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Spray-Dried Plasma Promotes Broiler Chick Growth by Enhancing Immune Surveillance
Candice E C Blue1, Yasin Jababu1, Salam A Ibrahim2
1Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|May 13, 2023
Summary
Spray-dried plasma (SDP) supplementation improved broiler chick growth and immune response. The 30 g/kg SDP diet enhanced feed conversion ratio and increased IgY levels, indicating a stimulated immune system.
Area of Science:
- Animal Nutrition
- Immunology
- Poultry Science
Background:
- Spray-dried plasma (SDP) contains functional proteins with immunomodulatory properties.
- Broiler production necessitates strategies to enhance growth performance and immune function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of dietary spray-dried plasma (SDP) on the growth, immune status, and gut microbiota of broiler chicks.
- To determine the optimal inclusion level of SDP for broiler performance.
Main Methods:
- Day-old male broiler chicks were fed diets with varying levels of SDP (0, 10, 20, 30 g/kg) or a standard antibiotic.
- Growth performance (body weight, FCR), leukocyte counts, oxidative status, and IgY concentrations were assessed.
- Fecal bacterial populations were analyzed on day 23.
Main Results:
- The 30 g/kg SDP diet significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to other treatments.
- SDP supplementation increased circulating IgY concentrations and positively influenced gut Bifidobacteria populations.
- Heterophil counts decreased in chicks fed SDP or antibiotic diets.
Conclusions:
- Dietary SDP, particularly at 30 g/kg, enhances broiler growth performance by improving FCR.
- SDP stimulates immune surveillance, evidenced by increased IgY levels and a balanced oxidative state.
- SDP promotes a healthier gut environment by increasing beneficial Bifidobacteria, contributing to improved chick health.
