Sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate supplements for broilers can cause poor performance at high temperatures

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Nutrition
• Animal Physiology

Background:

• High ambient temperatures (31°C) can negatively impact broiler performance.
• Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is sometimes used to manage acid-base balance in animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) supplementation in drinking water on broiler growth, feed intake, and survival at elevated temperatures.
• To compare the efficacy and toxicity of NaHCO3 with potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3).

Main Methods:

• Broiler chickens were supplemented with varying concentrations of NaHCO3 (2-10 g/l) in drinking water from 21 to 49 days of age at 31°C.
• Growth, feed intake, water intake, and mortality were monitored.
• Blood acid-base balance and plasma electrolyte concentrations were analyzed at high doses.
• Compared NaHCO3 with KHCO3 and evaluated oral vs. dietary administration.

Main Results:

• Supplementation of 2-8 g/l NaHCO3/l improved growth and feed intake after 35 and 42 days, respectively, with 2 g/l showing consistent benefits.
• High mortality (dehydration, nephrosis) occurred at 10 g/l NaHCO3, linked to severe acid-base and electrolyte disturbances.
• NaHCO3 supplementation via diet resulted in better feed conversion and growth than KHCO3.
• NaHCO3 was more toxic when administered in drinking water compared to the diet.

Conclusions:

• Sodium bicarbonate supplementation can enhance broiler performance at 31°C, but optimal dosage is critical to avoid toxicity.
• High concentrations of NaHCO3 in drinking water pose significant health risks due to dehydration and nephrosis.
• Dietary NaHCO3 appears safer and more effective than water supplementation for improving broiler feed conversion and growth.