Title : Modifications induced by dietary chia meal and probiotic on carcass traits, internal organs and blood chemistry in Argentina poultry production
Abstract:
The composition of the diet is a key factor that contributes to efficient and sustainable animal production. Currently, there is a growing interest in researching possible alternatives in the diet that favor growth and health of birds. Diets enriched with omega n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) have a beneficial effect on the immune system, enhancing growth and resistance to poultry diseases. Additionally, probiotics are live microorganisms, when administered in adequate amounts confer a fitness benefit on the host. There is little information on the combined use of probiotics and a source of n-3 PUFA related to the potential synergistic effect of both components in broiler diets. Probiotics promote the absorption of n-3 PUFA, and these fatty acids enhance the adhesion of probiotics to the intestinal mucosa. The present research deals with the effect of the addition in the diet of chia meal (Salvia hispánica L.; DESUS S.A, Argentine) and/or a probiotic (Bacillus subtilis; Laboratorios Biotay, Argentine) on internal organs, blood metabolites and carcass traits of broiler. The results obtained in this work indicate that the addition of 250 g/ton 1x109 UFC of Bacillus subtilis or/and 15% chia meal in broiler diet did not affect productive parameters and commercial cuts. The lack of synergic effect between n-3 PUFA and the probiotic in performance could be due to the mucilage (soluble fiber) present in chia meal that affects the absorption of nutrients and adhesion of Bacillus subtilis to intestinal mucosa through biofilm formation. Moreover, n-3 PUFA could decrease probiotic growth capacity by inducing changes in the fluidity of the microorganism’s membrane (Gram +). Further, there is valid to consider that the bacteria can capture PUFA, decreasing their availability for metabolic purposes. Also, higher small intestinal weight was observed in chia meal diet, which would increase the metabolic activity of the digestive organs, increasing maintenance requirements and thereby decreasing energy for animal production. Finally, the inclusion in the diet of n-3 PUFA through chia meal downgrade liver weight reducing hepatic lipogenesis, leading as a consequence to a liver-protective effect. Also, Bursa of Fabricius weight was increased and cholesterol levels were decreased, which could be related to a higher immune condition and an improvement in blood chicken homeostasis. Bacillus Subtilis is a probiotic that can safely be used in broiler production without negative effects. In our current study, diets containing 250 g/tn 1x109 CFU combined with 15% chia meal were novel. Further research is needed to determine other exposure times and doses, as well as methods for mucilage extraction from chia meal.
Audience Take Away:
- The research presented in this work will lay the groundwork for future research allowing the use of new additives or deepening into the compounds presented. Currently, there is a growing interest in investigating possible alternatives in the diet of broilers that result in obtaining heavier, healthier and cost-effective animals. The knowledge of the effects of the addition of a dietary by-product of the agroindustry, chia meal combined with Bacillus Subtilis appears as being limited. In our current study, diets containing 250 g/tn 1x109 UFC of Bacillus subtilis with 15% chia meal were novel. Further research is needed to determine other exposure times and probiotic doses as well as methods for mucilage extraction of chia meal. Actually, all concepts imparted in this talk are used in several signatures dictated at the Department of Agronomy with the objective to promote student interest.
- The information imparted in this presentation will allow understanding of the importance of the addition of probiotics to the diet and their effect on blood health and broiler production as possible growth promoters reducing or replacing the use of antibiotics. Blood parameter balance evaluation (homeostasis) helps to determine the animal's physiological condition. These notions will allow the audience to understand the possible biochemical effects of supplementation under study. On the other hand, it will raise awareness about the importance of using agro-industrial by-products as an ingredient in animal diets, as a way of adding value to the production system.
- It provides new information for professionals since the use of low-cost agroindustrial by-products is expected to improve animal performance and reduce costs by replacing part of cereals. Moreover, probiotics allow replac the use of antibiotic growth promoters with natural additives in order to obtain high-protein feed, optimize intestinal health, immune status and production parameters in broiler chickens.
- This presentation transfers promissory experiences on the importance of the use of these by-products encouraging the development of new trials, as well as, their diet incorporation to provide greater health benefits.
