Breast Meat Samples Research Articles

Mitigation of Oxidized Oil Effects on Production Performances and Meat Quality of Broilers by Dietary Supplementation of Allicin

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary oxidized oil and allicin (two different dietary sources) as natural antioxidants on the growth performance and meat quality of broilers. A total of 200 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into four dietary groups (50 birds/group). The experimental groups (OO—oxidized oil; OOA—oxidized oil and allicin; OOG—oxidized oil and garlic leaves) differed from the control one by the presence of oxidized oil in their dietary structure (peroxide value 9.07 (OO, OOA and OOG groups) vs. 1.70 (C group) meq active oxygen/kg). The diets given to the experimental groups differed from each other by the presence of allicin (100 mg/kg inclusion rate as extract (OOA) and 0.5% as garlic leaf powder (OOG)). At the end of the experiment, six animals/group were slaughtered, meat samples (breast and thigh) were collected, and nutritional value was established. The results showed that the allicin included in the experimental diet did not influence the proximate composition of breast meat (crude protein, fat, ash, and dry matter). The fatty acid profile was determined for each group of samples; a significant decrease in omega 3 FAs was noticed between the C group and the E groups (3.27% vs. 1.46%, 1.60%, and 1.56%) in breast meat samples, and a corresponding increase was noticed in saturated fatty acid (SFA) concentrations. Health indices with implications for atheroma and thrombus formation and cholesterol level were negatively affected by the presence of oxidized oil in the experimental diets, but the allicin extract supplement appeared to mitigate its influence. A positive influence of the dietary supplement was noticed on antioxidant capacity and polyphenol concentrations determined in breast and thigh samples under allicin supplement influence. The results of the current study revealed that the use of low oxidized oil in broilers diets did not affect productive performance. The nutritional quality of meat (breast and thigh) was negatively influenced by the presence of oxidized oil, but allicin supplements (extract or garlic leaves) improved lipid quality indices and antioxidant potential.

Alterations of meat quality, lipid composition and flavor in breast meat of laying hens with fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome

Fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome (FLHS) has a high incidence rate in laying hens, and lots of FLHS-affected meat products enter the market every year. At the same time, the meat of laying hens is an important component of the human diet. However, the impact of FLHS on meat of laying hens is unknown, which could have a negative impact on consumers. To explore the effects of FLHS on chicken breast meat, a total of 36 twenty-five-wk-old Jingfen laying hens were used in the experiment. The hens were randomly divided into Control group and Model group, with 6 replicates per group and 3 hens per replicate. All chickens were raised in double-story step cages with individual pens. After a 3-wk acclimation period, the formal experiment began at 28 wk of age and lasted for 8 wk. Blood, liver, and breast meat samples were collected for the study of FLHS effects on breast meat. The impact of FLHS on meat quality was assessed by measuring indicators such as water-holding capacity and tenderness of the breast meat. Absolute quantitative lipidomics was employed to reveal the impact of FLHS on the lipid composition of chicken breast meat, and then validated by using RT-qPCR. Moreover, the volatilomics was utilized to detect changes in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in chicken breast meat and to elucidate the resulting flavor changes. This research results showed that the meat quality of chicken breast meat decreased under FLHS, mainly manifested as reduced water holding capacity and decreased tenderness. The lipid content in the breast meat of FLHS-affected hens was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Among the affected lipids, 38 triglycerides exhibited notable elevation, possibly linked to heightened gene expression, such as lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3. The breast meat of laying hens with FLHS demonstrated an increased presence of VOCs, with 20 differential VOCs identified. Notably, 14 VOCs, particularly in 2-Undecenal, trans-Geranylacetone and ethyl nonanoate, exhibited substantial increases. These 3 VOCs had been identified as playing an important role in the formation of flavor in the breast meat of FLHS-affected laying hens. Correlation analysis suggested that the increase in these 3 VOCs might be related to the increase in lipid molecules such as phosphatidylethanolamine (38;3e) and acyl carnitine (10:3). In summary, FLHS reduced the breast meat quality of laying hens, altered its lipid profiles, and enhanced its flavor. These findings underscore the profound impact of FLHS on lipid and VOC profiles in chicken breast meat, offering valuable insights for chicken meat quality affected by FLHS.

Nutritional composition and technological properties determining the quality of different cuts of organic and conventional Turkey meat

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional composition and technological properties of meat from turkeys produced under organic conditions and compare them with those of turkeys produced under conventional conditions. Twenty carcasses of female B.U.T. Premium turkeys (Aviagen Turkeys) were obtained directly from the abattoir ten h after slaughter time of animals. Ten carcasses originated from female turkeys reared under conventional intensive husbandry conditions for meat-type turkeys (on average, 5611.8 ± 196.2 g of carcass weight) and the other ten carcasses corresponded to female turkeys raised under certified organic free-range conditions (PavosBio, Ávila, Spain) (on average, 5528.5 ± 354.4 g of carcass weight). Breast, thigh and wing meat samples were analyzed from each turkey: Chemical composition, fatty acid profile, free amino acids, mineral and vitamins content, color, and texture. Meat from female turkeys reared under organic conditions presented higher fat content in breast (1.90 vs. 1.01%, P = 0.032), thigh (3.79 vs. 2.68%, P = 0.022) and wing (12.0 vs. 8.91%, P = 0.012) than meat of female turkeys reared under intensive conventional conditions. The proportion of saturated fatty acids was higher in the meat of intensively reared female turkeys than in those reared under organic conditions (42.8 vs. 38.1%, P = 0.017 in breast; 38.8 vs. 33.6%, P = 0.0053 in thigh and 40.2 vs. 33.9%, P < 0.001 in wing). On the contrary, the proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids was higher in meat of organic turkeys (41.4 vs. 35.6%, P = 0.012 in breast; 42.3 vs. 35.6%, P < 0.001 in thigh and 46.9 vs. 39.3%, P = 0.011 in wing). Concentration of riboflavin and pyridoxine was higher by 21.1% (P = 0.010) and by 154% (P = 0.006), respectively, in meat from organically raised female turkeys than in that of female turkeys reared under intensive conditions. The organic turkey meat analyzed contained a higher proportion B2 and B6, lipids and monounsaturated fatty acids, and a lower content of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Meta-analysis to predict the effects of probiotics on meat quality of broiler.

The demand for chicken meat has surged globally due to its status as a primary protein source in human diets. However, ensuring high-quality meat products has become an increasingly important subject to consumers. In this study, 21 articles from PubMed and Web of Science databases published between 2005 and 2023 were examined to assess the influence of probiotic supplementation on broiler meat quality. The meta-analysis revealed significant findings across various meat quality parameters. Specifically, probiotics were found to significantly affect meat colour parameters, including redness, yellowness, and lightness, in both breast and thigh meat samples. Moreover, significant differences were observed in parameters such as water-holding capacity (p < 0.001), cook loss (p = 0.047), and shear force (p = 0.025) between control and probiotic groups. However, it's essential to note the considerable heterogeneity among the studies, emphasising the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. Despite this variability, the study underscores the potential of probiotics to positively influence broiler meat quality, highlighting avenues for further research and standardisation in poultry production practices. These findings also contribute to a better understanding of probiotics' role in improving meat quality and meeting consumer preferences for nutritious and high-quality poultry products.

Changes in the Phenotypes of Salmonella spp. in Japanese Broiler Flocks.

Salmonella infections represent a leading cause of foodborne illnesses; resistance to third-generation cephalosporins (TGCs), which are a first-choice antimicrobial for treating human Salmonella enteritis, has become a serious public health concern worldwide. Because the consumption of undercooked chicken meat products is a major cause of foodborne salmonellosis in Japan, we conducted three surveys at different periods between 2017 and 2022, with the cooperation of four abattoirs (two in Eastern and two in Western Japan). The first survey was conducted at abattoir A, which is located in Eastern Japan. Salmonella was detected in 84.4% of broiler flocks tested (27/32); among them, all the TGC-resistant isolates obtained from one farm (farm FA) were identified as S. Infantis. Salmonella was recovered from 62.5% of breast meat samples (20/32), with one case suggesting cross-contamination. The second survey was conducted at three other abattoirs to examine the prevalence of TGC-resistant Salmonella, in both Western (abattoirs B and C) and Eastern (abattoir D) Japan. Salmonella was detected in 90.6% of broiler flocks examined (29/32). TGC-resistant S. Infantis was isolated from 2 flocks until 2018 and not thereafter. Subsequently, isolates were identified as TGC-susceptible S. Schwarzengrund in both regions. The third survey was performed at abattoir A to elucidate whether there were changes in the phenotypes. Of the 11 broiler flocks introduced from farm FA, 10 were positive for Salmonella (90.9%); all the isolates were S. Schwarzengrund susceptible to TGC. This study shows that TGC-susceptible S. Schwarzengrund has replaced the resistant phenotypes among broiler flocks in both Eastern and Western Japan. Although chicken meat products could be cross-contaminated with Salmonella during the slaughtering process, reducing the prevalence of Salmonella in broiler flocks remains important to decrease Salmonella enteritis in humans.

Xylanase supplementation in energy-deficient corn-based diets: impact on broiler growth, nutrient digestibility, chyme viscosity and carcass proximates.

The goal of the current study was to investigate the impact of various concentrations of xylanase in energy-deficient corn-based diets on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and digesta viscosity in broilers from 7 to 35 days of age. A total of 280 seven-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated to one of the five dietary treatments following a completely randomized design with 8 replicates and 7 birds per cage. The treatments were: i) positive control (PC, without xylanase); ii) NC-1 (80 kcal/kg ME reduced from PC); iii) NC-2 (100 kcal/kg ME reduced from PC); iv) NCX-1 (NC-1 + 2,000 U/kg xylanase); and v) NCX-2 (NC-2 + 3,000 U/kg xylanase). Body weight, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were determined weekly to evaluate growth performance. One bird per pen was sacrificed for ileal digesta collection to determine the viscosity and digestibility of energy, dry matter, crude protein on days 24 and 35, however breast and leg meat samples were obtained for proximate analysis (moisture, crude protein, fat, and ash) on day 35. Birds fed diets supplemented with xylanase regardless of the amount had higher (p<0.05) body weights, daily gains, and improved feed efficiency compared to NC diets all throughout the experimental period. Feed intake was not affected (p>0.05) by the addition of xylanase. Moreover, lowered (p<0.05) viscosity of the ileal digesta were observed upon xylanase inclusion in the diets compared to the birds fed NC diets on day 24. Ileal nutrient digestibility and meat proximate composition were not affected (p>0.05) by xylanase. The present study indicated that the xylanase at 2,000 U/kg and 3,000 U/kg levels compensates for the 80 kcal/kg and 100 kcal/kg dietary energy levels, respectively, without having adverse effects on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and digesta viscosity of broilers.

Relationships of quality indices with wooden breast myopathy severity in chicken breast meat under refrigerated storage

ABSTRACT 1. This study investigated the relationships of quality indices with the severity of wooden breast (WB) myopathy in chicken breast meat under refrigerated storage. The physicochemical properties, water-holding capacity (WHC), microbial quality and fatty acid profiles of normal chicken breast meat samples (NOR samples, n = 63), moderate WB (MWB, n = 63) myopathy and severe WB (SWB, n = 63) myopathy (MWB and SWB samples, respectively) were evaluated immediately after sampling and after 4 and 8 d of refrigerated storage at 4°C. 2. Total collagen, fat, saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid contents, redness and pH of the SWB and MWB samples were higher than the NOR samples. The SWB samples that were stored for 8 d had poor WHC, total viable counts (TVC) of higher than 7.0log colony-forming units, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content of greater than 15 mg/100 g and a thiobarbituric acid – reactive substance level of higher than 1 mg/kg malondialdehyde. 3. No significant difference was observed in the TVB-N content and TVC of the MWB and NOR samples during storage. Polyunsaturated fatty acid content was lower in the SWB and MWB samples than in the NOR samples. The SWB samples were tougher than the MWB and NOR samples after 8 d of refrigeration. 4. In conclusion, the quality of chicken breast meat with SWB myopathy degraded considerably over time; thus, such meat should not be subjected to extended refrigeration for storage.

Evaluating the Suitability of Orange Pulp Meal as a Partial Substitute of Corn on the Chemical and Sensorial Properties of Broiler Meat (Pectoralis major)

Background: The study aimed to assess the effect of a partial dietary substitution of corn with dried orange pulp (DOP) powder in broiler diets and their effect on Pectoralis major meat quality. Furthermore, the study investigated the relationship between physicochemical parameters and sensory characteristics of breast meat even of control and experimental broilers groups. Methods: Four dietary treatments namely basal diet (control), 5, 10 and 15% DOP were given to 200 broilers 16 days-old for 49 days. Throughout all breeding periods, the control group was fed a diet primarily composed of corn, soybean meal and wheat bran. The experimental groups were given the same initial diet as the control group, but their grower and finisher diets contained 5%, 10% and 15% of orange pulp powder respectively. Physicochemical parameters, proximate composition, lipid oxidation index and sensory characteristics of broiler breast muscle were determined. Result: Significant decreases in moisture and fats were observed in the experimental groups (P less than 0.0001). However, the experimental diets positively affected the lipid oxidation of breast meat samples, as indicated by the lower malondialdehyde content (P less than 0.05). The partial substitution with orange pulp powder did not show an effect (P greater than 0.05) on sensory attributes of breast meat except for overall acceptability by the degustation panel. According to the panel degustation results, the flavor in experimental diets breast meat had a significant correlation on some sensory characteristic like juiciness and color of experimental breast samples (P less than 0.001). Pearson’s correlation revealed that flavor of control breast meat was negatively correlated with 2 physicochemical parameters (pH and lipid peroxidation). Similarly, the flavor of experimental groups was negatively correlated with the sensory attributes (juiciness and color). Additionally, a significant positive correlation was found between juiciness and the parameters (color and pH) of experimental meat.

Detection of antibiotic residues in broiler chicken meat in traditional markets in Surakarta City

This research aims to detect the presence of penicillin, tetracycline, aminoglycoside, and macrolide antibiotic residues in broiler chicken meat sold in traditional markets in Surakarta City. A total of 60 research samples were collected from traditional markets. Subsequently, the samples were examined at BBVet Wates, Yogyakarta, to identify the presence of antibiotic residues. The results showed that 16.67% of the chicken breast meat samples tested positive for penicillin and 10% showed traces of macrolide antibiotic residues. For chicken thigh meat, 63.33% tested positive for penicillin, while 3.33% contained macrolide antibiotic residues. However, no tetracycline and aminoglycoside antibiotic residues were detected in any of the meat samples. The presence of antibiotic residues can be attributed to several factors, including the excessive addition of antibiotics in feed, improper use of antibiotics in livestock. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that penicillin and macrolide antibiotic residues are still prevalent in broiler chicken meat sold in traditional markets in Surakarta. This shows there is a pressing need to strengthen guidance and supervision of antibiotic use regulations, as well as to monitor antibiotic residues in the meat before it reaches the market.

Investigation of Some Chemical and Textural Properties of Chicken Breast Meats Sold by Different Companies

In this study, it was aimed to make some chemical analyzes and to compare cooking loss, color and texture properties of breast meats from three different companies (A, B, C) which were obtained from sales depot with similar weight, packaging and expiry dates. For this purpose, 10 each breast meat samples from each company were used as material. As a result, protein values in companies A, B and C were found to be 22.60, 22.59 and 22.82%, respectively (P &gt; 0.05). Fat values were measured as 2.18, 2.77 and 2.42% (p &gt; 0.05). It was determined that the cooking loss value was the highest in enterprise A (28.90%). It was measured that the L* (lightness) value was between 59.47 and 59.70, and the a* (redness) value was between 2.84 and 3.60, and these values did not make significant difference between enterprises (p &gt; 0.05). The b* (yellowness) value was found as 10.19, 12.89, 14.95 in A, B and C enterprise respectively, and it was observed that the difference between these measurements was statistically significant (P &lt; 0.05). When the texture analysis results were examined, it was determined that there was no significant difference between the enterprises in terms of hardness, springiness, adhesiveness and gumminess. It was determined that the chewiness results made significant difference in the enterprises (P &lt; 0.05).

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profile of Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolated from chickens and chicken meats from local poultry slaughterhouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand

This study sought to investigate the antimicrobial resistance profiles of Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EOH) isolated from chickens and chicken products at local poultry slaughterhouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. EOH was isolated from cloacal swabs and chicken breast meat samples between January 2021 and June 2023. EOH were identified using a culture-based method and were confirmed on sorbitol MacConkey agar. Positive EOH isolates were tested via antimicrobial susceptibility testing and antimicrobial resistance profiles using the disk diffusion method and polymerase chain reaction. This study showed the prevalence of EOH isolated from chicken breast meat (11.47%) was higher than that of cloacal swab (9.32%). Most EOH isolates from cloacal swabs were resistant to oxytetracycline (65.38%), streptomycin (61.54%), amoxicillin (61.54%), and ampicillin (65.38%, and most EOH isolates from breast meat were resistant to oxytetracycline (78.12%), streptomycin (25%), amoxicillin (75%), and ampicillin (78.12%). In addition, 32 (55.17%) EOH isolates were multidrug resistant harbored the ESBL-TEM gene (65.38%), blaTEM (34.61%), int-1 (3.85%), or mcr-1 (0%). This is the first report of EOH isolated from chickens and chicken meats from domestic poultry slaughterhouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Therefore, EOH is a public health concern in local poultry slaughterhouse processes in this area.

The Quality of Meat, Carcass, and Cut Yields of Broiler Chicken Fed Diets Containing Purslane Meal Rich in Omega-3 Fats

This study aims to evaluate the feeding of broilers with ALA-rich purslane supplementation on meat and carcass quality and sensory quality. A total of 180 one-day old, unsexed Cobb broilers were used in this research, and they were divided into 30 pens, with each pen containing 6 birds. Broiler feeding was randomly divided into five treatments based on a basal corn-soybean feed. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) in one direction with five treatments and five replications. The experimental diets were a basal diet (A0) and basal diets containing 1.5% fish oil and 0% purslane meal (w / w) (A1), 6% (A2), 12% (A3), and 18% (A4). Performance parameter data were recorded and measured over a 35-day period. As many as 30 chickens (n = 6 for each treatment) were slaughtered and processed as carcass and breast meat (Pectoralis Major) samples were collected for meat quality evaluation. The data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance and if there was a significant effect of the treatments then the analysis was continued using Tukey Test. The results showed that adding 12% purslane flour had no a significant effect on carcass weight and cut yields. The diet enriched with purslane flour to a level of 18% for 35 days did not change the water holding capacity (WHC), but it did increase the fat content of the meat. Purslane meal-containing diets reduced cooking losses. The tenderness of the meat produced from chickens fed with purslane meal at a level of 18% (1.93) was higher than those fed purslane meal 12% (1.12). Panelists gave the same perception of preference for meat produced from chickens fed dietary treatments. In conclusion, diets containing purslane meal up to 12% has no negative effect on carcass quality, physicochemical quality and consumer preference for broiler chicken meat.

Comparative study and relationship analysis between purine content, uric acid, superoxide dismutase, and growth traits in purebred and crossbred Thai native chickens.

The objective was to compare and analyze the relationship between growth, purine content, uric acid, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in purebred and crossbred Thai native chickens. A total of 300 Thai native chickens were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 was purebred Thai native chickens (100%TN), Group 2 was 50% Thai native chickens (50%TN), and Group 3 was 25% Thai native chickens (25%TN). Data included the body weight (BW), average daily gain (ADG), and breast circumference (BrC). At 6, 8, and 10 weeks of age, 10 chickens from each group were randomly euthanized to collect breast meat, liver, and blood samples to analyze the purine content consisting of total purine, adenine, guanine, xanthine, and hypoxanthine, and uric acid, in breast meat and liver and SOD in blood. A general linear model, Pearson correlation and principal component analysis were used to analyze the significant differences and relationship between variables. The results showed the 25%TN group had the highest growth traits at every age, while the 100%TN group had the lowest (p < 0.05). Consistent with the analysis results of purine values, purine content and uric acid in breast meat and liver and SOD in blood decreased with age (p < 0.05). The correlations between purine content (total purine, adenine, guanine, xanthine, and hypoxanthine) and growth traits (BW, ADG, and BrC) ranged from moderate negative to moderate positive (-0.542 to 0.253)(p < 0.05). The correlations between uric acid and growth traits (0.348-0.760) and SOD and growth traits (0.132-0.516) were low to moderate positive with significant differences (p < 0.05). The principal component plot, which highlighted three principal components (PC 1, PC 2, and PC 3), explained 86.44 and 86.53% of the total information in breast meat and liver for selecting animals for optimal balance of the variation in the growth traits, purine content, uric acid, and SOD. Although purebred Thai native chickens showed the lowest growth traits, purine content, uric acid, and SOD were also lowest compared to crossbred Thai native chickens. Therefore, the development of genetics in Thai native chickens to produce healthy food could be possible.

Effect of dietary sweet almond oil on performance, carcass parameters, blood values and meat quality of Japanese quails.

In this study, the effects of two different levels of sweet almond supplementation (2,500 and 5,000 mg/kg) to Japanese quails’ diets (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) on performance, carcass group, blood values and meat quality were examined. For this purpose, 72 one-day-old Japanese quails were randomly distributed under control and two different experimental groups for 35 days experiment, and their body weight and feed consumption were evaluated. At the end of the study, a total of 8 animals from each group were selected and slaughtered. Hot carcass yield, relative weights of liver, heart, spleen, gizzard, proventriculus and bursa of Fabricius to body weight were determined in slaughtered animals. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and lipase levels in blood serum samples and water holding capacity, pH, malondialdehyde, L, a*, and b* values in breast meat samples were investigated. As a result of the study, it was determined that the addition of sweet almond oil had a positive effect on performance, decreased lipase level in blood serum, and 2,500 mg/kg sweet almond oil supplementation reduced the ratio of proventriculus to body weight. To sum up, it was found that the addition of sweet almond oil to Japanese quail rations had a positive effect on performance and feed consumption; it also appears to reduce blood serum lipase value and proventriculus weight.

Comparative Study between Dietary Nanoelemental, Inorganic, and Organic Selenium in Broiler Chickens: Effects on Meat Fatty Acid Composition and Oxidative Stability

The present study investigated the impact of dietary supplementation with nano-elemental, inorganic, and organic selenium (Se) on the Se content, fatty acid (FA) composition, and oxidative stability of meat in 150 one-day-old broiler chickens. The broiler chickens were allotted into three groups: control (C), SS+SY, and SeNP. The C group received a control diet without any added Se, while the SS+SY and SeNP groups were fed diets containing 0.4 mg Se/kg from a combination of sodium selenite and selenium yeast (SS+SY at a 1:1 ratio) or elemental Se nanoparticles (SeNP), respectively. Breast meat samples were collected from 10 broiler chickens per diet group (2 per replicate) at 42 days of age for the analysis of Se content, FA composition, and oxidative stability. The findings of the study revealed that the Se levels in the breast tissue significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05) and the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of oxidative stress, decreased (p &lt; 0.05) with the inclusion of SS+SY and SeNP in the diet. Furthermore, the levels of 22:6n − 3 (docosahexaenoic acid) and total n − 3 FA significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05) in the breast meat of broiler chickens supplemented with SeNP compared to the C and SS+SY groups. In conclusion, both dietary supplementation with SeNP and SS+SY had a positive impact on the Se content and oxidative stability of the breast meat. However, SeNP supplementation resulted in a more desirable modification of the FA composition. These findings suggest that SeNP may offer a sustainable alternative to traditional forms of Se supplementation.

Effect of Different Levels of Origanum Majorana Leaves Powder on Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens

The prohibition uses of antibiotics and coccidiosis opens the door for research into the natural alternatives to be used to enhance animal performance. Origanum Majorana (OM) is a native plant in the Middle East which have many secondary nutritional components that affect broiler performance. Three hundred and seventy-five, one-day-old (Ross 308) broiler chickens were distributed to five treatments with three replicates per treatment. Treatment T1 was the positive control which had fed with a coccidiostat. T2 was the negative control, feeding without coccidiostat. T3, T4, and T5 had the same feed as T2 with 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% of added OM leaf powder. The rearing period was extended to 35 days. Performance parameters were measured weekly. Four birds from each pen were slaughtered and carcass cuts were weighed. Breast and thigh meat samples were stored at 5Cο for 7 days, and meat color and pH were measured at days 1, 3, 5, and 7 of slaughtering. Feeding OM at a level of 0.5% showed a significant (P&lt;0.05), increase in total feed intake and final body weight (3920 g, 2630.15g) compared to other groups. The lowest significant FCR was obtained in T4 on weeks 3, 4, and 5 (1.34, 1.33, and 1.51, respectively). There were no significant differences between treatments on thigh and breast L*, a*, b*, and meat pH. The L* value (59.19) for breast tends to be improved (P=0.0873) due to the use of 0.5% of OM In all treatments means the values of a*, b*, and meat pH increased significantly during the storage period while the value of L* was significantly reduced. Using OM will enhance the performance of broiler chickens and may improve the meat quality when it is used as a natural component substitute for coccidiostat and antibiotics.

A phytobiotic extract, in an aqueous or in a cyclodextrin encapsulated form, added in diet affects meat oxidation, cellular responses and intestinal morphometry and microbiota of broilers

The present trial examined the effects of diet supplementation with an extract including Greek oregano, garlic, rock samphire, and camelina, administered either in aqueous form or encapsulated in cyclodextrin, on broiler chickens. The duration of the trial was 35 days. Mixed broiler chicks (Ross-308, 120 individuals, 1 day old) were randomly allocated to one of three groups, each with four replicates. Control group A (CONTROL) was fed a basal diet consisting of maize and soybean. The diet of the AQORGCC and CDORGCC groups was further supplemented with aqueous and cyclodextrin-encapsulated herbal extracts, respectively. Levels of lipid and protein oxidation were determined in breast and thigh meat samples. Furthermore, to address cellular stress and signaling responses, the expression patterns of heat shock proteins (Hsp60, Hsp70, and Hsp90), mitogen-activated protein kinases (P38 and P44/42 MAPKs), and apoptotic-related proteins (Bcl-2/Bad ratio) were investigated in breast and thigh tissues using Western blot analysis. The intestinal morphometry of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum was also assessed. To investigate ileal and cecal bacterial community diversity, 16S rRNA gene high-throughput amplicon sequencing on the V3–V4 hypervariable region was performed. The results showed that the herbal extract in cyclodextrin delayed meat lipid oxidation. According to the protein expression patterns, the formulated diets elicited tissue-specific cellular responses. Compared with the CONTROL group, dietary supplementation with the encapsulated form resulted in significant Hsp induction and MAPK activation, whereas, in the group whose diet was supplemented with the aqueous form, the expression of most of the examined proteins decreased or was maintained at a constant level. Villus height and lamina propria width were mostly affected by the aqueous herbal extract, whereas the number of goblet cells remained unchanged among the groups. Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidota were the major phyla in mean relative abundance in all diets in both cecal and ileal samples. Alpha-diversity indices highlighted higher species richness and diversity in the cecum than in the ileum, as well as in chicks treated with the aqueous extract of the herbal mixture, but only in the cecum. Cecal beta-diversity differed between the cyclodextrin and the CONTROL groups, while ileal beta-diversity varied only between the aqueous-treated group and the CONTROL group. In conclusion, the dietary mixtures of herbal extracts (particularly those encapsulated in cyclodextrin) improved protein and lipid oxidation and increased the number of beneficial lactic acid-producing bacteria in the cecum, whereas the aqueous herbal extract mostly affected bacterial activity in the proximal part of the chicken intestine. Similarly, intestinal morphometry in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum was mostly affected by the aqueous herbal extract, which seems to inhibit proteins associated with stress signaling in meat.

Investigation of tylosin and tilmicosin residues in meat by high-performance liquid chromatography method.

In this study, the presence and level of macrolide group antibiotics (tylosin and tilmicosin) were analyzed by the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method in a total of 126 raw meat samples, including 42 chicken breast and 84 beef neck, available for consumption in the Burdur province (Turkey). The method demonstrated good linearity (R2 > 0.999) over the assayed concentration range (0.10-10 μg/mL). Intra-day and inter-day recoveries were used to express the accuracy of the method at three different levels of 0.5, 1, 2.5 μg/mL. Intraday recoveries and relative standard deviation values ranged from 97.270 (0.054)% to 98.643 (0.061)%, and inter-day recoveries and relative standard deviation values ranged from 97.057 (0.070)% to 98.197(0.042)% for tylosin. Intraday recoveries and relative standard deviation values ranged from 96.360 (0.065)% to 98.153 (0.046)%, and inter-day recoveries and relative standard deviation values ranged from 96.050 (0.058)% to 97.053 (0.096)% for tilmicosin. The limit of detection (LOD) value was calculated as 0.473 μg/kg for tylosin, and 0.481 μg/kg for tilmicosin; the limit of quantification (LOQ) value was calculated as 1.561 μg/kg for tylosin, and 1.587 μg/kg for tilmicosin. In general, tylosin and tilmicosin were determined in the range of 8-256 μg/kg and 30-447 μg/kg, respectively, in chicken breast meat samples; also, they were detected in the range of 36-1209 μg/kg and 30-1102 μg/kg, respectively, in beef neck meat samples. It was also found that the residues of tylosin and tilmicosin in chicken and beef meats from the market were at a much higher level than the acceptable limits specified in the regulations. This creates serious problems in terms of the ecosystem, food technology, and public health, and causes significant economic losses.

Effect of Thermal Treatments on Selected Minerals and Water Soluble Vitamins of Chicken Breast Meat

The study was conducted to ascertain the effect of thermal treatments on selected minerals (Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Fe and Zn) and water soluble vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12 and C) contents of chicken breast meat. Industrial skinless chicken breast meat samples were purchased, transported to Bioprocess laboratory in cool conditions, frozen and sliced into dimensions and thawed. The samples were cooked by air frying (AF), baking (BK), deep fat frying (DF) and grilling (GR) at 170, 180 and 1900C for 0, 4, 8 and 12 min for minerals and 0, 8 and 16 min for vitamins. Thereafter, cooked and raw samples were wet acid digested overnight and 5 h digested on a block digester on slowly increased temperature to 1200C, cooled and deionized. The mineral elements were analysed by Optima 4300DV inductivity coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and inductivity coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). These mineral elements were extrapolated through a calibration curve between intensity and concentration, while the vitamins were ascertained by measurement of absorbance of filtrates of the samples dissolved in their respective solvents in the Spectrophotometer against their blank samples at different wavelengths. The results showed that cooking methods decreased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) the mineral elements with an exception of Zn cooked by grilling (GR) that increased by 19.92% and Mg that increased in the cooking methods. The ascending percentage reduction of minerals in cooked chicken breast were Zn, P, K, Fe, Na and Ca. Samples cooked by DF had significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher percentage reduction of 45.06% in Ca, 27.74% in Na and 18.85% in Zn and higher percentage increases of 14.96% in Mg contents than other methods. Also samples cooked by DF had higher percentage reductions of 55.10%, 37.93%, 37.11%, 34.44% and 30.99% in vitamins B1, C, B2, B9 and B6 Whereas higher percentage reductions of 41.67% and 37.84 % in vitamins B12 and B3 occurred in baking (Bk) and grilling (GR) treated samples. Cooking at 1900C had higher percent reduction in the Ca, Na, Fe, K, P and Zn as well as B1, B12, B2, C, B3, B9 and B6. Cooking methods, temperatures and times decreased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) vitamins and minerals contents of chicken breast meat with an exception of Mg. Samples cooked at 1700C for 4 min and 1700C for 8 min had lower losses of minerals and vitamins compared to similar samples cooked at 1800C and 1900C. The AF cooking method had the least percent reduction of 22.50% than other cooking methods BK (26.88%), DF (36.04%) and GR (30.69%) in vitamin contents.

The effects of increasing levels of dietary sodium bentonite on performance, carcass indices, blood chemistry and meat quality in Japanese quails

This study was conducted to determine the effect of the inclusion of sodium bentonite (SB) in Japanese quails’ diet on performance, carcass traits, blood biochemical status, and meat quality traits. A total of 120 seven-day-old Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) were randomly divided into four groups, with each group containing five replicates, six birds each. SB was mixed with the diet at four concentrations (0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0%). Performance indicators were determined for an experimental period of six weeks. At the end of the experiment, 2 quails from each replicate were slaughtered and carcass traits were measured. The blood serum biochemical values, antioxidant status, and meat quality indicators were determined from blood and breast meat samples. The results showed that SB supplementation significantly improved the feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the 2–7 week period, the relative weight of the proventriculus, glucose and total cholesterol (TC) and a* (redness) colour traits in meat. Moreover, the total oxidant status (TOS) in blood serum and malondialdehyde (MDA) values were decreased with SB addition to Japanese quails’ diet. Hence, dietary SB supplementation could be used to improve the performance and antioxidant status in Japanese quails.