In today’s poultry industry, two factors play a decisive role in ensuring profitable, sustainable, and disease-free production:

Water Treatment and Biosecurity.
Together, they safeguard flock health, enhance performance, and reduce dependence on antibiotics.

1. Water Treatment in Poultry
Water is often called the “forgotten nutrient,” yet it is the most critical element in poultry production. Birds consume twice as much water as feed, and any compromise in water quality directly impacts growth, egg production, and immunity.

Key Challenges in Water Quality
– Microbial contamination: Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella spread through untreated water.
– Biofilm formation: Organic residues in pipelines harbor pathogens.
– Chemical impurities: High TDS, hardness, iron, or nitrates affect digestion and performance.
– pH imbalance: Acidic or alkaline water reduces feed intake. Water Treatment Practices
– Filtration to remove physical impurities.
– Acidification to maintain pH (5.5–6.5) and inhibit bacterial growth.
– Chlorination / Hydrogen Peroxide / Ozone for disinfection.
– Regular waterline flushing to prevent biofilm buildup.
– Monitoring TDS, hardness, and microbial load routinely.

2. Biosecurity in Poultry
Biosecurity means preventing disease entry and spread on the farm. With rising concerns about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and the push toward antibiotic-free production, biosecurity has become more important than ever.

Three Levels of Biosecurity
1. Conceptual Biosecurity – Farm location, distance from other poultry units, controlled entry points.
2. Structural Biosecurity – Physical barriers, fencing, bird-proof sheds, water sanitation system.
3. Operational Biosecurity – Day-to-day practices like disinfection, vaccination, and visitor control.

Practical Biosecurity Measures
– Restrict farm access (only authorized persons allowed).
– Provide footbaths, hand sanitizers, and farm clothing.
– Disinfect vehicles, crates, and equipment before entry.
– Implement rodent and wild bird control programs.
– Maintain strict mortality disposal methods (incineration/composting).
– Regular vaccination and health monitoring.
– Keep detailed farm records for traceability.

3. Water Treatment + Biosecurity = Sustainable Poultry
While water treatment ensures internal health and performance, biosecurity provides external protection from infections. Both are complementary and essential.
– Clean water reduces gut-related diseases like colibacillosis and diarrhoea.
– Biosecurity reduces the risk of respiratory and viral infections.
– Together, they help in antibiotic-free poultry production, improve FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio), enhance bird welfare, and boost farmer profitability.

Water Quality Monitoring & Water-Borne Diseases in Poultry

Diagram shows that, the source of water we need to check, Ph, TDS, COLOUR, BACTERIA & VIRAL LOAD. This water will go to overhead tank & from there it will distribute to different Poultry shed tanks & through pipe & nipple it will available for birds, here we need to monitor the quality of water.

Importance of Water Sanitation in Poultry Production
In modern poultry production, the use of feed additives such as water and feed acidifiers, toxin binders, probiotics, and antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) is a common recommendation by poultry nutritionists. Farmers are also increasingly incorporating low-cost protein sources like Rice DDGS, Maize DDGS, and Meat Meal (sometimes adulterated with leather powder) to reduce feed costs.

However, ignoring water sanitation remains one of the most critical mistakes in poultry farming. Even with balanced feed formulation and additives, if the water provided to the birds is contaminated, it results in:
• Loose droppings due to microbial contamination.
• Poor nutrient absorption – birds fail to utilize protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins in the diet.
• Increased incidence of diseases such as E. coli infections and Salpingitis.
• Weakened immunity and consequently poor production performance.

In contrast, a farm with proper water sanitation shows remarkable differences. For example, in one of my ideally managed farms, the birds consistently showed dry droppings (“DRY BEAT”), a clear indicator of good gut health and proper nutrient absorption. This success was achieved through:
• Regular water sanitation practices (disinfection, acidification, and monitoring).
• Ensuring feed hygiene along with the use of safe, food-grade raw materials.
• Strict biosecurity and management protocols.

Safe Water Treatment – A Farmer’s Responsibility

Many farmers currently use different chemicals such as chlorine gas, bleaching powder, and sodium hypochlorite for water treatment. They are not safe for poultry or humans. These compounds often leave harmful residues, alter water taste, reduce consumption, and may even add toxic by-products into the water. According to WHO guidelines, only food and pharmaceutical grade salt should be used for drinking water treatment — both for humans and poultry. The safest and globally recommended option is NaDCC (Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate), which ensures:
• Broad spectrum disinfection with very effective bacterial control
• Safe for poultry & human consumption
• No significant change in taste or odour
• Eco-friendly & easy handling
• Stable and longer shelf life compared to other chlorine sources

Using sub-standard chemicals not only compromises poultry performance (loose droppings, poor nutrient absorption, higher
disease load, chlorine toxicity) but also risks human food safety through residues in meat and eggs.
Key Impact: Farmers must understand that safe water treatment is not about the cheapest chemical, but about using WHO- recommended, food & pharma grade NaDCC for long-term health, productivity, and profitability.

Note: Why NaDCC (Food & Pharma Grade) is Always Better.

Among all the available chlorine-base compounds for water sanitation, Food & Pharma grade Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) is the safest and most effective choice.

• WHO Recommended – Approved for safe drinking water treatment globally.
• Broad Spectrum Effectiveness – Provides strong and stable disinfection (48 hours’ stability).
• Safe for Birds & Humans – No harmful residues, no significant change in taste or odor.
• Eco-Friendly – No toxic by-products or sludge formation.
• Long Shelf Life – Up to 3 years, with easy effervescent tablet formulation.
• Ease of Use – Simple handling, no heavy cylinders or high manpower required.
• Therefore, NaDCC (Food & Pharma Grade) is always better than chlorine gas, bleaching powder, sodium hypochlorite, or halozone for ensuring Zero-Bacteria Water in poultry Farms.

Conclusion
In poultry management, prevention is always better than cure. Poultry farming success is not just about what we feed the birds, but also about the quality of water they drink every single day. Feed can be fortified, sheds can be modernized, but without clean water and strict sanitation, the full genetic potential of the flock can never be realized. Water is the simplest yet most powerful tool to secure healthy birds, higher productivity, and long-term profitability. Water treatment and biosecurity are not costs but investments that return multiple benefits in productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

By: Dr. Priyanka Kamble, Senior Marketing Manager Huvepharma

Introduction

Newcastle Disease (ND), caused by Avian Paramyxovirus Type-1 (APMV-1), remains one of the most devastating viral infections affecting the poultry industry in India. With high mortality rates, reduced egg production, and severe economic losses, ND poses a constant threat to both small-scale poultry farmers and large commercial producers. Despite advancements in vaccination and biosecurity, the disease continues to challenge the sustainability of India’s poultry sector, which contributes significantly to the nation’s agricultural GDP.

Newcastle Disease: A Persistent Menace

Newcastle Disease is highly contagious, affecting chickens, turkeys, and other avian species. The virus spreads through direct contact, contaminated feed, water, equipment, and even airborne transmission. Clinical signs vary depending on the strain but commonly include:

• Respiratory distress (gasping, coughing, nasal discharge)
• Nervous signs (twisting of the neck, paralysis, tremors)
• Greenish diarrhoea
• Sudden drop in egg production (thin-shelled or shell-less eggs)
• High mortality (up to 100% in unvaccinated flocks)

In India, velogenic strains (highly virulent) are predominant, causing severe outbreaks that cripple poultry operations. (APMV-1 Velogenic NDV is responsible for Velogenic Viscerotropic ND (VVND) outbreaks in India).

Economic Impact on the Indian Poultry Industry

India is the third-largest egg producer and fifth-largest poultry meat producer globally, The poultry sector in India, valued at more than USD 28 billion in 2021-22, has been a vital component of the country’s agriculture and food processing industry. Newcastle Disease disrupts this growth through:

1. Direct Losses Due to Mortality & Culling

• Unvaccinated or poorly managed flocks face mortality rates of 80-100%, leading to massive financial losses.
• Government-mandated culling during outbreaks further exacerbates losses.

2. Reduced Egg & Meat Production

• Layers: A single ND outbreak can cause a 20–50% drop in egg productionand reduce egg quality, with recovery taking weeks.

• Broilers: Cause severe mortality. Infected birds suffer stunted growth, leading to lower market weights and downgrading at processing plants.

3. Increased Vaccination & Treatment Costs

• Farmers must invest in regular vaccination schedules (Live & Inactivated ND vaccines), adding to operational costs.
• Secondary bacterial infections (E. coli, Mycoplasma) increase antibiotic usage, raising concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

4. Trade Restrictions & Market Losses

• ND outbreaks lead to quarantine zones, restricting movement of poultry and products.
• Export markets (Middle East, Southeast Asia) impose bans on Indian poultry products during outbreaks, causing revenue losses.

5. Impact on Small & Marginal Farmers

• Over 70% of Indian poultry farmers are small-scale, lacking resources for strict biosecurity.
• A single ND outbreak can bankrupt small farmers, pushing them out of the industry.

Strategies to Combat Newcastle Disease

1. Strict Vaccination Protocols
2. Enhanced Biosecurity Measures

• Farm-level hygiene: Disinfection of footwear, vehicles, equipment.
• Restricted access: Prevent contact with wild birds & other farms.
• All-in-all-out systems: Reduce viral persistence in multi-age flocks.

3. Early Detection & Rapid Response

• Regular serological monitoring (HI tests for antibody titers).
• Rapid reporting of suspected cases to Veterinarians.

4. Proactive Measures for ND Outbreak Prevention

• Compulsory ND vaccination programs in high-risk zones.
• Farmer awareness campaigns on biosecurity best practices.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Newcastle Disease is not just a health issue—it’s an economic catastrophe for India’s poultry industry. With the sector growing at 8-10% annually, unchecked ND outbreaks disrupt livelihoods and threaten national food security.

The solution lies in:
 Proactive vaccination
 Robust biosecurity
 Farmer education
 Stronger policy enforcement

As veterinarians, researchers, and industry leaders, we must unite to safeguard Indian poultry from Newcastle Disease—ensuring sustainability for farmers and safe, affordable protein for millions.

What is Stress?
• Stress is a state of worry caused by a difficult situation, a natural response to address challenges & threats in life. Stress is a situation just opposite to Comfort
• Chicken has a limited amount of stored up resources to help adapt to unstable conditions, a challenge or a threat. As long as the challenges are within tolerable limits, chicken manages through its reserves, adjust to the situation & come out with little/no damage
• Stress is the situation when these challenges are more intense or greater numbers, resulting a serious chemical, physical & psychological changes in chicken with harmful consequence

Picture 1
Development stages of Stress in Chicken
– The 3 stages of Stress are ALARM, ADAPTATION & EXHAUSTION
– The first stage is Alarm, a short neurological stage. It is the ‘fright or flight’ reaction based on adrenalin release which triggers the release of glucose into the blood & helps the bird prepare to power to escape
– Adaption is next, where hormones are released to control the long-term effects of stress as they adjust to the new changes in their environment. There may be elevated cortisone levels in the blood, which arrange release of glucose from the body’s reserves of carbohydrates, proteins & fats to help the bird to adjust to the stressor. Diseases associated with long term stress, like diseases of heart, digestive system, metabolic imbalances and susceptibility to disease, are all attributed to high corticosteroid production in managing long term stress.
– The third stage, Exhaustion occurs when chicken does not recover from the stressor, its body reserves depleted, and the normal metabolic function fails with death of the bird.

Once chicken is exposed to stress, it results in immunological or metabolic consequences as below:
– Regression of immune organs/systems leads to Suppressed immune function & increased disease susceptibility
– Reduction of the oxidative metabolic capacity of mitochondria
– Deficit of antioxidant reserves
– Changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes

Types of Stress in Chicken
– Noticeable Stress
– Disease
– Environment; Heat Stress, Winter Chilling, High Speed Wind (Cyclone), Poor Ventilation
– Starvation or Drinking Water shortage
– Debeaking

– Non-Noticeable Stress
• High performance; rapid growth and peak egg production
• Overcrowding
• Mycotoxin
• Endotoxin
• Wet Litter
• Litter Ammonia
• Poor Quality Feed
• Change of Feed
• Handling
• Transportation
• Vaccination
• Transfer/Mixing/Isolation

Factors responsible for Stress in Chicken:
A. Physiological
1. High Body Weight Gain in Broiler
2. Egg Laying, especially Peak period in Layer & Breeder

B. Nutritional
1. Feed Starvation due to poor supply or inefficient feeding system
2. Drinking Water scarcity
3. Deficiency of Protein, Carbohydrate, fats, Minerals, & Vitamins.
4. Poor quality like Dusty, too Hard or too Big Particle size or old damage feed

C. Environmental
1. Heat Stress
2. Winter Chilling
3. High Humidity
4. Cyclonic Wind
5. Lightening
6. Splash of Rain water
7. Earthquake

D. Operational
1. Debeaking or Beak Trimming
2. House/Cage Transfer, Mixing & Isolation
3. Transportation from one farm to another (Chick to Grower and to Laying farm)
4. Vaccination
5. Handling for Insemination, medication & vaccination
6. Management issues like poor Space (overcrowding), Ventilation, Wet litter, Litter Ammonia
7. Change in Feed
8. Change of attendant

E. Pathological
1. Infections; bacterial, viral, fungal, protozoan, etc
2. Metabolic Disorder like gout, ascites, etc.
3. Endotoxins
4. Mycotoxins
Out of all above, the important & dreaded stresses are all Pathological stress like Infections, Mycotoxins, Endotoxins, Metabolic disorders and 2 environmental stresss, viz. Heat Stress & Cold Stress or Chilling. Please remember when one stress comes after another, then 1 + 1 is not 2 but become 11, means combined stresses are dreaded to chicken.

Heat Stress:
– Heat Stress is a situation when chicken faces difficulty in achieving balance between body heat production & body heat loss
– Chickens lack sweat glands to facilitate latent heat loss by evaporation (perspiration), and have limited un-feathered body surface areas for loss of sensible heat through conduction, radiation, & convection
– Genetics, Feather cover, Age, Body Weight, Egg Production stage & flock maintenance all affect a chicken’s heat tolerance
– Chickens are homeotherms & regulate their body Temperature across a wide range of external Temperature.
– But continuous high climate Temp overwhelm the thermoregulatory mechanisms, resulting imbalance between the amount of metabolic heat produced & their capacity to dissipate body heat in the environment

Picture 2

Picture 3

Physiological response of Chicken to elevated temperature and the Loss in Poultry?
– With Increase in Climate Temp, the Thermal gradient between the Body surface & the surrounding environment lessens with Dissipation of Heat decreasing, resulting Chicken suffering from environment-induced Hyperthermia.
– This increases Respiratory rate (Thermal Polypnea or Panting) to increase Latent Heat Loss via Evaporation of water from the Respiratory tract
– Dehydration is the most harmful effect of panting, which causes Respiratory Alkalosis, acid base imbalance leading to permanent physiological damages
– Alkalosis reduces blood ionized Calcium and ultimately Eggshell mineralization resulting Reduced Egg production, Pale Egg, Soft Shell Eggs, Thin Shell Egg, Increased Broken egg % in Layer & Breeder
– Panting causes Oxidative Stress leading to Immunosuppression, damage of Gut mucosa leading to poor digestion, Dysbacteriosis, Enteritis and increase incidence of secondary infections (Viral like LPAI & ND, Mycoplasma & Bacterial) because of immunosuppression & leaky gut situation.
– Heat Stress reduces feed consumption resulting Poor Body Weight gain in Broiler and reduced Egg production in layer & breeder.
– Heat Stress has Permanent damaging effect; damages the muscles affecting Meat Quality and Lowering Breast Muscle Yield
– Reduces Protein content of the muscles, reduction of muscle pH & Water Holding Capacity and ultimately affecting Juiciness of Chicken Meat
– Disturbs Lipid metabolism by affecting enzyme function in lipid breakdown causing Excess Fat deposition instead of converting to meat
– Heat Stress reduces Male fertility in breeder and affects hatchability severely.
– Heat Stress impact the Expression of Gene related to Growth, Production Performance & Resistance to disease
– Heat stress impairs chicken’s immune system, leading to a reduced response to vaccines, suppressing the production of antibodies and affecting the function of immune cells, particularly lymphocytes, due to the atrophy of immune organs like thymus under high temperatures; heat stress makes it harder for chicken to fight against infections after vaccination and increases their vulnerability to disease
– Heat stress lowers the level of circulating antibodies (IgM & IgG) produced after vaccination, resulting in a weaker immune response against pathogens
– High Temp cause atrophy of thymus, leading to decreased T-cell production and impaired cell-mediated immunity
– Heat stress increases release of corticosteroid and further suppress the immune system.
– Heat stress disrupts the function of immune cells; macrophages & lymphocytes, affecting their ability to recognize and fight pathogens.
– Heat stress damage the intestinal lining, allowing entry of harmful & resident microorganisms into the body system to produce infections.

How to reduce the effect of heat stress in Chicken?
– Poultry House Environment need to made near comfort zone in terms of Temperature, Humidity & Ventilation. Closed Environment Control poultry house is the perfect answer.
– Plantation of Tress on both side of each shed
– Farm construction near forest or under Coconut or Mango Garden
– Reduce Stocking Density in summer to provide more space & more ventilation
– In open house system action must be taken to REDUCE TEMPERATURE at Birds level through

I) Elevated Roof, higher centre height
ii) Coated Roofing materials
iii) Extended side roof overhang to prevent entry of direct Sunlight
iv) Thatching of Roof by Agricultural waste (Paddy & wheat straw, Jute stick, Mustard/seasame harvested dry plant) and Ceiling by Thermostat Aluminium foil
v) Constructing Side Pandals (Leaned Roof Over-hang 1 meter)
vi) Hanging of Gunny with Dipper on both side (2 layers is best)
vii) Ceiling fans in case of Broiler and Circulatory fans in Layer or breeder to improve ventilation
viii) Springler on Rooftop to cool the roof
ix) Fogger inside the shed to reduce inside temperature

Disease Stress:
– Dis ease (Not fine) or Disease is No 1 stress factor in chicken like all other living being. Even unnoticed infection cause stress to force chicken to sit without movement and stay away from feed & water.
– Stress due to Diseases is the most neglected chapter in poultry farming, especially the subclinical or asymptomatic diseases.
– Global Animal Productivity loss due to clinical & subclinical diseases is 20%. Hence, we need to understand the disease stress on chicken and must act to minimize the same.
– Every disease has some specific symptoms but there are some common manifestations to every disease as below:
1. Anorexia or off-feed
2. Dullness, lack of movement or inactive
3. Poor eye reflection
4. Huddling
5. Poor body Weight Growth and poor Egg production
6. Death

Picture 4

Picture 5

Disease Stress produces:
– Uneasy physical status beyond comfort level
– Many physiological changes in the body resulting different symptoms
– Loss of appetite, poor growth & poor production
– Direct or indirect Immunosuppression inviting many other diseases
– Death due to system failure or lack of food for long time anorexia

Mitigation of Disease:
– Practical & 100% Biosecurity to avoid disease entry in to the poultry area.
– Welfare of chicken with respect to space, ventilation, temperature, drinking water & nutrition
– Daily Health monitoring
– Monitoring of Bird’s activity & Feed Intake everyday
– Immediate identification of any deviation in health & production parameter
– Immediate diagnosis at farm & confirmatory from laboratory
– Immediate treatment or necessary action to protect the health & life of chicken

How to Recognize Stress in Chicken
– Vocalization: Chickens have alarm sounds to alert other chickens, like repetitive chirps or screaming.
– Loss of Appetite; poor feed consumption, eating little sometime & stay away from feed in almost all stresses including Heat or Cold stress and disease stress.
– Abnormal Posture: In Heat Stress Birds sits on its belly & breast touching the floor and wings spread apart to lose heat through conduction, convection & radiation. In case of Disease Stress, birds are usually inactive & huddle together near to corner or at areas of Sunlight in open shed.
– Abnormal Behavior: In Heat Stress, there will be too much Panting to lose body heat through evaporation. During disease stress, the birds remain inactive and lying with head down & beak inside litter. Deep breathing is seen in respiratory diseases.
– Water Intake: Heavy increase in case of Heat Stress but reduced in Cold stress and in most diseases.
– Repetitive Behavior: include packing, constant rocking back & forth, head swinging or toe-taping

Effect of Stress in Chicken
– Uneasy state of life, abnormal posture & abnormal activity
– Stressed chickens usually extremely anxious, pick feather & self-mutilate, may cause permanent damage of feather follicles and scar develop on their skin
– Reduced Feed intake & reduced water (except Heat Stress) intake
– Immuno-suppression leading to many diseases from already existing microorganism in the house environment or in the intestine as commensal
– Oxidative stress leading to damage of gut mucosa, poor digestion, dysbacteriosis and enteritis
– Panting & Dehydration
– Excess release of Stress hormone (corticosteroid) leading to further immunosuppression & loss of body condition
– Poor commercial performance like, poor body weight gain & high FCR in broiler and reduced egg production with poor egg shell quality in layer & breeder
– Mortality

Mitigation of Stress in Chicken
– Maintain clean, calm & disease-free poultry house environment
– Noise-free environment; chicken don’t like unusual circumstances
– Avoid environmental stress like winter chilling, summer heat stress, monsoon high humidity inside poultry house through modification of infrastructure & husbandry practice.
– Need conceptual, infrastructural & operational changes to avoid environmental stress with climate change induced global worming situation.
– Avoid compromised ventilation, especially during winter & rainy days in open system farming. Avoid poor ventilation during high humid monsoon & chilly winter months in EC shed especially with compromised structure
– Avoid overcrowding; welfare is most unattended issue creating stress in poultry
– Avoid litter ammonia, wet litter & dust in poultry house
– Follow SOP & behave gently while handling, transfer, mixing, transportation, vaccination and insemination.
– Implement 100% Biosecurity, arrange regular health monitoring & health management. Educate your team about importance of biosecurity in poultry.
– Making sure your flocks have access to safe drinking water and regular supply of recommended fresh nutritious feed during the whole production cycle.

Biosecurity Measures – The First Line of Defence Against Bird Flu

Dr. Sagrika Bhat1, Dr. Sundus Gazal2, Dr. Sabahat Gazal3and Dr. Anvesha Bhan4
1Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, 2,3,4Division of Veterinary Microbiology
and Immunology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu

Microscopic pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, pose significant threats to poultry health, with avian influenza being a major concern due to its high mortality, economic impact, and zoonotic potential. The disease is caused by Influenza A virus belonging to the family Orthomyxoviridae. Influenza A viruses are divided into subtypes based on two proteins on the surface of the virus: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). There are 18 different hemagglutinin subtypes and 11 different neuraminidase subtypes (H1 through H18 and N1 through N11, respectively). The highly pathogenic strains such as H5N1, H7N9, and H9N2 have been reported to cause severe disease. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated feed, water, and fomites, while wild migratory birds serve as natural reservoirs, enabling global transmission. Highly pathogenic avian influenza can lead to near-total flock mortality, significantly disrupting poultry production and trade. Additionally, zoonotic strains such as H5N1 and H7N9 can cause severe respiratory illness, pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and high fatality rates in humans, necessitating global surveillance by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO).

Poultry farms constantly face the risk of Avian influenza and other infectious diseases that persist in dust, droppings, and farm waste, making biosecurity a fundamental component of disease prevention. Biosecurity measures serve as the first line of defence, preventing pathogen entry and transmission through stringent hygiene, controlled farm access, and optimized housing conditions. Effective biosecurity minimizes outbreaks of avian influenza, Newcastle disease, duck plague, and bacterial infections such as fowl cholera and mycoplasmosis, which compromise poultry health, reduce productivity, and weaken consumer confidence.

Given the increasing incidence of avian influenza worldwide, including India, strengthening biosecurity is imperative to safeguard poultry health and public safety. Disease prevention strategies must integrate high-quality stock, proper housing, clean feed and water, regular disinfection, and restricted farm access. Additionally, modifying industry practices in poultry production, transport, and marketing is essential to curb disease spread. Veterinary authorities must continuously evaluate and refine biosecurity measures in high-risk areas while considering economic and social impacts. Several biosecurity measures have been implemented or require further revision in Asian countries, including India, to effectively control avian influenza and ensure sustainable poultry production. Above all, biosecurity must be a continuous effort rather than a reactive response to outbreaks.

A well-structured, proactive approach remains critical for preventing disease outbreaks, ensuring industry stability, and minimizing zoonotic risks.

Key Biosecurity Measures in the Poultry Industry
1. Marketing Systems: Live bird markets serve as critical points for avian influenza (AI) transmission due to continuous operation, overnight poultry retention, and the reintroduction of unsold birds to farms. These practices facilitate pathogen circulation. Implementing a mandatory market rest period of 24 hours in a week, accompanied by thorough cleaning and disinfection, is essential to mitigate viral persistence and spread.

2. Species Segregation: Domestic waterfowl and quail act as reservoirs for avian influenza viruses. Their cohabitation, transportation, and marketing alongside other poultry should be restricted to minimize interspecies transmission. Additionally, swine reared in proximity to infected poultry farms are found to be infected with HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) therefore should undergo systematic veterinary surveillance. In cases of confirmed avian influenza infection, culling of affected herds is recommended to prevent viral reassortment and potential zoonotic spillover.

3. Farming Practices: Extensive poultry rearing systems, particularly in village settings, pose a heightened risk for avian influenza introduction due to their lack of biosecurity controls. Strategic vaccination programs targeting backyard poultry can enhance herd immunity. Commercial farms should adhere to an ‘all-in, all-out’ production model to reduce pathogen exposure and poultry workers must adhere to strict biosecurity protocols, including cleaning, disinfecting, or changing protective clothing, equipment, and footwear before entering and after leaving farms.

4. Transport Biosecurity: Transport cages and egg containers should be constructed from non-porous materials such as plastic or metal over wooden cages to facilitate effective disinfection. To prevent environmental contamination and disease spread, bio-secure transport protocols should be implemented. This includes minimizing faecal contamination during poultry unloading, ensuring transport cages are cleaned and disinfected before returning to farms, and using easily sanitized materials for transporting table eggs, fertile eggs, and day-old chicks.

5. Compartmentalization: In regions where avian influenza is endemic, creating compartmentalized poultry populations with distinct health statuses is essential for disease control and international trade compliance. This requires strict biosecurity measures, including traceability of fertilized eggs, certified hatchery and feed sources, vermin control, and regulated transport. Poultry operators must maintain detailed records of suppliers, egg crate circulation, employee responsibilities, and transport activities to ensure compliance and effective disease containment.

Mitigation of Stress through Managemental Interventions
While biosecurity is crucial for disease prevention, stress reduction is equally important in enhancing poultry resistance to infections, including avian influenza. Environmental factors such as high temperatures, ammonia build-up, overcrowding, feed deprivation, handling, and transportation induce physiological stress, compromising immunity. Strategies such as adjusting feeding schedules, providing cool drinking water, supplementing essential nutrients, and optimizing dietary energy and amino acid levels help mitigate heat stress. Maintaining appropriate temperature, ventilation, and humidity is vital for flock health, especially in regions with high heat and humidity. Since wet litter contributes significantly to ammonia production, proper litter management, ventilation, and dietary adjustments are necessary to reduce ammonia levels and support biosecurity measures.

Nutritional Biosecurity Measures
Poultry immunity depends on proper nutrition, as essential nutrients regulate immune cell activity and function. Balanced diets rich in proteins, vitamins, trace minerals, and energy sources are critical for disease resistance. Probiotics enhance immunocompetence by stimulating antibody production, while prebiotics selectively promote beneficial gut bacteria, improving immune function. Additionally, mycotoxins in poultry feed suppress immune responses, making birds more susceptible to infections. Strict feed quality control and mycotoxin mitigation strategies should be integral to biosecurity programs.

Hygienic Disposal of Poultry Waste
Poultry operations generate waste, including dead birds, broken eggs, manure, litter, and contaminated equipment, which serve as reservoirs for pathogens. Proper disposal methods include burial, incineration, rendering, and composting.
Burial is effective but requires a 90-day period for pathogen deactivation before use as fertilizer. Incineration is reliable but often limited by facility size. Open burning is costly and environmentally unfavourable. Rendering is viable if decontamination is ensured, though private facilities may be reluctant to handle infected material. Composting within farm premises minimizes the risk of disease transmission during transport. Additionally, high-risk practices like using contaminated water and recycling untreated poultry waste should be strictly prohibited.

Wild Bird and Vector Control for Disease Prevention
Wild birds, particularly waterfowl, act as reservoirs for avian influenza and other pathogens, and play an important role in introducing infections to poultry farms. Effective biosecurity includes wild bird-proofing quarantine facilities and preventing their access to contaminated areas. Rodent control is equally essential, as rats and mice serve as mechanical carriers of the pathogens. A structured eradication program should minimize their dispersal from infected sites. Flying insects also contribute to disease transmission; thus, integrated pest management strategies should be implemented to reduce their presence in poultry sheds.
Immunomodulation through Nutritional Supplementation and Genetic Strategies
Regular supplementation of vitamins, minerals, and proteins strengthen poultry immunity and should be a core component of modern biosecurity. Nutrient deficiencies compromise resistance, increasing vulnerability to avian influenza and other diseases. As the influenza virus rapidly mutates and can exist as various subtypes and pathotypes, it questions the efficacy of existing vaccines and antivirals, and hence, genetic interventions offer a promising alternative. Screening poultry populations for disease-resistant genes, particularly in native breeds, and incorporating these traits through selective breeding can enhance flock resilience against infections.

Vaccination Strategies for Avian Influenza
Vaccination integrated with biosecurity measures can act as a critical tool for influenza control. Vaccines should provide adequate protection and minimize virus shedding. Vaccination programs coupled with virological and serological surveillance can be used to effectively detect viral mutations and assess vaccine effectiveness. In past influenza outbreaks in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, India successfully controlled the disease through culling and biosecurity measures. Establishing vaccine banks and enhancing domestic vaccine production are essential for rapid response to outbreaks. Policymakers must decide on vaccination strategies based on epidemiological data and national disease trends.

Strengthening Quarantine and Flock Profiling
Strict quarantine protocols are crucial in preventing disease introduction through newly acquired birds. Newly introduced poultry should be isolated for at least 21 days, monitored for clinical symptoms, and tested (blood, faecal, and nasal swabs) before integration with existing flocks. Beyond farm-level quarantine, strict regulations should be enforced to control cross-border movement of live poultry and poultry products.

Conclusion:
Effective biosecurity is the cornerstone of bird flu prevention and control, serving as the primary defence against disease outbreaks in poultry. Raising awareness among poultry farmers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers is essential for strengthening biosecurity at all levels. Training programs for grassroots poultry managers should be prioritized to ensure the proper implementation of preventive measures. In addition to immunity-boosting strategies and advancements in disease control, continuous surveillance of avian influenza and other infectious diseases is crucial. A proactive and well-enforced biosecurity framework not only safeguards poultry health and industry stability but also minimizes public health risks associated with zoonotic disease transmission. By integrating stringent biosecurity protocols with modern disease prevention strategies, the poultry sector can achieve long-term sustainability and resilience against emerging threats like avian influenza.

Emerging Technologies in Poultry Litter Management: Enhancing Sustainability and Efficiency in Poultry Production

Efficient poultry litter management for broiler chicken farms is essential for maintaining bird health, ensuring farm profitability, and protecting the environment. One key tool in this effort is the Poultry Litter Decision Support System (PLDSS), which outlines a five-step plan for effective litter management. Additionally, a temperature prediction model can aid in litter pasteurization, further enhancing its efficacy. Innovative technologies such as electronic noses and AI-powered robots are being employed to address challenges related to odor control and litter management tasks. Moreover, the use of artificial turf flooring is showing promise in improving air quality within laying hen houses.

Keywords: Poultry litter management, PLDSS, litter pasteurization, e-nose, AI robots, artificial turf flooring

The poultry industry’s phenomenal growth creates a critical challenge: managing the vast amount of poultry litter, a mix of manure and bedding materials. The intricate interplay among the poultry industry’s worldwide impact, technical advancements, and the urgent demand for innovative approaches to litter reduction are significant factors compelling us to consider litter management.

With the United States leading the way in broiler production, the global output reached a staggering 101.2 million metric tons in 2021.This exponential growth necessitates sustainable practices to handle poultry litter efficiently. As the poultry industry continues to expand, effective waste management becomes paramount.
The amount of chicken manure produced globally is astounding. The amount of broiler meat produced in 2021 was estimated to be 101.2 million metric tons; by 2023, that amount is expected to increase to 103.4 million. About 1.1 to 2.4 MT of dry manure, 7.3 to 12.7 MT for turkeys, and 3.9 MT for ducks are produced by 1000 birds raised to market age on commercial farms. 9486 MT of hatchery waste, 1.74 million MT of slaughterhouse waste, and 38.33 million MT of chicken manure were produced in India in 2018–2019. To properly manage the waste from poultry, this exponential growth calls for sustainable practices.

Not only is efficient litter management important for the environment, but it’s also essential for farm productivity and animal welfare. Litter management that is done right enhances bird health, productivity, and profitability. However, poor handling can result in disease outbreaks and significant financial losses.

Poultry Litter Decision Support System (PLDSS)
Applying chicken manure to row crops and pastures is an inexpensive substitute for synthetic fertilizers. Because of the high P to N ratio in chicken litter, applying it in accordance with the agronomic N requirements of the fodder has over time led to a buildup of P in the soil. P runoff can hasten eutrophication, which can seriously degrade water bodies that support aquatic, recreational, and drinking water uses, despite P being a necessary nutrient for plant growth. There are numerous definitions for a DSS. But it can be thought of as an interactive, adaptive, and flexible computer-based information system designed specifically to help identify and resolve a complex, poorly organized, or unstructured.

The Poultry Litter Decision Support System (PLDSS) is a comprehensive five-step management plan that begins by estimating farm-produced poultry litter and compost, assessing their nutrient content for proper application. It then identifies suitable land for spreading, aligns application with crop nutrient needs, and manages excess litter by exploring responsible disposal options. Over time, the PLDSS can create a database to aid research on non-point source pollution and inform businesses about surplus litter for value-added products, offering a holistic view of poultry litter management challenges.

Litter Temperature Prediction Model & Pasteurisation Decision Support Tool
The model was created using a data set that included 542 temperature profiles taken at different depths during a litter pasteurization cycle that lasted six to ten days in about 100 litter heaps that were treated on eight farms. There are more than 90,000 distinct temperature records in the data collection. Using 75% of the data for development and 25% for validation, an empirical model of the dataset was created.

As part of the chicken CRC project Methods to quantify and inactivate viruses in chicken litter, a litter temperature prediction model and a pasteurization decision assistance tool were created. The tool’s parameters are listed in the following. Purpose of this tool is to forecast temperatures and offer user-defined summary temperature data for poultry broiler litter that has been heaped for pasteurization.

A sectional heat map of the heap/windrow at a given time with a table showing the percentage of the heap in different temperature classes, average, minimum, and maximum heap temperatures, the proportion of the heap/windrow reaching specified temperatures and durations, and temperature profiles at specified depths.

Animal Waste Management Software
Software for animal waste management (AWM) is a tool for planning and designing projects that supports the calculations needed for manure management systems. Lagoon, storage pond, storage tank, and stacking facility design is supported by the expected daily production of manure, bedding, and process water. Average monthly precipitation and evaporation statistics are utilized in the AWM methods and computations, which are based on data from the AWMFH. Additionally, the program encourages the design of multiple-cell anaerobic and aerobic lagoons that can be used alone or in conjunction with other manure storage facilities. Users of the program can produce preconfigured reports for design, operation, and maintenance. Design variables that are integrated into the report templates can be used to create customized reports. Manure Master, a streamlined tool for calculating the amount of cropland required to create the nutrients generated by an animal feeding operation, is also included in AWM. The nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium content of the manure and the amount of these nutrients utilized by crops are combined to create a gross nutritional balance that is calculated by Manure Master. This balance can be calculated based on known recommended fertilizer application rates, or it can be estimated based on the nutrient content of the plant. The nitrogen balance is calculated with the expected losses from leaching, denitrification, and volatilization.

Artificial Turf Floor
Artificial turf flooring has the potential to significantly improve the air quality in laying hen houses, according to studies. Artificial turf drastically lowered ammonia, carbon dioxide, and particle sizes when compared to regular wood shavings. The reasons for this progress are several. First off, artificial turf reduces ammonia generation directly by preserving more nitrogen and lowering the pH of manure.

Secondly, by reducing sources on the floor where hens interact, the turf itself lowers airborne particulate pollution. Lastly, it appears that artificial turf affects airflow patterns, which results in a more uniform gas distribution and a decrease in concentration gradients inside the housing. It’s vital to remember that proper comparisons of air quality between various flooring types depend on maintaining stable and regular ventilation rates.

Electronic Nose
Effective poultry litter management involves addressing odor issues associated with poultry waste. Traditional olfactometry, while valuable, can be costly due to sample collection and analysis expenses. To overcome these limitations, electronic noses (e-noses) offer an affordable and real-time alternative. E-noses detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) linked to odors, providing accurate measurements. Integrating e-noses alongside traditional methods allows poultry farmers to make informed decisions, minimize odors, and maintain a healthier environment for both birds and humans.

AI-Powered Robots for Litter Management
Numerous businesses have created robots to assist in managing the litter in broiler homes for chickens. For instance, Octopus Robots, a French business, has introduced two fully autonomous robots, one of which is intended to turn and aerate chicken bedding. A different business, Metabolic Robots, has developed a robot that can oversee, measure, monitor, and regulate operations on chicken farms. These robots can grind, mix, aerate, tilt, decake, scare, and pulverize poultry litter. The effectiveness of litter management in chicken broiler houses can be increased with the employment of these robots.
The AI-driven autonomous robots are meant to clean the litter in chicken broiler houses. It has a scarifier installed to aerate the litter once a day, preventing crusting and enabling reduced ammonia levels. In the chicken shed, the robot is also capable of gathering data on temperature, humidity, and ammonia levels. AI-powered robots can not only scarify the litter but also carry out other duties like drying the litter, preventing scab development, lowering ammonia generation, distributing sanitizing solutions, and cleaning the litter by misting sanitizing solutions. The robot has the ability to administer local adaptive therapy and disperse itself as near to the target as it can.
Robots using artificial intelligence (AI) are useful and effective technologies for controlling litter in chicken broiler facilities. Their capacity for multitasking on their own can enhance litter control effectiveness and promote a healthier environment for the chickens. Emerging technologies offer a beacon of hope. Precision livestock farming and waste-to-energy processes are just a few examples of innovative solutions that can minimize environmental impact, enhance resource utilization, and safeguard animal and human health.

References :
Sohn, J. H., Hudson, N., Gallagher, E., Dunlop, M., Zeller, L., & Atzeni, M. (2008). Implementation of an electronic nose for continuous odour monitoring in a poultry shed. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 133(1), 60-69.
Ren, G., Lin, T., Ying, Y., Chowdhary, G., & Ting, K. C. (2020). Agricultural robotics research applicable to poultry production: A review. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 169, 105216.
Kelleher, B. P., Leahy, J. J., Henihan, A. M., O'dwyer, T. F., Sutton, D., & Leahy, M. J. (2002). Advances in poultry litter disposal technology–a review. Bioresource technology, 83(1), 27-36.
Kang, M. S., Srivastava, P., Tyson, T., Fulton, J. P., Owsley, W. F., & Yoo, K. H. (2008). A comprehensive GIS-based poultry litter management system for nutrient management planning and litter transportation. Computers and electronics in agriculture, 64(2), 212-224.

By Dr. Shiva Kumar, Director – Technical, TN South Asia

Poultry derived food products are the most important animal protein sources globally. India is the third-largest egg producer and the fourth-largest chicken producer in the world. Poultry meat and eggs are the most important animal protein sources available, and a significant increase is forecasted in demand.

But there is also a significant number of challenges facing the Indian poultry and allied industries with respect to sustainable production of poultry meat and eggs where market demands, and consumer needs will put more constraints on the production systems and methods. These challenges are dynamic and diverse, and solutions and opportunities will require development of appropriate technology, using and advancing our knowledge base.

Sustainable poultry farming is based on three pillars: environmentally sound, socially responsible, and economically viable. For all these pillars, innovation will be key and hence, advances in animal nutrition will play an important role, where we have concrete challenges in economical optimization of the value chain and meeting product quality demands, whilst safeguarding animal wellbeing and human health.

Trouw Nutrition is an organisation that deeply cares about building a more sustainable future – both for our industry and for consumers. We are committed to transform science into actionable, practical nutrition and farm management solutions to help customers produce quality poultry meat and eggs. We support food producers with the technology that puts advice and data at their fingertips.

Feeding the Future is the essence of Trouw Nutrition (a Nutreco company), expressing the challenge to double food production while halving the carbon footprint. Our ambition is to contribute meeting the rising global demand with growing number of world population in a sustainable manner. The Trouw Nutrition way focuses on innovation, quality, sustainability, and integrated solutions.

Our solutions are built on four solid pillars. Each one contributes to help our customers adding more value to their business in a sustainable and a safe way.

Trouw Nutrition is built on a strong commitment to transform science into actionable, practical nutrition and farm management solutions. We focus on our four innovation pillars that deliver sustainability benefits to animals, farms, and the environment:

Early Life Nutrition:
Birds are confronted with various stressful events during their life, especially in critical transition periods such as hatch and transport. Provision of nutrition and water during the immediate post-hatch period and during transit from hatchery to farm has shown promising effects on broiler performance and health in the first days and weeks of life (Bergoug et al., 2013; Published results, Trouw Nutrition 2016). Early life interventions do not per se result in higher market weights or improved feed efficiency in each flock, but it will contribute to more stable and consistent performance and a reduced risk of birds developing health problems.

Health Life:
Animal Nutrition is an important part of the solution to help to contain Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Adequate animal nutrition (well-balanced and well-formulated feed) combined with good hygiene practices on farms and proper housing are key in promoting animal health and welfare. A balanced diet of compound feed supported by specialty feed ingredients/additives meets the animal’s physiological requirements and maintains the balance of the gut flora. Poultry Gut health is in fact a key factor in keeping birds healthy and resilient to stressors, such as heat or pathogens.

Trouw Nutrition Poultry Gut Health Solution, integrates Farm, Feed and Health approach.

Feed​ – Premixes, Young Animal Feed (ChickCare, NutriOpt, feed formulation advice including Intellibond C,
Feed safety: Fysal/Fylax/Toxo
Farm​ – Advice on farm management​ and biosecurity​, Selko pH (drinking water) with dosing systems
Health​ – Selko pH (water) + Selacid (feed), Gut health evaluation​

Water and feed acidification will contribute to maintaining a stable microbiota in poultry. The efficacy of organic and inorganic acids can be further enhanced by inclusion of medium chain fatty acids or other natural antimicrobial compounds that exert a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity at relative neutral pH ranges.

Precision Nutrition:
From an economical point of view, we need in general to meet nutrient requirements of the birds in the most efficient and economical way and assure that animals are in good health to exploit their potential.

Efficient use of resources e.g. feed ingredients will benefit environmentally sound production. In this respect, use and conversion of co-products from the food and biofuel industry to highly animal nutrition products is contributing to sustainable production as well. One of the challenges in our industry is to be flexible with our raw material usage to manage higher use of low-quality ingredients and anticipate on fluctuations in raw material prices, whilst at the same time we need to have grip on variation in raw material quality and assure that the feed delivers the same high performance.

Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) is a rapid technique to evaluate the nutrient profile of feed ingredients. A more advanced precision nutrition system such as NutriOpt from Trouw Nutrition has incorporated NIRS, with its extensive nutrient databases.

NutriOpt is an integrated nutritional precision-feeding tool from Trouw Nutrition, which enables the poultry farmer or grower or feed miller to optimize both feed costs and production results to maximize financial benefits in the value chain. It consists of several key elements that complement and support one another in optimizing animal nutrition, performance and associated costs through precise real-time analysis, modelling and calculation.

To offer real-time feed analysis, Trouw Nutrition has introduced the NutriOpt On-site Adviser (NOA). This innovative solution reveals the real nutritional value of your feed ingredients and helps to improve performance and profitability. Powered by our comprehensive NutriOpt database, the NutriOpt On-site Adviser provides with accurate analytical results to make better-informed choices.

The portable NIR scanner and the mobile app enable you to get analytical results of nutrients in raw materials and finished feed onsite. The mobile app connects the handheld scanner to the NutriOpt nutritional database and advice on the nutritional value of the scanned materials. The NutriOpt On-site can be even connected to your decision-making tools for a smooth optimisation process.

NOA can perform convenient analysis without samples leaving your farm, and the poultry farm owner can enjoy a greater control over their animal performance.
In relation to feed safety, mycotoxins are probably one of the most important risk factors that need to be controlled among the Indian poultry Industry. It is also encouraging to note, that rapid diagnostics are now more widespread globally adopted for quality control to take appropriate measures once mycotoxin contamination in raw materials is detected. It is an essential part of feed quality assurance and with the right measures the risks can be mitigated, which will prevent unexpected performance losses and health problems.

Measuring mycotoxin levels in feed can be time-consuming and requires specialised and costly methodology. Trouw Nutrition offers “Mycomaster”, a tool to analyse mycotoxins.

Mycomaster provides rapid, cost-effective, and quantitative mycotoxin analyses of over 40 validated feed raw materials and final feed. And it works on-site, bringing flexibility to testing frequency, in support to Feed quality control, formulation decisions and remediation strategies.

Tackling the challenges:
The importance of using a holistic approach to enable successful conversion of feed into high quality poultry protein in a sustainable way is evident for the Indian poultry producers. These high producing birds must be able to consume, digest, absorb and convert sufficient nutrients to meet their genetic potential, and do this consistently from flock to flock. To do this successfully and achieve high consistent production with acceptable risk will require increased use of existing technology and expanding our knowledge and information network. At Trouw Nutrition, we have the tools to support the challenges faced by the poultry producers to make better choices to support the production chain. For a complete overview of our tools and services, please contact your nearest Trouw Nutrition expert/representative.

For further information, kindly write to us at customercareindia@trouwnutrition.com
or visit our website: www.trouwnutrition.in

Dr.Partha P. Biswas
M.Sc.,Ph.D.,F.Z.S.,F.Z.S.I.
Former Asso. Professor & H.O.D.,
Dept. of Zoology, R.K.Mission V.C.College,
Kolkata ,W.Bengal.
Senior Consultant, Aqua-Vet inputs,
Fin-O-Wing Formulations, Kolkata-700084

The chicken industry is becoming more vulnerable to environmental shifts, particularly high temperatures. Open-sided poultry species are susceptible to heat stress, negatively impacting growth and productivity. Factors determining heat stress include temperature radiation, humidity, metabolic rate, age, and duration. Modern commercial broilers are more sensitive to heat stress, making understanding and controlling environmental conditions crucial for poultry production and health. High temperatures in birds reduce antioxidant capacity, requiring food handling and expensive cooling. Understanding and controlling environmental conditions is crucial for poultry production and health.

Thermoregulatory Device in Chicken
Unlike mammals, birds do not have sweat glands, but they have developed a number of behavioral adaptations to cope with heat, including increased breathing rate, panting and raised wings. Commercial poultry prioritize high production, making broilers more sensitive to environmental stresses, and affecting meat quality and immune problems. Under conditions of heat stress, metabolic heat increases, and the animal succumbs to hyperthermia. In summary, it can be concluded that high ambient temperature outside the thermoneutral region during the production phase has a bad effect on meat production, meat quality and causes serious immune problems in broilers.

Heat Shock Proteins of Poultry Birds During Heat Stress
Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are stress proteins found in all living organisms that are activated by high environmental temperatures to protect cells from stressors such as heat. The 70 kDa heat shock proteins (HSP70) are a family of proteins known for their potential role in thermotolerance and widely regarded as cellular thermometers. Over expression of HSP70 has been observed under oxidative stress, leading to mitochondrial reactive oxygen species scavenging and pulmonary endothelial protection against bacterial toxins. They keep cells in order by synthesizing other proteins, attract immune cells and participate in protein assembly and degradation. Higher HSP expression is associated with better heat tolerance and is produced by all living organisms in high temperature environments.

Effects of Heat Stress in Poultry Birds
Reduced voluntary feed intake which affects the functionality of the entire digestive system High environmental temperatures activate the hypothalamus–pituitary axis, brain-gut axis and elevate plasma corticosterone concentrations, affecting the digestive system’s functionality.

This leads to changes in motility, flux patterns, secretory activity, content viscosity and pH Generation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and the efficacy of the antioxidant defense system deteriorate. Overproduction of ROS in mitochondria can damage proteins, lipids, and DNA Heat stress can impair the feeding process, nutrient absorption and utilization, although water intake increases rapidly Upregulation of adipokines secretion (leptin and adiponectin) and the expression of their receptors can negatively regulate feed intake and calorie consumption thus resulting in decreased metabolic heat production The decline in trypsin, chymotrypsin and amylase (intestinal secretion) due to reduced feed intake often results in impairment of digestive functionality, nutrient digestibility Hypoperfusion and an increase in blood flow to the skin surface occur as an adaptive response of the circulatory system to stabilize blood pressure and promote heat loss It is known that heat challenge has an immune-suppressive effect.

Use of Dietary Phytochemicals to Reduce Heat Stress
Experimental studies on poultry birds suggest phytochemical ingestion may reduce heat stress effects. These phytochemicals can directly or indirectly influence genes and metabolic pathways, with stress reduction linked to antioxidant qualities.

Fig.3: The chicken’s response to being overheated. Chickens raised in high temperatures produce more reactive oxygen species and show signs of immunological inflammation in addition to consuming less food.

Mitigating Heat Stress Using Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG), A Secondary Metabolite in Green Tea

Green tea’s most prevalent catechin, EGCG, is thought to be its most bioactive ingredient and possesses potent antioxidant properties. The primary cause of heat stress-induced oxidative stress in poultry is damage to tissues and cells, which is mostly manifested in an increase in MDA (malondialdehyde) concentration in such tissues and cells. It has been demonstrated that adding the polyphenol EGCG to broilers housed in thermoneutral environments may increase their antioxidant capacity. Acutely heat-stressed broilers may have greater antioxidant capacity and less oxidative damage in their muscles because EGCG may activate the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Reducing Heat Stress in Broiler Chickens With Additional Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) and Onion (Allium Cepa)

Onion and its derivatives including saponins, aglycones, quercetin, cepaenes, flavonoids, organosulfurs, and phenolic compounds showed various pharmacological properties and therapeutic effects.When broilers are heat stressed, the combination of onion and ginger supplements increases the nutrition of the groups more than no supplementation.

According to research results, growth performance, carcass quality, antioxidant levels and immune system response of broilers are improved when fed 10 g of ginger and and 2.5 g of onion during heat stress. Ginger contains substances with powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties, including chagaol, ginger diol and ginger diol. Ginger (2%) added to broilers suffering from heat stress significantly improved blood biochemical parameters and growth indicators compared to the control group.

Seeds of Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa) improve Bird’s Ability to Live in Heat-stressed Conditions

Black cumin seeds have been shown to have pharmacological and antibacterial properties and also contain drug-like compounds. The volatile oil (0.4-0.45%) contains saturated fatty acids, which include: nigellone, which is the only component of the carbonyl fraction. oil, thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ), dithymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol, α and β-pinene, d-limonene, d-citronellol, carvacrol, t-anethole, 4-terpineol and longifolin etc. Thymoquinone improves hatchability, pos-thatching performance and antioxidant activity of thermally stressed broiler embryos. Black cumin extract has been shown in trials to reduce serum MDA levels and protect against oxidative stress.

Hot Red Pepper (HRP) Reduces Heat Exhaustion in Birds

Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is abundant in capsaicin, a terpenoid found in HRP that helps prevent heat exhaustion in birds. Carotenoids, which are rich in vitamins E, C, and provitamin A (beta carotene), are known to have powerful antioxidant qualities that help prevent the damaging effects of free radicals and, in certain situations, oxidative stress, which can lead to cell death in broilers. Furthermore, it has been found that adding capsaicin, an active ingredient in red pepper that is present in grill feed at a dose of 50 mg/kg, can lessen the harmful effects of heat stress.

Moringa (Moringa Oleifera)helps to Survive Birds Under Heat Stress

Moringa leaves contain high levels of total polyphenols (260mg/100g), b-carotene (34mg/100g), kaempferol (34mg/100g), quercetin (100mg/100g), as well as a total antioxidant capacity of 260mg/100g. Kaempferol and quercetin are the flavonoids present in moringa leaves and possess strong antioxidants. It has been found that 0.3% incorporation of M. oleifera leaf meal improves the performance and physiological parameters of broilers and also helped the birds survive under heat stress.

THYME (THYMUS VULGAIS) Protects Chicks Against Heat Stress

The two most important bioactive compounds in this plant are carvacrol and thymol, which may be the primary source of thyme’s pharmacological actions. Thus research has identified linalool, thymol, carvacrol, gamma-terpineol, and geraniol as the primary components of thyme. Dietary thyme essential oil (150–200 mg/kg) is more effective at shielding chicks from the harmful effects of heat stress while also enhancing immunological function and development performance. One material that may be able to improve growth in broilers located in hot climates is thyme oil.

Coriander (Coriandrum Sativum) Seed in Ameliorating the Impact of Thermal Challenges

According to research, broilers under heat stress that are fed 2% coriander seed have higher feed intake, weight gain, reduced panting, and higher levels of corticosterone. The broilers’ poor intestinal absorptive capacity and shape may be connected to the rise in corticosterone levels during stress. Furthermore, according to a different study, adding 2% coriander to the diet helps broiler birds by lessening the effects of heat shock. The supplement, according to the author, benefitted broilers that were experiencing heat stress and enhanced their blood parameters, immunity, and overall performance.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum) Powder as Antioxidant in Thermally Challenged Birds

The common herbal plant, cinnamon contains different active phenolic compounds, which include flavones, catechin, isoflavones, flavonoids and other phenolics. The main bioactive constituent of cinnamon is cinnamaldehyde. The phenolic components function as antioxidants and can effectively scavenge ROS. Cinnamon supplements help in homeostasis due to the reduced pH caused by heat stress. It has also been reported that an increase in the activity of CAT, total antioxidant capacity and SOD and a decrease in the MDA when birds were placed in a thermally challenged environment during their finishing phase.

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) for Heat-stressed Broilers

The yellowish pigments of turmeric, namely demethoxycurcumin, curcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, are commonly referred to as curcumoids. Curcuminoids are an antioxidative compound found in turmeric. Researchers have shown the effects of turmeric powder supplement at 0.3 and 0.6 g/kg when administered to birds under heat stress. The superoxide radicals are neutralized, and there is an increase in the activity of SOD and CAT (ROS-removing enzymes or antioxidant enzymes ) and a decrease in MDA in broilers. The increased level in MDA indicates oxidative damage in liver of heat stressed broilers.

Conclusion
Heat stress can hurt poultry birds by making them grow slower, weakening their immune system, causing intestinal inflammation, and causing other health problems. It can also trigger oxidative process. But using natural substances called phytogenic compounds can help chickens who are raised in hot conditions.But more research is needed to understand the molecular changes made by medicinal herbs and the interactions between their active components, gut microbiota, and gut barriers. By using these approaches, we can improve chicken welfare and make poultry production more sustainable and efficient.

Dr Sanjay Singhal, Chief Operating Officer, Stallen South Asia Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai

Mycoplasma, contrary to many other organisms, lack a cell wall, making them smallest free-living organisms with respect to of both size and gene number. Pathogenic Mycoplasma species in chickens are Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). MG is typically the more virulent species and results in substantial financial losses. On commercial layer farms across different age groups, MS is a prevalent pathogen and is more ubiquitous.

The ability of different strains of Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) to produce illness varies greatly, with numerous forms appearing moderate. In highly susceptible birds, more pathogenic MS strains can cause serious joint infections, respiratory illnesses, and reduced egg production.

MS often manifests as a mixed infection with other respiratory pathogens, which include the infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and the Newcastle disease virus (NDV). MS may not necessarily be the primary the cause. These mixed infections can cause significant chronic respiratory illness, particularly under harsh environmental circumstances including high ammonia, low temperatures, and dust. Birds with MS may react more to other live vaccines. Layers of egg yolk peritonitis caused by E. coli have been linked to MS aetiology.

Transmission
Horizontal transmission occurs through direct contact. Birds carry the infection for the rest of their lives. In many respects, the spread appears to be like that of M. gallisepticum except that it is more rapid. Yet reports of slow spreading infections exist. Only a few percent of birds may show clinical symptoms, but most birds often acquire illness by respiratory transmission. Infection may also occur because of environmental contamination or fomites. In chickens and turkeys, vertical transmission is a crucial factor in the spread of MS. When commercial breeder flocks are infected during egg production, the rate of egg transmission seems to peak in the first 4-6 weeks following infection; beyond that, the transmission may stop, although the infected flock may shed at any moment.

Pathophysiology
The pathologic characteristics of synovitis induced by MS involve the joints’ synovial cells hypertrophy and become more proliferative. Activated synovial fibroblasts (SFs) are the primary constituents of hyperplastic synovial tissue in humans with arthritis and play a significant role in the pathophysiology of synovitis.

Matrix metalloproteinases, cathepsins, chemokines, and cytokines are produced by activated synovial fibroblasts, which worsen inflammation and degrade bone and cartilage. For arthritis, reducing the number of activated synovial fibroblasts is a potential treatment approach.

Clinical signs
In poultry, Mycoplasma synoviae usually manifests as upper respiratory tract infection; it may cause mild respiratory disturbances such as rales but is usually subclinical. When the infection spreads to the joints, certain strains of MS may cause a transition from the acute to the chronic phase. Exudative tenosynovitis, an inflammation of the tendons and synovial membranes brought on by invasion of the joint tissue, ultimately results in lameness. The keel bone bursa and the hock (tibial metatarsal) joints are the main regions affected; however other joints may also be damaged. Although this type can be observed in flocks as young as 4 weeks old, it usually manifests itself soon after mature pullets are transferred to the laying farm.

Generally, there is no impact on egg production if the flock is exposed to MS during the laying phase. Egg production may decrease, and desirable egg quality may decrease in flocks that face challenges throughout the laying season. A flock of MS-positive birds that are treated with periodic antibiotic feed therapy might display an irregular egg production curve. Due of restricted movement to feed, water, and nests, lameness from tenosynovitis might further affect egg production.

Oviduct tropism of MS strains have been found recently in commercial layers. It is noticed that flocks infected with certain strains of MS have a higher proportion of cracked and broken eggs. On the apex of the egg, or pointed end, there is a distinctive eggshell defect that may be seen. The rough surface of the eggshell, located 2 centimetres from the apex, is characterized by thinning and translucency, resembling glass eggs. These eggshells lack part of the palisade layer and the mammillary knob layer, according to scanning electron microscopy.

Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of mycoplasmosis is crucial for effective management. It is typically achieved through a combination of clinical signs, post-mortem examinations, and laboratory tests. These tests may include serology (blood tests), PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and bacterial isolation from affected tissues.

Treatment
Antibiotics can be administered to control the spread of the disease and manage clinical symptoms. Tetracyclines, tylosin, and lincomycin are commonly used antibiotics. However, it is important to note that these treatments are not curative and are used to suppress the disease.

Prevention and Control
Biosecurity Measures: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of mycoplasmosis. This includes limiting visitor access, maintaining separate footwear and clothing for workers, and disinfecting equipment and facilities regularly.
Cleanup Programs: Use of appropriate molecule for effective cleaning up of mycoplasmal infection prior to vaccination may provide better results.

Minimize Stress: Stress weakens the immune system, making birds more susceptible to infections. Provide a low-stress environment by ensuring proper nutrition, ventilation, and living conditions.

Surveillance: Regularly monitor your flock for any signs of illness. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and reduces the spread of the disease.

Vaccination: There are vaccines available for both MG and MS, Stallen has killed vaccines against both MG and MS named as MYC Vac and MS Vac respectively, which provides better protection against avian mycoplasmosis. Our MS Vac is the only killed vaccine against Mycoplasma synoviae available in Indian Market. Recommended dose of both vaccines by parenteral route 0.5ml/ bird.

For better results, proper cleanup program with effective anti- mycoplasmal drug is recommended. The above-mentioned vaccines can also be used in midlay vaccination if the priming is done with the live vaccines.

Recommended vaccination schedule

Water Hygiene Challenges and Management in Commercial Poultry Farming during Summer Season

Dr Davendar Singh Kalwani, Technical Sales Manager, Intracare SEA Pvt Ltd

Introduction:
Summer season brings with it extreme challenges for the poultry industry. Among all the prevailing issues, water hygiene remains the top priority, as far as poultry production is concerned. Quality of water will in general, have a direct bearing on poultry’s health and production. Good quality water is important for poultry’s growth, reproductive performance, and general well-being. The prevailing high temperatures coupled with an increased microbial activity during the summers obviously make it tough to maintain the desirable standards of water hygiene. This article attempts to understand the risks involved and the strategies to manage the water hygiene in this summer in a better way. The article also tries to identify the factors contributing to waterborne microbial contamination and understand the impacts of water contamination on poultry health and welfare. Awareness of the peculiar dynamics of summer management, in terms of water hygiene, can help farmers in preventing some of the losses that are usually suffered by them during the summer and throughout the year.

Impact of summer season on water quality:
During summer, various environmental factors can affect the quality of water. The rise in temperature of water is the most important factor. As the water temperature increases, it creates optimal conditions for microbial growth. Mesophilic bacteria including major pathogens proliferate rapidly in such conditions, hence increasing the risk of water contamination in poultry production. These microbes might lead to severe illnesses and reduced performance in terms of growth and reproduction.

Moreover, the elevated water temperature accelerates the decomposition of organic matter which serves as a nutrient source for various microorganisms. Due to this rapid decomposition in warmer temperatures, the level of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus in water increases along with release of dissolved solids which further alters the water composition negatively.

Additionally, this can fuel the algal bloom in underground water reservoirs. Some species of algae produce toxins that are harmful to both animals and humans if ingested. Also, as algae die and decomposes it hastens the degradation of water quality.

In addition to microbial contamination and algal blooms, summer conditions can also aggravate other water quality issues in poultry operations. Reduced rainfall and drought conditions in certain regions can result in lower water levels in reservoirs and water bodies. Lower water levels concentrate pollutants, such as nutrients, chemicals, and sediment, leading to higher concentrations in the remaining water. This can further degrade water quality and increase the risk of contamination for poultry.

Biofilm as a hidden threat:
Formation of biofilm during summer is another crucial aspect involved in degrading water quality particularly in water pipelines. Biofilms is a slimy layer consisting of complex communities of microbes that attach to surfaces of water pipes, tanks, and drinkers. Warm climate can enhance the growth and proliferation of various bacteria, easing the formation of such biofilms. These biofilms pose several challenges to the quality of water and poultry health. It provides protection for microbes inside it by shielding them from disinfectants and making them more resistant to removal, this allows pathogens to persist in the water systems for long durations making itself a source of infection.

Biofilms can also cause deterioration of water infrastructure; its accumulation might lead to corrosion of pipes and fittings which can compromise the integrity of water distribution system. Additionally, it can cause blockages and reduce the flow of water and thus affecting water flow to drinkers which can lead to dehydration in birds.

Furthermore, biofilms act as a reservoir for pathogens, releasing them into the water intermittently and perpetuating the cycle of contamination. This can pose a continuous threat to poultry health, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks and impacting the overall productivity of the operation.

Effects of poor water quality on poultry production:
1. Biofilm inside water pipeline may reduce intake, causing dehydration and poor growth.
2. Biofilms can release pathogens, affecting bird health and productivity.
3. Contaminants may lead to digestive issues, diarrhoea, and poor growth.
4. Poor quality of water can affect egg quality resulting in thin shelled eggs and reduced hatchability in fertile eggs.
5. Stress from poor water quality drops reproductive performance in poultry flocks.
6. Mortality rates can increase due to stress, dehydration, and disease susceptibility.
7. Water contaminants compromise vaccine efficacy, leaving birds vulnerable to infections.
8. It might worsen the effect of concurrent viral or any other diseases.
9. Clogged delivery systems can hamper vaccine administration, risking inadequate immunity in poultry.
10. It can increase the chances of vertical transmission of bacterial diseases in progeny.

Management Strategies for Summer Water Hygiene:
Following strategies may be followed to ensure quality drinking water to poultry birds:
1. Regularly clean the water sources, pipes, and drinkers to prevent biofilm and pathogen buildup.
2. Test the water quality regularly for pH, TDS, and microbial contamination.
3. Use of good quality water disinfectant and sanitizers and follow manufacturer guidelines.
4. Control water temperature to prevent microbial growth.
5. Minimize water wastage by fixing leaks and optimizing delivery systems.
6. Educate farm staff on water hygiene.
7. Maintain records of cleaning schedules and water quality tests.

Ensuring water quality at poultry farms:
Along with all the management strategies, the most crucial step is pipeline cleaning and water sanitation. There are many chemical agents available for the same purpose. Choosing the best water sanitizer and cleaning agent should be based on several characteristics.
When it comes to pipeline cleaning methods, the following characteristics are desirable:
1. Efficiency: The cleaning method should effectively remove biofilms, mineral deposits, sediment, and other contaminants from water pipelines to maintain optimal water quality and flow rates.
2. Non-Corrosive: Cleaning agents or procedures should not corrode or damage pipeline materials, ensuring the longevity and integrity of the water distribution system.
3. Accessibility: Pipeline cleaning methods should be accessible and practical for poultry producers, whether through manual cleaning procedures or automated cleaning systems.
4. Frequency: The cleaning frequency should be appropriate to prevent biofilm formation and ensure consistent water quality for poultry health and performance.
5. Validation: Cleaning procedures should be validated to confirm their effectiveness in removing contaminants and maintaining water sanitation standards.

When considering water sanitizers for poultry operations, several characteristics are essential to ensure effective and safe water management:
1. Broad-Spectrum Activity: An ideal water sanitizer should have broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens commonly found in poultry drinking water. This ensures comprehensive protection against disease-causing organisms.
2. Non-Toxic and Safe: The sanitizer should be non-toxic to poultry and humans when used at recommended concentrations. It should not leave harmful residues that could affect bird health or compromise food safety.
3. Residue-Free: After application, the sanitizer should degrade into non-toxic by-products or dissipate without leaving any harmful residues in the water or water distribution system.
4. Stability: The sanitizer should remain stable under varying environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations and water pH levels, to maintain its effectiveness over time.
5. Compatibility: It should be compatible with commonly used materials in poultry water systems, such as PVC, polyethylene, and stainless steel, to prevent corrosion or damage to pipelines and water equipment.
6. Ease of Application: The sanitizer should be easy to apply and should not require complex equipment or procedures for effective use. This ensures practicality and efficiency in poultry farm operations.
7. Regulatory Compliance: The sanitizer should comply with regulatory standards and guidelines set forth by relevant authorities, ensuring its safety and efficacy for use in poultry production.
8. Environmental Impact: Consideration should be given to the environmental impact of the sanitizer, including its biodegradability and potential effects on water quality in surrounding ecosystems.

Based on these characteristics, selecting a suitable option is very perplexing. In general, quaternary ammonium salts (commonly called quats) and hydrogen peroxide fulfil almost all the requirements but they have some drawbacks as well. Hydrogen peroxide is an unstable compound and loses its efficacy in very short period making it difficult to get uniform results across pipeline. Quats are effective for water sanitation, but they have limited action on biofilms particularly mature ones. However, 50% stabilized hydrogen peroxide is an excellent choice as it easily overcomes the above problems. Its broad-spectrum effectiveness, safety, non-corrosive properties, long shelf-life, and environmental compatibility make it an indispensable tool in safeguarding the health and profitability of poultry flocks, particularly in the challenging conditions of the summer season.

Conclusion
In conclusion, managing water hygiene effectively is among top priority for commercial poultry farmers, especially during the challenging conditions of summer. Summer’s heat and increased microbial activity threaten water quality. Regular cleaning, disinfection, temperature control, and water testing can help combat these threats successfully. Minimizing water wastage waste, staff training, and record-keeping further strengthen water hygiene plans. By proactively managing water, poultry farmers ensure the long-term health and profitability of their flocks.

It was first discovered in the juice of sugar beets. Naturally accumulated in plants as osmolyte to protect against salt and temperature stress. Derivative of glycine (amino acid). Neutral molecule with bipolar structure (zwitterion) as shown in Fig. 1 contains three methyl groups.

Fig.1: Chemical Structure of Betaine

2. Betaine functions as (mode of action):
A. Methyl donor – methyl groups used for protein synthesis and other metabolic processes. Methyl groups play a pivotal role in several cellular processes, including DNA methylation, synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, and protein synthesis. Choline and betaine are both capable of donating methyl groups. However, for choline to do so, it must first be converted into betaine as shown in Fig. 2. In poultry, the capacity to synthesize betaine from choline is limited, thus making dietary supplementation the primary source.

Fig. 2: Role of betaine in the methionine cycle in liver

Betaine can substitute for choline in performing the following functions:
1) Regulating fat metabolism in the liver to prevent abnormal fat accumulation in hepatocytes.
2) Serving as a methyl donor for the formation of methionine and creatine, through its involvement in the transmethylation pathway.
Betaine cannot replace choline in the function of maintaining cell membrane and structure as an emulsifier to transport lipids, since choline is a constituent of phospholipids. Similarly, betaine cannot replace choline as a precursor of acetylcholine in the transmission of nerve impulses.

B. Osmo-regulator: – ability to bind and retain water in a reversible manner.
Osmolytes are compounds that aid in the regulation of osmotic pressure within cells and tissues, playing a crucial role in preserving cellular integrity.
Dehydration, disease, heat stress, and other factors can cause alterations in the water content of cells. Osmolytes can be either inorganic ions such as Na+, K+, Cl-, or organic compounds such as amino acids, certain sugars, and betaine. Betaine plays a crucial role in stabilizing cellular metabolic function during periods of stress, preserving the cell’s capacity to uptake nutrients, unlike osmolytes such as Na+, K+, and Cl-. Moreover, it offers protection to intracellular enzymes against osmotic inactivation.

3. Heat stress
Heat stress is a major challenge in poultry production, especially during the hot summer months. It occurs when birds face difficulty in achieving a balance between body heat produced and heat loss. This imbalance can lead to several health issues and production losses.

4. The Role of Betaine in Enhancing Poultry Health During Heat Stress.
a) Betaine aids in preserving intestinal integrity by facilitating water retention, increasing cell volume, promoting anabolic activity, and maintaining cellular integrity as shown in fig. 4. which are Representative photomicrographs of the ileum after 10 days of the experiment from broilers fed a control diet (CON, A and C) and betaine (BET, B and D) on villous height under thermoneutral (TN, A and B) or after 10 days being exposed to heat stress (HS, C and D).

Fig. 3 – Intestinal barrier damage in HS (Soheil Varasteh, et al. Nutrients, 2020)

Fig. 4 – Impact of betaine on intestinal integrity of broiler birds in Heat stress conditions (Shakeri et al, Animals 2020)

b) Betaine has three methyl groups in its structure and donates them in various metabolic reactions, which can spare compounds like methionine, choline, and folic acid. Therefore, supplementing with betaine may reduce the need for these nutrients.

c) The growth rate of poultry birds is enhanced by betaine, which conserves energy that would otherwise be expended on the Na+/K+ pump and Calcium pump in high temperatures. This conserved energy can then be directed towards growth.

d) Betaine enhances the concentration of beneficial short-chain fatty acids, such as acetic and propionic acid, which are vital to host bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in poultry. This improvement enables these bacteria to effectively inhabit the caecum and inhibit the colonization of harmful bacteria in the intestinal tract.

e) Betaine supplementation in laying hens leads to an increase in daily egg mass production, reduces thin eggshell issues which are related to heat stress, and helps to enhance serum concentrations of estradiol and melatonin.

f) Trouw Nutrition’s Betaine is proven to elevate production performance even under heat stress conditions, notably increasing breast meat percentage through the provision of essential methyl groups, as depicted in Fig. 5. Recognizing that high-performing animals demand superior nutrition for sustained health and optimal growth, Selko Feed Additives introduces TNIbetain. This meticulously tested supplement supports animal performance across multiple metabolic pathways. TNIbetain adheres strictly to the stringent quality standards upheld by Trouw Nutrition Feed Additives.

Fig. 5: Effect of Trouw Nutrition betaine on broiler performance
Contrasting the Attributes of Trouw Nutrition’s Natural Betaine with Synthetic Betaine

Recommended Dosage:
For broiler, layer, and breeder birds: 0.5 to 1 kg per ton of feed. However, in challenging conditions such as heat stress, the Betaine dosage can be increased to up to 2 kg per ton of feed.
g) Betaine has been found to significantly enhance hematological parameters, including RBC and platelet count, while reducing the number of heterophils and increasing the number of lymphocytes. The reduction in lymphocyte count during heat stress is attributed to the rise in inflammatory cytokines, which stimulate hypothalamic production of corticotrophin releasing hormones.
h) Betaine aids in the expansion of intestinal mucosa, thereby enhancing the absorption and utilization of nutrients, which results in improved digestibility of crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract.
i) Studies have demonstrated that betaine interacts with lipid metabolism by promoting the oxidative catabolism of fatty acids through its involvement in carnitine synthesis. Therefore, betaine can be utilized to increase the proportion of lean meat and reduce fat in poultry carcasses.
j) Betaine acts as an osmoregulatory in the intestine, optimizing water and salt balance within cells for efficient nutrient absorption and reducing litter moisture. It increases villus height, protecting enterocytes during challenges like coccidiosis, and strengthens the gut, reducing damage during infections as shown in Fig. A, B and C.
The various effects described above are either directly or indirectly linked to betaine’s osmoregulatory function and its role in methionine biosynthesis.
Betaine emerges as a pivotal component in poultry health management, particularly in the face of heat stress challenges. Originating from sugar beets, its molecular structure rich in methyl groups facilitates its dual function as a methyl donor and osmoregulator, essential for maintaining cellular integrity and supporting metabolic processes. Amidst heat stress conditions, Betaine supplementation showcases remarkable efficacy, preserving intestinal integrity, conserving energy expenditure, and enhancing production performance. Its multifaceted benefits extend to improvements in hematological parameters, nutrient absorption, and lipid metabolism. With its proven effectiveness and adherence to stringent quality standards, Betaine stands as a crucial asset in optimizing poultry health and performance under challenging environmental conditions, exemplifying the potential of innovative nutritional strategies in safeguarding livestock welfare and productivity.

For further information, kindly write to us at customercareindia@trouwnutrition.com or visit our website: www.trouwnutrition.in