Metabolizable Energy Content Research Articles

The Energy Value for Broiler Chickens of Heat-Treated and Untreated Amaranth Grain, with and without Enzyme Addition

Amaranth is a pseudocereal which can thrive in conditions of drought and limited inputs. Samples of amaranth grain were subjected to proximate analysis with standard laboratory methods. We conducted two experiments to determine apparent (corrected to zero nitrogen balance) metabolisable energy (AMEn) content of untreated (UAG) and heat-treated (HTAG) amaranth grain for Ross-308 male broiler chicks (35–42 d and BW 2141 ± 10.41 g). In each experiment, 10 assay diets (ADs) were fed to 400 birds in individual metabolism cages in a 2 × 5 factorial design. ADs were obtained by substituting amaranth for the main ingredients in the reference diet (RD). Two levels of enzyme addition (0 and 0.55 g/kg) and five amaranth replacement rates (0, 150, 300, 450 and 600 g/kg) were used, and metabolism trials were conducted using the total excreta collection method. Two regression equations were estimated for UAG, with and without enzyme addition, that determined the AMEn content of UAG as 3264 and 3255 kcal/kg, respectively. For HTAG, the AMEn contents with and without enzyme addition were 3973 and 3828 kcal/kg, respectively. Thus, enzyme addition improved the energy value of UAG and HTAG by 0.28 and 3.8%, respectively. The AMEn value of HTAG was 708 and 573 kcal/kg higher than UAG in diets with and without enzyme addition, respectively. Thus, we conclude that there was more benefit from heat treatment than enzyme addition, but there was a synergistic effect of heat treatment and enzyme inclusion on the metabolisable energy concentration of amaranth in the diets of broilers.

Energy concentrations and nutrient digestibility of high-fiber ingredients for pigs based on in vitro and in vivo assays

The objective of the present study was to determine energy concentrations and nutrient digestibility of high-fiber ingredients for pigs using in vitro and in vivo assays. In experiment 1, in vitro ileal and total tract disappearance of nutrients in soybean hulls, corn gluten feed, wheat bran, rice bran, and cashew nut testa were determined. Two-step and 3-step in vitro procedures were used to simulate the digestion of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract of pigs. The coefficient of in vitro ileal disappearance of dry matter (DM) in rice bran was the greatest (P < 0.05) among the test ingredients followed by wheat bran, corn gluten feed, cashew nut testa, and soybean hulls. The coefficient of in vitro total tract disappearance of DM and organic matter in rice bran was also the greatest (P < 0.05) among the test ingredients followed by wheat bran, cashew nut testa, corn gluten feed, and soybean hulls. In experiment 2, in vivo energy values and nutrient digestibility of the same ingredients used in experiment 1 were determined. Twelve barrows with an initial body weight of 57.5 kg (standard deviation = 5.7) were assigned to 6 experimental diets in a replicated 6 × 4 incomplete Latin square design. A basal diet consisted of 750 g/kg corn and 227 g/kg soybean meal (SBM) as the sole energy sources. Four experimental diets were prepared by replacing 400 g/kg of corn and SBM with soybean hulls, corn gluten feed, wheat bran, or rice bran. An additional diet was prepared by replacing 100 g/kg of corn and SBM with cashew nut testa. Each period consisted of a 4-day adaptation period and a 4-day collection period. On an as-fed basis, digestible energy and metabolizable energy concentrations in soybean hulls (2198 and 2242 kcal/kg), corn gluten feed (2317 and 2227 kcal/kg), and wheat bran (2751 and 2679 kcal/kg) were less (P < 0.05) than those in rice bran (3503 and 3459 kcal/kg), but those were greater (P < 0.05) than those in cashew nut testa (352 and 519 kcal/kg). The coefficient of apparent total tract digestibility of DM in wheat bran was greater (P < 0.05) than that in corn gluten feed and cashew nut testa. In conclusion, energy values and nutrient digestibility in rice bran were the greatest among the high-fiber ingredients, whereas cashew nut testa had the lowest values based on the present in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro procedures can be a potential alternative method for determining energy digestibility of ingredients for pigs.

The impact of wheat bran and molasses addition to caramba mix silage on feed value and in vitro organic matter digestibility

BackgroundThe fermentation process in silage is an inherently uncontrolled process that results in significant nutritional losses. Supplementing silage with different additives may boost nutrient and energy recovery during fermentation, which in turn can boost animal productivity. However, the impact of wheat bran and molasses addition on feed value of caramba mix silage is unknown. MethodsThis study determined the impact of molasses and wheat straw addition on fermentation and in vitro organic matter digestibility of caramba mix silage. Caramba was cut at harvest maturity and subjected to five different treatments, i.e., control, addition of 5% and 10% molasses, and addition of 5% and 10% wheat bran. Caramba mix and additives were mixed and ensiled into laboratory type 1 L glass containers. Silage fermentation, chemical and microbiological composition, and in vitro metabolic energy content in silages were determined 60 days after the initiation of treatments. ResultsDifferent chemical and microbial properties of silage were significantly altered by the addition of molasses and wheat bran. The addition of 10% molasses resulted in the highest values of all measured traits of Caramba mix silage. The dry matter was 27.00%, 28.44%, 33.93%, 32.67%, and 30.61% in control, 5% molasses, 10% molasses, 5% wheat bran and 10% wheat bran, respectively. Similarly, pH was 5.32, 4.89, 4.56, 4.62, and 4.39 in control, 5% molasses, 10% molasses, 5% wheat bran and 10% wheat bran, respectively. Likewise, crude protein was 14.58%, 13.03%, 16.23%, 14.75%, and 16.42% in control, 5% molasses, 10% molasses, 5% wheat bran and 10% wheat bran, respectively. ConclusionIt is concluded that addition of molasses and wheat bran to the caramba mix silage increased the chemical, and microbiological qualities. Particularly molasses improved the digestibility of silage. Therefore, it is recommended that 10% molasses should be added during the fermentation of the silage to improve chemical, and microbiological properties of Caramba mix silage.

Effects of a mixture of xylanase and glucanase on digestibility of energy and dietary fiber in corn- or sorghum based diets fed to growing pigs

An experiment was conducted to test the hypothesis that an enzyme premix containing xylanase and glucanase improves the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of energy and total dietary fiber (TDF) and the concentration of digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) in diets fed to growing pigs. A corn-soybean meal diet and a sorghum-soybean meal diet were formulated, and 4 additional diets were formulated by adding 400 g/kg distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) or 400 g/kg wheat middlings to the corn-based diet and the sorghum-based diet. Six additional diets were prepared by adding an enzyme premix including xylanase and β-glucanase to each of these diets. One hundred and forty-four growing pigs (61.7 ± 5.3 kg) were allotted to a randomized complete block design with 12 diets and 12 replicate pigs per diet. Pigs were adapted to the diets for 12 days before being moved to metabolism crates. Individual pig weights and feed consumption were recorded, and average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and gain to feed ratio (G:F) were calculated for each dietary treatment. After 4 days of adaptation to the metabolism crates, urine and fecal materials were collected during the following 4 days according to the marker to marker approach. Results indicated that the ATTD of GE, and DE and ME increased (P < 0.01) if enzymes were added to the diets regardless of grain source or co-product inclusion, but no effect of enzymes on ATTD of TDF was observed. However, ATTD of TDF was greater in the corn based diet containing DDGS compared with the diet containing wheat middlings, but in the sorghum-based diet, no difference in ATTD of TDF was observed (grain source × co-product interaction, P < 0.05). However, growth performance were not affected by inclusion of enzymes, but inclusion of co-products to the diets decreased (P < 0.05) the ADG and G:F in pigs. In conclusion, mixture of enzyme including xylanase and β-glucanase used in this experiment has the potential to increase the ATTD of GE, and DE and ME, in both corn-based and sorghum-based diets without or with fiber containing co-products.

Evaluation of dietary metabolizable energy concentrations on meat quality and lipid metabolism-related gene expression in yellow-feathered chickens.

This study evaluated the effects of different dietary metabolizable energy (ME) concentrations on the meat quality, carcass traits, volatile flavourand lipid metabolism-related gene expression levels in yellow-feathered chickens. In total, 600 Huxu female chickens aged 90 days were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments, each with 10 replicates of 10 birds. During the finisher phase, the birds were fed diets containing 2880 (low), 2940, 3000, 3060, 3120and 3180 (high) kcal ME/kg. The results showed that the average daily gain of chickens increased as the dietary ME concentration increased, while the feed to gain improved (p < 0.05), and the intramuscular fat content of breast muscle increased (p < 0.05). The energy concentration had no effect on the breast muscle pH (45 min and 24 h), colour parameter (L*)or percentage of drip loss (p > 0.05), but the shear force values decreased significantly (p < 0.05). The diameter and area of the breast muscle fiber decreased and the muscle fibre density increased as the dietary ME concentration increased (p < 0.05). The highest ME concentration (3180 kcal) increased the percentages of aldehydes (hexanal, heptanal, 2,4-nonadienal, octanal, nonanaland 2-decenal), alcohols (2-nonen-1-ol, trans-2-undecen-1-ol, 7-hexadecenal, 2-hexyl-1-decanoaland n-nonadecanol-1,3,7,11-trimethyl-1-dodecanol), alkanes (2,6-dimethyl-heptadecane)and carboxylic acids (9-hexadecenoic acid), but reduced the percentages of octadecanal, octadecane, heneicosaneand tetradecanal (p < 0.05). In addition, the mRNA gene expression levels of fatty acid-binding protein 3 and apolipoprotein B were significantly upregulated in the liver, whereas that of cholesteryl ester transfer protein was significantly downregulated. In conclusion, increasing the ME diet to 3180 kcal/kg significantly improved the quality and flavour of the meat from yellow-feathered broilers. our finding may help poultry producers to improve the taste of meat by regulating genes related to lipid metabolism, thereby achieving the flavour and taste characteristics preferred by consumers.

FEATURES OF DIETARY FEEDING OF SPORT HORSES WITH THE DISORDERS OF THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

The diet of a horse with the musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the treatment period should provide it enough energy and nutrient requirements, but not provoke excessive activity and mobility, which can cause a decrease in the recovery effectiveness. There are no exact recommendations for veterinary specialists on the features of making ration for the horses with MSD. The aim of our study was to explore the practice of feeding horses with MSD, and to assess the influence of the diets composition on the factors influencing the processes of treatment and recovery. For this purpose, we assessed and analyzed the diets of sports horses (n=65) during the period of treatment of the MSD of various etiologies, in terms of compliance with their needs. It was found that in the absence of factors that reduce the efficiency of the gastrointestinal tract, the need for metabolic energy and crude protein can be fully met by roughage (hay). But without balancers or specialized additives, there is a significant lack of micronutrients (I, Zn, Cu) in the diets and a violation of the Ca, P, Mg ratio with a significant excess of Ca, even if only hay is used, without additional feed and additives. Excess of metabolizable energy (ME) is observed even in "only hay" diets, and with the introduction of additional feeds, it increases greatly, which leads to an increase in body condition score or the need to use sedative supplements and behavioral drugs. When organizing the diet, it is necessary to control the total content of ME by limiting the quantity or reducing the calorie content of roughage (replacement with less nutritious, soaking, etc.), limiting the quantity of additional feed.

Seasonal nutritive value and in vitro fermentation kinetics of foliage of some multipurpose shrub species in northeastern Mexico

This study aimed to determine seasonal chemical composition, metabolizable energy (ME) concentration, in vitro gas production patterns, in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) and in vitro true organic matter digestibility (IVTOMD) of foliage from 5 native shrub species (Celtis pallida, Croton suaveolens, Forestiera angustifolia, Guaiacum angustifolium and Parkinsonia aculeata) growing in semi-arid areas of northeastern Mexico between July 2018 and June 2019 at 2 research sites. Crude protein (CP) concentrations (&gt;13.2% DM) found in leaf material should meet or exceed the requirements for maintenance of small ruminants; C. pallida provided the highest CP% (20.8‒29.3%). While CP% varied with season and site, species had a greater effect than either of those factors overall. ME concentrations ranged between 1.2 and 2.0 Mcal/kg DM. Neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber concentrations ranged from 29.8 to 51.7% DM and 9.8 to 33.0% DM, respectively. Data obtained for IVOMD (34.5‒58.8%) and IVTOMD (64.1‒88.7%) demonstrate the high nutritive potential of leaf of browse species under study, especially C. pallida, as useful feed supplements for small ruminants in the semi-arid region of northeastern Mexico. Further studies could examine DM yields of browse from the various species, acceptance by small ruminants and their sustainability under regular defoliation under grazing.

USE OF ENERGY-FAT CONCENTRATES IN COWS’ DIETS

To achieve a high level of productivity during early lactation, a significant concentration of metabolizable energy in the dry matter of the diet (up to 11-12 MJ) as well as crude fat (including protected) in the dry matter (5-6%) must be ensured. This&#x0D; can be achieved by additionally introducing vegetable oils and fats into the diet of animals. The contains the results of studying the effectiveness of the use of energyfat concentrates in cows’ diets. It was found that their use as a supplement to dairy cows instead of soybean meal made it possible to reduce the share of feed in the milk sale price structure. The profit from additionally obtained milk when using energy-fat concentrates amounted to 75.9 rubles, 106.3 and 60.7 rubles.

265 Effects of non-Starch Polysaccharide Degrading Enzymes + Lysophospholipids in Feeds with Varied ME Contents on Growth Performance and Nutrient Utilization of Pigs from 25 to 75 Kg BW

Abstract This study aimed to investigate efficacy of the combinational use of non-starch polysaccharide degrading enzymes (NSPase) and lysophospholipids (LPL) on growth performance and nutrient utilization in pigs fed feeds with varied metabolizable energy (ME) levels. Grower pigs (n = 270; 28.1 ± 0.6 kg BW) were allotted in a randomized complete block design with a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement of treatments fed for 51 d in 2 phases (30 and 21 d, respectively). Two factors were ME (3,260, 3,335, and 3,410 kcal/kg) and NSPase + LPL (ELPL at 0.00, 0.05, and 0.10%). Growth performance and backfat were measured. Blood was collected to measure plasma urea nitrogen (PUN) concentrations. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure on SAS 9.4. Increasing ME tended to increase (P = 0.066) ADG during Grower 2 and increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) G/F during the overall period. Increasing ELPL supplementation increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) both ADG and ADFI during Grower 2, whereas it tended to reduce (P = 0.084) G/F during the overall period. Supplemental effects of ELPL on increasing ADG was prominent (P &amp;lt; 0.05) at high ME content (3% above NRC requirement). Supplementation of ELPL tended to reduce (P = 0. 057) G/F during Grower 2 at low ME content (3% below NRC requirements). Backfat thickness and NEFA were not influenced by 2 factors. Increasing ME increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) PUN during Grower 1 whereas increasing ELPL tended to increase (P = 0.077) PUN during Grower 2. In conclusion, supplementation of ELPL enhanced growth and feed intake of pigs from 50 to 75 kg BW, especially when dietary ME was above NRC requirement (3%) by fat supplementation (4%). These improvements may be due to increased nutrient utilization as indirectly indicated by increased PUN during fed status.

93 Predicting Metabolizable Energy from Digestible Energy for Growing and Finishing Beef Cattle and Relationships to Prediction of Methane

Abstract Reliable predictions of metabolizable energy (ME) from digestible energy (DE) are necessary to prescribe nutrient requirements of beef cattle accurately. Our objectives were to add new data to a previously published database and re-evaluate the relationship between DE and ME and to describe and evaluate new methane prediction equations derived from the DE:ME relationship. The previous database, which included 87 treatment means from 23 respiration calorimetry studies was updated to evaluate the efficiency of converting DE to ME by adding 47 treatment means from 11 additional studies. Diets were fed to growing-finishing cattle under individual feeding conditions. A citation-adjusted linear regression equation was developed where dietary ME concentration (Mcal/kg of dry matter [DM]) was the dependent variable and dietary DE concentration (Mcal/kg) was the independent variable: ME = 1.0001 × DE – 0.3926. The slope did not differ from unity; therefore, the intercept defines the value of ME predicted from DE. For practical use, we recommend ME = DE - 0.39. Based on the relationship between DE and ME, the citation-adjusted loss of methane was calculated and yielded a citation-adjusted value of 0.2433 Mcal/kg of DMI. Recognizing that methane production decreases per unit of intake energy as DMI increases above maintenance, we also examined the relationship between multiples of maintenance intake and daily energy lost as methane. This citation-adjusted relationship was: CH4, Mcal/kg = 0.3344 – 0.05639 × multiple of maintenance. Both the 0.2433 value and the result of the intake-adjusted equation can be multiplied by DMI to yield an estimate of methane production. Further research is needed to determine whether coefficients to predict methane from DMI could be developed for specific diet types, levels of DMI relative to body weight, or other variables that affect the emission of methane.

275 Effects of Reduced Metabolizable Energy by Reducing fat Supplementation on Growth Performance and Intestinal Health of Nursery Pigs

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the effects of reducing metabolizable energy (ME) by reducing fat supplementation on growth performance and intestinal health of nursery pigs. Nursery pigs (n = 120; 7.3 ± 0.6 kg BW) were allotted in a randomized complete block design with sex and initial BW as blocks. Pigs were assigned to 5 dietary treatments with decreasing ME levels (3,400, 3,375, 3,350, 3,325, and 3,300 kcal/kg ME). ME content was gradually reduced by reducing fat supplementation (2%). Pigs were fed for 35 d in 2 phases (P1: 14 d and P2: 21 d). Titanium dioxide was added (0.4%) to P2 diets as an indigestible external marker to measure apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients. At d 35, a pig with median BW of each pen in 2 treatments (3,400 and 3,300 kcal/kg) was euthanized for sampling jejunal mucosa to analyze oxidative stress and immune status. Jejunal digesta was collected to measure viscosity. Ileal digesta was collected to analyze AID of nutrients. Data were analyzed using SAS. Reducing ME level by 3% (100 kcal/kg) had no effect on growth performance. The 3,300 kcal/kg diet reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) AID of DM (59.5 to 47.3%), GE (59.1 to 43.0%), CP (63.4 to 44.6%), and EE (67.7 to 55.2%), increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) digesta viscosity (1.7 to 2.2 cP) and VH:CD (1.64 to 1.80), and decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) VH (467 to 433 µm) when compared with 3,400 kcal/kg diet. Additionally, the 3,300 kcal/kg diet increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) the concentration of protein carbonyl (0.18 to 0.40 nmol/mg) in the jejunal mucosa. In conclusion, reducing ME by reducing fat supplementation by 2% increased the viscosity of jejunal digesta and protein carbonyl in the jejunal mucosa, resulting in decreased villus height and nutrient digestibility, without affecting growth performance.

PSVII-6 Effects of Hydroponically Sprouted Cereal Grains on Feedlot Performance, Blood Serum Chemistry, and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility in Beef Cattle

Abstract Recent technological advancements in the local chain agricultural technology sector have produced automated systems that overcome pitfalls of traditional forage production. With significantly altered nutrient composition when compared with typical forages, research investigating the effects of hydroponically sprouted grain (HG) on feedlot growth and performance is needed. Angus steers (n = 40) averaging 274 kilograms body weight were randomly assigned to one of four pens in replicated pen experimental feedlot setting. Treatment pens were balanced for incoming weight, age, and genetic background to ensure uniformity throughout the experiment. Dietary treatments were randomly assigned and delivered continuously for an eight-week comparison period; diets were balanced for metabolizable energy, fiber, and crude protein content with 15% inclusion of HG administered in the treatment group. Nutrient digestibility was assessed through weekly manure sampling. Daily rate of gain, feed conversion ratio, and cost of gain was assessed through monthly replicated (n = 3) weight evaluations. Blood serum chemistry was evaluated through individual animal blood serum samples collected from the lateral tail vein. Multiple variables measured indicated positive and statistically significantly (p &amp;lt; 0.05) changes resulting from the inclusion of HG (Table 1). On a percentage basis, daily rate of gain and dry matter intake improved 12% and 11%, respectively. Marginal trends (p &amp;lt; 0.20) in nutrient digestibility were noted and blood serum metrics associated with nutrient bioavailability and rumen health were positive. Results highlight the potential feeding value of HG and automated production systems as a novel agricultural technology solution.

329 Effectiveness of Virginiamycin Administration on Animal Health and the Observed Impacts on Growth, Development, and Intake Dynamics in Growing and Finishing Calves

Abstract Virginiamycin (VM) is an antibiotic that possesses antimicrobial properties due to its ability to block protein synthase in Gram-positive bacteria. It reduces lactic acidosis and the incidence of liver abscesses. Animal growth and development is brought about because of improved ruminal health, and animal health and welfare. This study evaluated the continuous or intermittent provision of VM during the growing and finishing phases on 120 Angus-crossbred steers (291 ± 28 kg) in 20 pens equipped with a Calan gate feed system from which animals received VM (240 mg/d) as follow: no VM (T000); VM in the last 50 d (T001); VM for the last 100 d (T011); VM in the first 50 d (T100); VM in the first 100 d (T110); and VM for 150 d (T111). Data were analyzed using a random coefficients model with the pen as a random effect and animals within treatment as the subject. The T011 tended (0.075 ≥ P ≥ 0.052) to have a greater carcass, final shrunk body weight compared with T110. Empty body fat (EBF; %) tended (0.080 ≤ P ≤ 0.050) to be less for animals that consumed VM regardless of the period or length of feeding. Dry matter intake (DMI) was lesser for T111 compared with T000, and greater for T011 compared with T110 (P ≤ 0.028), which resulted in greater average daily gain (ADG) with no difference in feed efficiency (P = 0.015 and 0.225, respectively). ADG-adjusted metabolizable energy (aME) content increased by 3.08% for T111 compared with T000. This study indicated that daily supplementation of 240 mg VM during the whole feeding phase increased feed efficiency and paME, whereas when withdrawn during the end of the finishing phase (T110) can impair DMI and ADG.

PSXVI-15 Energy Concentration Prediction Models for Black Solider fly Larvae Using Chemical Composition

Abstract The objectives were to determine the digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) concentrations in black solider fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens) larvae fed to pigs and to develop prediction equations for energy in BSF larvae. On a dry matter (DM) basis, 4 sources of defatted BSF larva meal contained 4,402 to 5,173 kcal/kg gross energy (GE), 46.5 to 62.0% crude protein (CP), 9.0 to 14.3% ether extract (EE), and 13.7 to 25.3% ash and a source of full-fat BSF larva contained 5,875 kcal/kg GE, 36.5% CP, 38.5% EE, and 16.3% ash. Six barrows with an initial body weight of 73.1 kg (SD = 2.3) were individually housed in metabolism crates. Six diets were assigned to the 6 pigs in a 6 × 7 Latin square design with 7 periods. A basal diet was composed of 97.6% corn as the sole energy source. Five experimental diets were prepared by replacing 25% of corn with BSF larva. Each period consisted of a 4-day adaptation period and a 4-day collection period for feces and urine collection. The DE and ME values in full-fat BSF larva (4,908 and 4,761 kcal/kg DM) were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than those in defatted BSF larva meal (3,791 to 4,269 kcal/kg DM and 3,577 to 3,878 kcal/kg DM). Energy prediction models developed for BSF larva were: GE (kcal/kg DM) = 5,707 + 36.2 × EE – 74.2 × ash (R2 = 0.98); DE (kcal/kg DM) = 4,575 + 29.1 × EE – 47.9 × ash (R2 = 0.99); and ME (kcal/kg DM) = 3,852 + 36.5 × EE – 30.0 × ash (R2 = 0.99) where chemical components are expressed as % DM. Overall, full-fat BSF larva contained greater energy concentrations compared with defatted larva meal and energy concentrations in BSF larva ingredients can be estimated using EE and ash concentrations.

Effects of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3) and 1-hydroxycholecalciferol (1-OH-D3) on serum bone biomarkers and calcium and phosphorus balance and concentrations of energy in diets without or with microbial phytase fed to sows in late gestation.

The objective was to test the hypothesis that supplementation of diets for gestating sows with 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3) or 1-hydroxycholecalciferol (1-OH-D3) affects serum biomarkers for bone and increases Ca and P balance and the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of gross energy (GE), and the concentrations of digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) in diets without or with microbial phytase. Sixty multiparous sows were allotted to 1 of 6 diets. Diets were formulated using a 3 × 2 factorial with 3 inclusions of supplemental vitamin D metabolite (no metabolite, 25-OH-D3, or 1-OH-D3) and 2 inclusion levels of microbial phytase (0 or 1,000 units). Sows were housed individually in metabolism crates and feces and urine were collected quantitatively. Results indicated that there was no difference in the ATTD of dry matter (DM) and GE and concentration of DE among the 3 diets containing microbial phytase, but the ATTD of DM and GE and concentration of DE was greater (P < 0.05) in diets containing 1-OH-D3 compared with the diet without a vitamin D metabolite if phytase was not used (interaction; P < 0.05). In diets without microbial phytase, ME was greater in diets containing either one of the 2 vitamin D metabolites than in the diet without a vitamin D metabolite, but among diets with microbial phytase, the ME of the 1-OH-D3 diet was less than of the 25-OH-D3 diet (interaction; P < 0.05). No effect of microbial phytase on concentrations of DE and ME was observed. There was no interaction between supplementation of microbial phytase and vitamin D metabolites for Ca and P balances, and regardless of metabolite supplementation, use of microbial phytase increased (P < 0.05) the ATTD and retention of Ca and P. Regardless of dietary phytase, the ATTD and retention of Ca and P increased (P < 0.05) for sows fed a diet containing one of the vitamin D metabolites compared with sows fed the diet without a vitamin D metabolite. Serum biomarkers for bone resorption or bone tissue synthesis were not affected by experimental diets. In conclusion, the ATTD of DM and GE, concentrations of DE and ME, and Ca and P balance in phytase-free diets fed to sows in late gestation were increased by supplementation with 1-OH-D3 or 25-OH-D3, but no differences between the 2 vitamin D metabolites were observed. Supplementation of diets with microbial phytase increased Ca and P balance, but did not affect DE and ME of diets.

Effects of an emulsifier blend supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, and muscle fatty acid profile of broiler chickens fed with different levels of energy and protein

The effects of emulsifier blend (EB) supplementation of diets with various levels of metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) on broiler performance, digestibility, gut morphology, and muscle fatty acid profile were investigated over a 42-d period. Diets were arranged factorially (2 × 2 × 3) and consisted of 2 levels of ME (normal [commercially recommended levels] and low [100 kcal/kg reduction in dietary ME]), 2 levels of CP and limiting amino acids (normal [commercially recommended levels] and low [95% of the normal CP level]), and 3 levels of EB supplementation (0, 1, and 2 g/kg of diet). A total of 1,200 one-day-old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were randomly assigned to 12 treatment groups (5 pens/treatment with 20 birds/pen). Supplemental EB linearly improved (P < 0.05) final body weight, overall average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio, but the magnitude of the responses was greater in low-ME and low-CP treatments, resulting in significant ME × CP × EB interactions. Similarly, the inclusion of EB in the diet, particularly at 2 g/kg, increased the ileal digestibility of crude protein and crude fat, as well as the AMEn value (P < 0.05), but the response was greater at lower ME concentration, indicating significant ME × EB interactions. Additionally, there were CP × EB interactions (P < 0.05) for duodenal villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio, indicating that the effect of EB on these responses was more marked at lower dietary CP levels. An increase in dietary EB levels was accompanied by a linear increase in the concentration of total saturated fatty acids and a linear decrease (P < 0.05) in the concentrations of total polyunsaturated fatty acids in both breast and thigh meat. In conclusion, the positive effects of EB supplementation, particularly at a dietary inclusion level of 2 g/kg, were clearly evident in broiler chickens fed with low nutrient diets (−100 Kcal/kg ME and/or −5% CP and limiting amino acids) in terms of growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and gut morphology.

Effects of grape residue supplementation in diet on Liangfeng chicken growth performance, nutrient metabolism and blood biochemistry

ABSTRACT Grape residue prepared from red wine has been reported as an effective antioxidant against chemical-induced toxicity and to attenuate oxidative stress. This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of grape residue supplement in diet on growth performance, nutrient digestion, blood biochemical and antioxidant parameters of chicken. A total of 180, 30-day-old healthy Liangfeng chicken with paired body weight were randomly allocated into 6 groups with 5 replicates per group and 6 chickens per replicate. Control group (group I) was fed with a basal diet, while other groups were further supplemented with grape residue at 0.5% (group II), 1% (group III), 2% (group IV), 4% (group V) and 8% (group VI) respectively. All the diets were regulated in equal formula protein, metabolic energy, methionine and lysine content basic. After 49 days of the experiment, data showed that dietary supplementation with grape residue improved the growth performance of Liangfeng chicken and significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity, and the supplementation at the level of 4% was recommended.

Effects of Adding Ethanol Extract of Propolis on the Fermentation Quality, Aerobic Stability, Fatty Acid Profile, and In Vitro Digestibility of Alfalfa Silages

This study was planned to determine the effects of ethanol extract of propolis on the fermentation quality, fatty acid profile, aerobic stability, and in vitro digestibility of alfalfa silages. The ethanol extract of propolis was added to alfalfa at levels of 1000 mg/kg (PROP1), 2000 mg/kg (PROP2), and 3000 mg/kg (PROP3); propolis was not added to the control (CON) group. After the propolis was added, the pH value of the alfalfa silage declined, and the crude protein content was effectively preserved (p &lt; 0.05). Adding propolis to alfalfa silages caused crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber (p &lt; 0.05) to decrease. The ethanol extract of propolis significantly improved the lactic acid content and reduced the NH3-N content (p &lt; 0.05). Propolis significantly improved the unsaturated fatty acid content (p &lt; 0.05) and reduced the saturated fatty acid content (p &lt; 0.05). In addition, propolis significantly improved the relative feed value, the digestibility of the organic matter, and the in vitro metabolic energy content (p &lt; 0.05). These results show that the ethanol extract of propolis improves the silage quality of last cutting alfalfa silages, and has potential as an antimicrobial silage additive.

Digestible and metabolizable energy concentrations in cereal grains and byproduct ingredients fed to growing pigs

The objectives were 1) to determine digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) in cereal grains and byproducts fed to pigs, 2) to validate the accuracy of prediction equations for feed ingredients, and 3) to develop prediction equations for DE and ME based on chemical compositions of ingredients. Twelve barrows [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)] with average body weight of 37.1 ± 1.1 kg were allotted to one of 12 diet groups in a 12 × 12 Latin square design with 12 periods. A basal diet contained corn and soybean meal (SBM). Ten diets were formulated by replacing 300 g/kg or 400 g/kg of corn and SBM with a test ingredient in the basal diet. A wheat diet contained 976 g/kg of wheat as a sole energy source. Based on measured energy values, prediction equations in the literature were validated and new prediction equations were developed. The DE and ME concentrations in corn gluten meal were the highest (P < 0.05) among 11 feed ingredients followed by lupin kernel, rice bran, and SBM. The DE and ME concentrations in wheat were higher (P < 0.05) compared with those in barley and wheat bran. The DE and ME concentrations did not differ between 2 sources of corn gluten feed. The energy in the ingredients ranged from 3999 to 5182 kcal/kg for gross energy, 988–4509 kcal/kg for DE, and 890–4266 kcal/kg for ME on an as-is basis. The results of comparisons between measured and predicted values indicated that previous equations underestimated DE and ME, especially for low-energy ingredients. The most suitable equations newly developed were: DE, kcal/kg dry matter = 4055 – 3.09 × neutral detergent fiber + 1.61 × crude protein + 6.32 × ether extract – 6.47 × ash (R2 = 0.949, nutrients in g/kg dry matter); ME, kcal/kg dry matter = 3975 – 2.99 × neutral detergent fiber + 1.38 × crude protein + 6.62 × ether extract – 7.45 × ash (R2 = 0.942, nutrients in g/kg dry matter). Overall, energy concentrations in various ingredients and newly developed prediction equations might be useful for accurate diet formulations.

Regression method-derived digestible and metabolizable energy concentrations of partially defatted black soldier fly larvae meal for broiler chickens and pigs

The energy value of partially defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (pBSFLM) was determined in 2 experiments with broiler chickens and growing pigs. Experiment (Exp.) 1 was conducted to evaluate the ileal digestible energy (IDE), metabolizable energy (ME), and nitrogen-corrected ME (MEn) of pBSFLM with broiler chickens, and Exp. 2 was conducted to evaluate the digestible energy (DE) and ME of pBSFLM in growing pigs. The index method using titanium dioxide was used in Exp. 1 whereas, the total collection method was used in Exp. 2, the pig study. Three experimental diets were prepared in each of the 2 studies: a corn-soybean meal basal diet (BD) and 2 test diets containing pBSFLM at either 100 or 200 g/kg to replace the energy-contributing ingredients in the BD. Eight replicate cages of broiler chickens at 16-d-old (6 birds per cage) in Exp. 1 or 8 barrows with a mean body weight of 20 kg in Exp. 2 were assigned to each diet. A linear increase (P < 0.05) was observed in the IDE concentration of the experimental diets in Exp. 1. With increasing dietary pBSFLM, linear and quadratic increases (P < 0.05) were observed in the MEn and ME concentrations in the diets, respectively. The inclusion of pBSFLM increased ME from 13.4 to 14.5 MJ/kg DM for 0 to 200 g/kg replacement of BD. When fed to broiler chickens, the regression-derived IDE, ME, and MEn concentrations in pBSFLM were 18.9, 19.8, and 17.7 MJ/kg DM, respectively. In Exp. 2, there was a linear decrease in DM digestibility and a linear increase in dietary DE concentration (P < 0.05) of experimental diets with increasing substitution of BD with pBSFLM. The metabolizability of dietary gross energy linearly decreased (P < 0.05) but the ME concentration quadratically increased (P < 0.05) as the replacement of BD with pBSFLM in the experimental diet increased from 0 to 200 g/kg. In pigs, the regression-derived DE and ME estimates were 21.0 and 19.7 MJ/kg, respectively. The results from this study showed that pBSFLM is a potential feed ingredient for inclusion in the diet formulation for broiler chickens and pigs.