Impact of feather and chicken hydrolysates on piglet nutrition: benefits, pathological risks and immunological implications

This study investigates the nutritional and immunological effects of feather hydrolysate (HFP) and chicken hydrolysate (HCP) as alternative protein sources in piglet diets. A total of 50 weaned piglets were fed diets incorporating varying inclusion levels of HFP (10% and 20%) or HCP (10% and 20%) to assess their impact on growth performance, oxidative stress, immune response, and intestinal health. Piglets were challenged with Escherichia coli to evaluate the diets' role in mitigating gut health disturbances. Results revealed that diets with 10% HFP or HCP enhanced intestinal morphology, improved villus height-to-crypt depth ratio, and supported immune parameters, such as increased secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels and antioxidant enzyme activity. However, diets with 20% HFP were associated with oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and compromised gut integrity, as indicated by elevated lipid peroxidation markers (TBARS) and sporadic occurrences of villus shortening in some animals. In contrast, 10% HFP inclusion protected against E. coli-induced intestinal damage and improved pathogen clearance without inducing significant inflammatory responses. This research highlights the potential of HFP and HCP as sustainable feed solutions for piglets, aligning with circular economy practices. However, high inclusion levels (20%) warrant caution due to adverse health effects, emphasizing the need for optimal dietary formulations for sustainable livestock production. The study advances knowledge on sustainable feed solutions, demonstrating how poultry by-products can enhance livestock productivity while promoting circular economy practices in agriculture. By enhancing resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impact, this research forms the foundation for innovative animal nutrition strategies, promoting sustainable and resilient livestock systems.