Meat Quality Of Broiler Chickens Research Articles

Ante-mortem glutathione peroxidase 4 inhibition by RSL3 affects post-mortem meat quality in broiler chickens

ABSTRACT 1. This study investigated the role of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), a key regulator of ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, in muscle biochemistry and meat quality, utilising broiler chickens whose ante-mortem GPX4 activity was inhibited pharmacologically. 2. Male broilers were divided into two groups, each receiving ante-mortem administration of the GPX4 inhibitor, Ras-selective lethal 3 (RSL3), or a vehicle only. After slaughter, breast muscles were collected and stored for 48 h. The expressions of ferroptosis-related genes, glutathione levels, pH, colour and water-holding capacity were evaluated at multiple time points during the storage period. 3. The RSL3 treatment decreased the expression of GPX4 and ferritin heavy chain 1, which are negative regulators of ferroptosis, while it increased the expression of a ferroptosis accelerator, acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4. The ratio of reduced to oxidised glutathione was significantly decreased in the RSL3 group. The RSL3 treatment decelerated post-mortem pH decline and colour changes, such as a decrease in L* and an increase in a* were observed in the RSL3 group. In addition, the RSL3 group showed increased levels of water-holding capacity. 4. These findings suggested that ante-mortem GPX4 activity plays a role in determining meat quality, implying the possible involvement of ferroptosis in the mechanism by which skeletal muscle is converted after slaughter into meat that is eaten.

Influence of different levels of black soldier fly larvae meal on growth performance and carcass quality of broiler chickens

A study was conducted to examine the impact of two inclusion levels of Black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) replacing soybean meal on growth performance, nutrient utilization, carcass characteristics and meat quality of broilers. Three experimental diets based on corn-soybean meal were developed to contain 0 (control), 6 (BSF 6) and 12% (BSF 12) BSFLMfor both starter and grower phases. Each experimental diet was randomly allotted to six replicate pens (eight birds per pen). The birds were offered starter pellets from 0 to 14 day post-hatch and grower pellets from 15 to 28 day post-hatch. The experimental diets were tested for pellet durability index (PDI). There was an interaction between diet and growth phase (P < 0.001) for pellet durability index where starter diets had always a higher PDI than the grower diets, but the difference was greater for control diet than BSF 6 and BSF 12 diets. Apparent metabolizable energy (AME) of diets and coefficients of apparent ileal digestibility (CAID) of nutrients were measured on day 28 using titanium dioxide marker ratios in the diet and excreta/ileal digesta. On day 28, the weights of live body, carcass, fat pad, breast and gizzard were recorded, and then breast meat quality (meat pH, drip loss and cooking loss) was examined. Inclusion of BSFLM of up to 12% did not reduce live weight gain or feed intake. Live weight and carcass weight were heavier in broilers fed 12% BSFLM than controls (P < 0.02), but were not different than those fed 6%, while controls were not different than those fed 6%. Breast weight (percentage live weight) was lower in birds offered 12% BSFL than in others (P < 0.04). No differences were observed between diets for the percentage weight as carcass, fat, pad and gizzard. The AME and AMEc of diets were the highest in broilers fed 6% BSFLM diet (P < 0.005), but there were no differences between controls and those fed 12% BSFLM. The CAID of DM, ash and N in birds fed 6% BSFLM were greater than (P < 0.03) birds fed 12%, but were not different than controls, which were also not different than those fed 12%. Broiler breast meat quality was unaffected by dietary treatments. In conclusion, BSFLM at 12% can be used effectively as a SBM replacement in starter and grower diets, without affecting the growth performance, nutrient utilization, carcass characteristics and meat quality of broiler chickens.

Probiotics effects on the growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens

Context In the limited field of research on Kazakhstan’s poultry, this study explores a new area by investigating the lack of studies on the impact of probiotics from camel milk and mare’s milk. This study provides valuable knowledge about an important aspect of poultry production in the region. Aims The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of probiotics isolated from traditional fermented dairy products, fermented camel milk (shubat) and fermented mare’s milk (koumiss) on the growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens. Methods In total, 240 1-day-old Ross 308 chicks were randomly separated into four treatment groups of three replicates (20 birds per replicate). Three experimental groups were fed by basal diet plus drinking water containing 0.25 mL, 0.5 mL, and 1.0 mL of probiotics per bird (Pro1, Pro2, and Pro3 respectively). The control group was fed by basal diet plus drinking water. The carcass characteristics included the weights of the body and carcass rate. Organoleptic analysis, proximate composition, pH, drip loss, cook loss and were used to determine meat-quality properties. Key results According to the study results isolated probiotics Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei SH1, Enterococcus faecalis SH6, and Kazachstania unispora Y 2.2 had a significant effect on body and carcass weight (P &lt; 0.05). Average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were also improved in probiotics groups (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, Pro 2 group had increased meat protein contents (P &lt; 0.05). No significant differences in organoleptic quality between the control and experimental groups fed with the probiotics were determined. Conclusions Traditional fermented dairy products could become a source of new effective probiotics useful to improve broiler production. Implications The readily available shubat and koumiss in Kazakhstan present a promising opportunity for establishing localised probiotic production for poultry, indicating a viable path for promoting sustainable and tailored approaches to poultry farming in the region.

Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Immune Response and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens Fed Muntingia Calabura Leaf Extract

This experiment was carried out to determine the effect of feeding Muntingia calabura leaf extract on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, immune response and meat quality of broiler chickens. 500 1-day old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly distributed into five treatments of five replicates consisting of ten birds each in a completely randomized design model. Birds in treatment one (control) was fed basal diet alone which is adequate in all nutrients according to the recommendation of broilers while treatment two, three, four and five were fed same diet with Muntingia calabura leaf extract at 0.3 mL, 0.6 mL, 0.9 mL and 1.2 mL per liter of water correspondingly. The duration of the experiment was 56 days and birds had unrestricted access to feed and fresh water. Body weight gain was higher in birds fed treatment four (2555.3 g) and five (2646.1 g), intermediate in treatment two (2346.6 g) and three (2365.1 g) and lower in treatment one (1948.8 g) (P&lt;0.05). Total feed intake and dressing percentage was higher among birds fed Muntingia calabura leaf extract relative to the control (P&lt;0.05). Conversely, mortality of 2.5 % was recorded in control followed by treatment two with 1.00 % none was recorded in the other treatment (P&lt;0.05). Results on the breast muscle revealed that saturated and unsaturated fatty acid was 29.80 %, 41.83 % in control, treatment two (28.11 %, 55.94 %), three (27.19 %, 56.97 %), four (23.15 %, 73.69 %) and five (22.90 %, 73.74 %) in each case (P&lt;0.05). Immunoglobulin A, G and M values were influenced (P&lt;0.05) by the treatments. In conclusion, feeding Muntingia calabura leaf extract up to 1.2 mL/liter of water had no negative effect on the performance and health status of birds.

Impact of long-term feeding a high level of Spirulina combined with enzymes on growth performance, carcass traits and meat quality in broiler chickens.

This study evaluates the effect of prolonged feeding with a high inclusion level of Spirulina, combined with peptidases, on broiler chicken's growth performance, digesta viscosity, carcass attributes and meat quality. The experiment involved 120 male broilers divided into 40 battery brooders, each housing 3 birds. Post 7-day acclimatisation with a corn and soybean-based diet, the birds were provided with one of four diets: a corn and soybean meal-based diet (CON), a mix incorporating 15% Spirulina (SP), a Spirulina-rich mix supplemented with 0.025% of commercial VemoZyme® P (SPV), or a Spirulina-rich mix supplemented with 0.10% of porcine pancreatin (SPP). The CON group had higher body weight and weight gain (p < 0.001) and a lower feed conversion ratio (p < 0.001) from day 7-21, compared to the Spirulina-fed groups. Spirulina-fed chickens significantly increased ileum viscosity (p < 0.05). Spirulina also elevated the weight (p < 0.05) of the duodenum and the length (p < 0.001) of the entire gastrointestinal tract compared to CON. Breast and thigh muscles from Spirulina-fed broilers displayed higher values of yellowness (b*) (p < 0.001), pigments (p < 0.05), and n-3 PUFA (p < 0.01), while n-6/n-3 ratio (p < 0.001) and α-tocopherol (p < 0.001) decreased relative to the CON. In conclusion, the introduction of a high level of Spirulina into broiler diets for an extended duration, has the potential to diminish birds' growth performance, possibly due to increased digesta viscosity. However, it does enhance the nutritional quality of the meat.

Evaluation of Increasing Levels of Acacia mearnsii Tannins on Growth Performance and Intestinal Morphometrics of Broiler Chickens Undergoing a Salmonella Heidelberg Challenge

Phytogenic additives such as tannins are characterized as polyphenolic compounds known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunostimulatory properties that have been used to enhance the performance, intestinal health, and meat quality of broiler chickens. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of increasing dietary supplementation of tannins from Acacia mearnsii on the intestinal morphometrics, litter moisture, and growth performance of broiler chickens. A total of 1400 Cobb 500 one-day-old male chicks were randomly distributed into five dietary treatments with eight replicates (35 birds/pen) until 42 days of age. The treatments consisted of Salmonella Heidelberg-challenged groups supplemented with 0, 300, 500, 700, or 900 mg/kg tannin from Acacia mearnsii. A four-phase feeding program was used with pre-starter, starter, grower, and finisher feeds. At 3 days of age, birds were orally gavaged with an S. Heidelberg culture. Feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were evaluated until day 42. The morphometry of duodenum, jejunum, and ileum was measured at 7 and 42 days of age. From 1 to 28, 1 to 35, and 1 to 42 days of age, tannin supplementation for broilers under S. Heidelberg challenge led to quadratic increases (p &lt; 0.05) in BWG, with optimal responses at 265, 412, and 456 mg/kg, respectively. No effects of tannin were observed on FCR in all periods. Villus height was similar in all segments on day 7 (p &gt; 0.05); however, on day 42, tannin supplementation that improved villus height of the ileum was 600 mg/kg (p = 0.0100). In conclusion, tannins from Acacia mearnsii were able to improve body weight gain and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens under an imposed challenge of S. Heidelberg.

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS, IMMUNE RESPONSE AND MEAT QUALITY OF BROILER CHICKENS FED MUNTINGIA CALABURA LEAF EXTRACT

This experiment was carried out to determine the effect of feeding Muntingia calabura leaf extract on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, immune response and meat quality of broiler chickens. 500 1-day old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly distributed into five treatments of five replicates consisting of ten birds each in a completely randomized design model. Birds in treatment one (control) was fed basal diet alone which is adequate in all nutrients according to the recommendation of broilers while treatment two, three, four and five were fed same diet with Muntingia calabura leaf extract at 0.3 mL, 0.6 mL, 0.9 mL and 1.2 mL per liter of water correspondingly. The duration of the experiment was 56 days and birds had unrestricted access to feed and fresh water. Body weight gain was higher in birds fed treatment four (2555.3 g) and five (2646.1 g), intermediate in treatment two (2346.6 g) and three (2365.1 g) and lower in treatment one (1948.8 g) (P&lt;0.05). Total feed intake and dressing percentage was higher among birds fed Muntingia calabura leaf extract relative to the control (P&lt;0.05). Conversely, mortality of 2.5 % was recorded in control followed by treatment two with 1.00 % none was recorded in the other treatment (P&lt;0.05). Results on the breast muscle revealed that saturated and unsaturated fatty acid was 29.80 %, 41.83 % in control, treatment two (28.11 %, 55.94 %), three (27.19 %, 56.97 %), four (23.15 %, 73.69 %) and five (22.90 %, 73.74 %) in each case (P&lt;0.05). Immunoglobulin A, G and M values were influenced (P&lt;0.05) by the treatments. In conclusion, feeding Muntingia calabura leaf extract up to 1.2 mL/liter of water had no negative effect on the performance and health status of birds.

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder and turmeric powder on carcass composition and meat quality of broiler chickens

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf powder and turmeric powder on carcass composition and meat quality of broiler chickens

Influences of Bacillus pumilus SA388 as an environmentally friendly antibiotic alternative on growth performance, blood biochemistry, immunology, cecal microbiota, and meat quality in broiler chickens

The widespread use of antibiotics causes the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, which have a severe impact on poultry productivity and human health. As a result, research is continuing to develop safe natural antibiotic alternatives. In the current study, Bacillus pumilus SA388 was isolated from the chicken feces and confirmed to be a probiotic. The selected strain was tested for its antimutagenic and antioxidant capabilities before being employed as a probiotic food supplement and antibiotic alternative. The effect of B. pumilus SA388 impact on broiler chickens' growth performance, gut microbiome, blood biochemical markers, immunological response, and meat quality was also studied. B. pumilus SA388 showed significant bactericidal activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, and Klebsiella pneumonia. A total of 200 chickens were used in the present study, divided equally among four experimental groups (ten birds per group with 5 replicates): group 1 (control, G1) received a basal diet without B. pumilus SA388, group 2 (G2) received a basal diet supplemented with 0.4 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388, group 3 (G3) received a basal diet supplemented with 0.8 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388, and group 4 (G4) received a basal diet supplemented with 1.6 mg/kg of B. pumilus SA388. Over 35 d, the B. pumilus SA388-supplemented groups outperformed the G1 in terms of body weight gain, performance index, and feed conversion ratio, with a preference for the G4 treatment. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing B. pumilus SA388 dosages compared to the control G1 group. Dietary supplementation of B. pumilus SA388 at 1.6 mg/kg (G4) significantly (P < 0.05) resulted in improved lipid profile, immunological response, thyroid function, and gut microbiota compared to the control group (G1). Compared to the broilers in the control treatment (G1), the addition of B. pumilus SA388 to broilers in G4 significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced juiciness, tenderness, aroma, and taste. Adding B. pumilus SA388 to chicken feed at different doses significantly (P < 0.05) decreased average feed intake while increasing economic and relative efficiency measures. In conclusion, B. pumilus SA388 has been proven to be an effective antibiotic and nutritional supplement.

Production and meat quality of broiler chickens with the use of a probiotic complex of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli

The prohibition of antibacterial agents in animal husbandry has spurred research into the creation and study of new probiotic supplements aimed at normalizing the gut microbiota to ensure colonization resistance of the host organism. This resistance prevents the colonization of the gastrointestinal tract by pathogenic and opportunistic microflora. Scientists from many countries have developed a range of preparations based on the normal gut microbiota, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which are used to maintain and restore the biocenosis of the digestive tract. These probiotics are also effective therapeutic and preventive agents for poultry digestive tract diseases, helping correct gut microbiocenosis. In our study, we investigated the impact of the combined probiotic preparation "TIMM-P" on the productive characteristics of poultry and the quality and preservation of broiler chicken meat. This study determined clinical indicators, absolute and average daily weight gains, the meat quality of broiler chickens, and its chemical composition under the influence of the probiotic supplement. It was found that administering "TIMM-P" in courses on days 1–5, 21–25, and 30–35 positively influences the growth of muscle tissue in poultry. Determination of the chemical composition of meat in 42-day-old experimental broiler chickens indicated a significant increase in total protein content in the muscle tissue using the probiotic. Additionally, the absolute and average daily weight gains of the broiler chickens in the experimental group significantly increased during days 15–28 and 29–42 of the study. We observed a significant impact of the probiotic preparation on extending the shelf life of poultry meat based on the study of organoleptic and chemical indicators of broiler chicken meat during refrigerated storage. On the 7th and 9th days of storage, the carcasses of the experimental group that received the probiotic showed a significant decrease in pH levels, acid number, and peroxide number of the fat in the meat. Thus, oral administration of the probiotic preparation increases live weight gains, improves meat quality indicators of broiler chickens, and extends its shelf life. The obtained results have important practical significance as they scientifically substantiate the use of probiotic preparation as a means to preserve livestock, increase live weight gains of broiler chickens, and improve poultry meat quality. Therefore, the complex probiotic preparation "TIMM-P" can be recommended for use in broiler chicken farming.

Assessment of dietary supplementation of green iron oxide nanoparticles: impact on growth performance, ammonia emissions, carcass criteria, tissue iron content, and meat quality in broiler chickens under hot climate conditions.

The potential significance and importance of green iron nanoparticles (Nano-Fe) in poultry production lie in their capability to effectively tackle iron deficiency in poultry. Iron, an indispensable mineral for numerous physiological functions in birds, such as oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and immune response, underscores the critical need for adequate iron levels. Nevertheless, conventional iron supplementation methods frequently face hurdles like limited bioavailability rates in poultry. To enhance performance, and promote sustainable broiler productivity, Nano-Fe showed promise as an efficient feed supplement for broiler chickens. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of green Nano-Fe inclusions in diets on growth, ammonia excretion, carcass criteria, and meat quality in broiler chickens. A total of 192 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chicks, were assigned to three treatment diets including Nano-Fe oxide at 0, 20, or 40 mg/kg, respectively, for 42 days. Each treatment comprised eight replicates, each with eight broiler chicks. Two phases comprised the 42-day study (0 to 21 days for the starter and 21 to 42 days for the finisher). In comparison to the control group, the Nano-Fe oxide groups 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg linearly improved (p < 0.05) body weight (R 2 = 0.574) and body weight gain (R 2 = 0.367) under hot climatic conditions at 42 days of age. Furthermore, Nano-Fe oxide to broiler diets, improved (linear, p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (R 2 = 0.424) throughout whole periods. The feed intake did not show any significant difference (p > 0.05) among groups during the experimental periods under hot climatic conditions. The ammonia content of excreta (R 2 = 0.454) was linearly decreased (p < 0.05) with increasing Nano-Fe oxide levels in broiler diets compared to control at 21 and 42 days of age under hot climatic conditions. Nano-Fe oxide positively influences cook loss, water-holding capacity, and iron content in various tissues. Moreover, it contributes to a healthier carcass yield and reduced abdominal fat. In conclusion, broiler chickens fed diets containing Nano-Fe oxide at 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg demonstrated enhanced growth performance, improved meat quality, increased iron content in tissues, higher dressing percentage, and reduced abdominal fat deposition. Future research should explore the impact of green Nano-Fe oxide on additional factors such as the microbiome and gene expression related to immunity and heat stress.

Integrated metabolomics and microbiome analysis reveal blended oil diet improves meat quality of broiler chickens by modulating flavor and gut microbiota

This study was to evaluate the effects of different dietary oils in chicken diets on meat quality, lipid metabolites, the composition of volatile compounds, and gut microbiota. Nine hundred female 817 crossbred broilers at one day old with an average body weight of 43.56 ± 0.03 g were randomly divided into five treatments, each consisting of 6 replicates of 30 birds. The control group received soybean oil (SO); other groups received diets supplemented with rice bran oil (RO), lard (LO), poultry fat (PO), and blended oil (BO), respectively. All diets were formulated as isoenergic and isonitrogenous. Compared with SO, RO decreased ADG and 42 d BW (P < 0.05). Compared with the RO, BO increased ADG and 42 d BW and decreased FCR (P < 0.05). Compared with SO, BO increased 24 h a* value and reduced the malondialdehyde (P < 0.05), and further improved drip loss of breast muscle. The proportions of C18:0 and saturated fatty acid were the highest in LO, and the proportions of C16:1, C18:1, and monounsaturated fatty acids were the highest in BO. The content of C18:2, C18:3, and polyunsaturated fatty acids were the highest in SO. The contents of glyceryl triglycerides and total esters in BO were significantly higher than those in the SO and LO group (P < 0.05). There was a substantial increment in the relative abundance of PPARα, ACOX1 and CPT1A transcripts in breast of chickens fed BO (P < 0.05). Further, dietary BO increased the relative cecal abundance of Firmicutes phylum, Ruminococcus_torques and Christensenellaceae_R-7 genera, and decreased that of Campylobacterota, Proteobacteria, and Phascolarctobacterium (P < 0.05). Genera g_Lactobacillus and Christensenellaceae_R-7 may mainly be involved in the formation of volatile flavor compounds in breast muscle. In conclusion, dietary BO improved the flavor of chickens by increasing the concentration of triglycerides and volatile flavor compounds, improving gut microbiota structure, and suppressing lipid oxidation. The potential positive effects of BO may be associated with the regulation of lipid metabolism.

Performance and Meat Quality of Broiler Chicken with the Addition of Guanidino Acetic Acid and Betaine as Feed Additive

Guanidino acetic acid is a precursor of creatine which is synthesized from the amino acids glycine and arginine by transferring the amidino group from arginine to glycine, catalyzed by the enzyme L-arginine: glycine amidine transferase (AGAT) which takes place in the kidneys and pancreas, while betaine is known as a group donor methyl which functions in many metabolic processes such as energy metabolism, protein synthesis, carnitine and creatine. This research aims to determine the effect of adding Guanidino Acetic Acid (GAA) and betaine as feed additives in improving the performance and meat quality of broiler chickens. This research used 100 broiler chickens (DOC) with 6 chickens per unit which were reared for 35 days. The experimental design used was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 4 replications. Treatment consisted of P0 (Commercial feed,) P1 (Commercial feed + 0.06% GAA and no Betaine), P2 (Commercial feed + 0.06% GAA + 0.01% Betaine), P3 (Commercial feed + 0.12 % GAA and no Betaine), P4 (Commercial ration + 0.12% GAA + 0.01% Betaine). The parameters observed were performance, commercial carcass and muscle histomorphology. The results of the study showed that the addition of GAA and betaine had a real effect (P&lt;0.05) and improved the performance of commercial carcasses and showed a better response to muscle histomorphology. The conclusion was that the addition of GAA 0.12% and betaine 0.01% through feed could improve the performance, commercial carcasses and muscle histomorphology of broiler chickens.

Effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum) on Production, Fatty Acid Profile and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens

Phytogenic feed additives play an important role in broilers' nutrition, contributing to the improvement of the performance and quality of meat. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum) on broiler chicken production, fatty acid profile, and meat quality. In the present study, 140-day-old Vencob-400 broiler chicks were divided into 7 groups, including the control group (with no additives, T0), and T1 to T6 groups receiving varying concentrations of cinnamon and ginger. Accordingly, the chickens’ diet in T1 was supplemented with 1.0% cinnamon, T2 with 2.0% cinnamon, T3 with 3.0% cinnamon, T4 with 1.0% ginger, T5 with 2.0% ginger, and T6 with 3.0% ginger, all calculated based on dry matter. The carcass traits, weight of immune organs, organoleptic tests, and fatty acid profile of meat (breast and thigh) were recorded after the age of 42 days. The findings indicated that the breast and thigh had the highest organ weights in group T4 compared to other groups, however, the neck, back, drumstick, wing, and heart were not affected. The inclusion of 2% cinnamon (T2) and 1% ginger (T4) in the diet, significantly enhanced the color, texture, flavor, juiciness, and overall acceptability of the meat, compared to the diet of the control group. Adding a supplement of 2% cinnamon or 1% ginger powder to the diet of broiler chickens significantly decreased the percentage of total saturated fatty acid and increased the total unsaturated fatty acid (breast and thigh). The improvement in fatty acid composition is beneficial for the quality of the broiler meat. Based on these findings, it is recommended to supplement the diet of the broiler with either 2% cinnamon or 1% ginger powder to improve the carcass parameters and quality of the meat.

NETWORK PERSPECTIVE: BENEFITS OF INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC COLLABORATION

In 2010 Freeman suggested that "the globalization of scientific and engineering knowledge is the most potent aspect of modern globalization". International research collaboration is an activity that is widely pushed globally, at the level of research institutes and universities. Academic world is increasingly interconnected, fostering such international partnerships that represents the globalization of science from the scientific collaboration perspective. These collaborations extend beyond sharing resources. Main goal of those activities is exchanging ideas, cultures, and visions to address complex global challenges. It is evident that from partnering with institutions and researchers worldwide, National Agricultural and Food Centre (NPPC) can be exposed to diverse pools of knowledge and expertise that significantly enhance the academic quality and reputation of our NPPC. This global exchange of ideas leads to more innovative, comprehensive, and impactful research outcomes. Additionally, as the institute's reputation improves, the research centre will attract more funding, students and talented researchers, achieve globalization, creating a cycle of excellence and improvement. In conclusion, the importance and benefits of international co-research agreements are multiple and profound. Collaboration's activities are pivotal in enhancing academic quality, broadening research horizons, preparing young researcher for global challenges, addressing international issues and policy makers, and fostering cultural understanding and global networks. In the second Editorial article of 2024, I am going to introduce the contents of the articles collected and published in the second issue of 2024 year. Atteh reviewed the effects of fiber on nutrition and reproduction in pigs. Author concluded that the reduction of dietary fiber's hemicellulose in a sow's lactation diet can improve the low-birth-weight piglets' health, post-weaning performance and milk composition. While exogenous enzymes and the extrusion of fibrous feedstuffs enhanced nutrient digestibility and utilisation, other processing methods, including fermentation and extrusion, decreased the dietary fiber components and had a beneficial impact on the performance of the pigs. Agro-industrial residues have enormous potential to improve reproductive efficiency and serving as an economically viable dietary fiber feeding strategy in the pig industry. Awodoyin et al. investigated the dietary supplementation of coffee arabica seed powder on performance and meat quality of broiler chicken. Authors ended up that low pathogenic gut microorganisms and total volatile nitrogen base coupled with high sensory acceptability of meat confirm the antioxidant potential of black coffee in broiler chicken diet. Ngige et al. performed a study aimed at screening the internal and external bacteria found in farmed Nile tilapia and African Catfish. According to microbiological investigation, the presence of the microorganisms, some of which are pathogens (Salmonella enteritidis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella oxytoca) to humans, is an indication that undercooked fish may pose health risks to susceptible human and an impediment to the rapid intensification of aquaculture because of mortality of fingerings. Busanello reviewed the most common traffic systems in barns for lactating dairy cows milked in automatic milking systems. The study describes the advantages and disadvantages of free, milk-first and feed-first traffic and the differences between forced and guided cow traffic designs. Some research data are also shown to emphasize the theoretical concepts included in this document. Author concluded that guided traffic designs emerge as the most efficient, milking more cows throughout the day while reducing the need to fetch cows and overall labour. When operating at full cow capacity, guided cow traffic designs are recommended. Sudik conducted a study with the aim to determine the nutritional composition of roselle seed cake (Hibiscus sabdarica L.) and its effect on broiler chickens. Author concluded that roselle seed cake is rich in proteins and energy and it can be included up to 50 % in the diet of broilers without negative effects on growth rate and carcass performance. Rajsky et al. described the flexible duodenal monocannula of the National Agricultural and Food Centre design for the determination of intestinal nutrient digestibility in cattle. The innovativeness of the technical design of the NPPC cannula lies in the fact that the cannula is made of one piece of a straight tube with an inner diameter of 22 mm. As a result, the life of cannulated animals can be extended without age limitation. Editorial Team looks forward to evaluating your submitted contributions and providing all necessary support to Authors in order to best serve animal science and the scientific community, with commitment to research integrity and the highest publishing ethics. Enjoy reading!

N-Carbamylglutamate in ovo feeding improves carcass yield, muscle fiber development, and meat quality in broiler chickens.

Insufficient endogenous nutrients in the broiler embryo can lead to muscle gluconeogenesis, which ultimately affects the post-hatching performance of chicks. This study investigated the effects of in ovo feeding (IOF) of N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) on the growth hormones, carcass yield, and meat quality in broilers. Fertile eggs from a 30-week-old Ross 308 breeder flock were divided into three treatment groups: NC (non-injection), SC (100 μL saline-injection), and NCG (2 mg NCG injection). Each group had six replicates, with 70 eggs per replicate during incubation. Injections were administered on the 17.5th day of embryonic development. After hatching, 270 chicks were selected for 42-day rearing for further sampling. Chicks in the NCG group had significantly higher body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) at the growing phase, increased growth and testosterone hormone in both feeding phases (21 and 42 days), and improved average daily gain (ADG) and food conversion ratio (FCR) in both grower and entire feeding phases (P < 0.05). Triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4) levels, carcass yield, dressing, drum weight, breast muscle weight, drumstick weights, thighs, pectoralis major, and their part percentage of carcass were improved in the NCG group (P < 0.05), these effects were varied along feeding phases. Moreover, IOF of the NCG also improved pectoralis breast muscle color values at 24 h post mortem (P < 0.05). These results suggest that NCG injection at the late embryonic age of broiler enhances growth performance and meat quality throughout the lifespan and this can probably be attributed to an increase in thyroid and testosterone hormones, indicating potential involvement in metabolic and nutrient partitioning pathway regulation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Nutraceuticals vs. antibiotic growth promoters: differential impacts on performance, meat quality, blood lipids, cecal microbiota, and organ histomorphology of broiler chicken

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of nutraceuticals vs. in-feed antibiotics on performance, blood lipids, antioxidant capacity, cecal microbiota, and organ histomorphology of broiler chickens. A total of 320 one-day-old male broiler chickens were distributed into 5 treatment groups with 8 replicates each. The control group was fed on a basal diet without any additives (NC); the antibiotic group was fed on a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg kg-1 avilamycin (PC); the algal group was fed on a basal diet supplemented with a mixture of Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris (1.5 g + 1.5 g/kg feed) (SP+CV); the essential oil group was fed with a basal diet containing 300 mg/kg feed rosemary oil (REO); and the probiotics group (a mixture of 1 × 1011 CFU/g Bacillus licheniformis, 1 × 1011 CFU/g Enterococcus facieum, 1 × 1010 CFU/g Lactobacillus acidophilus, and 2 × 108 CFU /g Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was fed with a basal diet supplemented with 0.05% probiotics (PRO). The experiment lasted for 35 d. A beneficial effect of SP+CV and PRO (P < 0.01) was noticed on final body weight, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and breast yield. The dietary supplementation with SP+CV, REO, and PRO increased (P < 0.001) broilers' cecal lactic acid bacteria count compared to the control. Lower cecal Clostridium perfringens and Coliform counts (P < 0.001) were noticed in chickens fed the PC and supplemental diets. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was decreased, while glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase, and catalase enzymes were increased in the breast and thigh meat (P < 0.001) of broiler chickens fed SP+CV, REO, and PRO diets. Dietary SP+CV, REO, and PRO supplementation decreased (P < 0.001) serum total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and MDA, but increased serum high-density lipoprotein and GPx compared to PC and NC. No pathological lesions were noticed in the liver, kidney, or breast muscle among broilers. The SP+CV, REO, and PRO groups had greater (P < 0.001) intestinal villi height and crypt depth while lower goblet cell densities (P < 0.01) than the control. The present findings suggest that PRO and SP+CV, followed by REO could be suitable alternatives to in-feed antibiotics for enhancing the performance, health, and meat quality of broiler chickens.

Evaluation of the Effect of Sea Buckthorn Meal on Production Performance and Meat Chemical Composition in Broiler Chickens

The aim of the research was to highlight the effects of sea buckthorn meal on production and consumption indices and meat chemistry in broiler chickens. The research was carried out on 50 Ross-308 hybrid broiler chickens in two groups (25 heads/group): a control group and an experimental group (0.5% buckthorn meal) over a period of 28 days. During and at the end of the experiment, the following parameters were recorded and analysed: body mass development, daily growth gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and meat quality. The best results were recorded in the experimental group, with a body weight of 2683.24 g, an average daily gain of 79.48 g and a feed conversion index of 1.70. Meat quality was improved by increasing crude protein content in the experimental group. The addition of sea buckthorn meal had a favourable influence on the productive performance and meat quality of broiler chickens.

Effect of distiller’s dried yeast on selected microbiotic fractions and the carcass and meat quality of broiler chickens

Abstract The study was conducted on 112 broiler chickens fed for 35 and 37 days with various levels of distiller’s yeast in diets – 3% in starter, 6% in grower, and 9% in finisher feeds. The results showed that as the level of distiller’s dried yeast in the broiler diets increased, the total number of bacteria in the mucosa of the small intestine, cecum, and colon decreased, including mainly Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus, and E. coli. The addition of 9% yeast to the diet significantly reduced the abundance of Lactobacillus sp. in the intestinal mucosa of broiler chickens. There was no significant effect of the level of distiller’s dried yeast in the diet of broiler chickens on carcass quality, pH, water holding capacity, sensory characteristics, and macronutrient and micronutrient content in breast muscle. On the other hand, there was a significant effect of the analyzed distiller’s yeast on color characteristics and basic chemical composition of breast muscle. The highest lightness (L*), yellowness (b*), and chroma (C*) and the lowest dry matter content were found in the meat of chickens receiving 6% and 9% distiller’s dried yeast in their diets. The results of the study indicate that for the best results in terms of carcass and meat quality, the optimal content of the analyzed yeast in the diet of broiler chickens should not exceed 3%.

Dietary supplementation with Chlorella vulgaris in broiler chickens submitted to heat-stress: effects on growth performance and meat quality

Heat stress can greatly challenge growth and meat quality of broiler chickens where research is looking for sustainable ingredients, such as microalgae, that could also alleviate its negative impacts. Thus, in the present study, 576 1-D-old chicks (Ross 308) were housed until commercial slaughtering (42 D) in 36 pens in 2 rooms of a poultry house, according to a full factorial design encompassing 2 room temperatures (standard vs. high), 2 sexes (females vs. males), and 3 dietary treatments, that is, diet C0 (control diet), diet C3, and diet C6 containing 0, 3, and 6%, respectively, of C. vulgaris meal replacing the same quantities of soybean meal. The highest inclusion level of C. vulgaris decreased feed intake (P < 0.001) and body weight (P < 0.0001) compared to the control diet; it increased yellow and red indexes (P < 0.0001) of the breast muscle, besides the proportion of n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (P = 0.028). Heat stress decreased feed intake (P = 0.001), breast (P = 0.001) and p. major yields (P = 0.036), and increased meat pH (P= 0.008) and cooking losses (P < 0.001), umami (P = 0.021) and brothy flavor (P < 0.001), and the proportion of n3 PUFA rates (P = 0.027), while reducing the contents of several amino acids in the breast meat (P ≤ 0.05). Compared to females, males displayed higher feed intake and growth, and more favorable feed conversion (P < 0.001). Carcass and p. major yields were greater in females (P < 0.001) which also showed a higher occurrence of spaghetti meat compared to males (P < 0.001). In conclusion, C. vulgaris can be used to replace until 3% of soybean meal in diets for broiler chickens without negative implications, while positively affecting breast meat color according to consumers' preferences. However, the microalgae inclusion did not mitigate the negative effects of a chronic heat stress on growth performance nor reduced the occurrence of any myopathies.