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Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production

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A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2024 | Viewed by 9328

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Special Issue Editor

Dr. Caven Mguvane Mnisi

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Guest Editor

Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science, North-West University, Mafikeng, South Africa
Interests: poultry; gut microbiota; physiological responses; growth performance; carcass performance; feed additives; nutraceuticals; meat quality
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

There has been rising concerns about the safety and quality of poultry products from high-input production systems. These concerns are mostly due to the over use and misuse of growth-promoting and prophylactic antibiotics. Even though several jurisdictions have banned the use of these antibiotics in animal feeds, a number of countries, especially in the Global South, are still reliant on in-feed antibiotics for commercial poultry production. This is because complete withdrawal of antibiotics without safe and sustainable alternatives, especially in disease-burdened areas, can result in poor growth performance and high mortality rates and, ultimately, sabotage the agri-food chain posing food insecurity risks.

Over the years, the need for organic niche markets have seen an exponential growth by health-conscious consumers around the world, but the supply of organically produced poultry products does not always meet the demand in many regions. Moreover, the cost of producing such organic products is currently a major problem due to the ever-rising feed costs. Thus, this Special Issue is designed to publish high-quality and original research on the use of natural additives or nutraceuticals with growth-stimulating, health-promoting, and antimicrobial and antioxidant bioactivities that can deliver organic and sustainable poultry production systems. Original research articles, review papers, short communications and research reports are most welcomed.

This Special Issue is now open for submissions. Prospective authors should first send a short abstract or tentative title to the Editorial Office. If the editor deems the topic to be appropriate for inclusion in the Special Issue, the author will be encouraged to submit a full manuscript.

Dr. Caven Mguvane Mnisi
Guest Editor

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Life is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

poultry
sustainable intensification
product quality
physiological responses
nutrient digestibility
growth performance
carcass performance
Gut microbiota

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Dietary Hempseed or Camelina Cakes on Fatty Acid Composition of Quail Meat

by Robertas Juodka, Rasa Nainienė, Artūras Šiukščius, Raimondas Leikus and Giedrius Šarauskas

Life 2024, 14(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14010053 - 28 Dec 2023

Viewed by 729

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of dietary hempseed or camelina cakes on the fatty acid profiles of intramuscular fat in quail. A total of 189 one-day-old quail were allocated to three dietary treatment groups. The diet of the control (C) group was supplemented with 10% rapeseed cake, whereas the rapeseed in experimental 1 (HE) and experimental 2 (CA) groups was replaced by, respectively, hempseed cake and camelina cake in the same proportions. The length of the study was 42 days. Dietary enrichment with camelina cake increased the α-linolenic fatty acid (ALA) content in the meat of CA group 2.5 times (p < 0.01). The muscle tissues of CA contained 3.4–3 times more eicosapentaenoic acid (p < 0.01), 1.2 times more docosapentaenoic acid (p < 0.05–p < 0.01) and 1.3 times more docosahexaenoic acid (p < 0.01) and, thus, demonstrated the increase in total long chain (LC) n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (p < 0.01) and total n-3 PUFA (p < 0.01) compared with the C group. The ALA and total n-3 PUFA content in the breast and leg meat of HE-treated quail were, respectively, 1.3 and 1.1 times higher (p < 0.01) than in the C group but the accumulation was lower compared to the CA group. The content of γ-linolenic acid was found to be 1.21–1.31 times higher in HE quail meat (p < 0.01). However, hempseed cake supplementation had a negative effect on growth performance. The supplementation of quail feed with camelina or hempseed cakes resulted in the production of healthy meat with an increased n-3 PUFA content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

14 pages, 1317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Effects on Using Bilberry Leaves in Broiler Diet Reared under Thermoneutral Conditions vs. Heat Stress on Performance, Health Status and Gut Microbiota

by Mihaela Saracila, Arabela Elena Untea, Iulia Varzaru, Tatiana Dumitra Panaite and Petru Alexandru Vlaicu

Life 2024, 14(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14010039 - 25 Dec 2023

Viewed by 761

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the impact of dietary bilberry leaves on the performance, health status, and gut microbiota of broilers reared in both thermoneutral conditions and under heat stress. Sixty Cobb 500 broiler chicks were divided into two groups (C-TN, BL-TN) and reared in thermoneutral conditions for the first trial. For the second trial, two other groups (C-HS and BL-HS) were reared in heat stress (32 °C), with 30 chickens in each group. The experimental diets were supplemented with 1% bilberry leaves compared to the control diets. The broilers fed a diet with bilberry leaves had lower levels of cholesterol compared to the control birds. At the end of the experiment, six broilers per group were slaughtered, and intestinal contents were collected for bacteriological analyses. The results revealed that bilberry leaves increased body weight and average daily feed intake in the BL-TN group compared to the C-HS group. However, the broilers fed a bilberry leaves diet and reared in heat stress had a significantly lower average daily feed intake and average daily weight gain than the C-TN group. Additionally, the number of staphylococci colonies decreased significantly in the group fed with a BL-supplemented diet and reared in TN compared to C-TN, while lactobacilli increased significantly in BL-TN compared to C-TN. In summary, bilberry leaves can be used as a natural supplement in a broiler’s diet to regulate serum cholesterol in heat stress and maintain the health of intestinal microflora in thermoneutral conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

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12 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Carcass Attributes and Physical, Chemical, and Qualitative Characteristics of Breast Meat of Broiler Chickens Fed on Pulicaria jaubertii Powder

by Hani H. Al-Baadani, Ibrahim A. Alhidary, Abdulrahman S. Alharthi, Mahmoud M. Azzam, Gamaleldin M. Suliman, Mohammed A. Ahmed and Akram A. Qasem

Life 2023, 13(8), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13081780 - 21 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1103

Abstract

Pulicaria jaubertii (PJ) is a medicinal plant used as a synthetic antioxidant and as a traditional medicine due to its bioactive compounds. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PJ on carcass traits and breast meat quality parameters of broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty male broilers (1 day old) were divided into four groups (0, 3, 6, and 9 g of PJ/kg of basal diet). Performance indicators were evaluated during the feeding stages, and carcass characteristics and physiochemical and qualitative parameters of breast meat were measured at 36 days old. The results showed that PJ improved performance parameters such as weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and production efficiency index (p < 0.05) in the finishing stage. The diets supplemented with PJ were associated with better carcass characteristics (p < 0.05), but some body parts, such as legs (6 and 9 g PJ) and backs (3–9 g PJ) decreased (p < 0.05). Temperature and initial pH were decreased by PJ (p < 0.05). Meat color was not affected by PJ (p > 0.05), although the yellowness and saturation index were lower at 9 g PJ. Total saturated fatty acid content was higher at 3 g PJ, while total polyunsaturated fatty acids and unsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio were lower at 3 and 6 g PJ (p < 0.05). Total monounsaturated fatty acid content increased at 6 and 9 g PJ. Omega-6 fatty acids and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 were lower at 3 g PJ. PJ resulted in higher weight loss on cooking (6 and 9 g PJ) and shear force (3–9 g PJ). In conclusion, PJ had a positive influence on performance, carcass characteristics, and fatty acid profile, and some meat quality traits were generally improved by PJ, but knowledge of its mode of action is still limited and therefore requires further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

18 pages, 351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Natural Zeolite as a Feed Additive in Broilers’ Diets for Enhancing Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Meat Quality Traits

by Mutassim M. Abdelrahman, Hani H. Al-Baadani, Mohammed M. Qaid, Maged A. Al-Garadi, Gamaleldin M. Suliman, Mohsen M. Alobre and Saud I. Al-Mufarrej

Life 2023, 13(7), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13071548 - 12 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1209

Abstract

Background: Using natural zeolites as a food additive in poultry diets offers an intriguing perspective. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of zeolite addition and particle size on broiler performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, moisture of excreta and litter, and intestinal measurements during 35 days. Methods: A total of 560 1-day-old female Ross-308 broilers were divided into five treatment levels (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 g zeolite/kg diet) (n = 16 replicates/treatment, n = 8 replicates /particle size of each treatment). Performance was calculated weekly. Carcass characteristics, meat quality, small intestine (SI) measurements, litter pH, and moisture content were determined on day 35. Results: Litter pH, breast redness, cooking loss, chewiness, total weight, and SI length were all affected by zeolite treatments (p < 0.05). Particle size had an impact on the gastric pH and texture analysis. Their interaction had an effect on color redness, litter pH, and cooking loss. Performance was unaffected by either the main or interaction effects. Conclusion: Zeolite as a feed additive may be useful in broiler diets, particularly large particles. The performance and production efficiency factor improved numerically (p > 0.05) with increasing zeolite doses up to 10 g zeolite/kg diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 2376 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unlocking the Potential of Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) for Enhanced Agricultural Sustainability: From Environmental Benefits to Poultry Nutrition

by Filipa Baptista, Mariana Almeida, Jéssica Paié-Ribeiro, Ana Novo Barros and Miguel Rodrigues

Life 2023, 13(10), 1948; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13101948 - 22 Sep 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2675

Abstract

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the myriad applications of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) in agricultural contexts, with a particular emphasis on its role in fostering sustainable poultry production. Our examination spans three key domains: the use of SMS in fertilizers, its impact on environmental factors and gas emissions, and its contribution to poultry nutrition. This review synthesizes findings from multiple studies that underscore the potential of composted SMS as a viable alternative to conventional inorganic fertilizers, effectively meeting crop nutrient needs while mitigating groundwater contamination risks. Moreover, we highlight the substantial environmental advantages associated with the utilization of SMS and poultry waste, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of sustainable waste management practices. Additionally, we explore the promising outcomes of integrating SMS into animal feed formulations, which have demonstrated significant enhancements in livestock growth performance and overall health. In sum, this review underscores the versatility and untapped potential of SMS as a valuable agricultural resource, with a particular focus on its role in advancing sustainable practices, optimizing nutrient management, and harnessing the value of organic waste materials, especially in the context of poultry production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

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16 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessReview

Immunomodulatory Effects of Natural Feed Additives for Meat Chickens

by Clive J. C. Phillips, Babak Hosseintabar-Ghasemabad, Ivan F. Gorlov, Marina I. Slozhenkina, Aleksandr A. Mosolov and Alireza Seidavi

Life 2023, 13(6), 1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13061287 - 30 May 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2103

Abstract

Broiler chickens are increasingly kept in large numbers in intensive housing conditions that are stressful, potentially depleting the immune system. With the prohibition of the use of antibiotics in poultry feed spreading worldwide, it is necessary to consider the role of natural feed additives and antibiotic alternatives to stimulate the chickens’ immune systems. We review the literature to describe phytogenic feed additives that have immunomodulatory benefits in broilers. We initially review the major active ingredients from plants, particularly flavonoids, resveratrol and humic acid, and then describe the major herbs, spices, and other plants and their byproducts that have immunomodulatory effects. The research reviewed demonstrates the effectiveness of many natural feed additives in improving the avian immune system and therefore broiler health. However, some, and perhaps all, additives have the potential to reduce immunocompetence if given in excessive amounts. Sometimes additives are more effective when given in combination. There is an urgent need to determine tolerance levels and optimum doses for additives deemed most suitable to replace antibiotics in the diet of broiler chickens. Effective replacement is most likely with readily available additives, such as olive oil byproducts, olive leaves and alfalfa. It is concluded that effective replacement of antibiotic function with plant-derived additives will be possible, but that further research is necessary to determine optimum doses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Additives to Promote Organic and Sustainable Poultry Production)

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