Oregano-based feed additive reduces Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis colonization in young broilers

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Microbiology
• Food Science

Background:

• Salmonella is a major bacterial foodborne pathogen frequently found in poultry.
• Controlling Salmonella Enteritidis in broiler chickens is crucial for food safety.
• Antibiotic alternatives are being explored to manage pathogen loads in poultry production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of an oregano-based feed additive as an alternative to antibiotics for reducing Salmonella Enteritidis in broilers.
• To determine the impact of oregano supplementation on Salmonella colonization and invasion in broiler chickens.

Main Methods:

• Broiler chicks were fed a basal diet, with one group receiving an oregano oil supplement (300 g/ton).
• Chicks were orally challenged with Salmonella Enteritidis at 7 days of age.
• Cecal content and liver samples were analyzed for Salmonella Enteritidis at 14 days post-challenge.

Main Results:

• Oregano supplementation significantly reduced Salmonella Enteritidis in cecal content (40% vs. 61% positive ceca).
• Salmonella Enteritidis levels in cecal content were significantly lower in the oregano-fed group (3.2 × 10^3 cfu/g vs. 3.5 × 10^5 cfu/g).
• Increased expression of immune-related genes (IL-1β, IL-18, CXCL8) in the cecal tonsil indicated an immunomodulatory effect.

Conclusions:

• An oregano-based feed additive effectively reduces Salmonella Enteritidis colonization in broiler ceca.
• Oregano supplementation demonstrates potential as a pre-harvest intervention strategy to mitigate foodborne pathogens in poultry.
• This natural additive may help improve food safety by reducing Salmonella burdens in broilers.