Intestinal Effects of Brewers' Spent Grain Extract In Ovo (Gallus gallus)-A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Brewers' spent grain (BSG) is a byproduct of brewing with high fiber content, posing digestibility challenges for poultry.
• Optimizing BSG utilization in animal feed requires innovative approaches to harness its nutritional value.
• Broiler chickens have limited capacity to digest fibrous materials, necessitating alternative processing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of a water-soluble brewers' spent grain extract (BSGE) on broiler chicken development.
• To investigate the potential of in ovo administration of BSGE to enhance gastrointestinal tract development.
• To assess the impact of BSGE on the gut microbiota and nutrient transporter expression in broiler embryos.

Main Methods:

• Brewers' spent grain extract (BSGE) was prepared and administered intra-amniotically (in ovo) to broiler embryos.
• Duodenal development was assessed by measuring villus surface area and goblet cell characteristics.
• Cecal microbiota composition was analyzed, and the expression of zinc and iron transporters was quantified.

Main Results:

• In ovo BSGE administration significantly increased duodenal villus surface area and goblet cell size and quantity.
• BSGE altered the abundance of key bacteria in the cecum, including Escherichia coli and Clostridium species.
• No significant changes were observed in zinc and iron transporter expression or mineral distribution via synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

Conclusions:

• The water-soluble fraction of brewers' spent grain (BSGE) shows promise as a functional feed ingredient for poultry.
• Intra-amniotic administration of BSGE can promote early-life gut development in broiler chickens.
• Upcycling BSG into BSGE offers a sustainable approach to enhance poultry nutrition and reduce waste.