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Successful detection of bacterial pathogens in food can be challenging due to the physical and compositional complexity of the matrix. Different mechanical/physical and chemical methods have been developed to separate microorganisms from food matrices to facilitate detection. The present study benchmarked a commercial tissue digestion system that applies both chemical and physical methods to separate microorganisms from tissues against stomaching, a standard process currently utilized by commercial and regulatory food safety laboratories. The impacts of the treatments on the physical properties of the food matrix were characterized along with the compatibility of the methods with downstream microbiological and molecular detection assays. The results indicate the tissue digestion system can significantly reduce the average particle size of the chicken sample relative to processing via a stomacher (P < 0.001) without adversely affecting either real-time PCR (qPCR) or plate counting assays, which are typically used to detect Salmonella. Furthermore, inoculated chicken treated with the GentleMACS resulted in a significant increase (P < 0.003) in the qPCR's detection capabilities relative to stomached controls. Cohen kappa (κ) coefficient and McNemar's test indicate the plating assays and PCR results agree with measurements obtained via the 3 M Molecular Detection System as defined in the MLG standard (κ > 0.62; P > 0.08). Collectively, the results demonstrate that the technique enables detection of pathogens in meat at lower levels of contamination using current industry standard technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-Typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is one of the most common food-borne pathogens worldwide, with poultry products being the major vehicle for pathogenesis in humans. The use of bacteriophage (phage) cocktails has recently emerged as a novel approach to enhancing food safety. Here, a multireceptor Salmonella phage cocktail of five phages was developed and characterized. The cocktail targets four receptors: O-antigen, BtuB, OmpC, and rough Salmonella strains. Structural analysis indicated that all five phages belong to unique families or subfamilies. Genome analysis of four of the phages showed they were devoid of known virulence or antimicrobial resistance factors, indicating enhanced safety. The phage cocktail broad antimicrobial spectrum against Salmonella , significantly inhibiting the growth of all 66 strains from 20 serovars tested in vitro. The average bacteriophage insensitive mutant (BIM) frequency against the cocktail was 6.22 × 10−6 in S. Enteritidis, significantly lower than that of each of the individual phages. The phage cocktail reduced the load of Salmonella in inoculated chicken skin by 3.5 log10 CFU/cm2 after 48 h at 25°C and 15°C, and 2.5 log10 CFU/cm2 at 4°C. A genome-wide transduction assay was used to investigate the transduction efficiency of the selected phage in the cocktail. Only one of the four phages tested could transduce the kanamycin resistance cassette at a low frequency comparable to that of phage P22. Overall, the results support the potential of cocktails of phage that each target different host receptors to achieve complementary infection and reduce the emergence of phage resistance during biocontrol applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacterial species poses an escalating challenge globally, particularly in developing countries. The extensive utilization of antimicrobials in poultry farming raises apprehensions about the emergence of multidrugresistant microbial species that could be transmitted to humans. The present study assesses the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Escherichia coli isolated from various poultry environments, including fecal, soil, feed, and water samples, in the Akoko areas of Ondo State. Fifty-three strains of Escherichia coli were isolated from the samples obtained from the poultry environments based on their cultural characteristics on Eosin-methylene Blue agar, Gram staining reaction, morphological and biochemical attributes. The susceptibility of isolates to specific antibiotics was examined utilizing the adapted Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique in accordance with CLSI recommendations. The majority of the isolates exhibited resistance to tetracycline which is a commonly used antibiotic in the region. However, gentamicin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, amikacin and chloramphenicol demonstrated effectiveness against a significant proportion of E. coli isolates. Findings from this investigation indicate that environments within poultry facilities may function as possible sources for antibiotic-resistant E. coli, posing a significant public health concern. Hence, it is crucial to focus on the production of safe poultry and high-quality poultry products, as well as regulate the use of antibiotics in poultry farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the evolution of the poultry industry in recent decades, highlighting technological advances and socio-economic changes that have influenced the production and consumption of poultry meat. By analysing data on genetic selection, feeding technologies and impact on animal health, the paper highlights how the poultry industry has become a key pillar of food security. Consumer preferences and consumption trends, including demand for poultry semifinished products, are also examined. This analysis provides a comprehensive insight into the evolution of the poultry industry and its impact on society, highlighting the importance of continuous research and innovation to ensure sustainable and high-quality poultry meat production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of poultry as a unique model of biological research was characterised by a high level of efficiency, however, methods for creating transgenic ducks, complicated by the structure of waterfowl eggshells, are of low efficiency. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of various biotechnological procedures for creating transgenic ducks on their productive qualities and reproductive ability to identify the optimal method for creating transgenic poultry for further use in scientific, research, or economic purposes. Weighting, morphometric and statistical analysis of productive traits were used during the study. 40 ducks (4 experimental groups of animals and about 3,000 of their eggs) were studied. The lowest value of the egg productivity index was obtained in the group created by busulfan injection (79.5±11.8%), the highest - in the group created by sperm-mediated gene transfer (91.8±2.3%), the group of direct injection of transgenic construct - 89.0±2.0%, which indicates that this biotechnological method of introducing transgenic construct did not have a clear effect on this indicator. The weight of ducks in different experimental groups ranged from 1,323.50±65.36 g (using the sperm-mediated gene transfer) to 1,608.08±94.76 g (in the group created using busulfan). Ducks that received direct injections had an average weight of 1,480.42±35.01 g. In the control group, the average weight at sexual maturity was 139.5±9.67 g, in the busulfan group - 148.2±13.13 g, in the direct injection group - 143.16±7.25 g, and in the sperm- mediated gene transfer group - 140.67±13.13 g. It was found that the method of injection into the embryo of a recipient sterilised with busulfan and the introduction of donor blastodermal cells negatively affect the reproductive qualities of ducks. The practical significance of the study lies in the fact that as a result of the analysis of the productivity of ducks obtained by various methods of transgenesis, it was determined that the most effective of the evaluated methods is the transfection of DNA of the transgenic construct with sperm (Sperm-mediated gene transfer, SMGT) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Poultry carcass composting systems using woodchips and biochar were modeled. • The goal was to elucidate how biochar increases carcass compost temperatures. • When biochar was mixed, the total heat unit increased by 11.22 ± 3.17 %. • Layering biochar resulted in a smaller increase in the total heat unit, up to 8.7% • It was concluded that biochar's primary role was promoting microbial activity. Previous studies reported that incorporating biochar into composting systems leads to an increase in compost temperatures. Although potential reasons, such as improved microbial activity or increased insulation, were suggested, no study has quantitatively determined the contribution of either aspect. In this study, we developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system based on the measurements from our two previously published studies conducted to co-compost poultry carcasses with woodchips and wood-based (WBC), distillers grain (DGBC), and cow manure (CMB) biochar. The two composting studies were conducted over three heating cycles, with two turnings separating each cycle. The simulation for the second heating cycle, during which the compost materials began to degrade and were well-mixed, showed an average R2 value of 0.86 and was selected for further analyses. Results from the model suggested that incorporating biochar into the composting mixture increases thermal conductive losses. For example, at a biochar addition rate of 13 % (v/v), the predicted longitudinal conductive resistance of the compost pile was reduced by 24.9 %. However, the total heat unit still increased by 11.2 ± 3.17 % due to the enhancement of microbial activity as supported by elevated oxygen consumption (38.1–61.1 %). When biochar was applied in layers on the surface of the composting bins, its impact on microbial activity was minimal, primarily functioning as an insulator. Under these conditions, the total heat unit was 8.7 % higher than the control. These findings suggest that biochar's primary effect on temperature development was through promoting microbial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pilot study as a survey about the attitude of the participants towards the widespread practice of culling male layer-type chickens was carried out. An alternative solution to the problem has been proposed by raising these birds for meat. The layer cockerels of Lohmann Brown Classic were reared in the Institute of Animal Science-Kostinbrod, Bulgaria, and slaughtered at the age of 5 and 9 weeks. Two products “Little Cockerel” (200 g) and “Big Cockerel” (900 g) were prepared from the 5 and 9 week old chickens, respectively. The opinion of the respondents was in favor of the product with the higher weight. It was further cooked and sensory evaluation was done. The volume of the production that the respondents would buy at different price ranges was determined. According to the results of the case described, we can conclude that the “Big Cockerel” test product corresponded to a greater extent to the preferences of the participants in the survey for an innovative poultry meat product. It demonstrated potential for successful market realization with maximum utilization of the product manufactured in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nowadays veterinarians and poultry producers use antibiotics to increase growth rates, bird health, and feed efficiency, egg production, for preventative and therapeutic purposes, and to lessen the prevalence of poultry diseases. Most poultry producers have used a variety of antibiotics, either with or without veterinarian instruction. Although antibiotics are beneficial for the majority of their uses, their unauthorized use has resulted in residues accumulated in poultry products intended for human consumption which represents a serious risk to the general public that could be toxicological, microbiological, or immunological. Aim: This study aimed to the estimation of the residues of three major antimicrobials used in the intensive chickenrearing systems in Egypt, namely Oxytetracycline (OTC), Gentamicin, and Ciprofloxacin. Moreover, the effect of cooking on such residues was investigated. Methods: A total of 100 chicken meat samples (breast, thigh, gizzard, liver, 25 each) were examined for detection of the aforementioned antimicrobials using the microbial inhibition assay and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Besides, samples containing the highest antimicrobial residues were examined for the effect of boiling for 30 minutes on such residues. Results: The obtained results revealed that 23%, 21%, and 17% of the examined samples were positive for OTC, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin residues, respectively. Cooking (boiling) for 30 minutes showed a reduction of the antibiotic residue by 88.2%, 95.2%, and 31.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Antimicrobial residues were detected in the chicken meat parts retailed in Egypt. Cooking can reduce the antimicrobial residues at least in part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This meta-analysis study summarized the available information on the prevalence of thermotolerant Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli among poultry products in Asia; Methods: Exhaustive literature search was conducted and 30 studies were included. A number of multilevel random-effect meta-analysis models were used to calculate their pooled prevalence and compare each Asian regions; Results: The pooled prevalence for C.jejuni was 34%. On a separate meta-analysis for East Asia (EA), Middle East (ME) and South Asia (SA) and Southeast Asia (SEA), the pooled prevalences for C. jejuni were 33%, 37% and 33%, respectively. Moreover, results showed that there was significant heterogeneity and no significant publication bias. Conversely, the pooled prevalence for C. coli was 13%. On separate analysis by region, the pooled prevalences for EA, ME, and SEA were 10%, 18% and 12.08%, respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed and there was no publication bias detected in the EA and the SEA; Conclusions: Overall, the high incidence of both C. jejuni and C. coli infections across Asia highlight the public health importance of these pathogens. Moreover, the meta-analysis of C. jejuni and C. coli prevalence across Asia gives crucial insights into the public health concerns connected with these pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian influenza (AI) outbreaks pose severe challenges to low and middle-income countries such as Nepal, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Ghana, South Africa, and Indonesia, leading to profound economic crises with far-reaching consequences. The multifaceted impacts of AI outbreaks on low-income economies shed light on the intricate relationship between disease control and financial stability. By reviewing the implications for the poultry industry, trade restrictions, food security, public health, government legislation, and socio-economic vulnerabilities, we provide a comprehensive overview of the economic ramifications of AI outbreaks. AI outbreaks cause substantial disruptions in the poultry industry, resulting in significant financial losses for farmers and related businesses. The poultry sector contributes 4%, 1.4-1.6%, 6-8%, and 14% to the national GDPs of Nepal, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Ghana respectively. Imposing trade restrictions on affected regions also hampers international trade, reducing revenue and foreign exchange earnings. This, in turn, affects food security as poultry products serve as vital sources of protein and nutrition in low and middle-income countries. Moreover, AI outbreaks adversely impact environmental sustainability by culling infected birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of incorporating Aloe vera gel (AVG) and Aloe vera leaf skin (AVLS) extracts into edible coating (EC) on retarding lipid oxidation and enhancing the quality characteristics of cooked ground chicken meat during 14 days of storage at 4 °C. The results indicated that both AVG and AVLS extracts had a similar amount of total phenolic contents. EC application resulted in a decrease in pH values, and an increase in aw values. The addition of 2% AVG or AVLS extracts into EC formulation also decreased TBARS and ORP values. Although textural properties were not affected by EC application containing AVG or AVLS extracts, this application retarded L*, a*, and b* color values. The results indicated that Aloe vera extracts may be incorporated into EC by processors to improve lipid oxidation inhibition and maintain the quality characteristics of poultry meat products during refrigerated storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Enterococci are commensal bacteria resident in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. However, their increasing resistance to clinically important antimicrobial agents remain a global threat. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance profile and virulence factors of Enterococcus isolated from selected poultry farms in Benin City, Nigeria. Methodology: Sixty samples (20 feed, 20 water and 20 faecal samples) were randomly collected from five selected poultry farms in different commercial farming areas between August and September 2020. The samples were first enriched in Tryptone Soy Broth (TSB) and then cultured on Bile Aesculin Azide (BAA) agar aerobically at 37oC for 18-24 hours. Black colonies on BAA agar were presumptively identified as Enterococcus and confirmed by conventional biochemical tests and Analytical Profile Index (API) rapid ID 32 STREP. The antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The virulence factors and biofilm formation were evaluated using standard bacteriological and microtitre plate methods. Results: In total, Enterococcus-positive samples were 32/60 (53.3%) with a total of 45 Enterococcus isolates. The speciation of the Enterococcus isolates based on API rapid ID 32 STREP were Enterococcus faecium 15/45 (33.3%), Enterococcus faecalis 12/45 (26.7%), Enterococcus durans 8/45 (17.8%), Enterococcus casseliflavus 5/45 (11.1%) and Enterococcus hirae 5/45 (11.1%). The isolates showed the highest antibiotic resistance to ampicillin (100.0%), fosfomycin (95.6%) and penicillin G (88.9%) and the least resistance to ciprofloxacin (22.2%) and chloramphenicol (28.9%). The virulence factors of Enterococcus species observed were gelatinase, β-hemolytic and hyaluronidase activity, biofilm, and S-layer formation. The degree of biofilm formation by the Enterococcus species was strong biofilm formation (19/45, 42.2%), moderate biofilm formation (10/45, 22.2%), weak biofilm formation (11/45, 24.4%) and no biofilm formation (5/45, 11.1%). Conclusion: Findings from this study emphasized on the potential health implications associated with antimicrobial resistance and phenotypic virulence factors of Enterococcus in poultry products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella is a major foodborne pathogen and a leading cause of gastroenteritis in humans and animals. Salmonella is highly pathogenic and encompasses more than 2600 characterized serovars. The transmission of Salmonella to humans occurs through the farm-to-fork continuum and is commonly linked to the consumption of animal-derived food products. Among these sources, poultry and poultry products are primary contributors, followed by beef, pork, fish, and non-animal-derived food such as fruits and vegetables. While antibiotics constitute the primary treatment for salmonellosis, the emergence of antibiotic resistance and the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella strains have highlighted the urgency of developing antibiotic alternatives. Effective infection management necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the pathogen's epidemiology and transmission dynamics. Therefore, this comprehensive review focuses on the epidemiology, sources of infection, risk factors, transmission dynamics, and the host range of Salmonella serotypes. This review also investigates the disease characteristics observed in both humans and animals, antibiotic resistance, pathogenesis, and potential strategies for treatment and control of salmonellosis, emphasizing the most recent antibiotic-alternative approaches for infection control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand of poultry products like egg, meat and value added products are increasing and to meet the demand their production has seen increasing trend. The biowaste generated from the sector is a concern because highly nutrient rich manure has a great impact on the environmental pollution. Properly managed poultry manure acts as a very good source of nutrients for plants. Composting is one of the methods used and among these, forced aeration helps to improve the manurial value of compost. Carbon, nitrogen, pH and the C:N ratio are the important parameters of concern before applying manure into agricultural land. The present study on poultry manure co-composted with left over fodder has a great impact in reducing the pH and C/N ratio into ideal range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in domestic poultry production in Romania is a result of the efforts our country is making to limit imports from other countries on one hand, and the development of the poultry sector through domestic investments, on the other hand. In 2022, poultry meat production increased by over 6%, and further increases are expected. In the same dynamic, the amount of aviary waste generated by poultry farms is also increasing, and in these conditions, it is obvious for our concerns to focus on the recovery, recycling, and utilization of avian waste. In this paper, we will present new possibilities for the utilization of ash resulting from the incineration of avian waste. In this case, avian waste is used as fuel, either in addition to biomass or municipal waste, to produce thermal energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of fermented black garlic on the quality of minced poultry products. Treatments were organized in four groups (1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) containing either black fermented garlic (bg) or fresh garlic (fg), and a control (produced without garlic). The quality assessment of minced poultry products included physicochemical properties (weight losses, pH, colour and shear force), microbiological quality (Enterobacteriaceae, total count of bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and Pseudomonas spp.) and evaluation of sensory attributes. The results showed that the pH values in the black garlic groups, pH 6.06, 6.03, and 6.01, were lower than in the control group, pH 6.16, and tended to decrease during the period of cold storage. As the percentage of black garlic increased, there was a decrease in pH, the value of L* (brightness) from 76.16 in the control group to 48.03 in the group with 4% bg, while the value of b* (yellowing) increased analogously from 12.59 to 16.08. The use of black fermented garlic at 2% as a substitute for fresh garlic is a viable alternative to obtaining product with an acceptable taste and aroma. The addition of 4% black garlic was not acceptable to the assessors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry is the primary reservoir of Campylobacter, a leading cause of gastroenteritis in the United States. Currently, the selective plating methodology using selective agars, Campy Cefex and Modified Charcoal Cefoperazone Deoxycholate agar, is preferentially used for the quantification of Campylobacter spp. among poultry products. Due to the specific nature of Campylobacter, this methodology is not sensitive, which can lead to skewed detection and quantification results. Therefore, Campylobacter detection and quantification methods are urgently needed. The objective was to develop a shortened enrichment-based quantification method for Campylobacter (CampyQuant™) in post-chill poultry rinsates using the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay for Campylobacter. The specificity and sensitivity for the detection of C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari in pure culture were determined. The BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay consistently detected and identified each species 100% of the time with an enumeration range of 4.00 to 9.00 Log10 CFU/mL. Enrichment time parameters for low-level concentrations (0.00, 1.00, and 2.00 Log10 CFU/mL) of Campylobacter using the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay were elucidated. It was determined that an enrichment time of 20 h was needed to detect at least 1.00 Log10 CFU/mL of Campylobacter spp. Using the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay for Campylobacter. As a result, time of detection, detection limits, and enrichment parameters were used to develop the CampyQuant™ linear standard curve using the detected samples from the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay to quantify the levels in post-chill poultry rinsates. A linear fit equation was generated for each Campylobacter species using the cycle threshold from the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay to estimate a pre-enrichment of 1.00 to 4.00 Log10 CFU/mL of rinsates detected. The statistical analyses of each equation yielded an R2 of 0.93, 0.76, and 0.94 with a Log10 RMSE of 0.64, 1.09, and 0.81 from C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. lari, respectively. The study suggests that the BAX® System Real-Time PCR assay for Campylobacter is a more rapid, accurate, and efficient alternative method for Campylobacter enumeration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Campylobacter is the most common cause of human bacterial gastroenteritis, and poultry products are the main source of exposure. To reduce human campylobacteriosis, it is necessary to reduce the contamination level of Campylobacter in live poultry. Vaccination could be a solution, but no vaccines for Campylobacter are available to date. In our previous study, a vaccine candidate induced partial protection against Campylobacter in broilers. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether a protein-based vaccine inoculated at two different frequencies (two or four times) would help to improve the protective immune response during a 42-day trial in broilers orally infected by the bacterium. A specific antibody response was observed regardless of the frequency of inoculation. Moreover, microbiota analysis revealed that significant differences were observed between the groups, but that vaccination did not alter the relative abundance of the main bacterial taxa residing in the caeca. No reduction in Campylobacter caecal load was observed regardless of the vaccine regimen tested. Additional studies testing other vaccine candidates are needed to develop an effective vaccine against Campylobacter in broilers. Campylobacter infections in humans are traced mainly to poultry products. While vaccinating poultry against Campylobacter could reduce the incidence of human infections, no vaccine is yet available on the market. In our previous study using a plasmid DNA prime/recombinant protein boost vaccine regimen, vaccine candidate YP437 induced partial protective immune responses against Campylobacter in broilers. In order to optimise vaccine efficacy, the vaccination protocol was modified using a protein prime/protein boost regimen with a different number of boosters. Broilers were given two or four intramuscular protein vaccinations (with the YP437 vaccine antigen) before an oral challenge by C. jejuni during a 42-day trial. The caecal Campylobacter load, specific systemic and mucosal antibody levels and caecal microbiota in the vaccinated groups were compared with their respective placebo groups and a challenge group (Campylobacter infection only). Specific humoral immune responses were induced, but no reduction in Campylobacter caecal load was observed in any of the groups (p > 0.05). Microbiota beta diversity analysis revealed that the bacterial composition of the groups was significantly different (p ≤ 0.001), but that vaccination did not alter the relative abundance of the main bacterial taxa residing in the caeca. The candidate vaccine was ineffective in inducing a humoral immune response and therefore did not provide protection against Campylobacter spp. infection in broilers. More studies are required to find new candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present applied research in the field of price transmission modelling with the generalised additive model. In line with recent studies on nonlinear time series models for price transmission, we introduce a nonparametric technique of generalised additive modelling to provide evidence of nonlinear patterns in price linkages and compare the degree of nonlinearity in price transmission between feed maize and poultry product markets in the Visegrád Group countries. The results of our empirical approach contribute to knowledge about market competitiveness in the Visegrád Group countries and provide information to policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry farmers constantly source for alternative feed additives for feeding poultry birds to improve the quality and health benefits of their meat and egg. It is common knowledge that synthetic feed additives (antibiotic growth promoters) are accompanied by some limitations. These limitations include amongst others, the detrimental residual effects accompanying the consumption of the meat and egg products of poultry birds fed antibiotic growth promoters. Also, they cause resistance to some bacteria both in poultry and humans. Recently, increased efforts have been put into utilizing plant-based feed additives in the nutrition of poultry birds, due to their minimal toxicity concerns and holistic functional attributes. Pomegranate is an important fruit that cannot be overlooked among the spectrum of natural feed additives. The potential of pomegranate fruit peel to replace in-feed antibiotic growth promoters in poultry nutrition is quite promising. The current review provides an overview of the usefulness and potential utilization of pomegranate peel as a natural and alternative growth promoter in the nutrition of poultry birds. The pomegranate fruit peel promotes growth, stimulates immune responses, enhances the shelf-life of meat, improves egg quality, increases nutrient release. It also improves bone quality, and ensures the release of odorous gases from poultry manure, which may be linked to its rich antioxidant and bioactive phenol and tannin constituents. Tannin is one of the anti-nutrients that limits the performance of poultry when it is included in the diet. Despite huge benefits of pomegranate inclusion in poultry performance, its tannin content may be a source of worry and these concerns needs to be addressed through further research in order to maximize the full potentials of pomegranate. However, pomegranate shows potential to provide nourishment to poultry birds and positively enhance the health indicators of human consumers of the products (meat and egg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of the feed additive containing Enterococcus faecium DSM 21913, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. animalis DSM 16284 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius (formerly Lactobacillus salivarius) DSM 16351 (Biomin® C3) as a zootechnical feed additive (functional group: gut flora stabiliser) in the context of the renewal of the authorisation for chickens for fattening, chickens reared for laying and minor poultry species other than laying. In addition, the applicant requested the extension of use in all poultry species for fattening and reared for laying/breeding. The applicant provided evidence that the additive currently in the market complies with the conditions of the authorisation. There is no new evidence that would lead the Panel to reconsider previous conclusions that the additive is safe for the target species, consumers and the environment under the authorised conditions of use. This conclusion also applies to the target species for which a request for an extension of use is made. The Panel concluded that Biomin® C3 is not irritant to skin or eyes but should be considered as a respiratory sensitiser due to its proteinaceous nature. No conclusions could be drawn on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. The evaluation of the efficacy is not needed in those species for which an authorisation exists. The Panel considered that the additive is efficacious in all growing poultry species at the same inclusion level of 1 × 108 CFU/kg feed and the equivalent level in water of 5 × 107 CFU/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using synthetic feed additive, such as antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), is common in Mojosari layer duck (Anas javanica) farms. Their purpose is to enhance growth and productivity. However, the indiscriminate use of AGPs has been associated with the emergence of bacterial resistance. This leads to lingering effects and potential health hazards for poultry and consumers. In light of these concerns, natural herb feed additives have emerged as an alternative strategy to AGPs in poultry feed. The active compounds in natural feed additives can improve feed efficiency and enhance production performance, resulting in higher-quality poultry products, especially eggs. However, it is known that the active compounds in phytobiotics derived from herbs contain anti-nutrients that can affect productivity and alpha-amylase in poultry. This study was aimed to investigate the interconnection between active compounds in phytobiotics and alpha-amylase using in-silico methods and verify the findings with field data using in-vivo methods. Alpha-Amylase is a vital enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of the glycosidic bonds present in glycogen, resulting in the formation of maltose, a water-soluble disaccharide. Based on the results of docking involving nine phytobiotic compounds and their interaction with glycogen, it was observed that andrographidine E showed a binding affinity of 8.8 kcal/mol. Furthermore, these compounds form conventional hydrogen bonds, facilitated the formation of stable bonds between proteins and compounds. In particular, the interacting amino acids did not exhibit unfavourable bonds. Therefore, andrographidine E was more stable compared to other compounds. Nonetheless, the results show that several compounds have weaker binding affinity than the enzyme's binding to glycogen. However, the hydrophobic binding types of these compounds did not seem to impact the performance of the alpha-amylase enzyme, as demonstrated by in vivo data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonellosis is one of the most important foodborne diseases worldwide, including the European Union. Despite the One Health approach measures for risk assessment and risk management implemented by the European Union, the occurrence of disease and disease outbreaks remains high (e.g. 694 outbreaks were reported in 2020), highlighting the need of new assessment methods. Herein we applied machine learning using the random forests method to evaluate and identify key points regarding the occurrence of Salmonella sp. along the Spanish food chain during 2015–2020, using data provided by the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition. We compared the role of the three categorical variables [product (20 categories), region (18 categories) and stage (11 categories)]. Salmonella presence was influenced by the three explanatory variables considered: first by product, followed by region and stage. The most determinant product for Salmonella probability was 'meat', while the most important stage was 'slaughterhouse'. Specifically, the highest values were found in pig and poultry meats. In these products, the Salmonella probability was high at the early and final stages of the food chain, although not at intermediate stages. The presence of Salmonella in the final stages (retail) of the food chain is of concern, as it can cause human cases of salmonellosis, including outbreaks. This study demonstrates the utility of the random forest method to identify key points and evaluate the control efforts. We recommend improving the surveillance and control measures, especially in the product and stages pointed out by our analysis, and enhancing the data collection harmonization among the different autonomous communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess and compare the (macro-)nutritional composition of red meat (RM) and poultry meat (PM) products with the emerging category of meat substitutes. Design: We use information on nutritional values per 100 g to estimate the differences in the nutritional composition between RM, PM, vegan meat substitute (VMS) and non-vegan meat substitute (NVMS) and derive six unique meat product clusters to enhance the comparability. Setting: Meat markets from five major European countries: France, Germany, UK, Italy and Spain. Participants/Data: Product innovation data for 19 941 products from Mintel's Global New Product Database from 2010 to 2020. Results: Most of the innovations in the sample are RM products (55 %), followed by poultry (30 %), VMS (11 %) and NVMS (5 %). RM products exhibit a significantly higher energy content in kcal/100 g as well as fat, saturated fat, protein and salt all in g/100 g than the meatless alternatives, while the latter contain significantly more carbohydrates and fibre than either poultry or RM. However, results differ to a certain degree when products are grouped into more homogeneous clusters like sausages, cold cuts and burgers. This indicates that general conclusions regarding the health effects of substituting meat with plant-based alternatives should only be drawn in relation to comparable products. Conclusions: Meat substitutes, both vegan and non-vegan, are rated as ultra-processed foods. However, compared with RM products, they and also poultry products both can provide a diet that contains fewer nutrients-to-limit, like salt and saturated fats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification of antibiotic residues in meat and eggs of laying hens in Togo and the ban in 2006 on using antibiotics growth promoter (AGP) in animal production by the World Health Organization induce the use of medicinal plants with antimicrobial effects, such as AGP alternatives in poultry production. For the same purpose, this study was conducted to contribute to studies using phytobiotics as alternatives to AGP in poultry production. Indeed, antibiotics have been substituted by Eucalyptus globulus leaf powder (ELP) during the starter phase. Polyphenolic compounds from ELP were determined, and the effects of different rates of ELP supplementation on growth performance, mortality, and hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated. A total of 460 one-day-old laying chicks (Isa brown) were randomly allocated to 5 groups, each consisting of 4 replications, with 23 chicks in each replication. Treatments consisted of the basal diet (BD) without ELP and antibiotics, a negative control (group EGO-), BD with antibiotics and no ELP, a positive control (group EGO+), BD + 0.25% of ELP without antibiotic (group EG1), BD with 0.50% of ELP without antibiotic (group EG2), and BD with 1% ELP without antibiotic (group EG3). The rates of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% mean 0.25 kg, 0.5 kg, and 1 kg of ELP for 100 kg of BD, respectively. The study revealed that ELP contains flavonoids (4.85 μg QE/mg), tannins (30.34 μg CE/mg), and total phenols (165.2 μg AGE/mg). Supplementation did not affect feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio, and mortality of Isa brown laying hens during the starter phase (8 weeks) in all treatment groups. However, the chicks that received ELP had the best FI and BWG, which was not significantly different from the control groups. The biochemical parameters such as total proteins, albumin, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glycemia were not affected by ELP supplementation. Among the hematology parameters, the leukocyte decreased in the groups fed with ELP, while mortality was unaffected. The results of the present study indicated that ELP inclusion rate of 0.25% could serve as the best antibiotic replacement for Isa brown laying hens during the starter phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were significant restrictions on the transportation of food products in Indonesia. The research objective of this study was to investigate the extent to which these restrictions impacted changes in marketing margins at the provincial level in Indonesia. The approach taken was through the examination of trade and freight margin statistical data before the pandemic (2019) and after the pandemic (2020) across a number of different commodity markets: rice, shallots, red chilli pepper, beef, chicken meat and eggs, sugar, and cooking oil. The evidence indicates that the pandemic brought a rapid rise in Indonesian domestic prices as a result of purchasing panic at its start. But after the imposition of transportation restrictions, there were wide variations: some durable food options experienced increased marketing margins, whereas non-durables tended to experience decreased marketing margins in some regions, as fresh products such as red chillies and shallots were discarded as a result of declining consumer purchasing power. The conclusion for policymakers is that any future restrictions should take into account this likely difference in response, in order to minimise economic disruption by calibrating support along the supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Campylobacter is the leading bacterial pathogen that causes foodborne illnesses worldwide. Pasture farming is regarded as an important source of agricultural production for small farming communities. Consumer preference for pasture-raised animal products has increased; however, there is a paucity of information on the microbiological quality of pasture-raised poultry products. The purpose of this study was to explore genetic relatedness of thermophilic Campylobacter isolates, to assess antibiotic resistance phenotypically and genotypically, and to screen the presence of virulence determinants of Campylobacter isolates from pasture-raised poultry farms from southeastern United States. Methods: Ninety-seven Campylobacter isolates previously identified by Q7 BAX® System Real-Time PCR were genotyped by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Campylobacter isolates were then evaluated for their phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility against nine antimicrobial agents using Sensititre plates. Additionally, Campylobacter isolates were tested for the presence of antimicrobial resistance-associated elements. Furthermore, Campylobacter isolates were screened for the presence of 13 genes encoding putative virulence factors by PCR. These included genes involved in motility (flaA and flhA), adhesion and colonization (cadF, docC, racR, and virB11), toxin production (cdtA, cdtB, cdtC, wlaN, and ceuE) and invasion (ciaB and iamA). Results: Among 97 Campylobacter isolates, Campylobacter jejuni (n  =  79) and Campylobacter coli (n  =  18) were identified. By MLST, C. jejuni isolates were assigned to seven clonal complexes. Among them, ST-353, ST-607 and ST-21 were the most common STs recognized. All C. coli (n  =  18) isolates were included in CC-828. Interestingly, eight STs identified were not belonging any previous identified clonal complex. Campylobacter isolates displayed a high resistance rate against tetracycline (81.4%), while a low rate of resistance was observed against macrolides (azithromycin and erythromycin), quinolones and fluoroquinolones (nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin), aminoglycosides (gentamicin), ketolide (telithromycin), amphenicol (florfenicol) and lincomycin (clindamycin). Thirteen isolates (13.54%) were pan-susceptible to all tested antibiotics, while nine isolates were multi-antimicrobial resistant (MAR; resist to three or more antimicrobial classes). Interestingly, there were no isolates resistant to all antimicrobial classes. Thr86Ile mutation was identified in all quinolones resistant strains. Erythromycin encoding gene (ermB) was identified in 75% of erythromycin resistant isolates. The A2075 mutation was detected in one erythromycin resistant strain, while A2074 could not be identified. The tetO gene was identified in 93.7% of tetracycline resistant isolates and six tetracycline susceptible isolates. In conclusion, the results of this study revealed that Campylobacter isolates from pasture-raised poultry farms showed the ST relatedness to Campylobacter isolates commonly associated with humans, indicating pasture-raised broiler flocks, similar to conventionally-reared broiler flocks, as a potential vector for antibiotic-resistant and pathogenic strains of thermophilic Campylobacter to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Small-livestock products, such as poultry and rabbit meats, are essential to global animal food production. Poultry and rabbit production has recently experienced many challenges, including climate change, disease spread, and antibiotic misuse. Bee products have emerged as promising natural alternatives to antibiotics due to their nutritional and therapeutic properties. This review aims to present an overview of the possible advantages of using different bee products, separately or combined, in poultry and rabbit farms. The results indicate that bee products can positively affect poultry and rabbit's physiological traits, production, reproduction, health/immunity, and product quality. Therefore, bee products have great potential as a safe and effective addition to poultry and rabbit production. Poultry and rabbit production are important and rapidly growing agricultural subsectors, particularly in several developing countries. To ensure the sustainability of poultry and rabbit production, realistic poultry and rabbit farming practices must be improved. Apitherapy is a traditional alternative medicine that involves the prevention and treatment of some diseases with several bee products including propolis, royal jelly, pollen, and venom. More feeding investigations on the numerous benefits of bee products for poultry and rabbits are crucial to be addressed. Poultry and rabbit production has recently experienced numerous challenges, including climate change, disease spread, and antibiotic misuse. Improving animal welfare, health, and production is a top priority for all livestock farms, as is supplying consumers with safe and healthy products. Therefore, this review aims to collect and investigate recent relevant literature on the use of bee products, as feed additives, drinking water supplements, and injections, for poultry and rabbits to improve animal health and production. From the current findings, bee products can improve the growth and immunological performance of small-livestock animals, such as poultry and rabbits, by activating digestive enzymes, maintaining microbial balance, and promoting vitamin synthesis. Therefore, bee products could be a promising natural alternative to growth promoters, reproductive stimulants, and immunological enhancers in poultry and rabbit farms to provide safe and healthy products for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are becoming increasingly common, leading to a global health crisis. The effects of abusing antibiotics not only increase pathogenic resistance but also cause various diseases and syndromes. Gut microbiota contains many beneficial roles for health, while antibiotics kill both pathogens and gut microbiota which is considered one of the major side effects of antibiotics. In fact, new antibiotic compounds are needed in this urgent scenario; phytoremediation is the oldest but most effective method, and research on the antibacterial properties of several types of medicinal plants has already been conducted. Tea and agarwood plants are well known for their economic contribution in both beverage and cosmetic production, as well as for their medicinal value. In this study, tea and agarwood leaf extracts were analyzed for their antimicrobial activity against both pathogenic and beneficial bacteria. Fresh tea (Camellia sinensis) leaves were collected in three varieties, namely, BT-6 from Sylhet, BT-7 from Moulvibazar, and BT-8 from Habiganj; also, green tea (nonfermented tea), black tea (fully fermented tea), and agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis) were collected from Sylhet region of Bangladesh. Unlike commercial antibiotics, which have side effects on probiotics (beneficiary bacteria), leaf extract activities were analyzed to check if they had positive effects on probiotics that can be found in the gastrointestinal tract as well as dairy products. Potential beneficiary bacteria, Lysinibacillus macroides strain SRU-001 (NCBI accession no. MW665108), and pathogenic bacteria, Aeromonas caviae strain YPLS-62 (NCBI accession no. MW666783), were isolated from the small intestine of poultry and curd, respectively. Tea and agarwood leaves (5 g powder/80 mL methanol) with solvents were kept for seven days at room temperature, and extracts were applied for antimicrobial assays by the disc diffusion assay against the isolated bacteria. 50 µL of each leaf extract was examined against 50 µL of each bacterial culture, where gentamicin was a control. After 24 hours of incubation, tea and agarwood leaf extracts showed an 11–15 mm zone of inhibition against pathogenic A. caviae, while only BT-8 showed 7 mm (disc diameter 6 mm) against probiotic L. macroides. However, compared to leaf extracts, gentamicin showed a 27 mm zone of inhibition against both L. macroides strain SRU-001 and A. caviae strain YPLS-62 bacteria. This research clearly indicates that gentamicin kills both pathogenic and beneficiary bacteria, while leaf extracts from tea and agarwood plants contain antimicrobial activity against only pathogenic A. caviae but no effects on probiotic L. macroides. This outcome indicates not only the potential therapeutic values of tea and agarwood leaves as antibiotics over commercial antibiotics but also the chance of having pathogens in curd and potential beneficial bacteria from the poultry small intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The presence of antimicrobial drugs residues in animal products at levels higher than the maximum residue level (MRL) may have adverse effects on consumer health such as allergic reactions and resistance development. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor animal products for the presence of antimicrobial residues. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the detection limit of microbial inhibition assay (MIA) in microplate by using of Bacillus licheniformis as indicator microorganism for two antibiotics, enrofloxacin (ENR) and sulfamethazine (SMT), in broiler chicken's kidney, liver and muscle tissue samples. Methods: Spiked tissues samples for the two antibiotics were analysed separately by this method. The results of the assay were evaluated by the determination of the absorbance after mean 3.47 h of incubation at 45°C. Results: Results showed that the detection limits of MIA for ENR and SMT in kidney (124.03 and 23.21 μg/kg, respectively) and liver (90.02 and 62.03 μg/kg, respectively) as well as SMT in muscle (46.95 μg/kg) were lower than EU (European Union) – MRL, whereas the detection limit for ENR in muscle was slightly higher than MRL (136.3 μg/kg compared to 100 μg/kg MRL). Furthermore, the MIA in the current study was found to be more sensitive to SMT than ENR (92% and 88% sensitivity rate, respectively). No false‐positive was observed in the assay. Conclusions: Based on the results, the MIA investigated in this study had the potential to detect ENR and SMT residues in broiler chicken kidney, liver and muscle tissues at levels below or close to EU – MRL but offered lower capability for the detection of ENR compared with SMT in kidney and muscle tissue samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fowl adenovirus-induced hepatitis–pericardial effusion syndrome outbreaks have been increasingly reported in China since 2015, resulting in substantial economic losses to the poultry industry. The genetic diversity of indigenous chicken results in different immune traits, affecting the evolution of these viruses. Although the molecular epidemiology of fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) has been well studied in commercial broiler and layer chickens, the prevalence and genetic characteristics of FAdV-4 in indigenous chickens remain largely unknown. In this study, samples were collected from six indigenous chicken breeds in Yunnan province, China. FAdV-positive samples were identified in five of the six indigenous chicken populations via PCR and 10 isolates were obtained. All FAdVs belonged to serotype FAdV-4 and species FAdV-C. The hexon, fiber, and penton gene sequence comparison analysis demonstrated that the prevalence of FAdV-4 isolates in these chickens might have originated from other provinces that exported chicks and poultry products to Yunnan province. Moreover, several distinct amino acid mutations were firstly identified in the major structural proteins. Our findings highlighted the need to decrease inter-regional movements of live poultry to protect indigenous chicken genetic resources and that the immune traits of these indigenous chickens might result in new mutations of FAdV-4 strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the USDA's updated guidelines to ensure truthful labeling claims for meat and poultry products. Topics include the tightening of standards for claims like "raised without antibiotics," the involvement of veterinarians in certifying such claims, and the role of third-party certifications to verify animal husbandry and environmental claims. INSET: AVMA SUPPORTS TRUTHFUL, NONMISLEADING LABELING.

Salmonella enterica Typhimurium DT104 (S. Typhimurium DT104) is an important foodborne pathogen that is associated with poultry and poultry products. Currently, there is very little information on the underlying molecular mechanisms that allow DT104 to survive and propagate in poultry meat and the poultry processing environment. The current study assessed the global gene expression of DT104 in ground chicken extract (GCE) compared to brain heart infusion (BHI) medium using RNA-Seq technology. DT104 was grown to the early stationary phase (ESP), inoculated into GCE or BHI, and then re-grown to the log phase before RNA was extracted and transcripts were quantified by RNA-Seq. Gene expression for DT104 grown in GCE was then compared to that of DT104 grown in BHI for samples grown to the ESP. Growth in GCE resulted in the up-regulated expression of genes related to translation, carnitine metabolism (23–283-fold change), and cobalamin (vitamin B12) biosynthesis (14-fold change). In particular, the presence of carnitine in chicken meat, and thus, in GCE, which lacks carbohydrates, may allow Salmonella to utilize this compound as a carbon and nitrogen source. This study demonstrates that RNA-Seq data can provide a comprehensive analysis of DT104 gene expression in a food model for poultry products. This study also provides additional evidence for the importance of metabolic adaptation in the ability of S. enterica to successfully adapt to and occupy niches outside of its host and provides potential targets that could be used to develop intervention strategies to control Salmonella in poultry.

Background: Dietary patterns play an important role in regulating serum uric acid levels in the body, but evidence for the association between different kinds of plant-based and animal-based dietary patterns and individual serum uric acid levels is scarce and inconsistent. Methods: We analyzed data from the sixth wave of the China Health and Nutrition Survey. The plant-based diet of 7,806 participants was determined using three consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls, and latent profile analysis was used to identify dietary patterns among participants. Serum uric acid levels were analyzed using the enzymatic colorimetric method. The association between intakes of different types of dietary pattern and individual serum uric acid levels was analyzed using linear regression analysis, after adjusting for confounding variables. Results: We identified three types of plant-based dietary patterns, namely, low tuber starches and vegetable plant-based diet (LTVP), high cereal, tuber starches and vegetable plant-based diet (HCTVP), and high legume and fruit plant-based diet (HLFP). We also identified three types of animal-based dietary patterns, namely, high milk and egg animal-based diet (HMiEA), low egg and fish animal-based diet, and high meat and fish animal-based diet (HMeFA). Significant coefficients for participant serum uric acid levels were observed for the HCTVP diet (β = −0.022, P = 0.031) and HMeFA diet (β = 0.061, P < 0.001). The median intake of foods in the HCTVP diet was as follows: cereals and cereal products, 444.83 g/d; tubers and starch products, 166.67 g/d; dried legumes and legume products, 8.33 g/d; vegetables and vegetable products, 333.33 g/d; and fruits and fruit products, 0 g/d. The median intake of foods in the HMeFA diet was as follows: meat and meat products, 73.33 g/d; poultry and poultry products, 0 g/d; milk and milk products, 0 g/d; eggs and egg products, 26.67 g/d; and fish, shellfish, and mollusks, 180.00 g/d. Conclusion: We showed that individual serum uric acid levels (1) might decrease under the plant-based HCTVP diet, (2) might increase under the animal-based HMeFA diet, (3) might not decrease under the plant-based HLFP diet, and (4) might not increase under the animal-based HMiEA diet. Further studies are needed to confirm these associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By virtue of remarkable biocompatibility and their promising applications in biomedical fields, biomass‐regenerated fibers, such as wool keratin fiber and cellulose fiber, have attracted extensive attention. However, the insufficient mechanical performance still hinders their yarn manufacturing capability and further large‐scale applications. Herein, an ultra‐strong and ultra‐tough regenerated wool keratin fiber by regulating keratin conformation with high‐quality small‐size graphene (HQSGr) and mechanical training treatment (M‐HQSGr‐RWKF) is fabricated. With the assistance of mechanical training, a small addition of HQSGr (0.1 wt.%) remarkably augments the secondary structure transition from α‐helix to β‐sheet of the keratin, which delivers a tensile strength of 215.4 ± 5.2 MPa, surpassing all reported natural wool and regenerated wool or even poultry fibers. Benefiting from the excellent mechanical strength, wet‐state toughness (158.9 MJ m−3), and recoverable strain (205.0%), M‐HQSGr‐RWKF has been demonstrated as a biocompatible artificial muscle to drive the biomimetic motion, which manifests ultrahigh actuation strain greater than 100.0% and stress of 16.7 MPa. The derived ultra‐strong and ultra‐tough keratin fiber opens a new avenue for developing smart fiber from biomass resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Foodborne salmonellosis remains one of the top zoonotic diseases affecting public health worldwide, and its incidence has remained stable in the last years in the European Union (EU) triggering questions on the usefulness of currently available measures to prevent its occurrence. A main focus of Salmonella national control programs is monitoring the presence of the bacteria in animal reservoirs, especially in poultry, and for this reason, thousands of samples are collected every year in poultry farms in EU countries, but the importance of certain factors in the probability of detecting Salmonella remains poorly understood. A thorough analysis conducted on data collected in all laying hen flocks sampled in Spain in 2015–2020 revealed that even though the presence of Salmonella was rare (<3.5% of positive sampling events), when samples were collected in certain months (fall–winter) and housing systems (caged flocks) and by competent authorities (as opposed to food business operators), the probability of detecting Salmonella increased significantly. These results demonstrate that the sensitivity of the sampling strategy may be influenced by how and when samples are collected and that certain flocks may be at an increased risk of infection. Trends in Salmonella human infections are assumed to be related to the distribution of the pathogen in the animal reservoir/food products, and cases in humans are most often linked to poultry and poultry products (eggs, meat). Therefore, ongoing Salmonella national control programs (NCPs) in European Union Member States have the objective of monitoring and reducing its prevalence in commercial poultry flocks. Results from NCPs have shown certain factors (housing systems, season of sampling and if sampling is conducted by food business operators (FBOps) or competent authorities (CAs), among others) can influence detection rates, but associations are often not consistent. Here, we analyzed data from the Spanish NCP on 7216 laying hen flocks subjected to 36,193 sampling events over a six-year period to characterize its performance and identify variables influencing detection rates. Overall, 1205 sampling events were positive for Salmonella spp. (any serovar) and 132 for S. Enteritidis-S. Typhimurium/monophasic. Bayesian multivariable models adjusting for multiple covariates concluded that sampling events later in the year, in caged flocks with older animals and conducted by CAs had increased odds of positivity for Salmonella spp., revealing aspects linked with a differential estimation of Salmonella levels in laying hen flocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccidiosis is acclaimed as the most prevalent enteric parasitic ailment of poultry. It is caused by an apicomplexan protozoon of the genus Eimeria, which resides in chicken intestinal epithelium leading to intestinal damage. As a result, bloody droppings are there, feed efficiency is reduced, the growth rate is impaired, and egg production is temporarily decreased. Treatment and prevention of coccidiosis are primarily accomplished by inoculating live vaccines and administering anticoccidial drugs. Due to anticoccidials' continuous and excessive use, the mounting issue is drug resistant Eimeria strains. The poultry industry has managed resistance-related issues by suggesting shuttle and rotation schemes. Furthermore, new drugs have also been developed and introduced, but it takes a long time and causes cost inflation in the poultry industry. Moreover, government disallows growth promoters and drugs at sub-therapeutic doses in poultry due to increased concerns about the drug residues in poultry products. These constraints have motivated scientists to work on alternative ways to control coccidiosis effectively, safely, and sustainably. Using nutritional supplements is a novel way to solve the constraints mentioned above. The intriguing aspects of using dietary supplements against coccidiosis are that they reduce the risk of drug-resistant pathogen strains, ensure healthy, nutritious poultry products, have less reliance on synthetic drugs, and are typically considered environmentally safe. Furthermore, they improve productivity, enhance nonspecific immunity, preventing oxidation of fats (acting as antioxidants) and inflammation (acting as an anti-inflammatory). The present manuscript focuses on the efficacy, possible mechanism of action, applications, and different facets of nutrition supplements (such as organic acids, minerals, vitamins, probiotics, essential oils, amino acids, dietary nucleotides, feed enzymes, and yeast derivatives) as feed additive for treating poultry coccidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The additive RONOZYME® WX (CT/L) contains endo‐1,4‐beta‐xylanase produced with a genetically modified strain of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus oryzae; the additive is currently authorised for poultry for fattening, weaned piglets, pigs for fattening, lactating sows and laying hens. The applicant has requested to change the production strain, substituting strain A. oryzae DSM 26372 with A. oryzae DSM 33700, and to extend the use of the additive to all poultry species and all Suidae. RONOZYME® WX (CT/L), manufactured with the production strain A. oryzae DSM 33700, did not give rise to safety concerns with regard to the genetic modification of the production strain. No viable cells of the production strain nor its DNA were detected in an intermediate product representative of both final formulations of the additive. RONOZYME® WX (CT/L) was considered safe for all poultry species and all Suidae at the recommended inclusion levels. The use of RONOZYME® WX CT and L manufactured with the production strain A. oryzae DSM 33700 raised no concerns for consumers. RONOZYME® WX L is not an eye irritant; however, no conclusions could be drawn on the potential of RONOZYME® WX CT to be an eye irritant. Both formulations are not irritant to the skin, but due to the lack of data, the FEEDAP Panel was not able to conclude on the potential of both formulations of the additive to be skin sensitisers. Due to the proteinaceous nature of the active substance, the additive is considered a respiratory sensitiser. The additive manufactured by A. oryzae DSM 33700 raises no safety concerns for the environment. The additive has the potential to be efficacious in all poultry species and all Suidae at 100 and 200 FXU/kg complete feed, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of viable cells of Enterococcus faecium DSM 33761, Pediococcus acidilactici DSM 33758, Bifidobacterium animalis DSM 16284, Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 33751 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius DSM 16351 (Biomin® C5) as a zootechnical additive (functional group: gut flora stabiliser) for chickens for fattening, chickens reared for laying, turkeys for fattening, turkeys reared for breeding and minor poultry species for fattening and reared for laying/breeding. Biomin® C5 is marketed in two formulations: a coated and a non‐coated formulation with a total minimum microbial count of 1 × 1011 and 4 × 1010 colony forming unit (CFU)/g product, respectively. The Panel considered that the use of Biomin® C5 in feed at the proposed conditions of use raises no risk for the target species, consumers and the environment. Both coated and non‐coated formulations of Biomin® C5 are considered respiratory and skin sensitisers, but not skin irritants. The FEEDAP Panel was not in the position to conclude on the eye irritation potential of any formulation. Due to lack of sufficient data, the FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on the efficacy of the additive in the target species at the proposed conditions of use. Biomin® C5 is compatible with nicarbazin, diclazuril, decoquinate and halofuginone. No conclusions can be drawn on the compatibility of Biomin® C5 with monensin sodium, robenidine hydrochloride, maduramicin ammonium and lasalocid A sodium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widening supply-demand gap of poultry products in Nigeria calls for urgent attention toward improving the production and productivity of poultry with a special interest in underutilized poultry species. This study was carried out to examine the level of production of underutilized poultry species and the factors influencing it in the Iwo ADP Zone of Osun State. A multistage sampling procedure was adopted to select 150 poultry farmers for the study. Data were obtained through physical interview of the farmers, then analysed using descriptive statistics and ordinary least square (OLS) regression. Results showed higher percentage of males in poultry production and mean age of the poultry farmers was 49.19±12.40 years with a mean length of experience in poultry keeping of 11.0±7.4 years and mean flock size of 68± 17. It was deduced from the study that majority (77.3%) of the poultry farmers had no or limited access to extension services. As determinants of the rearing of underutilized poultry species in the study area, results of multiple linear regressions showed the coefficients of the age of poultry farmers, and length of poultry farming experience was positive and statistically significant (P< 0.01). Household size was also positive and statistically significant (P< 0.05). Based on the findings, the study, therefore recommends the need for an enlightenment campaign and awareness on the importance of rearing underutilized poultry species and strengthening the livestock extension services for effective and result-oriented service delivery to the poultry farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for livestock and poultry feeds results in the lack of fish meals (FM). Poultry slaughterhouse by-product (PSB) is one promising strategy due to its high protein content despite the limited content of lysine. Thus, supplementing lysine in dietary fish feed is necessary. The present study aimed to investigate how different lysine doses in feed with PSB and FM as animal protein sources affected protein digestibility, feed utilization, growth, hematology, and body composition of Sangkuriang catfish (Clarias gariepinus var. Sangkuriang). Sangkuriang catfish at the grow-out stage (15.54±0.17 g/fish) were used. The fish were fed six experimental diets with similar protein and energy content but different lysine levels at 1.25%, 1.75%, 2.25%, 2.75%, 3.25%, and 3.75%/kg (treatments 1 to 6). The addition of lysine to feed had a significant (P<0.05) effect on protein digestibility (ADCp), efficiency of feed utilization (EFU), and relative growth rate (RGR) of Sangkuriang catfish at a grow-out stage but had no significant (P>0.05) effect on survival rate, hematology, and nutrient content. The optimal doses of dietary lysine with PSB and FM to improve ADCp, EFU, and RGR of Sangkuriang catfish were 2.59%, 2.63%, and 2.62%/kg diet, respectively. However, the supplementation of PSB in experimental diets had no significant effect on glucose, triglyceride, total protein, urea, calcium, magnesium, albumin, globulin, hemoglobin, hematocrit, phosphorous, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The lysine addition in feed formulated with PSB and FM could improve the growth performance and increase the feed digestibility of Sangkuriang catfish at the grow-out stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non typhoidal Salmonella typhimurium is a major food borne pathogen associated with the intestinal tract of food-producing animals. Salmonella is frequently detected in poultry meat; thus, contaminated poultry products are a significant source of human salmonellosis. The present study was conducted to study the dynamics of antibiotic resistance patterns among non typhoidal Salmonella isolated from chicken cecum in Bhopal and to select an effective antimicrobial agent for controlling Salmonella in poultry birds. A total of 80 Salmonella strains isolated from cecum belonging to Typhimurium serovar were screened for their antimicrobial resistance pattern using20 antimicrobial agents falling under 8 different antibiotic classes. The antibiogram testing revealed differential multidrug resistance among Salmonella isolates in poultry samples. All the isolates were resistant to Tobramycin, Moxifloxacin, Sparfloxacin, Co-Trimoxazole, Nalidixic acid, Augmentin, Kanamycin, Gentamicin, Amikacin and Ticarcillin, indicating high level of resistance among the bacteria associated with poultry. Conclusively, finding of this study provides new information regarding the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance and Salmonella serovar diversity in retail markets of Bhopal city. The detection of zoonotic potential MDR Salmonella typhimurium in poultry presents a major threat to the poultry industry and public health. Thus, care must be taken in the use of antibiotics in farm animals to reduce the selection of multidrug resistant bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to identify the effects of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of poultry handlers on the prevalence of Campylobacter along the poultry production chain in Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 1230 microbiological samples were collected from five companies in different Malaysian states. The sampling points involved the entire poultry supply chain from the farm to the retailer. The collected samples were subjected to bacteriological isolation and morphological identification for microbiological analyses. All Campylobacter-positive samples were further confirmed with molecular identification by using a polymerase chain reaction. Campylobacter prevalence in poultry farms, processing plants, and retailers were identified. For the KAP survey, 300 respondents answered a questionnaire evaluating their levels of KAP regarding food safety while handling live birds and subsequently poultry products after slaughtering. Overall, the mean KAP scores of the workers at farms, processing plants, and retail outlets were assessed. The survey data indicated that even though the overall KAP levels of the poultry workers were excellent, the bacterial prevalence of Campylobacter was still high. In conclusion, the KAP of poultry handlers had insignificant effects on the prevalence of Campylobacter along the poultry production chain in Peninsular Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]