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ABSTRACT: The purpose of the study was to compare young (6-wk-old) and spent (52-wk-old) Japanese quail in terms of body weight, carcass characteristics, and some meat quality traits. Whole carcasses were dissected, pectoral muscles and leg muscles were sampled for determination of basic chemical composition and L*a*b* color parameters, while m. pectoralis major was sampled for texture and microstructure traits. Age of quails had a significant effect on body weight, carcass weight, carcass yield, pectoral muscle, abdominal fat and skin with subcutaneous fat, and carcass remainders contents in eviscerated carcass. Spent quails had significantly higher intramuscular fat content in pectoral and leg muscles and protein content in breast muscle, and also lower content of water in breast and leg muscles than young quails. Slaughter age significantly affected lightness (L*) and redness (a*) of pectoral muscles, as well as texture traits (except for cohesiveness) and microstructure of m. pectoralis major, except for thickness of perimysium and endomysium. Regardless of age, quail sex had an effect on the carcass traits studied (except for leg muscle content), intramuscular fat content of pectoral and leg muscles, water content of leg muscles and yellowness of pectoral muscle. In addition, a significant effect of quail sex was found on cutting work, springiness, chewiness and marked microstructural characteristics, except for vertical fiber diameter. The interaction between age and sex was significant for most slaughter and microstructural characteristics and also WB-shear force of m. pectoralis major, and L*, b* pectoral muscles. Higher fatness of carcasses, higher intramuscular fat in meat, and poorer textural and microstructural characteristics of m. pectoralis major spent Japanese quail indicate poorer fulfillment of most consumers' requirements compared to carcasses and meat of young quails.

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.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of slaughter age and sex on the carcass characteristics, meat quality parameters, and leg bone dimensions of common pheasants. The study material consisted of 40 common pheasants, including 10 males and 10 females at 12 weeks of age and 10 males and 10 females at 15 weeks of age. The birds were kept on a farm in a semi-intensive system. The slaughter age had significant effects on the eviscerated carcass weight; the percentage of skin with subcutaneous fat; the wings percentage; electrical conductivity (EC24); the work required to cut the samples (cutting work); redness (a*); the intramuscular fat content in the breast meat; and the protein, intramuscular fat, water, and collagen contents in the leg meat. The sex of the pheasants had significant effects on the eviscerated carcass weight; the contents of leg muscles, skin with subcutaneous fat, and wings in the carcasses; and the electrical conductivity, thermal loss, lightness (L*), and redness (a*) of the breast muscles. It also significantly affected the protein and water contents of the pectoral and leg muscles, the intramuscular fat contents of the leg muscles, the texture traits of the pectoralis major muscle, and all femur and tibia bone dimensions. The results indicate a greater influence of sex compared to slaughter age on the pheasant traits studied. We confirmed the occurrence of a clearly marked sexual dimorphism in birds of this species. Both factors (slaughter age and gender) have significant effects on the nutritional and technological value of pheasant meat. The few studies on meat texture and the dimensions of pheasant leg bones indicate a need for continued research in this area in the future.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of enterococci isolated from domestic poultry, laying hens from ecological farm and broilers from commercial farms. Susceptibilities of isolated enterococci were tested using the disk diffusion method. All isolates showed some degree of multiple antibiotic resistances. The resistance to compound sulphonamides (91.891%), tetracycline (51.351%) and streptomycin (37.837%) was the most frequent. Of all isolates of Enterococcus strains 83.783% were susceptible to enrofloxacin. The susceptibility of isolates from broilers and laying hens from ecology farm to enrofloxacin were significantly higher (P

In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with sodium selenite (SS) or selenized yeast (SY) on body weight of laying hens was studied. The chickens of Shaver Starcross 288 hybrid were randomly divided at the day of hatching into 4 groups (n=12; in each). The birds were fed from Day 1 of life to 9 months of age with diets differing in amounts and/or forms of selenium. Control group received basal diet (BD) containing selenium naturally occurring in feeds (0.1 mg Se/kg of dry matter (DM)). First and second experimental group of chickens were fed with a same BD enriched with equivalent dose of Se 0.4 mg/kg DM in form of sodium selenite or selenized yeast, respectively. The feed for third experimental group of birds consisted of BD supplemented with selenized yeast to the final amount of selenium 1.0 mg/kg DM. The supplementation of selenium into the diet significantly influenced the laying hens body weight for a breeding period (P0.05). The results showed that the body weight may be positively influenced by supplementation of laying hens with selenium, especially in the form of Se-yeast.

In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with sodium selenite (SS) or selenized yeast (SY) on whole egg and egg shell quality of layers were studied. The chickens of Shaver Starcross 288 strain were randomly divided at the day of hatching into 4 groups (n=12; in each). The birds were fed from Day 1 of life to 9 months of age with diets differing in amounts and/or forms of selenium. Control group received basal diet (BD) containing selenium naturally occurring in feeds (0.1 mg Se/kg of dry matter (DM)). First and second experimental group of chickens were fed with a same BD enriched with equivalent dose of Se 0.4 mg/kg DM in form of sodium selenite or selenized yeast, respectively. The feed for third experimental group of birds consisted of BD supplemented with selenized yeast to the final amount of selenium 1.0 mg/kg DM. The egg weight was significantly higher in the groups with SY supplementation only. On the contrary the egg shell ratio was significantly lower in the groups with SY supplementation in both amounts. The width of egg was significantly increased in the groups with selenium supplementation in both forms. The value of egg shell strength was significantly decreased in group with SY in the highest amount 0.9 mg/kg DM The average egg shell thickness was the highest in the experimental group with Se-yeast in amount 0.9 mg/kg DM, however different was not significant compared with control group. The results showed that the most of selected parameters of egg quality appeared to be significantly influenced by selenium supplementation into laying hen’s basal diet.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of enterococci and coliform bacteria isolated from sheep and cows cheese from commercial farms. Susceptibilities of isolated enterococci and coliform bacteria were tested using the disk diffusion method. The bacteria were tested on antibiotics enrofloxacin, sulphonamides, tetracycline and streptomycin. All isolates of Enterococcus strains were resistant of all used antibiotics. The similar results were detected of coliform bacteria on tested antibiotics.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of incubation semen with heparin (25 000) in insemination dose on fertility rate of inseminated does, and on the number of all and liveborn young per litter. The experiment was realized in commercial farm. The farm was localized in areas of west Slovakia. The rabbit strain HYCOLE was used in experiment. Experimental does were inseminated with ID 0.5 cm3 with the concentrations of spermatzozoa from 40 to 50 x 10 -6 in cm3 . Experimental semen was incubated by heparin (0.06 microliter. per 1 inseminated dose) Control semen was incubated without heparin. In control part of experiment were used the same volume of ID, however without heparin. Incubation of semen dose with and without heparin was up to 1 hour. Rabbit does were inseminated after standard hormonal treatment. These studies demonstrate that heparin speed capacitation of rabbit sperm. The experimental group showed better result in conception rate (2.3 %), gravidity period and synchronisation of kindling.The number liveborn young rabbits per litter had statistically no significant (p > 0.05) effect. The data were evaluated by statistical method in statistic programme Microsoft Excel.

The aim of the work was to analyse of changes in external and internal characteristics of eggs of autochthonous chicken breed Oravka during laying cycle. A total of 350 eggs were collected to study for egg weight in g, egg shape index in %, shell thickness in mm, yolk, albumen and shell weight in g and their proportion in the egg mass, yolk index in % and Haugh units score in 26, 31, 36, 41, 46, 51 and 56 weeks of age (60 eggs for each age). The results showed that as the laying cycle of hens progressed, the egg weight and egg shape index were increased (P

The target of this work was verified effect of transport females in the car for advance state of receptivity in young females broiler rabbits. We used nulliparous females of broiler hybrid HYCOLE (age 4-5 months, weight 3.5-3.8 kg). Experiment was realized twice, initially in half of November (31 females), after that in half of February (32 females). Females were laid individually in boxes, after they were transported by car 1 hour (50 km). Before and after experiment we detected state of receptivity in females with coloration of vulva. The state of receptivity was determined from 1 for 4 colour of vulva. (1 – anaemic coloration of vulva, 2- pink, 3 – red, 4- violet). We detected positive state of transport, on the receptivity. In November before transport was average of receptivity 1.87, after transport 2.25. The state of receptivity will be improved in 12 females (38.71 %). Improve from 1 to 2 was detected in 4 females, from 2 to 3 in 8 females. Improved from 2 to 4, or from 3 to 4 wasn´t noticed in this group. The state of receptivity wasn´t changed in 19 females (61.29 %). In the state of receptivity 1 stayed 2 females, in the state 2 stayed 15 females, in the state 3 stayed 2 females and in the state 4 wasn´t any female. In February after the end of experiment, state of receptivity was improved with transport in the car from 2.19 to 2.65. The state of receptivity was improved in 13 females (40.63 %). Improve from 1 to 2 we detected in 1 female, from 2 to 3 we detected in 8 females, from 2 to 4 we detected in 2 females, from 3 to 4 in 2 females. In 19 females (59.38%) we don´t noticed change state of receptivity. In the state of receptivity 1 were 2 females, in 2 were 11 females, in 3 were 5 females, and in 4 was 1 female.

The aim of this experiment was to determine the influence of humic substances, garlic (Allium sativum L.), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) and walnut (Juglans regia) on growth performance and mortality of broiler chickens. A total of 60 Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into 3 groups (n=20). The control group of chickens was fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chickens in the first experimental group E1 were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances, 0.4% of garlic powder and 0.1% of wormwood. Chickens in the second experimental group E2 were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances, 0.4% of garlic powder and 0.1% of walnut. The body weight, feed intake, feed conversion and total mortality were recorded in 42 day of fattening. At the end of the experiment was average body weight significantly higher (P≤0.01) in the first experimental group compared to the control group (values in the order of the groups: 1801.04±166.25; 1928.26±226.37 and 1850.24 g±SD). The feed intake was in the control group 3.59 kg per chicken, in the first experimental group E1 3.58 kg per chicken and in the second experimental group E2 3.45 kg per chicken. Feed conversion was in control group 1.95 kg, in the first experimental group E1 1.87 kg and in the second experimental group E2 1.84 kg with no significant different (P≥0.05) compared to the control group. Total mortality in 42 day was positive affected in the second experimental group, but with no significant different (P≥0.05) compared to the control group.

The study was realised to investigate the effects of adding L-carnitine and probiotic on performance and carcass parameters of broiler chickens. Totally 240 one-day old broiler Ross 308 chickens randomly divided into four groups. Control group with basal diet without supplementation, experimental group 1 with probiotic in feed mixture in dose of 7.5 g/kg; experimental group 2 with L-carnitine in dose of 1ml/1.2 l in drinking water and experimental group 3 with probiotic in feed mixture in dose of 7.5 g/ kg + L-carnitine in drinking water in dose of 1 ml/1.2 l in drinking water. The results of this study indicated that supplementation with L-carnitine and probiotic statistically increased (p0.05) in feed consumption among groups in 42 days of age and broiler chickens receiving L-carnitine + probiotic had lowest mortality compared to the other groups. Furthermore, diet supplementation with L-carnitine and probiotic slightly increased (p>0.05) breast proportion of broiler chickens at the expense of a slight reduction (p>0.05) of thighs proportion in recognized statistically no significant differences (p>0.05). Further result showed statistically decreased weight of abdominal fat in broiler chickens with L-carnitine and probiotic and no significant effect in weight of giblets and carcass yield between control and other groups.

In this study the effect of humic substances, garlic (Allium sativum L.), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) and walnut (Juglans regia) on carcass parameters of broiler chickens were studied. Broiler chickens Ross 308 (n=60) were divided into 3 groups (n=20). The chickens of the control group were fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chickens in the first experimental group E1were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances, 0.4% of garlic powder and 0.1% of wormwood. Chickens in the second experimental group E2 were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances, 0.4% of garlic powder and 0.1% of walnut. The carcass weight, weight of heart, liver, gizzard, carcass yield and EPEF were evaluated. The carcass weight was in both experimental groups higher, but no statistically significant (P>0.05) in compare with the control group (values in the order of the groups: 1246.93±172.61; 1352.16±139.89 and 1308.30±166.17 g±SD). In the first experimental group E1 were weight of heart (12.15±2.29 g±SD) and weight of gizzard (41.58±7.44 g±SD) significantly higher (P≤0.05) compared to the control group (9.99 ±1.82; 33.62±5.03 g±SD).

The goal was to compare three different ways of weaning on growth and mortality of rabbits. Three groups were formed. In Group 1 were pups from their mothers weaned on day 42. They were removed from the cage of a mother and transferred to new cages. In group 2 it was the 35th day of the entire litter and the mother transferred to a new cage. On day 42, the mother removed. In group 3 was the mother of the litter collected on day 42 and the pups remain in the original cage. It was not used any medication. We watched individual weight at 42. 49. 56. and 63. day life rabbits. We also observed mortality and health. In Group 1, we recorded the lowest level of growth 42 day - 956.05 g; day 49 - 1172.83 g; day 56 - 1315.45 g; 63. day - 1505.21 g. In group 2, we recorded growth levels 42nd day - 959.02 g; 49 day -1212.23 g; day 56 - 1327.98 g; 63. day - 1520.39 g. In group 3, we recorded growth levels 42nd day - 958.02 g; 49 day -1212.62 g; day 56 - 1336.35 g; 63. day - 1525.86 g. In group 1 mortality rate reached 28.21%. In Group 2, the mortality reached 11.11%. In Group 3 the mortality reached 6.38%. The cause of death was alimentary disorders.

The aim of this study was the assessment of an influence of supplement of dietary herbal additive in combination with organic acids into feed mixture or drinking water of laying hens on performance parameters and egg quality. The Lohmann Brown Lite laying hens (n=30) were divided into 3 groups (n=10), and fed for 20 weeks ad libitum with complete feed mixtures (CFM). Hens in the control group received the complete feed mixture (CFM) and drank drinking water without any supplements. In the first experimental group hens received CFM without supplements but phytobiotics (bergamot oil (Citrus bergamia), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), pepper (Piper nigrum) in combination with the fumaric acid and citric acid at 60 mg per 1 liter of water were added to their drinking water. In the second experimental group was CFM enriched with humic acids in the concentration of 0.5%, and phytobiotcs with organic acids at the same dose as in the first experimental group were added to their drinking water. Monitored parameters: body weight (g), egg production (%), the weight of all produced eggs (g), egg albumen weight (g), egg albumen index, Haugh unit (HU), egg yolk weight (g), egg yolk index, egg yolk colour (°HLR), egg shell weight (g) and egg shell strength (N.cm-2). The results showed no significant differences between the both experimental groups and the control group in the parameter body weight of hens (P>0.05). The highest average body weight was found in the hens from the second experimental group (values in the order of groups: 1792.22±80.85; 1768.42±55.55; 1820.1±78.56 g±S.D.). We observed positive trend of increasing of egg production by adding of used supplements, especially in the second experimental group with the addition of humic acids, although with no statistically significant difference compared to the control group (P>0.05). The mean laying intensity in the order of groups: 90.42; 91.16; 91.56%. We observed statistically significant differences in the quality of egg albumen indicators (P≤0.05), specifically in the egg albumen index (the value in the order of groups: 84.02±16.04, 85.93±16.69, 87.44±18.41) and Haugh units (79.89±7.24, 80.58±7.62, 82.53±12.88 HU) in favour of the second experimental groups. Yolk index was not significantly higher in the second experimental group (P>0.05). In other parameters of yolk quality and eggshell quality, monitored values were comparable to those in the control group.

The Nitra rabbit is the Slovak breed characterised and typical for its high meat production performance and dressing percentage. The aim of the research was to analyse the Rabbit of Nitra in terms of its reproduction and production performance. All rabbits used for research were raised within a home environment (4 breeding sources). The research was focused on reproduction parameters (the number of live born pups, the number of weaned pups), growth parameters – growth performance (1st day, 21stday, 42nd day to 119th day), slaughter parameters (dressing percentage, the weight of individual parts of carcass body). The weight of live born pups of rabbits was 56.73 ± 1.07 g, weight on 21stday 308.05 ± 7.16 g, weight on 42nd day 1073.10 ± 30.04 g, 119th day 3288.25 ± 41.09 g. An average dressing performance was 62.47± 0.23 %, rangedfrom56 % to 66.02 %. An average weight of skin was 538.10 ± 7.79 g, weight of gastrointestinal tract was 497.05 ± 7.93 g, weight of intestines was 126.55 ± 2.89 g, weight of head was 167.35 ± 2.15 g, weight of back was 444.25 ± 10.50 g, weight of thorax was 396.60 ± 10.77 g, weight of shoulder blades was 232.75 ± 3.54 g and weight of thighs was 542.80 ± 12.21 g.

The aim of this study was to determinate the effect of the clove (Syzygium aromaticum) essential oil to the egg production parameters and egg quality of laying hens. A total of 40 Isa Brown laying hens were divided into 4 groups (n=10). The laying hens were fed 20 weeks ad libitum. The control group was fed with complete feed mixtures without additives. The first group of hens was fed a diet with complete feed mixtures with 0.3 ml.kg-1 of clove essential oil. The second group of hens was fed a diet with complete feed mixtures with 0.6 ml.kg-1 of clove oil and the third group of hens was fed a diet with complete feed mixtures with 1 ml.kg-1 of clove oil. Egg production, egg weight (g), specific egg weight, albumen weight (g), albumen index, Haugh Units (HU), yolk weight (g), yolk index, yolk colour (HLR) were studied. The results show that the addition of clove oil, especially in the group of laying hens with the addition of 1 mg.kg-1 clove oil had no significantly different (P>0.05) to the egg production (the order of the groups: 90.3; 91.8; 91.3; 92.6%). In egg weight were found no significant differences between groups. The addition of 1 ml.kg-1 clove oil had significant (P>0.05) influenced the albumen index and the addition of 0.6 ml.kg-1 and 1 mg.kg-1 clove oil had significant (P>0.05) influenced Haugh units. In the control group was found not significant (P>0.05) different in yolk weight compared with other groups. In the other parameters of egg quality (albumen weight, yolk index, yolk colour) with the addition of clove oil were found no significant differences between groups.

In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with different doses of green tea (Camelia sativa) on egg quality were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Lohmann Brown (n=30) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10) and fed for 16 weeks with diets with green tea powder supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture without any additives. The diets in the first and second treatment group were supplemented with 0.5% or 1.0% green tea powder. The egg weight (g), specific egg weight (g/cm3), egg yolk weight (g), egg yolk index, egg yolk color (°HLR), albumen weight (g), egg albumen index and Haugh units (HU) were evaluated. Results showed that the addition of green tea powder slightly decreased egg weight (P>0.05). Supplementation of the feed mixture with the green tea powder statistically significantly affected the albumen index in both groups compared to the control group (P

The aim of the study was to compare the growth performance of a commercial hybrid of rabbits Hycole in small stud (breed 1) with the growth performance of the commercial hybrid Hycole in factory farms (breed 2). In evaluated breed 1 the weight was at weaning 1029.18 g, in the breed 2 it was 1106.04 g. In 49th day in the breed 1 the weight was 1241.75 g and in the breed 2 the weight was 1288 g. At the age of 56 days the weight was in the breed 1 – 1458.19 g and in the breed 2 – 1519.93 g. In 63rd day we found out that the weight in the breed 1 was 1729.75 g and in the breed 2 it was 1781.10 g. At the age of 70 days we found out that the weight in the breed 1 was 2049.84 g and in the breed 2 it was 2122.56 g. In 77th day we found out that the weight in the breed 1 was 2322.14 g and in the breed 2 it was 2481.5 g. At the age of 84 days we found out that the weight of the rabbits in the breed 1 was 2602.89 g and in the breed 2 was the weight 2799.41 g. Average daily increases in a period of a fattening were 37.47 g in the breed 1 and 40.32 g in the breed 2. Average lifetime daily increases were 30.99 g in the breed 1 and 33.33 g in the breed 2.

The aim of this experiment was to determine the influence of humic substances or humic substances and thyme on carcass parameters of broiler chickens. A total of 60 Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into 3 groups (n=20). The control group of chickens was fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chickens in the first experimental group were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances. Chickens in the second experimental group were fed a diet containing 1.5% of humic substances and 0.5% of thyme. In 42 day of fattening, 5 male and 5 females with body weight similar to the mean were chosen from each group of chickens. The carcass weight (g), the breast and thigh percentages (%), edible weight (g) and carcass yield (%) were recorded. We found statistical significant increase (P0.05), was observed in both experimental groups in liver and gizzard weights. We recorded statistically non-significant differences (P>0.05) in carcass weight, carcass yield, breast a thigh percentage in the both experimental groups compared with control group.

The aim of this experiment was determine of antibiotic resistance profile of Escherichia coli isolated from rectal swabs of chicken and ram from two different conventional breeding from Slovakia. For the antibiotic susceptibility testing disk diffusion method was used. A tested bacterium, Escherichia coli was exposed against four antibiotics: amikacin, gentamycin, tetracycline and chloramphenicol. For the identification of this strain, we used Chromogenic coliform agar, Triple sugar iron agar and biochemical test (ENTEROtest 24). For genetic identification of Escherichia coli Step One Real Time PCR with using special primer was used. Was determined that antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli was not found. Was found susceptibility in all cases of Escherichia coli isolates. Antibiotic resistance is a biological danger. Bacteria, which we study, are considered to reservoirs of resistant genes and they are facultative and obligate pathogens. If these pathogen bacteria cause diseases those these diseases are difficult to treat. In this study, we determined that we have healthy farms in Slovakia too. In this farm antibiotic was not use and we do not determined any resistance to antibiotics, which we used in experiment.

In this experiment the effects of different housing systems on physical indicators of egg yolk and egg albumen quality of table eggs were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Lohmann Brown Lite were housed in two different housing systems, in enriched cage or on floor housing system. In both systems, the hens were kept under standard bioclimatic conditions. Eggs (n = 540) were collected from the first phase of the laying cycle, at monthly intervals, at the age of laying hens 30-42 weeks. Egg albumen weight (g), egg albumen percentage (%), egg albumen index, Haugh units (HU), egg yolk weight (g), egg yolk percentage (%), egg yolk index, egg yolk color (HLR) were evaluated. The results showed that in egg albumen quality indicators the differences in egg albumen weight (40.5 ± 4.3; 41.4 ± 3.5 mean ± SD) and egg albumen percentage (62.4 ± 3.9; 63.8 ± 6.1 mean ± SD) were significantly higher (P

A research was carried out to determine effect of probiotic and humic acids on external and internal egg quality parameters of Japanese quail housed in 3-floor cage technology. A total of 60 animals were divided into 3 groups. In the control group (n=20) birds fed on basal diet without any additive. Japanese quails in experimental group no. 1 (n=20) were received addition of probiotics preparation in a single dose of 1 g.kg-1 of feed mixture. In the experimental group no. 2 (n=20) received a preparation of humic acids in a single dose of 3 g.kg-1 of feed mixture. Feed mixture contained 11.7 MJ ME and 200.0 g crude protein. Feed and water were given ad libitum. We recorded statistically no significant differences (P>0.05) among groups in egg weight, egg shape index, eggshell weight, albumen weight, albumen percentage, albumen weight, Haugh units, yolk index and yolk colour. The yolk weight and yolk percentage were significantly lower (P≤0.05) in the group with the application of humic acids in feed mixture compared with the control group and the group with the addition of probiotics to feed. The parameters of eggshell quality (percentage, strength, thickness) were recorded significantly higher values (P≤0.05) in both experimental groups compared to the control.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary citric acid (CA) on the performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. A total of 240 one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chickens were randomly assigned to four groups (n=60) and reared for a period of 42 days. The drinking water of groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 was supplemented with 0%, 0.50%, 1% or 1.50% CA. At the age of 42 days, 10 birds from each group were slaughtered. The results indicated that birds with CA additions were heavier compared with control birds (P0.05) mortality of broiler chickens. We observed higher (P0.05) by dietary treatments. Significant reduction (P

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of various disinfectants on hatchability, egg weight loss and embryonic mortality of chickens. Eggs were incubated in medium hatchery Bios midi at standard hatching conditions. All eggs were incubated for 21 days. Five treatments, with 300 hatching eggs each, were evaluated: eggs not submitted to disinfection (negative control), formalin gas fumigation by mixing 40 ml formaldehyde of 40 % concentration and 20 g potassium permanganate on 1m3 room capacity (positive control), ozone concentration of 0.45 ppm for 12 hours, Aldekol DES 03 air aerosol dosing by 0.5 l of Aldekol DES 03 to 3 l of water and Virkon S in 1% solution. Hatchability of fertile eggs and embryonic mortality were significant not affected (P>0.05) by disinfectants, but there were significant lower (P0.05) egg weight loss throughout the first 18-days of incubation. The results obtained for hatching traits indicated that alternative disinfectants may be used as an alternative to formaldehyde fumigation for the disinfection of hatching eggs.

In this experiment the effects of different housing systems on physical indicators of egg yolk and egg albumen quality of table eggs were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Lohmann Brown Lite were housed in two different housing systems, in enriched cage or on floor housing system. In both systems, the hens were kept under standard bioclimatic conditions. Eggs (n = 1080) were collected from the first phase of the laying cycle, at monthly intervals, at the age of laying hens 30-42 weeks. Egg weight (g), egg specific weight (g.cm-3), egg shape index (%), eggshell weight (g), eggshell percentage (%), and average eggshell thickness (µm) were evaluated. In the indicators of the whole egg quality was statistically significantly higher (P

In this experiment the effects of supplementing of the diet for laying hens with sodium selenite (SS) or selenized yeast (SY) on the quality and content of some minerals of eggs were studied. Hy-Line Brown chickens were randomly divided on the day of hatching into 4 groups (12 birds per group). The birds were fed from day 1 of life till 9 months of age with diets differing in amounts and/or forms of selenium. The control group received a basal diet (BD) containing selenium naturally occurring in feeds (0.1 mg Se/kg of dry matter (DM)). The first and second experimental groups were fed by the same BD enriched with Se at a dose of 0.4 mg/kg DM from sodium selenite or selenized yeast, respectively. The feed for the third experimental group consisted of BD supplemented with selenized yeast to a final selenium content of 1.0 mg/kg DM. The results showed that supplementation of SY to the diet significantly affected egg weight and Haugh units. The Haugh units in both hybrids were higher in all experimental groups of hens fed with feed supplement of selenium in both forms, with significant differences only in the groups with addition of organic forms at both doses compared to the control group (84.52±3.87, 86.60±3.80, 87.21±4.10*, 86.93±3.56*, P0.05). Higher values were recorded in each of the four analyzes in the groups with the addition of selenium in the form of selenized yeast. Analyzing after three weeks of storage showed an obvious decrease of Haugh units in relation to the decreasing quality of the internal contents of eggs (75.39±3.07, 76.15±2.97, 78.77±4.32, 78.24± 4.84, P>0.05) but still retained a tendency to higher values in groups with the addition of selenium, especially organic form.

The effects of the diet for laying hens supplemented with probiotic product with an organic form of selenium on body weight, egg production, feeed consumption and feed conversion were studied in this experiment. Isa Brown hens (n=90) were randomly divided at the age of 17 weeks into three groups (30 birds per group). Hens in all groups consumed the complete feed mixture ad libitum. In the control group water for drinking contained no additions. In the first experimental group probiotic product was added to the water, in the second experimental group the same probiotic prreparation enriched with O.8 to 1 mg of organic selenium per 1 g of the product was added to the water. The probiotic preparations were administered at the dose of 15 mg per 6 l of water daily, in both experimental groups. Experiment lasted 48 weeks. Hen´s body weight (g±SD) at the end of breeding period was within the groups as follows (in order Control–1st and 2nd experimental group): 1882.25±223.68, 1878.73±209.87 and 1860.15±190.90, P>0.05. Between the groups were recorded relatively balanced values in the consumption of food per feeding day, even in the experimental groups werelower feed consumption per eggs, as well as feed conversion recorded, no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) was achieved. Feed conversion was in the order of groups of 2.51, 2.33 and 2.24 kg. During the whole period, the number of eggs per hen was as follows: 274.36; 292.04 and 299.0 pieces. Average number of eggs per hen per month in the order of groups was 22.86±6.76; 24.33±5.93 and 24.91±6.21 pc (mean±SD). Higher egg production, but no statistically significant (P>0.05) was achieved in both experimental groups. The average laying intensity achieved values of 80.42, 81.15 and 83.30%, values of egg mass production per hen were 16.37, 18.14 and 17.61 kg. The results showed that addition of probiotic preparation and probiotic preparation enriched with organic selenium increased egg production and reduced consumption of feed per eggs, but statistically insignificantly. The other performance indicators showed no major influence of the addition compared with the results of the control group.

The aim of this study was follow the contamination of milk and meat products with Salmonella spp. by using the Step One real-time PCR. We used the PrepSEQ Rapid Spin Sample Preparation Kit for isolation of DNA and Power SYBR Green PCR Master Mix for pursuance the real-time PCR (Applied Biosystems). We were observing the presence of genes stn (Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium DT096), sef and pef (Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis SE7). We could detect strain of Salmonella spp. in the investigated samples without pre-enrichment and after pre-enrichment. Our results indicated that the Step One real-time PCR assay developed in this study could sensitively detect Salmonella spp. in food samples of animal origin (swabs). This Step One real-time PCR assay is extremely useful for any laboratory in possession of a real-time PCR. It is a fast, reproducible, simple, specific and sensitive way to detect nucleic acids, which could be used in clinical diagnostic tests in the future. Our results indicated that the Step One real-time PCR assay developed in this study could sensitively detect Salmonella spp. in ready to eat food. Thus, these results proved real-time PCR to be useful as a rapid diagnostic test for the direct detection of pathogens in food of animal origin, without the need of pre-enrichment steps.

In this experiment the effects of the diet for laying hens supplemented with probiotic product with an organic form of selenium on egg weight, albumen quality, yolk quality and egg shell quality were studied. Isa Brown hens (n=90) were randomly divided at the age of 17 weeks into three groups (30 birds per group). Hens in all groups consumed the complete feed mixture ad libitum. In the control group water for drinking contained no additions. In the first experimental group probiotic product was added to the water, in the second experimental group the same probiotic preparation enriched with 0.8 to 1 mg of organic selenium per 1 g of the product was added to the water. The probiotic preparations were administered at the dose of 15 mg per 6 l of water daily, in both experimental groups. Monitored physical parameters of eggs: egg weight (g), specific egg weight (g/cm3), albumen weight (g), albumen height (mm), albumen index, Haugh units (HJ), yolk weight (g), yolk index, yolk color (HLR), egg shell weight, egg shell specific weight (g/cm3), egg shell strength (N/cm2), the average eggshell thickness (µm). Experiment lasted 48 weeks. The results showed that egg weight was slightly higher in both experimental groups compared with the control group, differences between the groups were not statistically significant (p>0.05). The values in the order of groups: 60.97±4.97, 61.18±5:00; 61.75±5.89 (g±SD). Was found insignificant impact of the add probiotic preparation and probiotic preparation enriched with selenium on the quality parameters of table eggs. Yolk index, albumen index, Haugh units and the average egg shell thickness were only slightly, statistically insignificant higher in the experimental groups (p>0.05).

Herbs, spices and their extracts (botanicals) have a wide range of activities. They may have a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal microflora of animals, performance and quality of animal products. In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with oregano essential oil and Rhus coriaria L. (sumac) seeds addition on body weight, feed consumption and egg production were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Hy-Line Brown (N=30) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10) and fed for 20 weeks with basal diet (BD) with oregano essential oil and Rhus coriaria L. supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture with no additions. The diets in the first experimental group were supplemented with 1 ml/kg oregano essential oil. The feed for second experimental group of birds consisted of basal diet supplemented with seeds of Rhus coriaria L. of the dose at 1% of total feed mixture. Average body weight for the whole period was in the order of the groups 1791.2, 1803.9 and 1843.5 g (p>0.05). In the feed consumption per feeding day, per egg, or in the feed conversion were observed statistically non-significant differences compared to the control group (p>0.05). Number of eggs per hen during the reporting period was in order of the groups: 135.6, 138.5 and 136.9 pieces, at an average intensity of laying 90.4, 92.34 and 91.26%. The results suggest that the body weight, feed consumption, feed conversion, egg production, egg mass and egg weight were not significantly influenced with oregano oil or Rhus coriaria L. addition (p>0.05).

The objective of present study was to investigate the effect of feed additive on base of L-carnitine (30%) on some parameters of egg quality. Totally 40 White Leghorn laying hens were divided in two groups: control group (n=20) received drinking water without any additives and experimental group (n=20) received feed additive in dose 1 ml per 1.2 l of drinking water for a period of 5 days in 2 week intervals from 26 to 56 week of age. Hens in both groups were feeding ad libitum with commercial layer diet. A total of 200 eggs (100 eggs from both group) were collected to study for external and internal quality of eggs. Albumen index and Haugh unit were improved (p

The aim of this study was to investigate the microbiological quality of chicken’s thighs meat after application of Thymus serpyllum and Ocimum basilicum essential oils with combination of vacuum packaging and EDTA treatment. The microbiological quality of control samples without vacuum packaging, vacuum packed with and without EDTA treatment, vacuum packed and treated with EDTA and samples treated with the essential oils of basil and breckland thyme were followed for 16 days. Microbiological analyses were conducted with standard microbiological methods. For anaerobic plate count, PCA agar was inoculated and incubated for 2 days at 35°C anaerobically. Pseudomonas spp. count was determined on Pseudomonas Isolation agar after incubation at 48 h at 25°C. For lactic acid bacteria (LAB), MRS agar was inoculated and incubated for 48-78 h at 37°C microaerophilly. For Enterobacteriaceae, VRBG agar was inoculated and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Anaerobic plate count ranged from 2.89 log CFU/g in all tested group on 0 day to 5.19 log CFU/g on 16 day in control group stored in air. LAB count ranged from 3.01 log CFU/g in all tested group on 0 day to 4.08 log CFU/g on 16 day in control group stored in air. Enterobacteriacea counts were from 1.33 log CFU/g on 0 day to 5.11 on 16 day in control group stored in air. Pseudomonas spp. were found only in control group stored in air on 12 and 16 day. The results of the present study suggest the possibility of application of Thymus serpyllum and Ocimum basilicum essential oils as natural food preservatives and potential sources of antimicrobial ingredients for food industry.

The aim of this study was the assessment of an influence of dietary humic acids and dietary herbal additive (clove (Syzygium aromaticum), lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) and black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) on carcass parameters of Ross 308 broiler chicken (n=60). Broiler chicken were divided into 3 treatments (n=20). The chicken of the control group were fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chicken in treatments T1 were fed a diet containing 1% of humic acid and drank a water containing 150 mg/l of dietary herbal additive, chicken in treatments T2 were fed with complete feed mixture without any additives and drank a water containing 150 mg/l of herbal additive. The carcass weight, weight of heart, liver, gizzard and neck without skin and carcass yield were evaluated. The carcass weight was in the treatment T2 statistically significantly higher (P≤0.05) in compare with control group (values in the order of the groups: 1293.1±179.0; 1429.3±156.1 and 1531.6±282.3 g±SD). In the treatment T1 was weight of gizzard (43.7±7.5 g±SD) significantly higher (P≤0.05) compared to control group (34.9±5.2 g±SD). In the treatment T2 was weight of liver (72.8±11.4 g±SD) significantly higher (P≤0.05) compared to control group (49.3±10.3 g±SD). In indicators weight of heart, weight of neck without skin and carcass yield were recorded nonsignificant different (P≥0.05) compared to the control group.

In this study the effect of humic acids and dietary herbal additive (clove (Syzygium aromaticum), lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) and black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) on production parameters of broiler chicken were studied. A total of 60 Ross 308 broiler chicken were divided into 3 treatments (n=20). The control group of chickens was fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chicken in treatment T1 were fed a diet containing 1% of humic acid and drank a water containing 150 mg/l of herbal additive. Chicken in treatment T2 were fed with complete feed mixture without any additives and drank a water containing 150 mg/l of herbal additive. The body weight, feed intake and feed conversion were evaluated. The results shout that the body weight was significantly higher (P≤0.05) in treatments groups compared to the control group (the order of the groups: 1796.4±188.1; 2052.9±197.9 and 2140.4±300.4, g±SD). The feed intake was in the control group 3.11 kg, in the treatment T1 3.00 kg and in the treatment T2 3.12 kg. Feed conversion for the entire fattening period was in control group 2.19 kg/kg complete feed mixture, in the treatment T1 1.83 kg/kg complete feed mixture and in the treatment T2 1.84 kg/kg complete feed mixture with no significant different (P≥0.05) compared to control group. In conclusion, supplement by humic acid and herbal additive can improve production parameters of broiler chicken.

The aim of the experiment was to determine the influence of probiotic preparation on productive parameters and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. Totally 60 one-day-old chickens of Ross 308 were divided in two groups: control group (n=30) received drinking water without any additives and experimental group (n=30) received probiotic preparation in dose 2 ml per 1 l of drinking water from day 1 to day 42 of fattening. The probiotic preparation contained the strains of Lactobacillus casei CCM 3775 (3.86x106 CFU.g-1), Lactobacillus plantarum 24001 (3.86x106 CFU.g-1) and Saccharomycces cerevisiae MUCL 39885 (7.00x103 CFU.g-1). Broiler chickens were feeding ad libitum with commercial feed mixtures. Individual body weights of all birds, feed conversion ratio per group were determined in 21 and 42 day, total mortality rate we recorded in 42 day of fattening period. Carcass quality of broiler chickens was determined at the end of the experiment. The supplementation of probiotic affected positively body weight (p

An experiment was conducted in order to evaluate the effects of beta glucan on selected breeding properties of broiler rabbits. The goal was to compare the results in two groups of animals, which were administered different beta glucan doses, during a period of time between weaning (day 42 after the birth) and day 84 after the birth. Control group K was administered per oral suspension of Sulfacox, preparation against coccidiosis. Experimental group E1 was served a per oral water suspension of beta glucan powder, in concentration 5 g/L for every 5 kg of body weight. Experimental group E2 was served a per oral water suspension of beta glucan powder, in concentration 10 g/L for every 5 kg of body weight. At day 84 after the birth, control group C average body weight was 2515.75g, compared to 2459.88g in group E1 and 2455.77g in group E2. Two mortalities were noted in control group C between day 49 and 63, compared to two mortalities in group E1 and one mortality in group E2 during the same period of time. In all cases, coccidiosis was the reason for mortalities. In all animals, no statistically significant differences in selected breeding properties were observed.

The aim of this work was to analyze the chosen production criteria of carrier pigeons. We observed the weight of the squabs on the 28th day and their weight before the slaughtering. The slaughtering was carried out before and after the young pigeons left the nest. We recorded the squabs´ growing intensity and weekly weight gain in the nest (1st – 35th day), live weight before the birds were slaughtered, the weight after the birds were slaughtered (defeathered and decapitated birds), the carcass weight (defeathered, decapitated and with internal organs retracted birds) and dressed weight (%). The pigeons’ average weight was 396. 85 g (min. 292. 00 g, max. 489.00 g) when they were 4 weeks old. The average pigeons’ weight recorded before leaving the nest and slaughtering was 427.42 g (min.335.00 g, max. 502.00 g). The average pigeons’ weight recorded before leaving the nest, but after the slaughtering (defeathered, decapitated birds after bleeding) was 369.46 g (min. 308.00 g, max. 441.00 g). The average pigeons’ weight recorded after leaving the nest, but before slaughtering was 482.88 g (min. 413.00 g, max. 560.00 g). The average pigeons’ weight recorded after leaving the nest and slaughtering (defeathered, decapitated birds after bleeding) was 407.75 g (min. 321.00 g, max. 503.00 g). The average weigh on hatch day was 19.63 g (min. 18.00 g, max. 20.00 g). After 7 days, the pigeons‘average weight was 101.38 g (min. 89.00 g, max. 104.00 g). The average weight of 14 days old pigeons was 213.38 g (min. 163.00 g, max. 261.00 g). The average weight of 21 days old pigeons was 295.63 g (min.234.00 g, max. 347.00 g) and the average weight of 28 days old pigeons was 358.13 g (min. 292.00 g, max. 412.00 g). The last weighting was recorded on the 35th day and the average pigeons ‘weight was 397.13 g (min. 350.00 g a max. 426.00 g). Before the pigeons left the nest the carcass weight was 275.42 g (min. 182.00 g, max. 335.00 g). After the pigeons left the nest the carcass weight was 316.56 g, (min. 260.00 g, max. 359.00 g). Before leaving the nest pigeons’ dressed weight presented 64.09 %, (min. 54.33 %, max. 70.40 %) of the observed criterion and after leaving the nest pigeons’ dressed weight presented 65.51 %, (min. 54.87 %, max. 68.13 %) of the observed criterion.

The aim of our experiment was to evaluate the influence of probiotic preparation based on lactobacillus; probiotic preparation based on enterococci or humic acid on egg production and selected internal egg quality parameters of laying hens’ hybrid Lohman Brown Lite. For housing hens (n=60) three storey enriched battery cage was used in which hens were divided in groups (n=15). In the control group of hens complete feed mixtures without any additions were fed. In the first experimental group complete feed mixture was enriched with probiotic enterococci based preparation in a dose of 0.5 g x kg-1. In the second experimental group probiotic lactobacilli based preparation was added to the feed mixture at a dose of 0.5 g x kg-1. The third experimental group was enriched with 0.5% concentration of humic acid. All groups were fed ad libitum. Egg production and egg weight were recorded daily. Complete analysis of the table egg quality was used to evaluate quality parameters: yolk weight (g), yolk index, yolk colour (HLR), albumen weight (g), Haugh Units (HU), and albumen index). The results show that supplementation of feed mixture with both kind probiotics as well as humic acid increased egg production (p>0.05) (values of average intensity of laying in the order of the groups: 90.3; 92.0; 91.6 and 92.4%). The addition of probiotics or humic acid only slightly influenced egg weight (p>0.05). The addition of both kind of probiotics influenced non-significant positive albumen index (p>0.05). The supplement of probiotics on lactobacilli based statistically significantly increased Haugh Units (p£0.05). The supplement of humic acid statistically significantly increased albumen index and Haugh Units (p£0.05). The others qualitative parameters of egg internal content were with probiotics or humic acids addition insignificantly influenced (p>0.05). Doses of supplements used in this study did not significant negatively influenced monitored egg quality parameters. Based on these findings and the beneficial effects of substances on the poultry health confirmed by other authors we recommend use of these substances as supplements to the feed mixtures for laying hens.

The aim of our experiment was to evaluate the influence of propolis extract on internal egg quality parameters of laying hens’ hybrid Hy-Line Brown. For housing hens (n=40) three storey enriched battery cage was used in which hens were divided in groups (n=10). In the control group of hens complete feed mixtures without any additions were fed. In the first experimental group complete feed mixture was enriched with propolis extract in a dose of 0.1 g.kg-1. In the second experimental group propolis extract was added to the feed mixture at a dose of 0.25 g.kg-1. The third experimental group was enriched with propolis extract in a dose of 0.4 g.kg-1. All groups were fed ad libitum. Complete analysis of the table egg quality was used to evaluate quality parameters: egg weight (g), albumen weight (g), albumen index, Haugh Units (HU), yolk weight (g), yolk index, yolk colour (HLR). The results show that supplementation of feed mixture with propolis extract in a doses 0.25 g.kg-1 and 0.4 g.kg-1 significantly increased egg albumen index and Haugh Units (p£0.05) (values of Haugh Units of albumen in the order of the groups (mean±S.D): 79.87±7.23, 80.58±7.60, 82.11±8.36, and 81.66±9.16 HU). However, the addition of propolis extract in a same doses significantly decreased yolk weight (p£0.05). The values of the other eggs quality indicators were comparable with the control group (p>0.05).

Herbs, spices and their extracts (botanicals) have a wide range of activities. They may have a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal micro flora of animals, performance and quality of animal products. In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with different doses of thyme or oregano essential oil addition on body weight, feed consumption and egg production were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Hy-Line Brown (n=50) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10) and fed for 20 weeks with diets with thyme or oregano essential oil supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture with no additions. The diets in the first and second experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 ml/kg or 1.0 ml/kg thyme essential oil. The diets in the third and fourth experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 or 1.0 ml/kg oregano essential oil. Average body weight for the whole period was in the order of the groups 1791.2±80.83; 1809.0±66.88; 1742.6±65.43; 1819.1±78.54 and 1803.9±98.00 g (p>0.05). In the feed consumption per feeding day, per egg, or in the feed conversion were observed statistically non-significant differences compared to the control group (p>0.05). Number of eggs per hen during the reporting period was in order of the groups: 135.6; 140.7; 139.1; 137.3 and 138.5 pcs at an average intensity of laying 90.4; 93.80; 92.73; 91.53 and 92.33%. The results suggest that the body weight, feed consumption, feed conversion, egg production, egg mass and egg weight were not significantly influenced with thyme or oregano oil addition (p>0.05).

Herbs, spices and their extracts (botanicals) have a wide range of activities. It may have a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal micro flora of animals, performance and quality of animal products. In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with different doses of thyme or oregano essential oil addition on egg shell quality parameters were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Hy-Line Brown (n=50) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=10) and fed for 20 weeks with diets with thyme or oregano essential oil supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture with no additions. The diets in the first and second experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 ml/kg or 1.0 ml/kg thyme essential oil. The diets in the third and fourth experimental groups were supplemented with 0.5 ml/kg or 1.0 ml/kg oregano essential oil. The egg shell weight (g), specific egg shell weight (g/cm3), percentage of egg shell (%), egg shell strength (N/cm2) and egg shell thickness (mm) were evaluated. The egg shell weight for the whole period was in the order of the groups 5.70±0.52; 5.65±0.44; 5.54±0.42; 5.62±0.38 and 5.49±0.48 g±S.D (P>0.05). Egg shell strength during the reporting period was in order of the groups: 27.81±6.00; 27.63±6.43; 27.17±6.36; 27.76±6.27 and 28.41±6.36 (N/cm2±S.D). Similarly, in the egg shell specific weight (g/cm3), egg shell percentage ratio (%) and egg shell thickness (mm) were observed statistically non-significant differences compared to the control group (P>0.05). The results suggest that the qualitative parameters of egg shell were not significantly influenced with thyme or oregano oil addition (P>0.05).

In this experiment the effects of supplementation of the diet for laying hens with oregano essential oil and Rhus coriaria L. seeds addition on physical and microbiological egg parameters were studied. Hens of laying hybrid Hy-Line Brown (n=30) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=10) and fed for 20 weeks with diets with oregano essential oil and Rhus coriaria L.seeds supplemented. In the control group hens received feed mixture with no additions. The diets in the first experimental groups were supplemented with 1 ml/kg oregano essential oil. The feed for second experimental group of birds consisted of basal diet supplemented with Rhus coriaria L. seeds (1% in total feed mixture). The results suggest that the most of qualitative parameters of egg internal content and egg shell were not significantly influenced with oregano oil or Rhus coriaria L. seeds addition (p>0.05). A statistically significant difference in favour of the experimental groups compared with the control group was observed in two indicators of albumen quality, in the index of albumen and in the Haugh Units (p

The aim of the study was to compare P33 (Polish Pekin), P8 (Danish Pekin), and LsA (English Pekin) ducks after 2 reproductive seasons for carcass composition and some meat quality traits. A total of 48 duck carcasses (8 male carcasses and 8 female carcasses of each genotype) were studied. Whole carcasses were dissected, and pH and electrical conductivity of the breast and leg muscles were determined 24 h postmortem. After dissection, breast and leg muscles were sampled to determine proximate composition, some minerals, and physicochemical properties. Breast muscles were also analyzed for textural characteristics, microstructural characteristics, and rheological properties. At 112 wk of age, genotype and sex were found to have no significant effect on carcass weight and percentage of carcass components. The genotype of the birds had a significant effect on the water and fat content in the pectoral and leg muscles, as well as protein and collagen in the leg muscles. The origin of the ducks had a significant impact on the magnesium content in pectoral muscles and Warner–Bratzler shear force pectoralis muscle major, as well as the electrical conductivity of the leg muscles. The differences in duck genotype had a significant effect on the sum of elastic moduli, fiber cross-sectional area, fiber perimeter, and vertical fiber diameter of pectoralis major muscle. Regardless of the genetic origin, breast muscles from 112-week-old males had a lower fat content, and male leg muscles contained more water and protein and less fat and collagen than the female muscles. The genotype by sex interaction was significant for the content of breast muscles, skin with subcutaneous fat, and neck percentage and for the water and fat content in breast and leg muscles.

The aim of the study was analysed the effect of humic acids separately and humic acids in combination with phytobiotic as garlic and oregano powder on amino acid (AA) profile of the most valuable parts of Ross 308 chicken. A total of 200 pcs Ross 308 broiler chickens of mixed sex were randomly divided into 4 groups (n=50): control group (C) without supplementation, experiment group E1 (2% humic acids), E2 (80% humic acids and 20% garlic powder) and E3 (90% humic acids and 10% oregano powder). Fattening period lasted for 42 days and all groups were kept under the same conditions. After slaughter, the AA profiles of breast and thigh samples were determined. In comparison with control group, 6 out of 10 AA was significantly affected (p ≤0.05) by used dietary supplementation - Met, Cys and His in thigh and Leu, Phe, His and Arg in breast muscle. AA composition of breast muscle was positively affected mainly by humic acids and 10% oregano powder supplementation (E3), while thigh muscle by humic acids and 20% garlic powder (E2). The highest obtained AA in breast muscle was Leu (2.02 g.100 g-1) in E3 group and thigh muscle His (1.15 g.100 g-1) in E2 group (p ≤0.05). In conclusion, humic acids and 10% oregano powder supplementation (E3) elicited to the best AA profile of chicken breast muscle but also the worst AA profile in thigh muscle so the effect of such a supplementation is disputable. On the other hand, humic acids and 20% garlic powder supplementation resulted into slight increase of AA in both breast and thigh muscle (E2).

Objective The study was aimed to compare carcass traits, physicochemical and textural properties of meat in two different genotypes of Pekin ducks with regard to sex effect. Methods The study involved 120 Pekin ducks: 30 males and 30 females of strain P33 (Polish native Pekin ducks) and 30 males and 30 females of Star 53 HY (commercial hybrid Pekin ducks). At 49 d of age, 48 birds (12 males and 12 females of each genotype) were selected for dissection. After the dissection, meat samples were collected to determine meat quality traits. Results The studied Pekin ducks of different genotype showed significant differences in body weight, carcass weight, dressing percentage, as well as percentages of breast muscles, skin with subcutaneous fat, abdominal fat, neck, and remainders of eviscerated carcass with neck. Duck genotype influenced the content of crude protein, crude fat, Na, K, P, Zn, pH24, electric conductivity (EC24), cooking loss, L*, a*, most textural traits of breast muscle, and also Na, Mg and Fe content, EC24, drip loss, cooking loss and L*, a*, and b* colour coordinates of leg muscles. Regardless of genetic origin, males exhibited higher BW, carcass weight and carcass neck percentage, as well as lower redness, hardness, chewiness and gumminess of breast muscle compared to females. The genotype×sex interaction was significant for the crude fat content and cooking loss of breast muscle, and for the yellowness of leg muscle. Conclusion Star 53 HY ducks are more suited for broiler production due to their higher body weight and dressing percentage. Their breast and leg meat are characterized by more beneficial chemical composition but has poorer sensory and textural properties compared to the meat of P33 ducks.

The aim of the present study was analysed and evaluated chemical parameters of chicken breast and thigh muscles after addition of humic acids and probiotic into diet for broiler chicken. A total of 200 pcs Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into 4 groups (n=50). The control group of chickens was fed with complete feed mixtures without any additives. Chickens in experiment groups were fed a diet containing: P1 (1% of humic acid), P2 (1% of humic acid and probiotic supplement Lactobacillus fermentum) and P3 were fed with complete feed mixture containing combination of starter feed mixture (1. - 21. day) with coccidiostaticum Diclazuril and growth feed mixture (21. - 35. day) containing Salinomycinum sodium. Besides, the groups were kept under the same conditions. Fattening period lasted for 42 days. Chicken meat was analyzed for content of water, crude protein, fat and cholesterol. Based on the results, we can state that the application of humic acids or the combination of Humac Natur with probiotic did not affect the chemical composition of the breast muscle. In the breast muscle, the protein content in the experimental group P3 with the coccidiostat (22.98 g.100 g-1) was reduced (p ≤0.05) compared to control group (23.42 g.100 g-1). In the case of thigh muscle was significantly higher content of fat and cholesterol (p ≤0.05) in chickens feeding with addition of Humac Natur (fat - 9.08 g.100g-1; cholesterol - 0.86 mg.100g-1) and similar results were recorded in experimental group with combination of Humac Natur and probiotic (fat - 9.15 g.100g-1; cholesterol - 0.86 mg.100g-1) compared to control group (fat - 7.15 g.100g-1; cholesterol - 0.70 mg.100g-1). From a general point of view, we can recommend the application of Humac Natur, respectively combination Humac Natur with probiotics in feeding of broiler chickens Ross 308.

The aim of study was to analyze the dietary effect of pumpkin and flaxseed oils on mineral composition of egg mass and blood parameters of laying hens. At 38 weeks of age, Lohmann Brown Lite hens were housed in three-floor cages, divided into three dietary groups (C-control, E1-pumpkin oil (3%), E2-flaxseed oil (3%)). There were housed six hens in one cage. A total 18 hens were monitored. In the control group hens were fed with standard complete feed mixture for laying hens and in the experimental groups by feed mixtures with supplementation of pumpkin or flaxseed oils. Vitamin E was added into feed mixture in the experimental groups. The experiment lasted 52 days. Twelve eggs from each dietary treatment were randomly selected and analyzed. As regards the mineral composition of eggs, only concentrations of calcium after both oil supplementations and zinc after flaxseed oil supplementation in diet were significantly (P0.05) influence on enzymatic and protein profile.

In this study the effect of humic acids and humic acids and garlic powder (Allium sativum L.) combination on performance parameters and carcass characteristic of broiler chickens were studied. A total of 120 Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into 3 treatments (n=40). The control group of chickens was fed complete feed mixtures without any additives. Treatment T1 was fed complete feed mixtures containing 1% of humic acid. Treatment T2 was fed complete feed mixtures containing 1.8% of humic acid and 0.2% of garlic powder (Allium sativum L.). At the end of the experiment was average body weight (values in the order of the groups: 1796.4±188.1; 1999.1±355.8 and 1958.6±201.2 g±SD) significantly higher (P≤0.05) in both treatments groups compared to control group. In T1 was weight of gizzard (values in the order of the groups: 34.9±5.2; 43.1±9.4 and 38.9±7.0 g±SD) significantly higher (P≤0.05) compared to control group. Carcass weight, weight of heart weight of liver and carcass yield of treatments groups was higher, but differences in these indicators were not statistically significant (P≥0.05). The results of this experiment indicate that humic acids may by an alternative replacement of feed antibiotics.

Pigeons have been the subject of research in the past, but the knowledge gained is incomplete and must be extended. The aim of the study was to provide information about differences in carcass weight and measurements, carcass composition, proximate chemical composition, acidity, electrical conductivity, color attributes, the texture, rheological properties and microstructure of the meat, and some biometric characteristics of the digestive system in carrier and King pigeons, and also to determine if the two compared breeds meet the expectations of pigeon meat consumers to the same extent. The study involved 40 carcasses from carrier pigeons and King pigeons after three reproductive seasons. The chemical composition was determined by near-infrared transmission (NIT) spectroscopy, color coordinates according to CIELab, the texture according to Texture Profile Analysis (TPA) and Warner–Bratzler (WB) tests, and the rheological properties of meat according to the relaxation test. The compared pigeon groups differed significantly (p < 0.05) in carcass weight and measurements, carcass composition (except breast muscle percentage), chemical composition (except leg muscle collagen content) and electrical conductivity, lightness (L*), yellowness (b*), chroma (C*) and hue angle (h*), textural characteristics (except cohesiveness and Warner‒Bratzler shear force), rheological properties, microstructure of the pectoralis major muscle, as well as the total length of intestine and its segments, duodenal diameter, weight of proventriculus, gizzard, liver, heart, and spleen. The sex of the birds had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on the carcass weight, chest circumference, carcass neck percentage, breast muscle collagen content, and caeca length. The genotype by sex interaction was significant (p < 0.05) for fat content, collagen content, hardness, sum of elastic moduli and sum of viscous moduli of the pectoralis major muscle, protein and collagen content of leg muscles, duodenal and caecal length, jejunal and ileal diameter, and spleen weight. The obtained results show a significant effect of genetic origin and sex on the nutritive and technological value of the meat, and on the digestive system development of the pigeons.