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Fumaric and sorbic acid as additives in broiler feed.
V Pirgozliev1, T C Murphy, B Owens
1The Queen's University of Belfast, Department of Agriculture of Northern Ireland, Belfast, Newforge Lane BT9 5PX, United Kingdom. vasil.pirgozliev@sac.ac.uk
Research in Veterinary Science
|September 4, 2007
Summary
Dietary organic acids like fumaric and sorbic acid improved nitrogen corrected apparent metabolisable energy (AME(N)) in broiler chickens. These acids also reduced gut bacteria and endogenous losses, suggesting a role in gastrointestinal function.
Area of Science:
- Animal Nutrition
- Poultry Science
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
Background:
- Organic acids are increasingly used in animal feed to improve gut health and nutrient utilization.
- Fumaric and sorbic acids are common organic acids with potential antimicrobial and metabolic effects.
- Understanding their impact on energy metabolism and endogenous losses is crucial for optimizing broiler diets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of dietary fumaric and sorbic acids on broiler performance.
- To determine the influence of these organic acids on nitrogen corrected apparent metabolisable energy (AME(N)) and nutrient digestibility.
- To evaluate the impact on endogenous losses and gut microbiota composition.
Main Methods:
- A feeding trial with 56 Ross broiler chickens (14-30 days of age) was conducted.
- Seven wheat-based diets were formulated, including a control and six diets supplemented with varying levels of fumaric or sorbic acids.
- Measurements included feed intake, weight gain, feed efficiency, AME(N), nutrient digestibility, ileal and cecal microbial counts, and endogenous losses (sialic acid).
Main Results:
- Organic acid supplementation increased AME(N) compared to the control diet.
- Birds fed organic acids exhibited lower feed intake but similar weight gain and feed efficiency.
- Supplemented diets reduced Lactic acid bacteria and Coliforms in the ileum and caeca.
- Endogenous losses were lower in birds fed organic acids, with a negative correlation between AME(N) and sialic acid excretion.
Conclusions:
- Dietary fumaric and sorbic acids enhance AME(N) in broiler chickens.
- Organic acids may improve gut health by reducing specific bacterial populations.
- A potential mechanism of action involves the reduction of gastrointestinal secretions, leading to lower endogenous losses.
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