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Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a byproduct of ethanol production, has gained recognition as a viable alternative feed supplement for ram lambs because of its nutritional profile and cost-effectiveness. This study evaluated the effect of supplementing straw-based diets with different levels of DDGS on the growth performance and economic viability of growing ram lambs. A total of 24 ram lambs (16.07 ± 1.78 kg; 4 months old) were assigned to one of four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design: a basal diet (sorghum stover) supplemented with a concentrate mix (18% crude protein) at 2% body weight (D1) or the basal diet supplemented with DDGS at 1% (D2), 1.5% (D3), or 2% (D4) of body weight for 90 days. Data were analyzed using Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA). While the total feed intake was comparable (P = 0.695) among the lambs fed different experimental diets, the D3 and D4 diets significantly improved the average daily gain and reduced the feed conversion ratio compared to the D1 diet (P < 0.001). However, the D3-fed lambs showed a cost-effective gain compared to the D4-fed lambs (P < 0.001). Although the D4 group tended to have a higher pre-slaughter weight than the D1 group (P = 0.083), the empty body and hot carcass weights were comparable among all groups (P > 0.05). Similarly, dressing percentage, wholesale cut yield, body wall thickness, loin-eye area, visceral organ yield, carcass composition, and meat chemical composition were statistically similar among the dietary groups (P > 0.05). Based on the growth performance and cost economics of the present study it was concluded that supplementing DDGS at 1.5% of body weight to a stover-based diet in growing ram lambs seems to be a viable and economical option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The goat is used as a tool of poverty reduction at the village level in developing countries. The Black Bengal is a popular goat breed in Bangladesh and the eastern part of India. They have high prolificacy and skin quality and delicious meat. A high level of kid mortality and poor growth rate represent a significant barrier to increasing the productivity of Black Bengal goats. Low birth weight and insufficient milk yield of dams are responsible for the poor growth and high mortality of these kids. It is considered that maternal nutrition during pregnancy plays an important role in the birth weight of kids and the lactation performance of dams. In the present study, the effects of three levels (18, 14, and 10 percent) of dietary crude protein (CP) during late pregnancy on the growth performance of dams and kids, birth weight of kids, and milk production of does, as well as blood parameters, survivability rate, carcass characteristics and meat composition of kids, and expression of the H-FABP gene related to muscle fat content, were investigated. The results show that maternal dietary protein during late pregnancy enhances the milk production of does and the growth and carcass characteristics of Black Bengal kids. The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of different levels of dietary protein during late pregnancy on the performance of Black Bengal does and their kids. Twelve does were divided into three groups, with four in each, and three diets, i.e., high protein (18% CP), medium protein (14% CP), and low protein (10% CP) were supplied for 50 days, commencing from 100 days post-coitum to parturition. During the first 100 days of pregnancy, uniform rations with similar ingredients were provided to fulfill the nutrient requirements depending on the live weight of does. All three diets were isocaloric (10.0 MJ/kg DM). Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA, and the significance of the difference among means was determined by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The main effects of diet and sex, as well as their interaction, were analyzed by two-way ANOVA by using the GLM procedure. The relative expression values of qPCR were calculated by using the 2−ΔΔCt analysis method. Live weight gain was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in high-protein-fed dams than other groups during the experimental period. The milk yield of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in high-protein-fed goats than in the low-protein group. The lactation length of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the high- and medium-protein-fed does than in the low-protein-fed does. The duration of post-partum anestrus of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the low-protein-fed dams than in the high-protein group. The birth weight of kids tended to be higher in the high-protein group but did not differ significantly among the treatment groups. In male kids, weaning weight, final weight, live weight gain, and average daily gain were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in female kids. Weaning weight was higher (p < 0.05) in kids of the high-protein-fed does than the low-protein group. Final weight and live weight gain were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of the high-protein-fed does than in the low-protein-fed group. On the other hand, average daily gain was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of the high- and medium-protein-fed does than the low-protein group. The average body length and wither height of kids at the 32nd week was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than those of the low-protein-fed group. The average heart girth of kids at the 32nd week was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than the medium- and low-protein groups. The survival rate of kids was higher in the medium- and high-protein-fed does than in low-protein group. Hot carcass weight and ether extract content of meat were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the high-protein group than in the other groups. The dressing percentage was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the kids of high-protein-fed does than low-protein-fed goats. The expression of the H-FABP gene was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than those of the medium- and low-protein groups. In conclusion, maternal dietary protein levels positively influences the production performance of Black Bengal does and their kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-yearling Menz lambs with average initial body weight of 19.72 ± 1.96 kg (Mean ± SD) were used to evaluate the effects of supplementing mung bean haulms (MBH) and concentrate mixture (CM) on feed intake, body weight gain and carcass characteristics of lambs fed a basal diet of natural pasture hay. The lambs were assigned into five treatments in a randomized complete block design as follows: 226 CM (T1), 77 MBH + 192 CM (T2), 154 MBH + 156 CM (T3), 231 MBH + 120 CM (T4), 308 MBH + 87 CM (T5) grams on dry matter basis. Total dry matter (DM), organic matter and metabolizable energy intakes were increased (p 0.05) among treatments. Feed conversion efficiency for T2 was higher (p

Background and Aim: To address the problems associated with the availability and prices of conventional feeds, researchers have started to include alternative feeds to reduce the cost of diets and increase profitability. This study examined the influences of olive cake (OC), either alone or in combination with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), in the diet of black kids. Materials and Methods: Thirty kids were distributed into three treatments: A free OC diet (control [CON]), OC (20% OC), and OCSC (20% OC with 1 g SC head/d). While penned individually, the kids were fed daily and allowed to acclimate to their diets and pens for 7 days. After acclimation, the kids were fed the prescribed diets for 63 days. Five kids were chosen from each group on day 50 of the feeding period and moved to the metabolic cages to evaluate nutrient digestibility and N balance. At the end of the study, all kids were slaughtered to evaluate carcass characteristics and meat quality. Results: Feeding the OCSC diet increased (p = 0.035) DM intake for kids compared with the OC and CON. The CP intake was higher (p = 0.021) in the OCSC group than in the CON group. Growth performance parameters were higher (p ≤ 0.031) in the OCSC group than in the CON diet. Feed conversion efficiency was improved (p = 0.052) by incorporating OCSC compared with the CON diet. Consequently, economic return was enhanced (p = 0.003) by feeding the OC and OCSC groups. Kids fed the OCSC had a higher cold carcass weight (p = 0.054) than those fed the CON diet. The OCSC group also showed increased (p ≤ 0.027) loin cut and intermuscular fat weights compared with the OC and CON groups. All measured serum metabolites were similar in CON and groups incorporating OCs or OCSCs. Conclusion: The results showed that adding 20% OC combined with SC to the diet of growing kids improved some growth and carcass characteristic parameters without affecting their health status. Notably, using OC along with SC could be an option for feed cost reduction in kids’ diets.

As meat-producing livestock, sheep are a benchmark for communities seeking quality and healthy meat. The CYP2A6 gene has emerged as a potential tool for improving lamb meat quality. This study investigated the genetic variability of the CYP2A6 gene and its association with key determinants of lamb meat quality. The research involved 140 male sheep from five breeds: Javanese thin-tail sheep (JTTS), Garut sheep (GS), Jonggol sheep (JS), Barbados cross sheep (BCS), and Compass agrinak sheep (CAS). PCR-RFLP was employed to identify CYP2A6|BsmAI gene polymorphism and the general linear model (GLM) was used to analyze the gene's association with meat quality. The results showed a polymorphism in the CYP2A6 gene (SNP g.49170107 G>T), presenting two genotypes: GG and GT. The analysis results demonstrated that the CYP2A6 gene (P

Beef production on semi-natural grassland provides meat and nature conservation of biodiverse habitats. In this study, heifers born to a dairy cow and an Angus (ANG) or Charolais (CHA) sire were allocated to a HIGH or LOW production system, varying in indoor feed intensity, number of summers on grass and slaughter age. CHA crosses had higher liveweight gain, conformation score, and proportion of high-value retail cuts than ANG crosses, which had higher scores for fatness and marbling. The LOW system gave lower liveweight gain and carcasses with lower fatness scores than the HIGH system. CHA-LOW had leaner carcasses than the other groups. Per kilogram salable meat produced, ANG-HIGH, CHA-HIGH, ANG-LOW, and CHA-LOW resulted in 18, 15, 58, and 46 m2 grazed semi-natural grassland. These results indicate that dairy × beef heifers can be used for nature conservation grazing of semi-natural grassland while still achieving acceptable performance and market-oriented carcass characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Lamb fattening is one of the important sources of red meat production in the country. Fattening is the management and proper feeding of livestock to obtain maximum extra weight with minimum cost in a certain period of time. The use of concentrate in the diet of fattening lambs in the country is normal and common, but what is important is the appropriate level of concentrate, or in other words, the appropriate ratio of forage to concentrate in the diet. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of increasing the ratio of concentrate to forage on feed intake traits, body weight, feed conversion ratio and carcass characteristics of Afshari fattening male lambs. Materials and methods: The present study was conducted using 24 male lambs with a mean weight of 31.78 ± 1.32 kg and a mean age of 91 ± 3.13 days in three experimental groups (treatments) in a completely randomized experimental design with three treatments and 8 replications. The experimental treatments included diets with different ratios of forage to concentrate in the form of 30:70, 20:80 and 10:90. During the study period, growth performance traits including dry matter intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio were measured. Also, at the end of the study, four lambs were selected from each treatment and slaughtered to check the carcass characteristics. Results: The results of growth performance showed that there was a significant difference in dry matter intake, daily weight gain and final weight between experimental treatments (P<0.05). The highest amount of dry matter intake, final weight and daily weight gain was in the treatment containing the ratio of 10:90 forage to concentrate. The results of the carcass characteristics showed that there was a significant difference between the experimental treatments in the slaughter weight, hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, carcass efficiency, and also in the carcass parts, including half carcass, tail, neck, head, chest, girdle, neck, and thigh. (P<0.05). The treatment containing the ratio of 10:90 forage to concentrate had the highest values of carcass traits. Conclusion: According to the obtained results, the reduction of forage did not cause any production problems in these animals. Increasing the concentrate and reducing the forage in the diet increases the amount of feed intake and increases the daily weight and overall higher final weight in fattening lambs, and also improves the feed conversion ratio, growth performance and carcass percentage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating prices of conventional plant protein sources like soyabean and groundnut cake in Nigeria have prompted exploration into alternative feed ingredients for poultry nutrition. Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) presents a promising substitute due to its nutrient-rich composition and cost-effective cultivation. This study investigated the effects of substituting soyabean meal (SBM) with MOLM on growth performance indices, carcass characteristics, and organ weights in broiler finishers on an equal-protein basis. Five diets were formulated, wherein SBM protein was replaced with that of MOLM at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% levels. 200 four-week-old broiler chickens were randomly assigned to these diets in a completely randomized design, with each treatment having four replicates. Analysis of MOLM's proximate composition suggested its suitability as a substitute for SBM. Up to 50% inclusion of MOLM resulted in weight gain and feed conversion ratio similar to the control (p>0.05). However, higher inclusion levels led to decreased feed intake, weight gain, and poorer feed conversion efficiency, likely due to increased fibre content. Carcass traits were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by MOLM inclusion up to 50% level. Organ weights were largely unaffected except for the liver, spleen, and bursa, which showed variations with different levels of MOLM inclusion. Substituting SBM with MOLM at up to 50% did not negatively impact broiler growth performance or carcass characteristics. However, further research is needed to optimize MOLM inclusion levels and address the effects of high fibre content in poultry diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives were to assess the use of olive leaves (OL) to replace wheat straw, the forage source, and the supplementation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC) on nutritional intake, growth performance, blood parameters, and carcass quality in lambs. A total of twenty-one newly weaned Awassi lambs, weighing an average of 19 ± 0.6 kg, were randomly distributed to three groups. These three diets were: CON: 0% OL control diet; OL diet of 25%; and OL plus 0.4 g SC/head/d (OLSC) diet of 25% of dietary dry matter (DM). The first seven days were devoted to adaptation and the next sixty days were devoted to gathering data. Daily records of nutrient intake were made. On the 49th day of data collection, four animals were randomly selected from each group and kept in individual metabolism cages (1.0 × 0.8 m) with slatted mash for eight days (four days for data collection and four days for cage adaptation) to evaluate N balance and nutrient digestibility. All lambs were slaughtered after the study to assess the quality of the meat and the carcass features. No difference in DM consumption (P > 0.05) between the treatment groups. When OL-containing diets were compared to the CON diet, the consumption of acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) was lower (P ≤ 0.0002), whereas metabolizable energy and ether extract were higher (P < 0.0001). While the OL diet was intermediate, the final BW, total gain, and average daily gain for the OLSC diet tended to be higher (P < 0.087) than the CON diet. Lambs fed the OL-containing diets had a lower (P = 0.0020) cost of growth ($US/kg) than lambs in the CON group. All other nutrient digestibilities were comparable between the treatment diets, except NDF digestibility, which was greater (P = 0.045) in the OLSC group than in the CON group. The N balance variables showed a similarity between the various diets (P > 0.05). Lambs fed the OLSC diet tended to have higher weights (P ≤ 0.098) for fasting live weight, hot carcass weight, carcass cuts weights, and cold carcass weight than lambs on the CON diet. The OLSC diet resulted in higher (P < 0.025) loin weight and intermuscular fat in comparison to the CON and OL diets. No difference (P ≥ 0.05) in the dissected tissues between diets. The longissimus dorsi muscle's dimensions and physicochemical characteristics did not alter (P > 0.05) across the treatment diets. In comparison to the CON and OL diets, the OLSC diet resulted in higher serum glucose levels (P = 0.044). Nonetheless, there were similarities (P ≥ 0.05) in various serum blood parameters between the treatment diets. In conclusion, using OL or/and supplemented SC is positively associated with nutrient intake, growth performance, some carcass parameters, and loin cut tissue, and the most effective aspect is decreasing production cost ($US/kg gain), which makes it a good solution to pass inflation feedstuff prices and cover animal needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of supplementing extruded and pelleted starter feeds on growth performance, rumen development, carcass characteristics, and sensorial meat quality of goat kids fed an all-milk protein replacer. Forty-five new-born French Alpine kids (21 males, 4.93 ± 0.58 kg; and 24 females, 4.40 ± 0.60 kg) were randomly assigned to three treatment diets, milk replacer-only (RO), milk replacer supplemented with extruded starter feed (RE), or milk replacer supplemented with pelleted starter feed (RP) in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement. After 35 days, the final weights, weight gain, body size measurements, organ weights, and hot and cold carcass weights were greater (p < 0.05) for goat kids in the RO group compared to those in the RE and RP groups. Milk replacer intake was reduced (p = 0.000) with starter supplementation, and intake of the extruded starter was higher (p = 0.001) than that of the pelleted starter. The rumen weight was greater (p = 0.019) in the RE group than in the RO group. Rumen pH was higher (p = 0.006) and acetic acid (p = 0.008) and total VFA (p = 0.012) concentrations were lower in the RO group than in the RE and RP groups. Mesenteric fat content was higher (p = 0.002) in the RO group than in the other groups. Meat odor of the RO group was preferred (p = 0.051) by the sensorial panel. Feeding an RO diet is beneficial for goat kids sold to restaurants. For replacement kids, an extruded starter feed may improve rumen development and facilitate adaptation to post-weaning dry feed consumption.

ABSTRACT: Hybridization is used extensively in commercial layer production. However, heterosis for carcass performance and meat quality of spent laying hens remains unclear, especially under the trend of extended laying cycles. In this study, indigenous Beijing-You chickens (Y) and elite White Leghorn layers (W) were selected to generate purebreds (WW and YY) and reciprocal crosses (WY and YW). Data on traits including carcass compositions, meat quality, and main nutrients for breast muscle were collected when chickens were fed to 100 wk of age. Results showed that body weight (BW) and dressed weight for WY and YW with positive heterosis were significantly higher than WW (P < 0.05). YW had the heaviest breast and thigh of 232.28 g and 278.48 g, respectively. The abdominal fat weight for WY and YW were greatly higher than that for WW (P > 0.05). The yields of carcass compositions, including the dressed yield, half eviscerated yield, eviscerated yield, breast yield and thigh yield, did not differ among the four genetic groups (P > 0.05), except for the yield of abdominal fat. The largest heterosis differences appeared in breast weight (12.26% in YW vs. −0.46% in WY) and abdominal fat yield (15.26% in YW vs. 24.55% in WY). Although BW for crossbreds were similar, the specific parts of the carcass between them were different. For meat quality, WY had negative heterosis (P < 0.05) with the lowest lightness and yellowness, whereas YW had the completely opposite trend. Neither pH1h nor pH24h values had differences among purebreds and reciprocal crossbreds (P > 0.05). The drip loss and cooking loss were 4.01%-4.77% and 15.59%-21.31% respectively among the four genetic groups. The main nutrients of breast, including moisture, crude protein, intramuscular fat and unsaturated fatty acid, did not differ for purebreds and crossbreds (P > 0.05), except for saturated fatty acid. In general, the crossbreds even at the later laying period still showed divergent heterosis on carcass performance and meat characteristics. In view of the heterosis, Beijing-You chickens can be used as the sire line in the crossbreeding to improve carcass compositions of spent hens.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the similarity of area (LTMAUS, cm2), depth (LTMDUS, cm) and width (LTMWUS, cm) of the longissimus thoracis muscle and fat thickness (SFTUS) measured by ultrasound and ImageJ software. Ultrasound measurements were performed on 36 male sheep 24 h prior to slaughter and immediately measured using electronic callipers with a resolution of 0.1 cm. Images were stored on a flash drive, opened on a computer and measured using ImageJ (LTMDDIA, LTMWDIA, LTMADIA and SFTDIA). There were no differences between ultrasound and ImageJ measurements (P = 0.3610) for Hotelling's T2 test. Our results show that ImageJ software is a potential tool for in vivo measurement of longissimus thoracis parameters and fat thickness in hair sheep.

In order to cope with the limited supply of feed for global animal production, there is a pressing need to explore alternative feed resources. Orange pulp, a by-product of agriculture and industry, has shown potential to positively or neutrally impact pig productive performance when included in their diet. However, there is a lack of research on the effects of fermented navel orange pulp (FNOP) on pig growth and productive performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of FNOP as a dry matter substitute on pig's growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, meat nutritional value, and serum biochemical indicators. The experiment involved 128 finishing Tibetan pigs, divided into four feed treatment groups, with varying levels (0%, 5%, 10% and 15%) of FNOP replacing dry matter in the basal diet. The results indicate that substituting 5% to 15% FNOP had no adverse effects on pig growth performance. However, at a 15% substitution rate, there was a decrease in serum growth hormone and IGF-1 levels, along with an increase in the feed-to-gain ratio. A 10% FNOP replacement notably increased the loin-eye muscle area of pigs. Additionally, 5% and 10% FNOP substitutions reduced the drip loss of pork. The study also found that substituting 5% to 15% FNOP increased unsaturated fatty acids and umami nucleotide contents in pork and raised serum total protein and uric acid (nucleotide-metabolism-related product) levels. These findings suggest that moderate FNOP substitution might improve meat quality, nutritional value, and maintain growth and productive performance in Tibetan pigs by improving protein synthesis and nucleotide metabolism, while also reducing feed costs. The optimal substitution ratio identified was 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) are readily fermentable in the rumen and, are a critical factor while preparing protracted feed for higher animal performance. Four isocaloric and isonitrogenous complete feeds were prepared for this investigation to contain varying levels of nonstructural carbohydrates viz., 40.13 (NSC1), 45.21 (NSC2), 50.00 (NSC3) and 55.85 (NSC4) per cent, respectively. The four isocaloric and isonitrogenous complete feeds were tested in 32 Mecheri ram lambs (around three months of age) in a completely randomised block design (n = 8), and the lambs were fed their respective feed for six months. The study revealed that the increased NSC level in the complete diet increased the body weight and weight gain linearly (P < 0.05). The dietary NSC level affected the dry matter consumption in a quadratic manner (P < 0.05) and the lambs of the NSC4 group consumed significantly (P < 0.05) less DM compared to other dietary groups. The overall average feed conversion efficiency differed significantly (P < 0.05) among dietary groups. The correlation between dietary NSC level and faecal score was quadratic (r2 = 62.7, P < 0.05). The rumen pH, total nitrogen and NH3-N concentration were linearly decreased (P < 0.05) and the molar proportion of total short-chain fatty acids and propionic acid were increased (P < 0.05). The energy loss expressed as methane production was significantly (P < 0.01) lower for the high NSC diet-fed lambs. The lambs fed on a low NSC diet had significantly (P < 0.05) lower carcass weights, dressing percentage and loin eye area. The per cent share of rumen weight in the total fore stomach and the rumen papillae measurements length, width and surface area were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in high NSC diet-fed lambs. Increased levels of NSC in the diet increased (P < 0.05) fat deposition in the internal organs. The saturated fatty acids content in the meat was significantly (P < 0.05) lowered, whereas, the oleic acid and linoleic acid were increased (P < 0.05) as the NSC level increased in the diet. The study revealed that as the level of NSC increased in the complete diet there was a concomitant improvement in the final body weight, ADG and feed efficiency of post-weaned Mecheri lambs. It can therefore be recommended that the complete feed with 50 per cent NSC levels would be optimum to reap maximum returns from fattening Mecheri lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Simple Summary: Pigeons have been kept since ancient times. Currently, keeping pigeons for flight and meat is highly popular. The aim of this study was to compare carrier and King pigeons at the age of 12 months in terms of weight and carcass composition. In addition, due to the small number of available publications, a comparison was made between the pigeon breeds evaluated in terms of femur and tibia dimensions, egg weight and dimensions, parameters of shell and yolk colour, and physical characteristics of egg content. The results of the study indicate a significant effect of pigeon breeds on carcass, egg, and femur and tibia bone traits. In the past, studies have been conducted on the evaluation of meat traits of pigeons, but the knowledge obtained is incomplete and needs to be expanded. The purpose of this study was to obtain information on the weight and proportion of carcass elements, femur and tibia bone dimensions, and egg characteristics of meat of King breed and carrier pigeons. For this study, 16 carcasses of carrier pigeons and 16 carcasses of King pigeons were used, with 8 carcasses of males and 8 carcasses of females of each breed. Additionally, 20 eggs evaluated were from carrier pigeons and 20 eggs from King breed pigeons. The carcasses and eggs were obtained from birds that were 12 months old. The compared pigeon breeds differed (p < 0.05) significantly in terms of the weight of the eviscerated carcass with the neck; the content of neck, wings, pectoral and leg muscles in the carcass; as well as in terms of all specified dimensions of tibia and femur length and width. The origin of the pigeons had an effect (p < 0.05) on egg weight and dimensions, egg index, and the other studied egg traits, with the exception of eggshell weight and eggshell yellowness, yolk weight, yolk height, yolk diameter, and yolk index. So far, there have been no studies comparing carrier pigeons and King breed pigeons in terms of femur and tibia bone dimensions, morphological composition and egg dimensions, and egg content traits, which adds to the knowledge in this area and indicates the need for continuation in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to investigate the use of apple cider vinegar in animal nutrition as a potential growth promoter, as it has long been known to have health and digestive benefits. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of adding vinegar to the drinking water of fattening lambs on their carcass characteristics. Lambs were divided into 4 different groups (control (0), 5, 10, and 15 ml/L vinegar) in accordance with the experimental design, and it was planned to have 10 animals in each group. In the experiment, 40 Kıvırcık male lambs aged 2.5-3 months and with an average live weight between 23 and 25 kg were used as the animal material. The fattened lambs were housed in individual compartments during the 42-day treatment period, and they were fed individually. At the end of the fattening period, 6 animals from each group were slaughtered, and measurements of carcass characteristics were obtained. The differences among the final weights of the groups during the trial period were found to be not significant (p>0.05), and the values obtained at the end of the trial varied between 35.17 and 36.00 kg. Cold carcass weights were between 15.75 and 16.30. Similarly, no significant difference was found among the groups (p>0.05). It was concluded that adding apple cider vinegar by up to 15 ml/L to the drinking water of fattening lambs does not have a negative effect on carcass characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated chromium and quantitative and qualitative feed restriction as alternative nutritional strategies to ractopamine in finishing barrows. Fifty barrows, genetically similar, with an initial body weight of 99.0 ± 4.3 kg and a final body weight of 117.2 ± 5.8 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a randomized complete block design with five nutritional treatments (Control; Rac = 10ppm ractopamine; Chromium = 0,8mg chromium yeast; Quality = qualitative restriction, 7.5% less net energy in the diet; Quanti = 15% quantitative reduction in feed supply), with five replicates and two animals per replicate. Chromium supplementation and quantitative feed restriction reduced feed, lysine, net energy, and crude protein intakes (P < 0.05). Chromium, ractopamine, and quantitative restriction improved feed conversion (P < 0.05). Supplementation with chromium and ractopamine and feed restriction did not influence the carcass characteristics of the pigs (P < 0.05). Quantitative feed restriction and supplementation of 0.8mg of chromium yeast are presented as potential alternatives to ractopamine in the diet of finishing pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance, fermentation indices and meat quality of Sussex steers fed totally mixed rations that composed of graded inclusion levels of Napier grass (NP). Three experimental diets designated as diet 1 (0.0 g kg–1 NP: Control), diet 2 (300 g kg–1 NP grass) and diet 3 (600 g kg–1 NP) were formulated. Twenty-four male steers aged 8 months with an average body weight of 185.0 ± 30 kg were used. In a completely randomized design, the animals were allocated to the diets and fed for 120 days. Dietary NP inclusion reduced (P < 0.05) the animals’ average daily gain and increased the feed efficiency. The steers’ daily feed intake and final body weight decreased (P < 0.05) with a 600 g kg–1 inclusion level. The fermentation indices were not affected (P > 0.05) by the inclusion. While the inclusion reduced (P < 0.05) warm muscle temperature, it had no effect (P > 0.05) on carcass dressing percentage, warm and cold initial and ultimate pH. However, 600 g kg–1 inclusion level reduced (P > 0.05) warm and cold carcass weights. Meat physical attributes, moisture characteristics and tenderness were not affected (P > 0.05) by dietary treatments, except for the 7-days aged meat thaw loss, which increased at 600 g kg–1 inclusion level. Inclusion of 300 g kg–1 increased meat protein and fat, but dry and organic matter contents decreased with increasing inclusion levels. Dietary inclusion of NP grass up to 300 g kg–1 in steers’ diets improved feed intake, carcass traits and yielded meat high in protein and fat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study aimed to investigate the impact of different concentrations of aqueous suspension of bentonite nanoparticles (ASBN) on the productive performance of broiler chickens. The research was conducted at the University of Jordan poultry farm in Almuwaqar research station. A total of 240 Ross 308 broiler chickens were distributed among four treatments, with three replicates per treatment. Treatment T1 was the control, while T2, T3, and T4 received 1%, 2%, and 3% of ASBN, respectively. The study found that the use of ASBN at levels of 1%, 2%, and 3% significantly (p>0.05) improved the growth performance of broiler chickens. The lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in T2 (1% ASBN) on day 28, indicating better feed efficiency. However, carcass characteristics parameters, such as dressing and cut percentages, were not significantly influenced by ASBN treatment. Interestingly, T4 (3% ASBN) resulted in a higher weight of the breast compared to the other treatments. The study concluded that using ASBN at levels of 1%, 2%, and 3% can enhance the growth performance of broiler chickens without negative impacts on their carcass characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with maggot meal (MM) in growing rabbits’ diets on their performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics. In the 56 days feeding trials, sixty unsexed mixed breeds (New Zealand White x California) rabbits were allotted on a weight equalization basis into five dietary treatments where a standard corn-soybean meal based diet (0% of maggot meal) (MM0 diet) served as the while other diets had soybean meal replaced with MM at graded levels of 25, 50, 75 and 100% to give MM25, MM50, MM75, and MM100 diets respectively. Each treatment comprises of four replicates having three rabbits each (12 rabbits per treatment). Growth performance parameters were monitored and recorded weekly, carcass and organ weights evaluation was conducted on day 56. Nutrient digestibility commenced on the 56th day and lasted for 6 days. Feed and water were offered to the rabbits ad-libitum throughout the experimental period. All the performance parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by MM inclusion in the diet of rabbits. Rabbits fed MM100 diet had the highest (P < 0.05) final weight (FW), total weight gain (TWG), and the best feed conversion ratio (FCR). The feed cost reduced (P < 0.05) with inclusion of MM in rabbit’s diet. Feed cost per kg live weight (FC/LW) (1110.79 ₦/kg) and feed cost per kg weight gain (FC/WG) (1110.62 ₦/kg) was lowest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed MM100 diet. Crude protein digestibility (CPD) (74.05%) was highest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The feeding of MM75 and MM100 diets to rabbits resulted in increased (P < 0.05) dry matter digestibility (DMD) (68.22 and 69.34%), nitrogen free extract digestibility (NFED) (65.52 and 65.22%) and neutral detergent fibre digestibility (NDFD) (70.05 and 69.58%). The highest (P < 0.05) nitrogen retained (NR) (2.10 g/d) occurred in rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The dressing percentage (DP) (71.01%) increased (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed the MM100 diet. The weight of forelimbs (10.48 and 10.45%) and hind limbs (17.42 and 18.07%) were highest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed MM50 and MM100 diets respectively. Total gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and liver weight were highest (P < 0.05) for rabbits fed MM0 and MM100 diets respectively. It was concluded that MM can conveniently replace SBM in the diets of rabbits up to 100% for improved growth performance and increased nutrient digestibility. In addition, it can enhance DP and increase the carcass yield of rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We evaluated the effect of alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol (1α-OH-D3) and phytase supplementation on the performance, carcass characteristics, blood factors, and the expression of vitamin D receptors (VDR) and Calbindin 28k (CaBP-D28k) genes in broiler chickens. In the current experiment, 400 one-day-old male chicks of the Cobb 500 strain were allocated into a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 5 replicates (20 chicks per replicate). Experimental treatments were: 1- Control (no additional supplements), 2- Addition of 14 mg/kg DM 1α-OH-D3 to the diet, 3- Addition of 5 mg/kg phytase, and 4- Addition of 14 mg/kg 1α- OH-D3 + 5 mg/k phytase. Compared to the control diet, adding 1α-OH-D3 and phytase could significantly improve the feed conversion ratio and weight gain (p≤0.05). The combination also decreased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity relative to the control (p≤0.05) The relative expression of VDR and CaBP-D28k genes in the treatments that used 1α-OH-D3 and 1α-OH-D3 along with the phytase enzyme had a significant elevation compared to the control group (p

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of hydroponic barley fodder supplementation on growth performance, carcass yield and carcass quality of Cobb 500 broilers. An accustomed proper feeding and brooding have been given to the chicks for up to three weeks of age. After three weeks, 144 three-week-old birds were randomly assigned to four treatments and replicated three times with 12 chicks per replication in a completely randomized design. Treatments were arranged as follows; T1: Home formulated Broiler diet (control group), T2: Home formulated Broiler diet +3.5 % hydroponic barley fodder, T3: Home formulated Broiler diet +7 % hydroponic barley fodder, and T4: Home formulated Broiler diet +10.5 % hydroponic barley fodder. The proximate analysis revealed that, hydroponic barley fodder contained 15.63 % crude protein, 10.6 crude fiber, and 4.04 ether extract. Increasing the level of hydroponic barley fodder was associated with an improvement of both growth performance and weight of carcass components of Cobb 500 broilers. Higher average daily feed intake (112.72 g/bird), daily body weight gain (56.37 g/bird), total body weight gain (1579.39 g/4 weeks) were obtained from T4 (home formulated feed +10.5 % HBF). Similarly, higher feed conversion efficiency (1.99 g of feed/g of weight gain) was recorded in T4. Hydroponic barley fodder had no significant (P > 0.05) effect on the mortality rate and carcass quality of broiler chickens. Economically, the highest net return was obtained from birds fed on T4 (Home formulated Broiler diet +10.5 % hydroponic barley fodder). In conclusion, supplementing hydroponic barley fodder up to 10.5 % improves carcass characteristics and result higher net income compared to other treatments. The current study recommended that further investigation like inclusion and substitution trial should be conducted to determine whether hydroponic barley fodder can replace expensive poultry ration ingredients.

ABSTRACTS This study was carried out to investigate the effects of adding artichoke vinegar to the drinking water of broilers on their fattening performance and carcass characteristics. In the experiment, 204-day old broiler chickens were used, and the study was continued for 42 days. In the study, 4 different groups were formed, one of which was the control group, and the other 3 were different doses of vinegar (0.5%, 1.0 and 1.5). The experiment was carried out in 3 replications and 17 birds were included in each replication. During the fattening period, the live weight, feed consumption, vinegar water consumption and slaughter weight of the chickens were measured. After slaughter, characteristics such as hot carcass weight, hot carcass yield, internal organ weights and abdominal fat weights were determined. According to the results obtained, in the 0-6 weeks period, the daily average live weight gain, daily average feed intake, total feed intake, feed conversion ratio, average daily water intake and total water intake of the broilers were significantly higher than the values obtained in the treatments with vinegar (P

The objective of the study was to explore the effects of dietary incorporation of sprouted and germinated barley on the performance and carcass characteristics of cockerels. Barley grains were germinated for three days (sprouted) or for seven days (germinated), ground and subjected to chemical analyses. The levels of dietary inclusion (treatments) of sprouted barley were 5% (SA), 10% (SB) and 20% (SC) and germinated ones were 5% (GA), 10% (GB) and 20% (GC). The control diet contained 0% of processed barley (C). A total of 245 cockerels were allocated to the experimental treatments and each treatment was divided into five replicates with seven cockerels each. Growth performance parameters, relative weights of internal organs and dressing percentage were recorded. Breast meat quality was evaluated. The results showed that sprouting and germination increased protein and fibre content of barley (P < 0.01). The highest methionine value was reported with sprouted barley, while the lowest one was observed with raw barley (P < 0.01). Barley lysine and arginine levels increased with increasing period of germination (P < 0.01). Birds fed C, SA, SC and GA diets had the greatest weight gain and final body weight. Internal digestive organs and water holding capacity were not affected, but cooking loss and pH were affected significantly (P < 0.01) by dietary treatments. Thus, sprouted and germinated barley can be incorporated in the cockerels' diet up to 20 and 5%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to characterize native chickens of North Gujarat recently registered as "Aravali" breed of chicken for phenotypic and performance traits from field and farm levels. Observations were recorded as per the format of National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR). Data collected at farm level and from field level, by survey work were analyzed. The proportion of black breasted silver-red plumage colour was highest for male and the buff-brown plumage colour in females at both field and farm level. Plumage pattern in males and females was birchen and shafty, respectively. Pre-dominantly red ear lobe was observed in males and white ear lobe in females. Body weight of adult male and female field birds was 1990.56 g and 1618.05 g, respectively while at the end of 40th week, male and female body weight was found to be 2001.80 g and 1593.57 g, respectively on farm. Age at first egg was found to be 6.25 and 5.67 months at field and farm level, respectively. Annual egg production recorded was 72.36 at field level and 95.04 at farm level upto 56 weeks of age. Clutch size and clutch intervals were 18.11 and 92.03 days, respectively, at field level. Egg weight and shell thickness were higher and intensity of the yolk colour was lower at farm level as compared to field level. Dressing percentage was higher in males as compared to the females. Fertility and hatchability were higher at field level as compared to farm level for Aravali breed of chicken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Veterinarska Stanica is the property of Croatian Veterinary Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Simple Summary: Chicken meat has become increasingly popular as a protein source due to its favorable protein content and balanced amino acid profile. Advances in genetics and feeding practices have led to rapid growth in commercial broiler production to meet consumer demands. As consumer preferences shift toward healthier food options, there is a need to enhance meat production and quality in the poultry industry. Compounds with antioxidant properties, such as vitamin C (VC) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), have been tested due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown positive effects of both in growth performance and immune functions. While individual studies have explored the effects of vitamin C and ASA supplementation in broilers, few have investigated their combined effects under non-stressful conditions. This study aimed to fill this gap and revealed significant effects of ASA and VC combined supplementation, with improvements noted in growth performance, carcass composition and immune response and cecal coli count. However, creatine kinase levels increased with ASA and VC intake. These findings highlight the complex interactions between ASA and VC supplementation in broilers. Further investigation is warranted to explore optimal dosages and potential effects in non-stressful conditions. This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of ascorbic acid (VC) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) on broiler health and performance. A total of 200 Ross 308 male broilers were divided into five groups, each receiving different dietary combinations of ASA and VC (ASA: 50 or 100 mg/kg; VC: 200 or 400 mg/kg). The 42-day trial assessed parameters such as feed intake, average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), carcass characteristics, serum parameters, immune response and cecal microbial flora. The results indicate significant treatment effects on feed intake and growth performance, with a higher feed intake of ADG and FCR in treatment groups (p < 0.05). Serum lipid parameters were unaffected, but creatine kinase increased with ASA and VC intake (p < 0.05). Changes in sheep red blood cell titers and influenza antibodies were noted (p < 0.05). The combination of ASA and VC positively influenced carcass traits, reducing abdominal fat and altering the ratio of immune response organs to body weight (p < 0.05). Additionally, the cecal E. coli count decreased with treatment (p < 0.05). This study underscores the intricate interactions between ASA and VC supplementation, growth performance and carcass composition and immune response in broilers. Further research is warranted to explore dosage nuances and variations under specific stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive ingredients are secondary metabolites produced in plants and are usually extracted and used for different purposes such as rumen fermentation and product quality improvement in animal nutrition. One of the bioactive ingredients is tannin from quebracho trees which could be used in livestock nutrition. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of supplementing a finishing diet with 0.3% (w/w DM) of quebracho tannin extract on lipid oxidation in meat derived from bullocks. Sixteen crossbred bullocks (Bostaurus x Bosindicus, with 422.71 ± 6.70 kg initial weight) were randomly assigned to receive one of the two treatments during the last 40 days in the feedlot and steers were fed on the finishing diet (CTRL) or same diet added with 0.3% (DM basis) of tannin extract (TE). The bullocks were slaughtered, and after 24 h chilling (4 °C), the left half of the carcass was cross sectioned between 12 and 13th ribs, and carcass traits were measured. The samples of longissimus thoracis muscle were taken and chemical composition and fatty acid profile were measured while TBARS was evaluated during 12 display days. The results were analysed as completely randomized design and each bullock was used as an experimental unit. Feedlot performance and carcass characteristics of bullocks were not affected by tannins addition (P > 0.05). Saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, n-6, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids were also not affected by the tannin inclusion. Tannins decreased lipid oxidation at day 12 (P < 0.01) and did not affect (P > 0.05) other meat shelf life and chemical composition variables. Product of quebracho tannin extract had no effect on the feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, fatty acid profile of beef, pH, and colour of beef of intensively fattened bullocks. Notwithstanding, the results suggest that supplementing produced tannin extract at 0.3% of dietary DM could improve bovine meat shelf life by decreasing the longissimus thoracis thiobarbituric acid reactive substance kept during 12-day storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Simple Summary: For many years, alternative feeds have been employed in place of traditional feeds to lower the expense of feeding animals and to lessen the environmental damage if the feed is not disposed of. Growing black kids were fed olive cake at 0, 75, and 150 g/kg. The diets' chemical compositions were comparable. The cost of gain dropped when olive cake was used in the diets. This study investigated the dietary effect of incorporating different levels of olive cake (OC) on the metabolic responses, growth performance, and carcass characteristics of black goat male kids. Thirty kids (body weight = 17.3 ± 0.40 kg) were randomly distributed into one of three equally sized dietary groups: a control diet (CON), OC at 75 g/kg (OC75), and OC at 150 g/kg (OC150) of dietary dry matter (DM). The results revealed that the intake of DM, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was similar (p ≥ 0.11) among the three treatment groups. However, the OC150 group had the greatest (p < 0.0001) ether extract (EE) intake compared to the OC75 and CON groups. The growth measurements were similar (p ≥ 0.13) among the three groups. Feed efficiency was not affected by the inclusion of OC. In contrast to the CON diet, the cost of gain was, however, reduced (p = 0.004) in the OC diets. All three treatment groups' digestibility of DM, CP, and ADF was similar. However, when compared to the OC75 and CON groups, the digestibility of NDF was better (p < 0.05) in the OC150 group. The N intake did not differ among the three experimental groups. Nitrogen retained as g/d was higher (p = 0.04) in the OC150 and OC75 groups compared to the CON group, while retention as a percentage (g/100 g) was similar among the three groups. Except for intermuscular fat, total fat, leg fat depth, and tissue depth, the inclusion of OC did not result in any discernible treatment effects on the carcass and meat quality parameters. Only alanine aminotransferase enzyme activity was lower (p < 0.0001) in OC-treated groups compared to the CON group. In summary, incorporating OC at 75 g/kg and 150 g/kg levels into the diets of black goat kids had positive comparable effects on some parameters related to growth performance, carcass attributes, and meat quality. Importantly, utilizing olive cake led to cost savings in production and may serve as a viable alternative feed source in goat nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of non-conventional feeds in poultry farming can reduce production costs, mainly because of its low cost, availability and chemical composition. Thus, parboiled whole rice bran (PWRB) appears as a potential use in feeding quails. Two experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of the inclusion of PWRB in the diet of quails. In each experiment, a total of 288 seven-day-old European quails of both sexes, were distributed in a completely randomized design with six treatments and six replicates of eight quails each. The treatments consisted in the inclusion of PWRB in the proportions of 0; 5; 10; 15; 20 and 25% (first) and 0; 8; 16; 24; 32 and 40% (second). In the first experiment, a linear reduction in feed intake and weight gain was observed with the inclusion of PWRB above 5%, with no significant effect on feed conversion and carcass characteristics. However, there was no loss in the performance and carcass characteristics of quails fed with different levels of PWRB in comparison to the control group. In the second, it was observed that the inclusion of PWRB above 8% promoted a linear reduction in feed intake, weight gain and improvement in feed conversion, with no significant effect on carcass characteristics. However, quails fed 40% PWRB showed reduced intake and weight gain when compared to the control group. The use of PWRB provided an improvement in economic viability. Considering the effect on growth, PWRB can be used in the feeding of meat quails up to 32%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beef is an indispensable source of protein for humans. The production is increased in recent years with the effect of increasing population. Besides of beef cattle breeds, male calves of dairy breeding and combined productive animals are also been fattened. The aim of the study investigate the carcass yield and characteristics of the some beef cattles. In the study hot carcass weights, carcass characteristics and skin weights of 588 male Holstein, Brown-Swiss, Simmental and Montbeliarde cattle breeds raised in Amasya region were used. For this purpose, the hot carcass weight data was taken at the slaughterhouse shortly after dressing and the weights of mince, cubed meat, steak, tenderloin, ribeye at the chilled carcass and skin weights of the beef cattle raised by the members of the Amasya Cattle Breeders Association were investigated. Slaughtered animals were fed mainly concentrated feed with commercial fattening feed. The hot carcass weights of slaughtered animals in Holstein, Brown-Swiss, Simmental and Montbeliarde cattle breeds were 343.70±3.12 kg, 319.80±15.50 kg, 336.56±3.58 kg and 349.44±6.06 kg respectively. The hot carcass weights of the animals according to age of 13-15 months, 16-18 months, 19-21 months, 22-24 months and +24 months were 316.44±8.20, 337.44±3.18, 342.00±3.62, 339.98±5.48 and 370.35±9.11 kg respectively. While the effect of breed on hot carcass weight was insignificant (p>0.05), the effect of age was significant (p<0.05). The breed and age interaction were significant (p<0.05). The highest skin weight was determined in the Simmental breed, and the lowest in the Holstein breed. While the effect of breed on mince, cubed meat, steak, tenderloin fillet was insignificant (p>0.05) and it was significant on ribeye (p<0.05). However, while the effect of age on mince, cubed meat, steak, tenderloin was significant (p<0.05), it was not significant on ribeye (p>0.05). As a result of the study, it was evaluated that different breeds reached their target slaughter weights in different times, and that breeders determine the target slaughter time according to carcass yield rather than age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 56-day study was conducted to determine the haematological profile, serum parameters and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens fed with two varieties (white and yellow) of cassava grit based diets. A total of 240, day-old unsexed Arbor acre broiler chicks were assigned to eight dietary treatments in a 2 x 4 factorial arrangement using completely randomized design. Diets were formulated to include two varieties of cassava, TME 419 (white) and TMS 01 1368 (yellow) at four inclusion levels (0, 25, 50 and 75%). Each treatment consisted of 30 birds and three replicates of 10 birds each. The haematological and serum biochemical parameters were measured at the end of the starter (4th week) and finisher (8th week) phases, while the carcass characteristics were measured at the end of the finisher (8th week) phase. At the starter phase, the PCV (40.00%), RBC count (3.37 x 1012/L), total protein (5.07g/Dl), aspartate transaminase (76.00U/L) and thiocyanate (4.17μg/ml) were highest (P < 0.05) in birds fed 75% yellow cassava grits diet. At the finisher phase, birds fed 75% white cassava grit diet had the highest (P < 0.05) PCV (40.67%), Aspartate transaminase (63.67U/L) and thiocyanate (4.70μg/ml). The white blood cell counts reduced (P < 0.05) across treatments (13.77 - 11.27 x 109/L) and (14.00 - 10.83) x 109/L) as cassava grits inclusion increased in both phases respectively. The results of carcass characteristics showed that birds fed with diet containing yellow cassava grits had the highest breast meat (14.04%) while the least value (11.49%) was obtained with birds fed the control diet. In conclusion, the substitution of maize with yellow cassava grits up to 75% improved the haematology and serum biochemistry at the starter phase, however, the white or yellow cassava grits can be substituted for maize up to 75% at the finishing phase to improve the carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to determine the growth performance, carcass characteristics, haematological and histological indices of broiler finisher birds reared on varying levels of alum treated litter. A total of 300 mixed sex of broiler birds at 4 weeks of age were allotted to 4 treatments groups in a completely randomized design (CRD)with 5 replicates of 15 birds each. Treatment 1 served as the control, while treatments 2, 3 and 4 contained (200g, 400g, and 600g) of alum per 5kg liter respectively. Results showed that the body weight gain, ADWG, FCR, feed intake and ADFI values were higher (p<0.05) in favor of the treatment groups (T2, T3 and T4). Treatment groups had better (p<0.05) carcass and organ quality than the control group. In hematology results, it was only the values for WBC were significant (p<0.05) across the treatment and the value was highest (p<0.05) in control birds. Furthermore, histological indices determined were not significant (p>0.05). It was therefore, concluded that the treatment of broiler litter with alum up to 600g/5kg litter had no adverse effect on their performance and can be employed as a litter management protocols for improving performance in broiler production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a blend of essential oils from eucalyptus, citrus, bromohexene HCl, thymole and camphor on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, intestinal morphology, serum biochemistry, and immune response of broiler chickens. A total of 240 day-old chicks were divided into four groups, each with six replicates containing ten birds. The experiment was conducted under a completely randomized design (CRD). Different concentrations of the oil blend (0mL/kg, 0.15mL/kg, 0.30mL/kg and 0.45mL/kg) were added to the diet. The findings showed that, in comparison to the other groups, the birds that were given a blend of essential oils at concentrations of 0.30 and 0.45 mL/kg showed improved weight gain, feed efficiency, carcass yield, villus height, crypt depth, and greater immune response against Newcastle disease vaccination (p

Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) containing phytochemicals could be used to replace synthetic growth promoters to improve products quality in sustainable rabbit production. This study explores the supplementation of MOLM on carcass characteristics and meat quality of rabbits. A total of 64, 28 days-old male weaned New Zealand white rabbits (600 ± 8.58 g live weight) were randomly allocated to four diets in completely randomised design. The rabbits were reared on iso-energetics and isoproteic diets formulated by incorporating MOLM at 0, 5, 10, and 15% and were humanely slaughtered after 6 weeks. Heart weight increased linearly with MOLM levels (R2 = 0.50; p = 0.007) whereas slaughter (SLW), hot carcass (HCW), cold carcass (CCW), legs, head and kidneys weights were increased quadratically. Also, liver decreased quadratically (R2 = 0.41; p = 0.03) with MOLM levels. Fillet lightness (L*) (R2 = 0.21; p = 0.02), redness (a*) (R2 = 0.14; p = 0.04) and yellowness (b*) (R2 = 0.14; p=

The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of different levels of dietary protein during late pregnancy on the performance of Black Bengal does and their kids. Twelve does were divided into three groups, with four in each, and three diets, i.e., high protein (18% CP), medium protein (14% CP), and low protein (10% CP) were supplied for 50 days, commencing from 100 days post-coitum to parturition. During the first 100 days of pregnancy, uniform rations with similar ingredients were provided to fulfill the nutrient requirements depending on the live weight of does. All three diets were isocaloric (10.0 MJ/kg DM). Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA, and the significance of the difference among means was determined by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The main effects of diet and sex, as well as their interaction, were analyzed by two-way ANOVA by using the GLM procedure. The relative expression values of qPCR were calculated by using the 2−ΔΔCt analysis method. Live weight gain was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in high-protein-fed dams than other groups during the experimental period. The milk yield of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in high-protein-fed goats than in the low-protein group. The lactation length of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the high- and medium-protein-fed does than in the low-protein-fed does. The duration of post-partum anestrus of does was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the low-protein-fed dams than in the high-protein group. The birth weight of kids tended to be higher in the high-protein group but did not differ significantly among the treatment groups. In male kids, weaning weight, final weight, live weight gain, and average daily gain were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in female kids. Weaning weight was higher (p < 0.05) in kids of the high-protein-fed does than the low-protein group. Final weight and live weight gain were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of the high-protein-fed does than in the low-protein-fed group. On the other hand, average daily gain was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of the high- and medium-protein-fed does than the low-protein group. The average body length and wither height of kids at the 32nd week was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than those of the low-protein-fed group. The average heart girth of kids at the 32nd week was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than the medium- and low-protein groups. The survival rate of kids was higher in the medium- and high-protein-fed does than in low-protein group. Hot carcass weight and ether extract content of meat were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the high-protein group than in the other groups. The dressing percentage was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the kids of high-protein-fed does than low-protein-fed goats. The expression of the H-FABP gene was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in kids of high-protein-fed does than those of the medium- and low-protein groups. In conclusion, maternal dietary protein levels positively influences the production performance of Black Bengal does and their kids.

The development of technologies that promote environmental stewardship while maintaining or improving the efficiency of food animal production is essential to the sustainability of producing a food supply to meet the demands of a growing population. As such, Elanco (Greenfield, IN) pursued an environmental indication for a selective β-modulator (lubabegron; LUB). LUB was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be fed to feedlot cattle during the last 14 to 91 d of the feeding period for reductions in gas emissions/kg of unshrunk final BW and HCW. A 4 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used with the factors of dose (0.0, 1.38, 5.5, or 22.0 mg·kg-1 DM basis) and sex (steers or heifers). Three 91-d cycles were conducted (112 cattle/cycle) with each dose × sex combination being represented by a single cattle pen enclosure (CPE; 14 cattle/CPE) resulting in a total of 168 steers and 168 heifers (n = 6 replicates/dose). There were no interactions observed between dose and sex for any variable measured in the study (P ≥ 0.063). Five gases were evaluated for all pens based on CPE concentrations relative to ambient air: NH3, CH4, N2O, H2S, and CO2. Cumulative NH3 gas emissions were reduced by feeding cattle 5.5 and 22.0 mg·kg-1 LUB (P ≤ 0.023) and tended (P = 0.076) to be lower for the cattle fed 1.38 mg·kg-1 LUB compared with the negative controls (CON). The cumulative NH3 gas emission reductions of 960 to 1032 g, coupled with HCW increases (P ≤ 0.019) of 15 to 16 kg for all LUB doses vs. CON, led to reductions in NH3 gas emissions/kg HCW for all three LUB treatments (P ≤ 0.004). Similar to HCW, reductions in NH3 gas emissions/kg of unshrunk final BW were observed for all LUB doses (P ≤ 0.009) and were attributable to both decreases in NH3 gas emissions and numerical increases in BW. Dose had no effect on cumulative emissions or emissions standardized by BW or HCW for the other four gases (P ≥ 0.268). LUB is a novel tool to reduce emissions of NH3 gas per kilogram of unshrunk live BW and hot carcass weight.

Introduction: Early post-hatch feed and water deprivation, as happens practically, may negatively influence the growth performance and health of broiler chickens due to severe dehydration, suppressed mitotic activity of satellite cells, poorer gut health, and development as well as retarded yolk sac (YS) absorption. Decelerated YS absorption may be associated with a higher incidence of YS infection and lower transfer of maternal antibodies from the YS to the chick body. Royal Chick is a nutritious gel providing adequate quantities of water and essential nutrients for newly-hatched chicks. The product also contains probiotic organisms, prebiotic, yeast nucleotides, and natural anti-stress substances. Royal Chick is an innovative nutrient-enriched powder product that forms a jelly mass when mixed with water. As claimed by the manufacturer, the product prevents initial weight loss, alleviates oxidative stress, improves skeletal muscle growth, and stimulates the development of the digestive and immune systems of the newly hatched chicks. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of early feeding with Royal Chick on productive performance, carcass traits, immune system function, and jejunum morphometry of broiler chickens.Materials and Methods: A total of 420 d-old straight-run Ross 308 broiler chicks were used in a completely randomized design with 5 treatment groups and 6 replicates per each. A group of chicks were deprived of both feed and water for the first 24 h post-hatch and served as control (CON). In the second group, each bird was treated with HRCH gel in two separate 2 g dosages from which the first was given in the chick box and the second was administered immediately after placement in combination with the first meal of the starter diet (T1). In the third group, each bird was treated with a mixture of 2 g HRCH and 2 g starter feed in the chick box (T2). In the fourth group, each bird was treated with a single 2 g dose of HRCH in the chick box (T3). In the fifth group, each bird received a mixture of 2 g HRCH gel and 2 g starter feed immediately after placement (T4). All chicks were held in chick box up to 24 h post-hatch and then were transferred to the associated floor pens and reared for 42 days on standard starter (2 to 10 d of age), grower (11 to 24 d of age), and finisher (25 to 35 d of age) diets. On days 10, 24, and 35 birds of each pen were weighed together. Offered feed and refused feed were also weighed and mortality records were kept for each phase. Then weight gain (WG), feed intake (FI), and mortality-corrected feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated. On days 2 and 25, blood samples were taken from 2 birds per replicate to evaluate maternal immunity and humoral immune responses to vaccination against Newcastle disease virus (NDV), infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), and avian influenza virus (AI). The birds from which blood samples were taken on day 2 were killed at the same time to measure residual yolk sac weight. At the end of the experiment, 2 female birds per pen were weighed and decapitated to investigate carcass traits and to sample the mid jejunum for morphometric analysis.Results and Discussion: Birds in T1 and T2 groups tended to have lighter residual yolk sac than their control counterparts (P=0.076). During the starter phase, T2, T3, and T4 groups had significantly (P0.05). Birds in T2 and T3 groups produced the most pronounced antibody responses against IBV. The highest carcass yield was obtained in birds treated with a combination of HRCH and starter feed in the chick box (T2). The same birds also tended to have the highest breast yield (P=0.077).Conclusion: Administration of hydrated Royal Chick gel in chick box (with or without a starter diet) or immediately after placement (in combination with a starter diet) can bring beneficial effects on the health and productivity of broiler chickens. Further investigations are necessary to identify possible interactions of different EF regimens involving HNG with breeder age, deprivation duration, and pre-placement environmental conditions on subsequent performance and health status in broiler chickens.

A study was conducted to compare the production parameters among commercial Pekin ducks, the control population as well as meat line of Kuttanad ducks. Day-old male ducklings (n=60 each) of commercial Pekin duck, control population as well as meat line of Kuttanad duck selected for body weight over four generations were randomly allotted to five replicates of 12 birds each and were utilised for the study. The body weight, body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, livability and carcass characteristics were calculated for the study period of eight weeks. The results showed that there was significantly (p

Sheep and goats can efficiently convert low quality forage into high-quality meat which contains specific nutrients and quality traits. Carcass traits and quality attributes of sheep and goat meat depend upon several factors and one of most effective strategies amongst these is feeding regimens. In this review, the major aspects of feeding regimens affecting growth rate, carcass traits and quality attributes of sheep and goat meat are thoroughly discussed, with a particular focus on physical-chemical composition, flavor profile, and fatty acid (FA) profile. Grazing lambs and kids receiving concentrate or under stall-feeding systems had greater average daily gain and carcass yield compared with animals reared on pasture only. However, growth rate was higher in lambs/kids grazing on pastures of improved quality. Moreover, the meat of grazing lambs receiving concentrate had more intense flavor, intramuscular fat (IMF) content, and unhealthy FA composition, but comparable color, tenderness, juiciness, and protein content compared to that of lambs grazed on grass only. In contrast, meat of concentrate-fed lambs had more intense color, greater tenderness and juiciness, IMF and protein contents, and lower flavor linked to meat. Additionally, the meat of kids grazed on concentrate supplementation had higher color coordinates, tenderness, IMF content and unhealthy FA composition, whereas juiciness and flavor protein content were similar. In contrast, kids with concentrate supplementation had superior color coordinates, juiciness, IMF content and unhealthy FA composition, but lower tenderness and flavor intensity compared to pasture-grazed kids. Thus, indoor-finished or supplemented grazing sheep/goats had higher growth rate and carcass quality, higher IMF content and unhealthy FA composition compared to animals grazed on grass only. Finally, supplementation with concentrate increased flavor intensity in lamb meat, and improved color and tenderness in kid meat, whereas indoor-fed sheep/goats had improved color and juiciness as well as reduced flavor compared to pasture-grazed animals.

Abstract Background With the potential development of human pathogenic bacteria resistant to antibiotics, the use of antibiotics as growth promoter in poultry production was banned in different countries, and it has forced the poultry industry to consider ‘Biologically safer’ alternatives to antibiotics, among which the probiotics and microalgae can be mentioned. Objective Present study aimed to compare Spirulina platensis microalgae in combination with a native probiotic as an alternative to antibiotics. Methods 336 male broiler chicks were allotted into 7 treatments and 4 repetitions in a completely randomised design to evaluate chick's performance and immune response to different treatment based on indexes as feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, humoral immunity, carcass characteristics, thigh and breast pH, intestinal morphology and microbial population. European production efficiency coefficient was also reported. Results No significant difference was appeared in the pH of thigh and breast meat (p > 0.05). Supplementation of diets with SP0.3 revealed better villi height, villi length to crypt depth ratio and villi surface. With significant difference (p < 0.05), the highest and lowest colonies of Lactobacillus and E. coli were recorded for PR0.5SP0.3 treatments. Conclusions Supplementation of broilers diets either with probiotic prepared from the microorganism isolated of native birds (1 g/kg) or S. platensis (0.2 g/kg) alone and their combination (0.3 g/kg of S. platensis in combination with 0.5 g/kg of native probiotic) are promising and can be a good alternative to antibiotics, lead to progress of broiler's performance.

Objective Animal feed companies and researchers are currently embarking on quests for feed additives that could combat the pathogens while promoting growth as well as maintaining quality products. The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of onion extracts on growth performance, carcass quality, and bone morphometrics of broiler chickens. Methods A total number of 200 one-day-old unsexed Ross 308 broiler chicks were assigned to 5 treatment groups, replicated 4 times. Each replicate (pens) held 10 chickens in a completely randomized design. The experimental diets were then randomly allotted to the pens which act as experimental units. The isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets were formulated by including onion extracts at 0, 5, 10, 15, or 25 g/kg in a complete broiler diet. Feed intake, and body weight, were recorded then used to calculate feed conversion ratio. At the end of the experiment (42 days), four chickens from each pen were randomly selected for slaughter for carcass, bone morphology and sensory evaluation. Results Results showed that onion extract supplementation did not affect (p>0.05) growth performances and meat sensory evaluation. However, there was a significantly increased (p