tannins. The presence of iron ions did not lead to a significant improvement of the coating efficiency for either tannins. The systematic approach used in this work provides novel and useful information for the optimal exploitation of tannins in antioxidant functional coatings.

Effect of chestnut wood extract on performance, meat quality, antioxidant status, immune function, and cholesterol metabolism in broilers

Plant extracts have been proved as natural antioxidants resources as well as alternative feed additives in livestock and poultry species. Chestnut wood extract (CWE) as a source of hydrolysable tannic acid was used to evaluate the growth performance, nutrient retention, meat quality, antioxidant status, and immune function of broilers. A total of 168, day-old Arbor Acre male broilers (weight 46.59 ± 0.44 g) were randomly divided to 3 treatments, 7 replicate pens per treatment, 8 broilers per pen. The treatments contain a control diet, CON (corn-soybean meal basal diet); an antibiotic diet, CTC (basal diet + 75 mg/kg chlortetracycline); and chestnut wood extract diet, CWE (basal diet + 1,000 mg/kg chestnut tannins). At the finisher phase, final body weight was higher (P < 0.05) in CWE supplemented diet than in CON. Average daily body weight gain was higher (P < 0.05) and feed gain ratio was lower (P < 0.05) in broilers fed CWE than in those fed CON at the finisher phase. Crude protein digestibility was higher (P < 0.05) in broilers offered CWE than that in broilers fed CON and CTC diets. Breast muscle pH value at 24 h (pH24 h) was higher (P < 0.05) in broilers fed CWE than that in those fed CON and CTC diets. The bursa weight was higher (P < 0.05) in broilers offered CWE than that in those fed CON and CTC. Total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) values were higher (P < 0.05) in both breast muscle and thigh muscle of broilers offered CWE supplemented diet than those in broilers fed CON and CTC diets. Similarly, broilers offered with CWE diets showed higher (P < 0.05) T-AOC, GSH-PX, and SOD value in serum than those fed CON and CTC diets. Serum concentration of IgG was higher (P < 0.05) in broilers offered with CWE diets than that in those fed CON and CTC diets. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and urea-N concentration were lower (P < 0.05) in broilers offered CWE diet than those in broilers fed CON and CTC diets. It was recommended to supply CWE at the 1,000 mg/kg level for improving antioxidant status, cholesterol metabolism, and growth performance without affecting normal meat quality in broilers.