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15 pages, 17906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Varying Combinations of Dietary Selenium, Vitamin E, and Zinc Supplements on Semen Characteristics and Antioxidant Enzyme Activity of Spermatozoa in 1-Year-Old Native Turkish Ganders

by Hulüsi Ozan Taşkesen, Hatice Baş, Mehmet Akif Boz, Musa Sarıca, Kadir Erensoy, Vassilios Dotas and George Symeon

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14083; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914083 - 22 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1655

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of dietary Selenium (Se), Vitamin E (Vit E), and Zinc (Zn) and their various combinations on semen quantity, quality, and oxidative enzyme activities of spermatozoa in 1-year-old native Turkish ganders. In this study, [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of dietary Selenium (Se), Vitamin E (Vit E), and Zinc (Zn) and their various combinations on semen quantity, quality, and oxidative enzyme activities of spermatozoa in 1-year-old native Turkish ganders. In this study, 48 1-year-old native Turkish ganders were used. The ganders were randomly divided into 8 dietary treatment groups (Control, Se, Vit E, Zn, Se + Vit E, Se + Zn, Vit E + Zn, Se + Vit E + Zn) with 6 birds each. In addition to the control diet, specific amounts of 0.3 mg/kg Se, 100 mg/kg Vit E, and 100 mg/kg Zn were added to the diets of each treatment group. Semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm quality factor (SQF), and total live and normal sperm percentage were the lowest in the control group and highest in the ganders fed with the Se + Vit E + Zn combination. While the percentage of macro-cephalic and dead sperm was highest in the ganders fed with control feed, the lowest percentage of dead sperm was found in the sperm of the ganders fed with Vit E and Se + Vit E + Zn combinations. The lowest glutathione peroxidase enzyme (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and the highest amount of malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in the spermatozoa of the control group ganders. This study revealed that the combined use of Se, Vit E, and Zn in the diet maintained higher semen quantity and quality in 1-year-old native Turkish gander despite the advancing reproduction season compared to the control group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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12 pages, 2274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Varying Combinations of Dietary Selenium, Vitamin E, and Zinc Supplements on Antioxidant Enzyme Activity, and Developmental and Histological Traits in Testicular Tissues of 1-Year-Old Native Turkish Ganders

by Hatice Baş, Hulüsi Ozan Taşkesen, Mehmet Akif Boz, Musa Sarıca, Kadir Erensoy, Vassilios Dotas and George Symeon

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12245; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612245 - 10 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1310

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of varying combinations of dietary selenium (Se), vitamin E (Vit E), and zinc (Zn) supplements on antioxidant enzyme activity, and developmental and histological traits in testicular tissues of 1-year-old native Turkish ganders. A [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of varying combinations of dietary selenium (Se), vitamin E (Vit E), and zinc (Zn) supplements on antioxidant enzyme activity, and developmental and histological traits in testicular tissues of 1-year-old native Turkish ganders. A total of 48 animals were used and randomly assigned to 8 treatment groups (control, Se, Vit E, Zn, Se + Vit E, Se + Zn, Vit E + Zn, and Se + Vit E + Zn), with 6 birds in each group. In addition to the control (basic) diet, specific levels of supplements (0.3 mg/kg Se, 100 mg/kg Vit E, and 100 mg/kg Zn) were added to the diet of each treatment group. Antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase activities, and malondialdehyde level) were more advantageous in the testicular tissue of ganders fed with Se + Vit E + Zn. Malondialdehyde (MDA), which is an important indicator of lipid peroxidation, was not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. However, it was negatively correlated with the seminiferous tubule area (−0.34) and diameter (−0.35). Compared to the control, the highest seminiferous tubule area and germinative epithelial thickness were determined as being fed with Se + Vit E + Zn. The lowest seminiferous tubule diameter was determined in the control and Zn groups, while the highest was in the group fed with Se + Vit E + Zn and Se + Vit E. This study showed that the simultaneous supplementation of Se + Vit and E + Zn into the diet of native Turkish ganders had positive effects on the testicular tissue, by reducing oxidative damage and improving histological parameters without affecting their physiological status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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18 pages, 727 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fatty Acid Profile and Oxidative Stability of Layers’ Egg Yolk as Affected by Dietary Supplementation with Fresh Purslane and Addition of Aromatic Plant Essential Oils to Drinking Water

by Vassilios Dotas, Dimitrios Gourdouvelis, George Symeon, Lampros Hatzizisis, Ioannis Mitsopoulos, Dimitrios Galamatis, Maria Ioannidou and Evangelia Sossidou

Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11539; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511539 - 26 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1186

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of producing eggs enriched in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) while also increasing the oxidative stability of egg yolk. Here, 432 68-week-old Isa Brown layers were split into two groups of 216, consisting [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of producing eggs enriched in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) while also increasing the oxidative stability of egg yolk. Here, 432 68-week-old Isa Brown layers were split into two groups of 216, consisting of three subgroups of 72 each. Group C was fed a standard corn–soybean meal diet, while Group P received the same basic diet with an additional 24 g of fresh purslane. In the drinking water of hens of the three subgroups of group C and the three subgroups of group P, either no essential oil (C-0, P-0) or 100 ppm of oregano essential oil (C-ORE, P-ORE) or 100 ppm of a blend of oregano, sage, and fennel essential oils (C-BLEND, P-BLEND) was administered. The purslane supplementation resulted in increased egg weight, improved yolk color, higher levels of α-linolenic and linoleic acids, and an improved omega-6/omega-3 nutritional index. The addition of essential oils resulted in a significant increase in the oxidative stability of the egg yolk, with the BLEND being the most effective. In conclusion, the combined administration of fresh purslane and essential oils of aromatic plants could be suggested for the production of eggs enriched in omega-3 PUFA, protected with natural antioxidants of plant origin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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13 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

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

by Elisavet Giamouri, Efstathios Fortatos, Athanasios C. Pappas and George Papadomichelakis

Sustainability 2023, 15(12), 9762; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15129762 - 19 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1595

Abstract

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 [...] Read more.

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 < 0.05) and the concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of oxidative stress, decreased (p < 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 < 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. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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10 pages, 1394 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistant E. coli Strains Isolated from Farmed Broilers and Hens in Greece, Based on Phenotypic and Molecular Analyses

by Anna Xexaki, Dimitrios K. Papadopoulos, Maria V. Alvanou, Ioannis A. Giantsis, Konstantinos V. Papageorgiou, Georgios A. Delis, Vangelis Economou, Spyridon K. Kritas, Evangelia N. Sossidou and Evanthia Petridou

Sustainability 2023, 15(12), 9421; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15129421 - 12 Jun 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1904

Abstract

The use of antimicrobials is beneficial for livestock health; however, their overuse and misuse may increase resistance to these compounds. Thus, the aim of the present study was the phenotypic and molecular examination of the presence of Escherichia coli antibiotic-resistant strains in broiler [...] Read more.

The use of antimicrobials is beneficial for livestock health; however, their overuse and misuse may increase resistance to these compounds. Thus, the aim of the present study was the phenotypic and molecular examination of the presence of Escherichia coli antibiotic-resistant strains in broiler and laying hen farms. The resistance of E. coli strains was examined against various antibiotics, including several families of compounds such as penicillin class medications (ampicillin), cephalosporins (cefotaxime, cefoxitin, cefpodoxime and ceftazidime), sulfonamides (co-trimoxazole), quinolones (enrofloxacin and nalidixic acid), aminoglycosides (gentamicin), β-lactams (imipenem), aminoglycoside (streptomycin), and polymyxin (colistin). In total, 106 strains were investigated, sampled during the years 2016–2019 from 91 poultry farms, including 75 broiler farms and 16 laying hen farms, originating from three Regional Units in Greece. The examined isolates revealed the highest resistance rates to sulfamethoxazole (81.1%), nalidixic acid (73.6%), tetracyclin (70.8%), and streptomycin (70.8%). On the other hand, the resistance of the isolates to third generation cephalosporins was found to be at lower levels for ceftazidime (2.8%), ceftriaxone (3.7%) cefoxitin (4.7%), and cefotaxime (4.7%). Phenotypic tests showed that 13.6% and 10.2% of the isolates produced ESBL, while 2.7% and 1% produced AmpC b-lactamase, for broiler and laying hens, respectively. The prevalence of the mcr-1 gene was found to be 22.7%, detected only in broiler isolates. Based on our results, E. coli antibiotic resistance represents a critical control point in poultry production that, apart from farm animals, may affect public health as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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12 pages, 569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Broilers Production Performance under High Stocking Condition through Colocynth Seed Supplementation

by Farid S. Nassar, Ahmed O. Abbas, Abdulaziz A. Alaqil and Nancy N. Kamel

Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5102; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065102 - 14 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1780

Abstract

The negative impacts of high stocking density on the commercial poultry industry compromise sustainable birds’ productivity and welfare. Thus, we investigated the potential of colocynth seed (CC) supplementation in alleviating the negative impacts of high stocking density on broilers’ performance, immunity, inflammation, and [...] Read more.

The negative impacts of high stocking density on the commercial poultry industry compromise sustainable birds’ productivity and welfare. Thus, we investigated the potential of colocynth seed (CC) supplementation in alleviating the negative impacts of high stocking density on broilers’ performance, immunity, inflammation, and redox status. A total of 648 one-day-old male Cobb 500 chicks were recruited and distributed into 2 × 2 factorial arrangements. The treatment groups were assigned based on stocking density as low stocking density (9 birds/m²; LSD) or high stocking density (19 birds/m²; HSD), and CC supplementation as without (0 g/kg feed; −CC) or with (1 g/kg feed; +CC) supplementation. Data were collected from week three to week five of age. Production performance was monitored and meat quality was assessed. Blood samples were collected to measure stress markers, humoral immune response, inflammatory cytokines, and antioxidant activity levels. The results indicated that HSD induced production performance reduction, immunosuppression, and imbalance redox status, along with elevation in inflammation and stress markers levels. Breast meat weight and yield were reduced in the HSD groups by 9 and 1%, respectively, compared to LSD groups. However, CC supplementation to HSD birds was able to slightly improve daily weight gain, body weight gain, and breast weight, showing no significant difference compared to the LSD-CC group, and significantly increased breast yield. Furthermore, CC supplementation significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines and stress markers levels. Under HSD, both cell-mediated and humeral immune responses were elevated with CC supplementation compared with the non-supplemented group. It can be concluded that HSD is a detrimental factor in the commercial poultry industry, which generates oxidative and inflammatory responses and, subsequently, immunosuppression and impaired performance. Nevertheless, dietary CC supplementation can be used as a natural antioxidant source to mitigate the negative impacts of HSD on broilers’ production performance, as well as physiological competency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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24 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Welfare and Behavior Indicators of Broilers Fed Diets Supplemented with Yarrowia lipolytica Yeast

by Anna Dedousi, Sotiris I. Patsios, Maria-Zoi Kritsa, Konstantinos N. Kontogiannopoulos, Maria Ioannidou, Antonios Zdragas and Evangelia N. Sossidou

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 1924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15031924 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2163

Abstract

This study investigated the dietary impact of dried Yarrowia lipolytica yeast (YLP) on the growth performance, meat quality, welfare and behavior indicators of broilers. It was performed in a commercial poultry farm using 108 13 day-old Ross 308 male broilers. The chicks were [...] Read more.

This study investigated the dietary impact of dried Yarrowia lipolytica yeast (YLP) on the growth performance, meat quality, welfare and behavior indicators of broilers. It was performed in a commercial poultry farm using 108 13 day-old Ross 308 male broilers. The chicks were randomly and equally divided into three dietary groups CON, YLP3 and YLP5, according to the incorporation rate of YLP in the feed (0%, 3%, and 5%, respectively). A positive effect on foot pad dermatitis (FPD) of YLP-fed broilers was observed without any adverse effects on welfare, behavior, meat quality and the overall growth performance of the broilers. YLP significantly decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) values in breast and thigh meat. YLP3 birds presented a superior nutrient quality of breast meat, as indicated by the increased concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), decreased levels of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), a better PUFA/SFA ratio and improved health lipid indices. A significant elevation of n-3 PUFAs was observed in the thigh meat of YLP-fed groups, compared to the CON groups. A positive effect on the overall sensory acceptance of thigh meat was detected in the YLP5 group. YLP feeding, at the rate of 3%, seems to be beneficial for improving the meat nutrition quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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20 pages, 2119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth Performance, Gut Health, Welfare and Qualitative Behavior Characteristics of Broilers Fed Diets Supplemented with Dried Common (Olea europaea) Olive Pulp

by Anna Dedousi, Charalampos Kotzamanidis, Maria-Zoi Kritsa, Antiopi Tsoureki, Aggeliki Andreadelli, Sotiris I. Patsios and Evangelia Sossidou

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010501 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2239

Abstract

The present study investigated the dietary impact of dried olive pulp (OP) on growth performance, gut health and some welfare and behavior characteristics of broilers. It was conducted in a commercial poultry farm using 108 13 day-old Ross male broilers. Chickens were equally [...] Read more.

The present study investigated the dietary impact of dried olive pulp (OP) on growth performance, gut health and some welfare and behavior characteristics of broilers. It was conducted in a commercial poultry farm using 108 13 day-old Ross male broilers. Chickens were equally and randomly assigned to 3 dietary treatments, CON, OP3 and OP6, based on the incorporation rate of OP in the ration (0%, 3%, and 6%, respectively). A beneficial impact on foot pad dermatitis (FPD) and feather cleanliness of OP-fed broilers was recorded. No adverse effects on qualitative behavior characteristics evaluated and on the overall growth performance of chickens were observed. No significant differences in the fecal microbiota population were observed among the groups. Changes of β-diversity in an age-dependent way were only observed. The feces of chickens across all age and dietary groups were mainly dominated by the phylum Firmicutes (62.3 to 95.1%), mainly represented by the genus Lactobacillus (32.9 to 78.2%), Proteobacteria (2.0 to 35.6%), and Actinobacteria (1.5 to 11.4%). Supplementing broilers’ diets with 3% and 6% OP beneficially affected chickens’ health and welfare without compromising their growth performance and gut health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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10 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Redefining the Use of Vinification Waste By-Products in Broiler Diets

by Elisavet Giamouri, Alexandros Mavrommatis, Panagiotis E. Simitzis, Christina Mitsiopoulou, Serkos A. Haroutounian, Apostolis Koutinas, Athanasios C. Pappas and Eleni Tsiplakou

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 15714; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142315714 - 25 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1397

Abstract

In this study, the use of vinification by-products in broiler diets, as a sustainable and promising way of exploiting them, was examined. In particular, the potential use of ground grape pomace (GGP), wine lees extract (WYC) and grape stem extract (PE) in broiler [...] Read more.

In this study, the use of vinification by-products in broiler diets, as a sustainable and promising way of exploiting them, was examined. In particular, the potential use of ground grape pomace (GGP), wine lees extract (WYC) and grape stem extract (PE) in broiler diets was examined. Growth performance parameters, the weight of selected internal organs, meat quality traits, fatty acid profiles of breast meat and selected haematological parameters were determined. Two hundred and forty one-day-old broilers were assigned to four treatments with four replicate pens of fifteen broilers. There was one control treatment (CON), fed a basal diet, and the GGP, WYC and PE treatments, fed a basal diet supplemented with 25 g/kg GGP, 2 g/kg WYC and 1 g starch including 100 mg pure stem extract/kg PE, respectively. The duration of the experiment was 42 days. The average body weight gain during the starter, grower and finisher stages did not differ among treatments. Similarly, the feed intake, FCR and carcass yield did not show a significant difference. The weight of the internal organs was also similar among treatments. Some positive differences were observed in colour traits of meat and in haematological parameters. In the GGP group, saturated (SFAs) and unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs) were lower and higher, respectively, compared to the CON, WYC and PE groups. Vinification by-products seem to be a promising feed additive in broiler diets providing a sustainable approach to grape waste management without affecting broiler performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

15 pages, 979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of an Herbal Mixture of Oregano, Garlic, Sage and Rock Samphire Extracts in Combination with Tributyrin on Growth Performance, Intestinal Microbiota and Morphology, and Meat Quality in Broilers

by Eleftherios Bonos, Ioannis Skoufos, Ilias Giannenas, Erasmia Sidiropoulou, Konstantina Fotou, Ioanna Stylianaki, Olga Tsiftsoglou, Diamanto Lazari, Brigkita Venardou, Dimitrios Galamatis, Stylianos Skoufos, Evangelia Gouva and Athina Tzora

Sustainability 2022, 14(20), 13565; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142013565 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2764

Abstract

The present study investigated the effects of two feed additives, the first containing an herbal mixture of oregano, garlic, sage, and rock samphire extracts and the second containing tributyrin (glyceryl tributyrate) when fed to broiler chickens. A total of 360 one-day-old chicks were [...] Read more.

The present study investigated the effects of two feed additives, the first containing an herbal mixture of oregano, garlic, sage, and rock samphire extracts and the second containing tributyrin (glyceryl tributyrate) when fed to broiler chickens. A total of 360 one-day-old chicks were randomly allocated to four treatments (6 replicate pens of 15 chicks). One treatment served as the unsupplemented control, whereas the feeds of the other three treatments were supplemented either with the herbal additive (3 g/kg), the tributyrin additive (1 g/kg), or both additives. The duration of the trial was 37 days. Data were collected on growth performance, intestinal microbiota and morphology, and some meat quality parameters. The combined supplementation improved (p < 0.05) weigh gain, feed conversion ratio, and the European Efficiency Factor. In the cecum, the combined supplementation lowered (p < 0.05) the microbial populations of aerobes, anaerobes, Escherichia coli, total Enterobacteriaceae, and Clostridium spp. compared to the other treatments. Fecal coccidial oocyst counts were also reduced (p < 0.01) by the combined supplementation. The herbal mixture supplementation improved (p < 0.05) breast and thigh meat resistance to oxidation. In conclusion, the combined dietary supplementation with the examined feed additives could be utilized to improve the performance and intestinal health of broiler chickens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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16 pages, 4636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Evaluation of the Uses of Different Environmental Enrichments on a Broiler Farm with the Help of Real-Time Monitoring via a Farmer-Assistant System

by Fabian Spieß, Bernd Reckels, Christian Sürie, Monika Auerbach, Silke Rautenschlein, Ottmar Distl, Joerg Hartung, Jan Berend Lingens and Christian Visscher

Sustainability 2022, 14(20), 13015; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142013015 - 11 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1745

Abstract

Modern broilers are usually raised in barren environments in large enclosed halls. Various environmental enrichment elements such as perches, elevated platforms, and similar structures were proposed for these barns with the aim of improving the welfare and well-being of the birds. This study [...] Read more.

Modern broilers are usually raised in barren environments in large enclosed halls. Various environmental enrichment elements such as perches, elevated platforms, and similar structures were proposed for these barns with the aim of improving the welfare and well-being of the birds. This study compares and evaluates three different types of environmental enrichment. In 2 identical barns, 8100 Ross 308 broilers were housed divided between a control group (CG) and a trial group (TG). In the TG, three types of environmental enrichment (perches, elevated platforms, and a combined structure) were used. A real-time monitoring device (FAS = farmer-assistance system) suspended from the ceiling was used in combination with single photographs to count the number of birds on the enrichment elements. In addition, the body weights of individual birds and their foot pad dermatitis (FPD) scores were collected at days 14, 21 and 28 in both barns. No differences in these parameters were seen between TG and CG. Birds showed highest preference for the elevated platforms (average 31.93 kg/m²), followed by the combined structure (average 21.36 kg/m²) and the perches (0.35 kg/m²). Overall, this study shows that Ross 308 broiler birds significantly prefer elevated platforms over combined structures or simple perches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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17 pages, 3137 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Influence of Different Types of Environmental Enrichment on the Performance and Welfare of Broiler Chickens and the Possibilities of Real-Time Monitoring via a Farmer-Assistant System

by Fabian Spieß, Bernd Reckels, Amr Abd-El Wahab, Marwa Fawzy Elmetwaly Ahmed, Christian Sürie, Monika Auerbach, Silke Rautenschlein, Ottmar Distl, Joerg Hartung and Christian Visscher

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 5727; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14095727 - 9 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4012

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of environmental enrichment on the growth performance, litter and/or air quality as well as animal welfare indicators of broilers. Control groups (CG) and trial groups (TG) were housed under identical conditions during six [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of environmental enrichment on the growth performance, litter and/or air quality as well as animal welfare indicators of broilers. Control groups (CG) and trial groups (TG) were housed under identical conditions during six fattening runs, with the TG having three types of environmental enrichment and a Farmer-Assistant System (FAS). A representative number of 50 birds were weighed and litter samples were taken at d 14, 21 and 28. Additionally, the same broilers were examined for foot pad dermatitis (FPD) on those days. The average bodyweight of the birds in the CG was significantly lower (1671 g) only at d 28 compared to TG (1704 g); at d 14, d 21 and d 33 at the slaughterhouse, no significant differences were observed. The dry matter content in the litter did not significantly differ between CG and TG. Birds housed in CG had significantly higher FPD scores at d 14 (1.24) and d 21 (2.19) compared to those housed in TG (0.73 and 1.52, respectively). No effects on air quality parameters, such as CO₂ and NH₃, were seen between the groups. Overall, our study shows no negative influences of environmental enrichment on growth performance, litter and air quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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23 pages, 377 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Production Performance, Egg Quality Characteristics, Fatty Acid Profile and Health Lipid Indices of Produced Eggs, Blood Biochemical Parameters and Welfare Indicators of Laying Hens Fed Dried Olive Pulp

by Anna Dedousi, Maria-Zoi Kritsa, Mirjana Đukić Stojčić, Themistoklis Sfetsas, Antonios Sentas and Evangelia Sossidou

Sustainability 2022, 14(6), 3157; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063157 - 8 Mar 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3302

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term dietary effects of dried olive pulp (OP) on production performance, fatty acid profile and health lipid indices and quality characteristics of produced eggs, health and welfare indicators of laying hens. It was carried out in a [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term dietary effects of dried olive pulp (OP) on production performance, fatty acid profile and health lipid indices and quality characteristics of produced eggs, health and welfare indicators of laying hens. It was carried out in a commercial poultry farm using 300 Isa Brown layers at 23 weeks of age. The hens were randomly and equally divided in six dietary groups CON, OP2, OP3, OP4, OP5 and OP6, according to the inclusion rate of OP in the ration (0%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5% and 6%, respectively). OP feeding increased the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in eggs, decreased that of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and improved the PUFA to SFA ratio and health lipid indices, as indicated by the decrease of AI and TI and the increase in the h/H ratio of produced eggs, in a dose-dependent way. OP-fed layers presented a lower percentage of broken eggshells compared to controls. No adverse effects on birds’ performance, egg quality traits, health and welfare parameters were observed but a positive impact on Keel Bone Damage (KBD) incidence and belly plumage damage was recorded. OP feeding at the rates of 5% and 6% seems to be beneficial in improving egg nutrition quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

14 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Orange Pulp and Organic Selenium Effects on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Fatty Acid Profile, and Oxidative Stability Parameters of Broiler Chickens

by Evangelos Zoidis, Panagiotis Simitzis, Dimitrios Kampantais, Petros Katsoulas, Athanasios C. Pappas, George Papadomichelakis and Michael Goliomytis

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1534; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031534 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2345

Abstract

In this study, orange pulp (OP) and/or organic Se were fed to broilers in order to investigate their effects on the performance, behavior, breast meat quality, and oxidative stability. A total of 240 chicks were allocated to four groups: a control group; an [...] Read more.

In this study, orange pulp (OP) and/or organic Se were fed to broilers in order to investigate their effects on the performance, behavior, breast meat quality, and oxidative stability. A total of 240 chicks were allocated to four groups: a control group; an OP group, fed with OP at 50 g/kg of diet; a Se group, fed with organic Se at 0.15 ppm; and an OP + Se group, fed with OP and organic Se at 50 g/kg and 0.15 ppm, respectively. The selenium and OP + Se groups showed improved meat oxidative stability during frozen storage from 90 to 210 days (p < 0.05), whereas the performance and meat quality were unaffected by the dietary treatments (p > 0.05), apart from a reduction in the meat pH and the dressing percentage in the OP-supplemented groups (p < 0.05). A synergistic action between OP and Se was observed for the meat oxidative stability. The polyunsaturated fatty acid (FA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) contents in the breast meat lipid fractions were increased in the OP groups (p < 0.05). Dietary intervention did not affect the feeding or drinking behaviors of the broilers (p > 0.05). The dietary supplementation of broiler chickens with the citrus industry byproduct orange pulp at 50 g/kg, along with organic Se at 0.15 ppm, beneficially improves the meat oxidative stability and the meat nutritional value, with no negative side effects on the performance or the meat quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

14 pages, 1126 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Typology, Structural Characterization and Sustainability of Integrated Broiler Farming System in Epirus, Greece

by Vassilios Dotas, Dimitrios Gourdouvelis, Lampros Hatzizisis, Ioannis Kaimakamis, Ioannis Mitsopoulos and George Symeon

Sustainability 2021, 13(23), 13084; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132313084 - 26 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2028

Abstract

The aim of this study was the detailed characterization of the existing zootechnical and financial management applied in broiler poultry farms in the Region of Epirus, Greece. The current situation was captured through the formation of a typology on the structural characterization of [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was the detailed characterization of the existing zootechnical and financial management applied in broiler poultry farms in the Region of Epirus, Greece. The current situation was captured through the formation of a typology on the structural characterization of broiler farming system. The variables were recorded based on data from a stratified random sample according to Neyman’s methodology of 110 poultry farms. In the typology, hierarchical cluster analysis was applied to identify differences between farms and to support most of this differentiation. Chebyshev distance was used to maximize the effect of the cluster elements distance, as well as Ward’s clustering method, which aims to achieve greater homogeneity within the clusters. Bonferroni multiple comparison tests were used to evaluate the differences. Four clusters of different farm types were identified from the hierarchical cluster analysis. In conclusion, the production system of broiler farms in Epirus is intensive, especially in large farms that have made significant investments in fixed capital and implement successful management. However, the poultry sector in Epirus has further margin for improvement in both its productivity and profitability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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15 pages, 13164 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of In Ovo Feeding of γ-Aminobutyric Acid on Growth Performances, Plasma Metabolites, and Antioxidant Status in Broilers Exposed to Cyclic Heat Stress

by Chris-Major Ncho, Akshat Goel, Chae-Mi Jeong, Vaishali Gupta and Yang-Ho Choi

Sustainability 2021, 13(19), 11032; https://doi.org/10.3390/su131911032 - 5 Oct 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2822

Abstract

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid used for mitigating the detrimental effects of heat stress in broilers. In addition, a growing body of literature suggests that the in ovo feeding of various nutrients can enhance the post-hatch thermotolerance of broilers. Therefore, we [...] Read more.

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid used for mitigating the detrimental effects of heat stress in broilers. In addition, a growing body of literature suggests that the in ovo feeding of various nutrients can enhance the post-hatch thermotolerance of broilers. Therefore, we hypothesized that the supplementation of GABA during incubation might have positive effects in heat-stressed broilers. Chicks hatched from eggs were divided into three groups described as follows: chicks hatched from eggs incubated at normal temperature and then raised under thermoneutral temperature (CON); chicks hatched from eggs incubated at normal temperature but raised under cyclic heat stress (HS) (CON+HS); and chicks hatched from eggs injected with 60 mg of GABA dissolved in 0.6 mL of distilled water but raised under cyclic HS (G10+HS). The HS was applied between 28 and 31 days of age with ambient temperatures raised from 22 ± 1 °C to 33 ± 1 °C for 6 h daily. Compared to the CON group, average daily weight gain was significantly lower in the CON+HS but not in the G10+HS group. Feed intake was significantly decreased in both the CON+HS and G10+HS groups. Compared to the CON group, plasma corticosterone levels were significantly increased in the CON+HS group, but not the G10+HS group. Hepatic mRNA levels of the acetyl-CoA carboxylase gene (ACC) were significantly reduced in the G10+HS group compared to the CON group. In addition, positive Pearson correlation coefficients were found in mRNA levels between fatty acid synthase (FAS) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 (NOX1) (r = 0.55, p < 0.05), NOX1 and NOX4 (r = 0.65, p < 0.01), and catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (r = 0.62, p < 0.05). Taken together, the results suggest that this study can serve as a basis for future work focusing on the in ovo feeding of GABA as a technique to combat heat stress in broilers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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Review

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27 pages, 875 KiB

Open AccessReview

Positive Welfare Indicators and Their Association with Sustainable Management Systems in Poultry

by Maria Papageorgiou, Michael Goliomytis, Ouranios Tzamaloukas, Despoina Miltiadou and Panagiotis Simitzis

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 10890; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151410890 - 11 Jul 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2824

Abstract

Animal welfare is a key and distinct component of sustainable agriculture and food security. People, both as citizens and consumers, have become more concerned about the husbandry of livestock species. Positive welfare goes a step further than the common welfare approach, supporting that [...] Read more.

Animal welfare is a key and distinct component of sustainable agriculture and food security. People, both as citizens and consumers, have become more concerned about the husbandry of livestock species. Positive welfare goes a step further than the common welfare approach, supporting that a good life for animals is not only the alleviation of negative aspects, but also the promotion of positive affectivities. So, a sustainable management system for any livestock species should promote positive aspects in the lives of animals. Poultry is one of the species whose welfare is most impaired, and numerous concerns are raised by society. For all the above, we reviewed the positive welfare indicators that have been studied in livestock poultry and that can be used to promote positive effects and assess welfare for the most common species, i.e., broilers, laying hens, turkeys, ducks, geese, quails and ostriches. We analyzed the results categorized by species, discussed the connection of the indicators with sustainable management, and made proposals for future studies. Exploration and dustbathing have been extensively studied and seem most promising, especially in broilers and laying hens, followed by nesting and perching, and swimming for waterfowl. Qualitative behavioral assessment (QBA) is already applied in protocols for broilers and laying hens, but the results are not as promising due to the homogeneity of the flock and the difficulty in observations. Play has been studied mostly in broilers but is a behavior difficult to recognize and needs further understanding. The results are limited for all species, except broilers and laying hens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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46 pages, 553 KiB

Open AccessReview

Utilization of Agro-Industrial By-Products for Sustainable Poultry Production

by Alexandros Georganas, Elisavet Giamouri, Athanasios C. Pappas, Evangelos Zoidis, Michael Goliomytis and Panagiotis Simitzis

Sustainability 2023, 15(4), 3679; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043679 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5274

Abstract

Agro-industrial by-products (AIBPs) that are not intended for human consumption can be used as alternatives to conventional feedstuffs in animal nutrition to produce animal products without competing for land or triggering the food-feed competition, thus leading to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. These [...] Read more.

Agro-industrial by-products (AIBPs) that are not intended for human consumption can be used as alternatives to conventional feedstuffs in animal nutrition to produce animal products without competing for land or triggering the food-feed competition, thus leading to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. These by-products are also known to contain several bioactive compounds and have a potential to become nutraceuticals that can promote the health and well-being of poultry. The potentials of some AIBPs (e.g., fruit juice industry leftovers, oilseed industrial by-products, distillers’ grain by-products, vinification by-products, olive oil industry by-products, pomegranate by-products, tomato processing by-products) and their derivative products as functional feeds for poultry, but also potential limitations of utilizing AIBPs in poultry nutrition are elaborated in the present review. The possible mechanisms through which AIBPs may improve the health status and productivity of poultry are also discussed. We suggest that nutrient variability across countries should be stabilized and potential hazards such as mycotoxins and pesticides should be eliminated, and the potential hazards present in AIBPs (e.g., mycotoxins) should be better controlled through appropriate legislation and proper application of control measures. Modern processing methods, new types/classifications, and proper developmental strategies foster the utilization of AIBPs in animal nutrition. This review focuses on the AIBPs as feeds, not only for their nutritional value but also for their contribution to sustainable practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

19 pages, 770 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview of Poultry Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Mediterranean Area

by Foivos Zisis, Elisavet Giamouri, Christina Mitsiopoulou, Christos Christodoulou, Charalampos Kamilaris, Alexandros Mavrommatis, Athanasios C. Pappas and Eleni Tsiplakou

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 1941; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15031941 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3350

Abstract

The growing population and income drive the rapid increase in food demand. Greece and a few other Mediterranean countries are characterized as countries with a high proportion of mountains favoring goat and sheep breeding; however, poultry breeding is also important, and production is [...] Read more.

The growing population and income drive the rapid increase in food demand. Greece and a few other Mediterranean countries are characterized as countries with a high proportion of mountains favoring goat and sheep breeding; however, poultry breeding is also important, and production is increasing rapidly. Poultry breeding is characterized by the millions of birds reared with increased quantities and prices of feedstuffs. There is a parallel increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions., since poultry production generates a significant amount of GHG. The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of poultry GHG in the Mediterranean area. Emissions’ sources and mitigation practices are presented. Future is promising given that sustainable practices are implemented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Poultry Management)

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