The Impact of Hydrated Aluminosilicates Supplemented in Litter and Feed on Chicken Growth, Muscle Traits and Gene Expression in the Intestinal Mucosa

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the production, muscle traits and gene expression in the intestinal mucosa of chickens supplemented with aluminosilicates in feed and litter simultaneously. A total of 300 Ross 308 were maintained for 42 days. Group 1 was the control group. In group 2, 0.650 kg/m2 of halloysite was added to the litter and 0.5–2% to the feed (halloysite and zeolite in a 1:1 ratio); in group 3, we added zeolite (0.650 kg/m2) to the litter and 0.5–2% to the feed. The production parameters, the slaughter yield and analyses of muscle quality were analyzed. There was a higher body weight, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio on day 18 and 33 in group 3, and a higher feed intake on day 19–33 in groups 2 and 3 than in 1. A lower water-holding capacity was found in the breasts of group 2 and in the legs of group 3 compared to group 1. The expression of genes related to the immune response, host defense and intestinal barrier and nutrient sensing in the intestinal tissue was analyzed. The results show a beneficial effect on the immune status of the host without an adverse effect on the expression of genes related to intestinal tightness or nutritional processes. Due to the growth, meat characteristics and the positive impact of immunostimulant and regulating properties, aluminosilicates can be suggested as a litter and feed additive in the rearing of chickens.

Modulation of the immune system of chickens a key factor in maintaining poultry production—a review

“…Nevertheless, when discussing the effect of bedding, the combined supplementation system and adding bioactive substances to the litter material is worth mentioning. For example, aluminosilicates as a feed additive and litter have a positive local immunomodulating effect in GALT and are beneficial in broiler performance ( Biesek et al, 2021b ).…”

“…Previous studies on using aluminosilicates in poultry production confirmed their effect as a feed or bedding additive on production results, slaughter yield, meat quality, and intestinal morphology ( Banaszak et al, 2020 , 2021a , 2022b ; Biesek et al, 2021a ). Aluminosilicates also affect the expression of intestinal mucosa genes in the context of supporting health status ( Biesek et al, 2021b ; Dunislawska et al, 2022 ).…”

One Health Action Plan: Mushroom Farms to Mitigate the Harmful Impacts of Chicken Litter in Oro-Medonte

“…Chickens usually live on chicken litter, which is composed of various waste products such as their own feces and feathers (Biesek et al, 2021). Ammonia emissions from chicken litter produce strong smells, due to ammonia volatilization and poor air quality, which can harm the physical and mental health, as well as the overall well-being of chickens and poultry workers (Biesek et al, 2021). The presence of substantial amounts of ammonia in the litter can also directly harm the chickens who must live and walk on their own feces.…”

“…The presence of substantial amounts of ammonia in the litter can also directly harm the chickens who must live and walk on their own feces. For example, elevated levels of ammonia in the chicken's living environment can lead to footpad dermatitis due to increased pH levels, harming the chicken's well-being as lesions form on the chicken's feet and increase the risk of infection (Biesek et al, 2021).…”

Assessment of health safety of pigs taking natural sorbents with feed

“…In addition, they can favourably influence production outcomes and animal health [9]. Added to bedding, they improve the microclimate of animal housing owing to their drying properties and capacity to reduce the amount of gases released, thus favourably influencing animal welfare [10]. These additives are safe in the amount of 0.2-1% of a commercial diet for broilers or pigs and have no negative effect on production, even improving poultry productivity [11].…”