Poultry Digest April/May 2019 by Rosemary Embery

poultrydigest www.primarymedia.com.au

Volume 34, Number 5

April/May 2019

Aviagen opens new quarantine facility

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Volume 34, Number 5

April/May 2019

EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR: JOURNALIST/PHOTOGRAPHER PRODUCTION EDITOR

Peter Bedwell Alex Bedwell Rosemary Embery

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SUBSCRIPTIONS Aviagen’s General Manager Michael Leahy at the opening of the new quarantine facility in Wagga Wagga.

Features Page 8: Aviagen opens new quarantine facility by Peter Bedwell

Page 34: Antimicrobial stewardship in the Australian poultry industry

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by Dr Kylie Hewson

News Page 4: Aviagen ANZ Technical Seminar 2019 Page 18: Santrev expands its services to the poultry industry with Santrev Solar Page 22: Poultry now poised to become world’s most consumed meat after AFS outbreaks Page 26: How to minimise the multiple risks of rodent infestation and gain control Page 28: Tecno layer shed design and technology offers solutions for better egg production Page 40: Chook welfare key to feeding the world

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Aviagen ANZ Technical Seminar 2019 Aviagen held its Technical Seminar on April 8-9, 2019 at the Four Points Hotel, Docklands in Melbourne. The action of animal activists blocking a busy Melbourne CBD road junction at the morning peak hour certainly livened discussion as the well-attended event kicked off with a welcome from Aviagen ANZ Managing Director Michael Leahy. The main reason for holding the seminar was, Mr Leahy stated, “so our customers can extract the best value possible from the Aviagen product”. “The 2018 world parent stock maket volumes for white feathered chickens was 538.8 million and for Asia, Australia/NZ it was 173.9 million. “The world female parent stock market share by company had grown by more than 5% from 2017 to 2018. “On Ross 308 broiler trends, daily gain was +.53 g/d/y or 21.4 grams at 40 days, consistent with the last five years results,” Mr Leahy said. Dominic Elfick, Aviagen’s International Product Manager next reported on ANZ benchmarking. “Data has been supplied by clients and outlers removed where very obvious. “The period review for broilers covers 2014 placement onwards with a focus on performance from 2017 on and free range operations where noted have been separated from conventional operations,” Dominic explained. “The breeder data reviewed covered the period 2012 to present, with a focus on the period 2015 placements onwards, so broadly the last three years of placements. “There is much less parent stock data compared to broiler data with fewer operations reporting,” he said. “In terms of breeder operations, ANZ as a region is performing at a world class level in terms of chick output and between all the operations reporting there is, on average, an eleven chick difference from poorest to best. “Within the operations there can be a 30 chick difference from the top to bottom quartile, but note, this is not the same as ‘best to worst’. “We are now getting reports of flocks achieving more than 160 chicks to 65 weeks in Asia, suggesting that there is room for further improvement. “Unlike the broilers, the PS are showing substantial annual improvements in ANZ, in similar

proportions to the rest of the world,” Dominic concluded. Dr Ron McAlpine, a well known participant in the Australian poultry sector for many years and now an industry consultant, spoke about ‘Nutrition and Egg shell quality’. In opening his presentation Dr MacAlpine stated that between 15% and 20% of hatching eggs do not generate as a result of floor eggs and contamination, egg quality (size and shell), fertility, early embryo mortality or late embryo mortality,” he said With a focus on shell quality, Dr MacAlpine explained the effect of shell thickness on fertility and embryo mortality – an average of 25 broiler breeder flocks 30 to 60 weeks quoting research conducted in 1992 (Bennett). “In all but two age groups thinshelled eggs had lower fertility – could larger eggs laid by heavier and less fertile hens be a contributing factor?” he asked. “Embryo mortality in the first seven days of incubation was significantly higher in thin-shelled eggs for all flock ages. “It is probable that more embyos die in thin-shelled eggs due to cracks, moisture loss and bacterial contamination,” he said. Key challenges he mentioned were “that shell quality is critical for egg recovery and hatchability”. “Broiler breeders are often fed early morning while calcium intake/digestion disconnects with peak demand for shell formation during the night “The time of release of calcium from the digestive system and resorbtion of calcium from the skelrtal system are important in shell quality. “Both efficiency of Ac adsorbtion from the gut and skeletal resorbtion decline with age,” Dr MacAlpine explained. Summarising nutrition and shell quality he said, “thin shell eggs reduce hatchability and the control of body weight and egg size to standards is important. “Consider afternoon feeding if shell quality is poor and formulate to Ca and available P breed advice. “Use coarse limestone where practical and formulate adequate Vit D3 (3500 to 4500 iu/kg feed) or a combination of D3 and HyD. “Avoid drinking water high in totally dissolved solids ( TDS ) and chloride,” w

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1.Aviagen ANZ Managing Director, Michael Leahy welcomed the attendees. 2. Dr Ron McAlpine, industry consultant. 3. Judy Roberts, Aviagen Technical Service Manager for Asia.

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he advised. Judy Roberts, Technical Service Manager for Asia spoke about ‘Managing uniformity in broilers’. “What may affect uniformity?” Judy asked. “Flock source, brooding (set-up, crop fill, temperatures, pen sizes, etc), feeding and drinking space, feed distribution (both time and heights), lighting during feeding, extreme temperatures (bird behavior), and density.” Other key influencing factors were “feed particle size or feed allocation (feed management), individual bird management such as beak trimming, vaccinations, maintaining equipment (i.e fences – migration), diseases, human error, water quality and quantity, ventilation (start on day before chicks received), and incorrect information,” she said. “Density is important from day one with 40-50 chicks/m2 at the beginning and then decreasing density down to 10 chicks per m2 each three days, as a rough guide but observe, analyse and adjust feeder space frequently,” Judy advised. On how to maintain and keep uniformity, Judy stated that “management is 99% of the issue”. “On brooding she said “keep different source flock apart from from day one until seven days where there is less competition and condition adjustments required”. “Maintain correct feeding procedures and spaces at all times and drinker space is an important issue. “The correct stocking density (the same in all pens) and correct housing conditions are important as

light levels and ventilation affects feed consumption. “Effective bio security and vaccination programs keep the flock healthy,” Judy said. “Ensure that information and data analysis is reliable and make sure staff are well trained. “Modern broiler breeder management is becoming a greater challenge and there needs to be a re-focus on brooding to get the chick off to a good start. “Uniformity is key in order to get the flock’s potential performance realised. “Grading must be done accurately and an action plan must be set in order to achieve our targets,” Judy concluded. Wayne Miller, Operations Manager at Aviagen Australia spoke about ‘Female management, 15 weeks to peak’. “Objectives were,” he stated, “during 15 weeks with light stimulation

to generate stable development into maturity with minimal variation in the onset of sexual maturity. “During light stimulation into 5% production, to bring females into lay by stimulating and supporting egg production using feed and light. From 5% to peak production to promote and support reproductive performance,” Wayne said. Good Aviagen Australia breeder trends were “that in feeding into production – peak rates are 10% lower than five to six years ago and currently feeding approximately 152 gms at peak (422 kCal) and just dropping to 150 gms at peak (417kCal). “Compare that to the Ross standard of 462 (kCal),” Wayne pointed out. “Current GGPs continue to show feed efficiency improvements and current GGPs are also showing improved egg production. “Diet change in mid 2018 to reduce CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 w

1. Dr Ampai Nangsuay, Hatchery Technical Manager for Aviagen, Asia. 2. Dr Alex Chang, Senior Poultry Specialist for Asia Pacific at Aviagen. 3. The seminar was well attended and much appreciated.

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Dr Joe McGirr, MP and Wagga Mayor, Greg Conkey cut the ribbon on the new Aviagen quarantine facility.

Aviagen opens new quarantine facility

By PETER BEDWELL

n March 26 2019 Poultry Digest joined many key members of Australia’s broiler industry and local politicians at the official opening of Aviagen ANZ’s new quarantine facility located near Wagga Wagga NSW. This state of the art facility is only one of four such quarantine operations in Australia.

It is, as Aviagen’s General Manager Michael Leahy states, “of such a high standard that the facility is now the required standard for the strict protocols of biosecurity as proscribed by government in Australia,” he said at the opening event. “It is a key element in Aviagen’s $64 million of capital investment in importing its Ross genetics from Scotland into key markets like Australia and NZ. “At a cost of around $20 million, the new facility is, in Michael Leahy’s words, “the most expensive chicken shed in the world”. “Fertilised eggs from Aviagen’s Ross facilities in Scotland are tested, then imported and moved to the Wagga Wagga facility in fully biosecure transport,” Mr Leahy explained to Poultry Digest. The eggs are placed in the Petersime single stage setter/hatcher and spend 21 days in incubation. Hatched birds are regularly tested over a one to 12 week period and only released to be placed in client breeder

farms after all birds are shown to be ‘clean’. The facility is designed to house between 10 to 12,000 birds and is located in a location that ensures excellent biosecurity but is close to main road transport links. Aviagen’s Operations Manager Wayne Miller, speaking at the Aviagen ANZ technical seminar held in Melbourne in April gave attendees a report on the new facility. “The original concept and design was complete by July 2016, and the land (3500 sq mtrs) acquired in January 2017 and the builders Artifex Building and Constructions commenced the incredibly complex project in August 2017. Completed in March this year, Wayne was full of praise for Craig Cunningham’s Artifex company and the effort put in to complete the project on time,” Wayne said. On the day of the opening the independent NSW government member for the Wagga area, Dr Joe McGirr MP

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and Wagga Mayor, Councillor Greg Conkey attended. After cutting the ribbon, Dr McGirr, who has a background in hospital administration, fully understood the complexities of building an extremely biosecure facility from scratch. “It is a very impressive facility and good for jobs growth in our region which relies on agriculture at all levels to ensure jobs and general prosperity. Well done Aviagen,” he said. Cr Greg Conkey was also full of praise for the enterprise and stated that Aviagen and the design and construction teams have been a pleasure to work with from site selection to completion. Speaking after the opening to Poultry Digest, Cr Conkey stressed the importance of agriculture at all levels, including intensive livestock operations like pig and poultry production. “We welcome farmers with open ams in our region’s expanding agricultural enterprises,” Cr Conkey assured Poultry Digest. At the start of the facility guided tour in the staff facilities area, Wayne Miller pointed out the Aviagen logo skillfully blended into the Bolidt high level biosecure epoxy flooring that is used throughout the plant. This material is not only hard wearing but easy to clean and disinfect and thus vital in any hatchery operation. In simple terms, Wayne said in explaining many of the facilities design features, we have built a “building within a building,” he explained. “All the air entering or being expelled from the facility is subject to Hepafilters and filtered to an extreme w 4

2 5 3

1&2. Petersime single stage setter/incubators. 3. Operations Manager Wayne Miller shows guests around the new quarantine facility. 4. Removable pen walls for batch separation which are easier to clean. 5. LtoR: Bob Dobbie, Tim Ryan, Alan Parnham, Chris Turner and Joel Kopanica.

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level,” he said. The system uses a cross flow ventilation philosophy but the aim has been to achieve the most airtight facility using the best available technology. In the grow out area, as the chicks move towards their 12 week growth, there are demountable barriers that segregate specific groups. An advanced VDL moveable feeding system with Lubing drinkers, supplied by B&M Slots, caters for the specific feed and water needs. Feed comes in one tonne bulker bags. The grow out area has wood shavings litter on Bolidt floors and the whole system has been designed for easy and effective clean out. All waste is strictly controlled and processed on site, stored in tanks and chlorinated before movement off site. There is a high degree of automation using Hotraco Orion controllers, also supplied by B&M Slots. The overall attention to detail is simply staggering but justified when the value of the genetic stock is considered. As Wayne Miller explained at the seminar, one pedigree bird through 30 great grandparents leads to 1200 grand parent stock thus to 50,000 parents and ultimately to 7000000 broiler birds. In short, the value of the birds housed at this new quarantine facility is significant and their supply essential to the growing Australian demand for chicken meat. Predicting the future of protein CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 w

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supply in 21st Century Australia and indeed our region is difficult. However an industry that has concentrated on the need for domestic production and avoided imports due to our uniquely high levels of biosecurity may find itself in a position to benefit from a crises in both global and regional protein supply. African Swine Fever in China, Vietnam, Cambodia and many parts of Europe, could lead to a 30% drop in pork production. In China for instance, the government has for some time been trying to move from pork production to chicken meat. Fifty per cent of global pork consumption occurs (or did) in China and about half or more of that production is in small scale (or back yard production) and that is where the disease risk is most acute. Chicken meat is the logical alternative and with improved genetics and management, broiler production is not only an affordable protein source but has environmental benefits including the most efficient use of feed materials on an FCR basis. The big one however, is water use – the planet just does not have enough water to grow crops and feed increasing animal production at current levels. The Aviagen initiative is part of a critical investment in Australia’s chicken meat supply chain. There can be little argument that improved poultry genetics are the leading factor in the ability of chicken meat to supply the global need for protein. Australia’s population, now at 25 million, will be 30 million before long, so even if we stay as we are with domestic supply, the industry needs to grow with new infrastructure. If we can access even smaller Asian export markets, who knows what the prospects might be.

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Santrev expands its services to the poultry industry with Santrev Solar In a long relationship with Santrev, Poultry Digest has seen a lot of innovation introduced to the poultry industry by this company. We have had many discussions with Luke Trevanion, the Managing Director, about new technologies, what works and just as importantly, what doesn’t. We know that renewable energy and solar capability have been on Luke’s mind for some time and now Santrev has added a solar division to its extensive poultry shed construction and development capacity. Everyone knows the drivers for renewables. “With energy costs being one of the largest on-farm costs for poultry growers and energy inflation accelerating over the past 15 years, growers are interested in taking back control through harnessing solar based energy solutions,” Luke said. “Sunlight is abundant, free and environmentally sustainable as a source of energy to power grower operations. “Through the use of solar energy solutions, Santrev Solar and its partners are able to tailor optimal solar system designs that best match the farm’s current or future energy load requirements to the system’s energy generation capacity to ensure that the best investment payback is achieved. “Investment payback periods of 3-4 years are frequently attainable, equivalent to an internal rate of return of 25-30% compared to major bank cash investment returns of 1.5 to 2.5%.

“Once the solar system has paid for itself in 3-4 years, it generates free energy for a farm for the life of the equipment which is up to 25 years for Tier One equipment,” Luke explained. In the last decade or so, the States have sold their power generation infrastructure to private enterprise and then surprise, surprise, our power bills at both domestic and industrial level have gone through the roof. In July 2017 South Australia’s energy costs, once amongst the cheapest in the world, overtook Denmark which was the most expensive in the world. Until now. 1 Also, it’s not just about cost. In recent times power supply reliability has been ‘less than optimal’ with transmis2 sion failures in South Australia and a cable failure to Tasmania. Lack of investment in aging infrastructure in power generation, has left industries like the poultry sector needing not only affordable but reliable energy supply. Cost pressures from big retail on chicken meat sales have made it difficult for growers to recover their increasing energy costs from integrators, especially at a time where feed costs are at an near record levels. Fortunately, in the same period, renewable energy technology has become capable of delivering a reliable and continuous source of energy. 1. Luke Trevanion, Managing The other good news is that interest Director, Santrev. 2. Justin Brown, in rates remain at historic lows so investcharge of sales and project delivery. ment in energy independence makes w 3. Solar panels installed on one of the Santrev poultry farms. 3

Santrev launch solar division Santrev Solar launches a new solar division aimed at Growers to take back control of rising energy prices and reduce their carbon emissions in the poultry and wider intensive farming sectors. Now is the time to investigate the business case for installing solar energy on your farm operations with generous government subsidies and Santrev Solar’s fully project managed “turnkey” solutions a compelling proposition.

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even more sense. Santrev has made its move and now offer a sophisticated energy management solution to growers based on experience as well as new and existing expertise. Apart from the raw technology itself, the various State and Federal government rebate and subsidy schemes are often complex and beyond the capacity of even the most dedicated to fathom. One of the strengths of the Santrev operation is that it doesn’t just build sheds and sell equipment, it owns its own farms and has now gone down the renewable energy route itself. In the past Poultry Digest has noticed that Santrev and Luke can be quite conservative about emerging trends, and often with good cause. Now, having satisfied themselves that renewable makes sense financially in their own farms the company is offering solutions that will work for the poultry industry. To demonstrate his broader commitment to innovation in the poultry sector, Luke has partnered with Justin Brown to establish Santrev Solar. Luke is so convinced by the investment returns available from solar energy that he commissioned the conversion of his joint operations in Western Australia to solar energy and is looking forward to an investment rate return of 28.5% and payback in 3.5 years. Justin Brown has two decades of experience in projects involving complex and vital infrastructure projects in the health, oil and gas, coal mining, transport logistics, rail and steel manufacture in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. He is passionate about identifying technologies suitable for mature industrial and agricultural markets. Justin is particularly keen to lead

Above: Santrev is now offering sustainable energy solutions for the Australian poultry industry. the conversion of the poultry sector to solar energy sourced power by helping farmers to take control of their energy costs, thus improving operational profitability and reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. Justin is in charge of the sales and project delivery aspects of the business and enjoys working with clients to understand their specific needs and objectives for improved energy outcomes in the future. The financial and environmental case for conversion to solar energy is clear but there is another consideration that will become more important in the coming years. The last ten years or more have seen renewable energy as a political football, however a growing proportion of the population have already made up their minds about reducing GG emissions through renewable energy. In Europe, poultry products are already carrying labeling that defines the GG emissions relevant to broiler

and egg production because consumers in increasing numbers care about emission levels. The largest consumer groups by age bracket in Australia are now Millenials. Poultry Digest has listened to numerous presentations at scientific seminars where the attitudes of this group are seen to be influencing consumer trends and ‘big retail’ knows this and will respond to changing consumer requirements. For both Millenials and the other consumer groups, sustainability is no longer just an abstract concept: it’s a requirement. Be it the pocket or the planet, solar offers the energy solution for the future. For more information about solar energy for your operations contact Justin Brown on 0404 703 118, email justin@santrevsolar.com.au or Luke Trevanion 0411 469 493 at Santrev Solar today to get started. You can find out more on the website www.santrev. com.au/solar

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Poultry now poised to become world’s most consumed meat after AFS outbreaks Economists at an International Poultry Council meeting agree that the African Swine Fever outbreak will cause a pork shortage, leading consumers to eat more poultry. They agrred poultry is positioned to become the world’s most consumed meat protein in 2019 as African Swine Fever (ASF) spreads in pig herds across China. As the International Poultry Council (IPC) took stock of the global protein outlook at its first semester meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana recently, one economic reality riveted attention. Total world production of pork will decline in 2019 with poultry in position to wrest the crown from pork as the world’s most consumed meat protein. The upheaval in meat proteins is being driven by African swine fever (ASF) in pig herds in three continents and 15 countries. Production losses in 2019 are expected to amount to 14% of the world’s pork supply but may continue to move higher. “Pig losses in China due to ASF will trigger big shocks in global protein markets,” Christine McCracken, Senior Protein Anaylst at Rabobank, told IPC members, “and poultry is the meat protein with the most to win”. ASF outbreaks are ravaging pork production mostly in the Eastern Hemisphere, but the biggest impact is in China where nearly one-half of the world’s pigs are raised. Herds there are being hard hit by a disease that results in 100% mortality of infected stock and for which no vaccine exists. The disease, which has been in Russia and Eastern Europe for several years, was found in China in August 2018 and is spreading to Southeast Asia and Vietnam (the world’s fifth largest producer of pork). A small outbreak in the European Union has threatened exports there. “China produces 98 percent of its pork, so a forecasted 30 percent decline in supplies there by year’s end will lead to a decline in total world protein supplies in 2019,” McCracken said. The world will be unable to fill the supply gap in meat proteins, according to McCracken. “Expect imports of all proteins (beef,

poultry and seafood) to have limited near-term impact. Prices for all proteins will rise,” she said. ASF losses will leave China 10% short of meat proteins, but China may be able to increase domestic production of other proteins like eggs, beef, seafood and poultry. “Poultry imports might benefit the most,” she said. Presiding IPC president Jim Sumner of the United States agreed, saying, “African swine fever is decimating China’s leading meat protein industry, and chicken is the logical alternative.” He pointed to the opportunities for world poultry producers, noting other animal diseases in China like foot-andmouth disease (FMD) and highly pathogenic influenza may further complicate the picture for China’s pork and poultry producers. Pork may never regain leading position As IPC members listened, Ms McCracken alluded to the tantalising and potentially historic opportunity for a lasting gain in market share for poultry. “Demand destruction for pork is a potential outcome,” she explained. Economists at the meeting agreed that poultry consumption will surpass pork consumption on a worldwide basis in 2019. Ms McCracken termed her outlook for a 30% decline in production in China

and a 14% decline in world production as “conservative,” saying the declines may be deeper. “Poultry consumption will indeed surpass that of pork in 2019, and pork will be unlikely to recoup its leadership position,” she said. Further declines in world pork production of around 3% in 2020 are in her forecast as Asia loses more animals and expansion in other regions not in place by then. “Stabilisation will begin in 2021 and a more modest rebound of 1 to to 2% in volumes in 2022-2027. Environmental and slaughter constraints are likely to limit the size and speed of expansion,” she concluded. Dr Paul Aho predicted pork production will probably drop 15% worldwide in 2019. “From there, pork will increase 5% per year for four years,” he said, “and then continue increasing at a more modest 2% average per year. Meanwhile, poultry will increase 3% per year for three years (spurred in part by a shortage of pork) before dropping down to an average increase of 2% per year,” he predicted. “Poultry will surpass pork in production this year and will never relinquish the crown by my reckoning,” Aho said. He concluded: “With China having lost 30% of its herd to ASF and with it producing 50% of the global supply, there is no doubt that poultry is now king of the meat proteins worldwide.”

Pig losses in China will likely trigger big shocks in global protein markets.

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NEWS

How to minimise the multiple risks of rodent infestation and gain control The recent outbreaks of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) in New South Wales and Victoria have led to a lot of debate about the best biosecurity measures to protect poultry against the risk of infection. While there are pros and cons to more elaborate and expensive initiatives like industry-wide vaccination and the use of prebiotics and probiotics for competitive exclusion, establishing and maintaining effective rodent control should be considered non-negotiable as the first line of on-farm defence. With their ability to carry the SE bacteria for long periods and spread them prolifically, rodents represent the most widespread and constant threat of infection. As the NSW Department of Primary Industries noted in a recent bulletin issued last month in response to the SE outbreaks, controlling rat and mice populations is a critical step in SE prevention that producers can easily take responsibility for. Clearly, the highest levels of control will provide the best levels of protection. And that involves recognising a secondary danger: over-reliance on just one form of chemical control. Worryingly, many farms’ pest control programs are limited to repeated use of the same or very similar anticoagulants. When they are exposed to the same rodenticides over and over again, populations may not be effectively controlled if they develop bait shyness or tolerance to the active or a combination of the two. That’s why introducing a product rotation, using different modes of action – like many other farm management practices – is a key to both achieving better control in the short term and protecting the ongoing viability of older chemistry. The diagram shows how one possible annual rotation pattern using the BASF product range can incorporate two different modes of action and three different formulations, ensuring that no single mode of action is used for more than three months at a time. The recommended seasonal matching takes into account the likely levels of pest pressure and weather conditions. The company said “the rotation

Sample rotation with two different modes of action and three formulation types takes full advantage of the pace-setting advantages of Selontra Soft Bait in Spring and Autumn, when the availability of seeding grass and mild weather usually create peak rodent pressure. According to BASF, Selontra has been found to be four times more palatable to rodents than typical rodenticides and over thirteen times more palatable than maize silage. Once rodents consume its natural, non-anticoagulant active ingredient, they stop further feeding within twentyfour hours. That allows more of them to feed on the available baits in a short time and the whole population can be controlled after that with as few as two bait applications. “Conventional anticoagulant baits may require up to six applications to deliver similar results,” the company said. “Selontra’s other major advantage is a substantially reduced risk of secondary poisoning. “Anticoagulant rodenticides are only metabolised slowly and residues accumulate in the liver, kidneys and stomach, which means dogs, cats, wild birds or poultry can potentially consume a lethal dose from the carcasses of affected rodents.

“Selontra is rapidly metabolised and passes quickly out of the rodent’s system, so the carcass will not poison other animals. “During the winter season rodents tend to seek high calorie food sources. Storm Soft Bait is a unique formulation containing both high fat content and high protein content making it the perfect rotation partner for winter months. “Conversely, Summer in Australia can be hot and humid, Storm Secure has been developed to be resistant to both heat and humidity and contains a unique fungicide to minimise mould growth. “The high grain content formulation is also perfectly suited for summer months. “Adopting a rotational approach to rodent control built around Selontra’s advanced mode of action will help make this important aspect of biosecurity more efficient and reliable. “Faced with the renewed threat of salmonella infection, that’s now more important than ever,” the company statement concluded. For more information on the BASF rodenticide portfolio, contact CCD Animal Health on 1300 791 009 or your local CCD Representative.

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Less Risk. More Control. Rodents are a key vector for disease, including Salmonella enteritidis Just 200 rodents can consume and contaminate 10 to 20 metric tons of feed annually, spread diseases to your flock and adversely affect feed conversion rates. Selontra® Soft Bait is more palatable than attractive feed and other rodent baits. Control can be achieved during downtimes in as few as seven days, so less feed is lost—and that’s very appealing.

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NEWS

Tecno layer shed design and technology offers solutions for better egg production Tecno, an Italian based manufacturer and supplier of innovative and durable layer housing systems, was established more than 40 years ago was once popular in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Now owned by the globally active AGCO corporation, the company’s renowned products are being given a new lease on life in the ANZ market. Tecno exports more than 90% of its products and is generating more than 18 million hen places each year. This gives it the experience and knowledge to be able to adapt to the different needs of ever changing markets as is the case in Australia, as consumer/retail pressures moves egg production from cage to cage free systems. AGCO Australian and NZ operations based in Melbourne, has recently appointed Gordon Hunter, who has extensive experience in the UK layer industry as sales manager with specific interest in re-establishing the Tecno brand in ANZ. Above: Tecno Ideal FAS cage free rearing aviary with In recent conversations with Gordon Hunter, Poultry Digest height adjustable drinkers. was told that “Tecno, now an ACO company, is an established world leader in the design and manufacture of commercial egg production equipment. “Long established, more than 40 years in fact, it uses high quality European sourced materials and state of the art automated in house production and design that provides a superior product, yet at a competitive price. “The extensive product range will satisy all the various requirements of our ANZ customer requirement,” Gordon said. “Being part of the vast AGCO group delivers access for clients to turnkey project capabilities at all levels of complexity as we have an extensive range of complimentary products and services. “Among the many companies we represent are C-Lines, offering structures and solutions for all livestock requirements. “Cumberland provides an extensive range of poultry feeding systems, drinkers, nesting as well as storage and climate control products. “AGCO finance offers finance facilities for all poutlry farming operations, and turnkey projects can be offered on preferential terms to provide easy project management at attractive prices. w

Above: Tecno Ideal FAS cage free rearing system.

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NEWS v

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Additionally finance can be tailored to suit cash flow requirements,â&#x20AC;? Gordon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tecno believes that pullet rearing is the foundation for great production results. Good rearing can provide more even weights, with a better FCR, allowing an earlier light increase in the layer shed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This can result in increased egg numbers and efficiency. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To this end, we provide custom systems to minimise stress, and subsequent weight loss on transfer to the layer unit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whether the layer shed is set up for Cage, Colony, Free Range, Barn or cage free, Tecno has a system to suit.â&#x20AC;? Gordon is now responsible for Tecno sales in Australia and New Zealand. This includes conversions of existing buildings to meet the specific requirement of various types of production systems such as broiler rearing to free range egg production and cage laid to cage free/barn requirements to suit both markets and regulatory requirements. He is supported by the AGCO grain and protein team based in Melbourne who can call on the extensive knowledge and services available from source factories and beyond. They can offer the resources and facilities of a leading world wide corporate player with the flexibility service and specialist knowledge of a local team To find out more about the solutions and services on offer, please contact Gordon Hunter E. Gordon.Hunter@agcorp.com or mobile 0476 760240.

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NEWS

Phytobiotics and National Feed Solutions Inflammation and Cocktails 2019 Seminar During VIV Asia in March 2019, Phytobiotics and National Feed Solutions held an ‘Inflammation and Cocktails 2019’ Seminar where Dr Anja Pastor, Species Manager Poultry, from Phytobiotics, spoke about “Inflammation – what is it?’ “It is the normal and protective

response of the innate immunity system to pathogens or injury,” Dr Pastor explained. “This response is to protect us from pathogens and damage to the immune system. “What triggers inflammation is that macrophage is looking at receptors and

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Dr Anja Pastor, Species Manager Poultry, Phytobiotics. when it finds something, the receptor attaches to it and identifies it as the ‘alien’. “This requires a closer look,” she said. “Cytokines are messenger proteins and they attract leucocytes to the site of inflammation white blood cells. Some go to the bone marrow, some to muscle (anabolic and cationic state) and some to the liver and brain. “Enteric inflammation can lead to performance loss and shows a decrease in production parameters. “Impaired gut integrity has a longterm effect on production as everything happens or starts in the gut. Alkaloids are a big group and they are produced from amino acids and are effective in small dosages. Caffeine is also an alkaloid. “The alkaloids dealt with here are from one selected plant, Macleaya cordata, which contains the alkaloids used in Sangrovit. Isoquinoline alkaloids are the active ingredient. “Native Americans originally used the plant for medicinal use and Colgate included it in a mouthwash for gingivitis prevention. “The University of Vienna used it in animal research and then went on to patent the use in animal production. “The family name is Isoquinoline Alkaloids and there are a total of four

NEWS alkaloids in the product and studies show that they are able to inhibit the activation of inflammation. “The trial showed that a down regulation of inflammatory marks were a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines. “One of the treatments was aspirin, which is a known effective anti-inflammatory. Measuring macrophage is another marker to measure the immunity effect. When measuring against an oxytetracycline it was seen that there was a dose response in feed conversion as well as inflammatory effects. “Even in the gut, it was shown that there was a reduction in inflammation. In the trial studies on piglets it is known that stress in piglets leads to post weaning intestinal inflammation. “They chose piglets at weaning to look at acute phase proteins at various doses of Sangrovit. The trial work showed that there was less inflammation, and this is rewarded in better ADG and FCR compared to the negative control. “The trial also considered tight junction proteins. This was compared against a regulated Colistin and the tight junction proteins were shown to

significantly increase. “A further trail was completed on heat stress in broilers. Heat stress, like changes in the environment and moving animals, effects and impairs the gut integrity. Studies show that heat stress induces inflammation and both of conditions effect the absorption of nutrients. “Feed intake is also reduced during heat stress and diets should be changed to reflect this. “Japanese trials with heat stress show that body weight is affected and feed conversion. “The use of Sangrovit meant that there was no negative effect of heat stress on feed conversion. A second heat stress trial raised the temperatures which were more similar to Australian conditions – up to 44 degrees C. “During the period of heat stress, the birds who consumed Sangrovit were less severely effected and the animals kept up their feed intake which was not effected by the heat stress. Dr Pastor also spoke about ‘Concepts for less AGPs?’ “Antibiotic treatment is a different consideration. Sangovit does not kill anything, it provides a more propalactic

Kym MIller from National Feed Solutions. effect. AGPs do influence inflammation, the treatment (therapeutic) dose is higher for treatment, so what did this do with inflammation? Trials shown that in boilers, the Sangrovit was as successful as the AGPs. They measured nitrous oxide, and this shows that the macrophage are successful and active during this period.

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HEALTH FEATURE

Antimicrobial stewardship in the Australian poultry industry By Dr KYLIE HEWSON, Deputy Executive Director, ACMF The Australian chicken meat industry is an approximately $2.6 billion industry, producing more than 652,000,000 chickens annually, that is dominated by seven companies that supply the bulk (>90%) of the domestically consumed chicken meat. Meat chickens reach processing age at approximately six weeks of age. The industry is highly vertically integrated and the chicken farmers are predominately contractors to the processing companies, who ultimately own the chickens. This dynamic means that the processing companies are responsible

for the inputs to the farm that relate directly to the chickens – the feed, management advice and health management. Each processor’s health program is managed by at least one registered poultry veterinarian, often directly employed by a company, who oversees and manages disease surveillance, diagnosis and treatment, including the administration of antibiotics, for all company flocks including breeder flocks. The Australian chicken meat industry has a long history of judicious use of antibiotics and implementing antimicrobial stewardship (AMS)

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Creating more than an impress ion 34

Dr Kylie Hewson, Deputy Executive Director, ACMF, principles, even before formal stewardship was encouraged. The chicken meat industry has a role to play in reducing the risks of antimicrobial resistance for the benefit of both human and animal health. This involves the judicious use of antimicrobials and other strategies to reduce the incidence of disease, refine the duration of treatment and reduce the potential environmental pressure that can create bacterial resistance. The industry is currently rolling out an AMS programme that can be adapted to fit the operations of each chicken meat company to formalise previous efforts and allow for better analysis of areas for further refinement of antimicrobial use. The chicken meat industry is supported by an R,D&E program operated through AgriFutures Australia, which has a total annual budget of approximately $3million. Responsibility Due to the structure of the chicken meat industry, there are only a small number of veterinarians who oversee the administration of antimicrobials to treat, control or prevent disease in meat chickens.

HEALTH FEATURE They are all required to be registered and are more often than not members of both the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and the Australasian Veterinarian Poultry Association (AVPA). The AVA has a long history of established policies on the use of veterinary medicines including antibiotics1 , guidelines for prescribing, authorising and dispensing veterinary medicines2 and a code of practice to support this for antimicrobials specifically3 . The Australian poultry veterinarians, through the Australasian Veterinary Poultry Association (AVPA), have embraced these policies, guidelines and codes of practices since at least 19874 with the most recent version, the code of practice for the use of antibiotics in the poultry industry, last reviewed in 20015 . The review of this document has been discussed but this is to be undertaken in light of any potential changes to AVA documents which are also planned for review. The antimicrobial stewards for the chicken meat industry are the veterinarians employed by, or working with, chicken meat processing companies, and they have taken the responsibility of judicious use of antimicrobials seriously for at least the last 30 years. Veterinarians are provided with independence in making decisions relating to antibiotic use, which is supported by the management of chicken meat companies. This responsibility requires support from the company executives, and is evidenced by the changes to health management that have been able to be made throughout the industry over time. As mentioned above, the number of veterinarians responsible for flock health programs and stewardship in the chicken meat industry is relatively small. This has allowed, and continues to facilitate, changes to be made quickly when evidence is produced to support a change in practice. The industry is also looking at what options are available for ongoing professional development in AMR and AMS for industry veterinarians. The responsibility of the farmer is to alert their company when they think there may be a health issue and to ensure biosecurity measures are in place that reduce the incidence of disease, as per the National Farm Biosecurity Manual for Chicken Growers6 (currently under review) which farmers are required to adhere to as part of their contractual obligations with the processing companies. There are often financial penalties to farmers whose flocks experience an increase in flock mortality or morbidity and there is flock supervision and monitoring for adherence to company policies, procedures and industry manuals by company representatives during frequent farm visits. Reduction The combination of common, highly infectious chicken diseases with the nature of intensive chicken production means that prevention of disease is paramount. Implementation of tighter biosecurity controls, precise nutritional management and the development and implementation of vaccine use since the 1980s has meant there has been a significant reduction in the incidence of diseases that may need treatment or prevention with antimicrobials and therefore a reduction in the overall use of many antimicrobials. As there is no current standard measure of the quantity of antimicrobial use that can be used for benchmarking it is difficult to ascertain what the extent of reduction has been, on a per chicken basis. Vaccination is widely applied where available, and AgriFutures Australia and the ACMF work continuously with the vaccine supply companies to ensure there are viable, and sustainable, options available for preventing disease in chickens. w

Aviagen Management Essentials Dr. Youngho Hong

Regional Technical Service Veterinarian Asia Author biography: Dr. Hong received his DVM and MS degree from Konkuk University in Korea. With 19 years of experience in the poultry industry as a veterinarian and in production, Dr. Hong joined Aviagen’s Global Veterinary Team 6 years ago and manages customers in North and South Asia. Author Quote: Dr. Hong states, “FTA cards are a user-friendly way to send samples of deceased animals from the ﬁeld to the laboratory for the identiﬁcation of avian pathogens or biological analysis.”

Take FTA card samples Objective: To take FTA (Flinders Technologies Associates) card samples for confirmation of the presence of a disease agent and to allow appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Key Points: 1. FTA cards are cotton based, cellulose paper containing chemicals that burst cells, denature proteins and protect DNA, leaving a sample suitable for molecular identification without the risk of disease contamination. 2. Samples can be used for several different laboratory tests to allow rapid identification of a suspected poultry disease. 3. FTA cards are available in either white (classic; generally used for blood only) or pink (indicating; can be used for all samples) formats. 4. FTA cards come in a variety of configurations, allowing multiple options for the user. The most common is a 4 circle configuration. 5. Unused FTA cards should be stored at room temperature (20-24ºC) in a sealed plastic bag. 6. Cards should be protected from light to ensure that the chemicals contained within are not damaged. 7. Always wear gloves when handling FTA cards to ensure that contaminants from human hands are not transferred onto the card. 8. Use fresh tissues for sampling and avoid using dead birds found in the pen, as sample quality could be compromised. Procedure for taking tissue impressions from a deceased bird Step 1. Use a sharp sterile knife to open the organ so that either the mucosa or the internal tissue is exposed. Step 2. Using a scalpel and forceps, take a sample of tissue and make a generous impression on the FTA card by pressing and rubbing the sampled tissue onto the application circle.

Step 1

Step 3. Remove the sampled tissue from the card, leaving behind the impression. Step 4. Let the impression air dry on the card for at least 30 minutes, keeping the card away from extreme heat, humidity or direct sunlight.

Step 2-3

HEALTH FEATURE v With the formalisation of an industry AMS program,

companies are reporting that they can better focus their efforts on judicious antimicrobial use by assessing different methodologies for treatment and prevention which may further reduce the use of antimicrobials. This is a process that the industry has been undertaking for a number of years, to the point where most of the focus now is on refinement of use, specifically, significant improvements to disease prevention and management have resulted in reduced use of preventative treatments. Refinement

re a s t n e m “pig ” y t l a i c e p our s

The ACMF established a policy back in 2007 that antibiotics should not be used for growth promotion purposes and has been actively working with the product registrants since then to get growth promotion claims for chickens removed from labels. If the products couldn’t substantiate a therapeutic claim for their use then it was made clear that there would be no future for those products in the Australian market. Currently there remain three products registered for use in chickens that have growth promotion claims. One of these products is an avilamycin formulation (there are two registered but only one has growth promotion claims) that is registered for use in Australian chickens but isn’t actually available for sale in Australia. The second is flavophospholipol which has no registered therapeutic claim but is occasionally used to treat necrotic enteritis or enteritis when other preventative and treatment measures have failed to control disease. The third is Roxarsone which is not currently used by the industry, and hasn’t been available since 2011. Disease prevention and refinement of antimicrobial usage have been key to ensuring production of healthy chickens without being excessively cost prohibitive. The industry has made, and continues to make, substantial investments in identifying gaps and improving biosecurity to reduce introduction and spread of pathogens. This has reduced the need for treating, or indiscriminately trying to prevent, illness in chickens with the use of antimicrobials. Improved vaccination strategies have also allowed for further refinement of antimicrobial use by identifying how to protect more chickens more effectively by preventing immunosuppressive diseases (such as Marek’s disease, Chicken anaemia virus and infectious bursal disease) and secondary bacterial infections, or vertically transmitted diseases (eg. Mycoplasmosis). The industry AMS program is putting mechanisms in place to identify areas where further refinement of antimicrobial use, within the restrictions of withholding periods, can be made for all antimicrobials including those that aren’t used in human medicine. This potentially includes the formalization of a set of prescribing guidelines, which would need to be coordinated with the Australian Veterinary Association. Replacement

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The Australian poultry industry is a world leader in identifying and implementing alternatives to antibiotics. Significant advances in science and the development of vaccines have occurred in Australia which have significantly reduced the use of antimicrobials in Australia, and internationally. The development of vaccines to prevent mycoplasma-associated diseases7 has meant macrolide antibiotics are rarely indicated, or required, and these vaccines are now sold internationally to benefit the international poultry industry. Chronic respiratory disease (CRD) complexes used to be the biggest contributor to disease and secondary bacterial infections in

HEALTH FEATURE meat chicken production, requiring treatment with antimicrobials. With the use of Australian-developed Mycoplasma vaccines in breeding flocks, this disease complex is rarely seen today, and this development has probably made the single biggest contribution to the reduction in the need for antimicrobial treatments in the chicken industry. The development and implementation of vaccines for Newcastle disease virus, infectious bronchitis virus, infectious laryngotracheitis virus and Marek’s disease virus has similarly significantly reduced the use of antimicrobials (particularly amoxicillin, oxytetracycline, trimethoprim and macrolides), in Australian chickens. Many of these vaccines have been developed in Australia. These vaccines have been successfully applied either directly to meat chickens or to breeder stock to ensure the meat chickens have adequate early immunity and to break the infection cycle. Importantly, improvements in biosecurity have reduced the industry’s reliance on vaccines like these in meat chickens. The introduction of an E. coli vaccine has yet to be tested in the Australian industry, and it remains to be seen if this is an effective, viable alternative for widespread implementation in breeder flocks (where use will be most effective as they are longer lived). The Australian industry has funded the development and licencing of a vaccine candidate for necrotic enteritis prevention which looks promising and, if ultimately viable, implementation would significantly reduce the need for some preventative antimicrobial use in Australia, and internationally. The biggest delay for implementing vaccines (and reducing antimicrobial use) comes from the approvals process for their use and the ACMF works with the regulatory authorities to help reduce these delays. The industry is also continually looking to develop more effective vaccines against bacterial pathogens and significant work has been done, and continues, to assess the viability of alternative treatment options such as the use of pre-and probiotics and other feed supplements that don’t have direct antimicrobial action but may improve gut health and function and are effective replacements for antimicrobial use. Review Independent verification of the industry AMS program which was implemented in 2017 by each of the seven major companies was planned in 2018 to help further support the industry’s AMS efforts to identify areas for further refinement and reduction of antimicrobial use. There is no industry QA Program. This means each company has different approaches and requirements depending on their customers and specific markets. The elements of the AMS program have been adopted voluntarily and integrated into standard business operations which means that independent verification of the program is vital to ensuring the industry as a whole is able to continue refining judicious use practices. It is expected that a number of recommendations for future research to support industry AMS will be identified as part of this process. As part of the commitment to judicious antimicrobial use, the Australian poultry industry reviewed the efficacy of AMR methodologies in the 1980s to ensure that AMR detection and surveillance approaches are consistent8 . Since then, there has been greater alignment of techniques used by industry laboratories for detection and reporting of AMR, however improvements can still be made. The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 w

PRODUCT NEWS

Globamax and Early Chicken Nutrition Seminar In Bangkok on March 12, 2019 prior to VIV Asia, Global Nutrition held its Globamax and Early Nutrition Seminar at the The Westin Grande Sukhumvit. Professor Bob Swick from the University of New England, Armidale was the first speaker and his topic was ‘The importance of, and advancements in early chick nutrition’. He discussed young chick nutrition, firstly focusing on broilers. Under the heading of ‘Physiology of the young chick’ he talked about how in the first seven days, which represents about 17% of the life of a 42 day broiler, chicks only consume 3.2% of their total feed. “The seven-day weight is considered a good indicator of bird health performance and what the final live weight will be,” he said. “The gut assumes full responsibility for the nutrition of the bird once the yolk is completely absorbed. The yolk sac will not maintain the chick for as long as

we have assumed in the past. “Developing the gastrointestinal tract and the yolk (J.Dibner, 2007) is important and caecal contents should develop within seven days. As the gut changes fast, at hatch (which is day 0) there is minimal villi, then in two days the villi show explosive growth and development when the appropriate nutrients are supplied. “There are products on the market that have been developed to be offered to the chicks at day old. Globafirst is a an early nutrition and gut development product in a high moisture feeder, it is up off the floor of the chick box, which allows easy access for the chicks, making it unique from competitor products. “Trials show that birds offered feed and water earlier, develop faster and the gut develops at a faster rate (proven structural development of the intestine). “If we look at the economics of the first feed the chick consumes, there

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1. David Faulkner, Global Nutrition’s Business Development Manager, chaired the seminar. 2. Professor Bob Swick from UNE. 3. Dr Damnern Sohsuebngarn, Poultry Consultant.

PRODUCT NEWS are a variety of opportunities regarding ingredients, nutrients and additives that can assist in rapid bird growth. The prestarter feed is where you should spend or invest the most for the best pay back. “In conclusion, the first feed needs more attention particularly as the cost of adding to the pre-start diet is negligible. Transporting chicks and their access to feed early is a big benefit and Butyrate is beneficial on gut development and performance.” Dr Nilo Nequinto, DVM President of Global Nutrition International, spoke about ‘Innovations in early chick nutrition and GIT Development’. “Over the years there have been major advancements in broiler production,” he said. “Global Nutrition provides solutions to enhance production as producers are naturally looking to produce the most at the lowest cost with the highest benefits. “The production requirements are changing all the time and now with sustainable production as a major focus, the bar has been raised further. “The importance of a good start is part of these advancements. In day old chicks, nutrients and hydration are of the upmost importance. “Stimulating early feeding is the head start program. Unfortunately, the time from the hatchery to the farm is often overlooked in commercial broiler systems. “Early chick nutrition aids in the rapid development of the gastro intestinal tract, enhances yolk sac utilisation, assists better muscle development and ensures faster development of the immune system. “A Calcium Butyrate based product has been developed by Global Nutri-

tion for poultry production to aid in the chicks ‘Headstart’,” he concluded. Dr Damnern Sohsuebngarn, Poultry Consultant, Lopburi, Thailand spoke about ‘Recent trials results from Thailand’. Dr Damnern has worked in the industry for more than 30 years and he began by talking about the efficacy of the Head Start Program and Globamax 1000 on broilers performance. In the trial discussed, he used used

Globafirst. The results showed that at 35 days the Head Start birds were showing a +6.2% increase from 2207g to 2343g which is more than a 136g improvement. In the Globamax 1000 trial, the birds showed an improvement in weekly weight and feed intake with growth at +120g at 40 days and FCR -3,5%. For more information contact David Faulkner at email david.faulkner@ globalnutrition.com

Dr Nilo Nequinto, DVM President of Global Nutrition International.

NEWS

Chook welfare key to feeding the world As our global population continues to grow, many are turning to poultry meat and eggs to help feed the world. But intensive poultry farming is not without its challenges. At UNE’s Poultry Hub Australia, Director and scientist Dr Tamsyn Crowley is working closely with industry to improve chicken health and ultimately meat and egg production. With her colleagues at Deakin University, she has developed a world-first, non-invasive scientific test for bird stress. The Poultry Hub, and UNE’s world-leading Poultry Science researchers in the Faculty of Science, Agriculture, Business and Law have a long history of collaboration with the poultry industry. Their work is typical of UNE’s research quality in Agricultural Sciences and Animal Production, recognised in the Australian Research Council’s most recent ‘Excellence in Research for Australia’ National Report. “Previously there was only one measure of a bird’s stress hormones, achieved through a blood test,” said Dr Crowley. “But you’ve only got 45 seconds to pick the bird up and take a blood sample to measure those levels before you’ve stressed the chicken out.

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Dr Tamsyn, Director UNE’s Poultry Hub Australia. “We sought to come up with a better objective measurement.” Dr Crowley’s team discovered that, as in humans, the biomarkers in chickens that regulate biological processes are very sensitive indicators of stress. The test they have devised may even be used on unfertilised eggs, eliminating the need to take blood samples from chickens altogether. “Many of the welfare demands placed on the poultry industry are based on public perceptions and interpretations, making it difficult to make objective assessments,” Dr Crowley said. “Our test will enable the industry to provide accurate scientific information on the welfare status of their production systems at the flock level and enable auditors to directly test bird welfare during routine inspections.” Dr Crowley was one of the first postdoctoral researchers appointed to the Poultry CRC (with its successor now known as Poultry Hub Australia) and she relishes the opportunity to help translate science and research into industry practice. The not-for-profit hub that she now leads is dedicated to helping Australia achieve sustainable, ethical poultry production (including chicken meat, eggs, ducks and other poultry species) in the face of population growth and climate change, with a particular emphasis on nutrition, health, welfare and biosecurity research. “More and more poultry farmers are now calling me with real-world problems to solve, which is the highlight of my job,” Dr Crowley said. “I love trying to find solutions to problems; that’s what drives you as a scientist. At the Poultry Hub we invest in research that is relevant and will have a direct impact on the poultry industry - an industry that faces some future challenges.” Far from seeing challenges around bird health and welfare as negatives, Dr Crowley regards them as opportunities. ”When you improve the wellbeing of birds, you improve production and the whole process,” she said. “We have a massive opportunity right now to get young people with fresh ideas engaged in the poultry industry and to enlist their help in solving these problems.”

NEWS

Researchers discover a new mechanism used by bacteria to evade antibiotics As bacteria continue to demonstrate bacteria were found to modulate tal cellular processes that are essential powerful resilience to antibiotic treatmagnesium ion uptake in order to for life are interacting with each other,” ments – posing a rising public health stabilize their ribosomes – the fundasaid Süel. crisis involving a variety of infections mental molecular machines of life that The new findings lay the scientific – scientists continue to seek a better translate genes into proteins – as a groundwork for new ways to counteract understanding of bacterial defenses survival technique. antibiotic resistance. against antibiotics in an effort to “We have found an unexpected new “Antibiotic resistance is a major develop new treatments. mechanism that actively growing bacpublic threat to our health,” said Süel. Now, researchers at the University teria utilize to become resilient against “The number of drugs coming onto the of California San Diego, who combine antibiotics,” said Süel, a professor of market is not keeping up with the ability experiments and mathematical modmolecular biology. “With this discovery of bacteria to cope with those drugs.” eling, have discovered an unexpected we can now explore new ways to comSüel believes scientists may be able mechanism that allows bacteria to bat infections.” to boost the potency of existing antibisurvive antibiotics. The researchers investigated the otic drugs by manipulating the ability of Dong-yeon Lee, Maja Bialecka-Forrelationship between ribosome activbacteria to take up magnesium, rather nal and Gürol Süel of UC San Diego’s ity and the electrochemical flux of ions than having to develop new drugs. The Division of Biological Sciences, and across cell membranes. This membrane potency of certain classes of antibiotics Leticia Galera-Laporta of the Universitat potential and ribosomes are among the used to treat serious infections might Project2:Layout 1 19/07/11 10:26 AM Page 1 Pompeu Fabra (Spain), and colleagues most ancient and fundamental probe greatly improved by restricting how discovered that bacteria defend themcesses that operate in all living cells, bacteria take up magnesium, thus selves against antibiotics by controlling from bacteria to humans. The scientists interfering with bacteria’s ability to use the uptake of alkaline metal ions. identified a distinct connection that “recharged magnesium ions in defenses When under attack by antibiotics, veals how these ancient and fundamenagainst antibiotics.

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Roxell launches Titan feeder pan for turkeys Roxell has recently launched Titan, a new automatic feeding system for heavy turkeys. In recent years, these birds have undergone a huge evolution in terms of weight. This XL feed solution anticipates the practical problems that come with feeding these more voluminous and stronger turkeys. With Titan, Roxell is putting the largest, strongest and most easy to clean pan on the market. New features of Titan Driving the development of Titan was the question: ‘How can we give turkeys the best possible access to feed and therefore the best chance of growing to their maximum weight’ the company said. The pan is larger than any other pan to accommodate the heavy animals. The circumference of the pan is also 21% larger than Optimax, Roxell’s previous turkey pan. However, the issue with heavy, adult turkeys is not only the extra space they require; they’re also stronger. Titan was therefore designed to be more durable than its predecessors, according to the company statement. “The connection between the pan and the tube at the top is now 20 cm or 8” compared to 5 cm or 2” previously. “This provides a larger anchor,

which makes an already strong pan much stronger. Cleaning the pan after each flock is now quicker than ever. “You click the pan open on the side, which allows you to clean it thoroughly without having to completely remove the bottom pan. “For new flocks of chicks, there is also a starter pan: a small, gray bottom pan, which is easy to switch once the birds are 5 to 7 weeks old. A customer testifies “The slaughter weight of turkeys has increased dramatically in recent years,” said Alex Casteele, a Roxell customer from Heuvelland in Belgium. “Nowadays, we are talking about 22 kg (49 lbs), whereas five years ago it was 17.7 kg (39 lbs). It’s a huge evolution that has resulted in changes to our daily operations. “Last year, Roxell installed the new Titan pans at our farm. Since then, we’ve used them for three flocks. The first thing you notice when you compare the old pan with the new pan is the difference in size. The new feeder pan is much larger, which is noticeable in the houses as more animals are able to feed at once. “I’ve also noticed an increase in feed intake, because the larger pans result in the turkeys spilling less feed. The previous flocks also had improved feed conversions and, therefore, better

end weights. “In addition, these pans seem more durable, since the connection to the tube is very sturdy. When cleaning the Titan, we click open the bottom pan. It stays attached on one side and is therefore easy to thoroughly clean with a pressure washer. “My wife is particularly pleased with this system. There’s no more manual work involved and we get it done much quicker. And with the central control system, I can easily adjust the feed level,” Mr Casteele said. Test process for quality and durability “Each of Roxell’s product launches is the result of careful research,” said Frank Hartmann, Marketing Manager at Roxell. “Before we put a new product on the market, there is a test period during which we do trial runs with animals. “We then ask our customers to try out the prototypes. We determine some testing metrics and monitor these metrics systematically. Through this process, we learn a lot about the quality, durability and ease of use, and can make adjustments where necessary. Titan also underwent this testing process. Our durability tests prove this feeder pan is a quality product that achieves excellent end results compared to existing systems.”

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Natalie Morgan from UNE with Danielle Phibbs from the University of Sydney who won the Mingan Choct Award for the most outstanding Post Graduate presentation at this year’s Poultry Science Symposium.

NEWS

Aviagen expresses commitment to customers When customers speak, Aviagen listens, according to the company. “That’s why, during a seminar on April 8 and 9 in Docklands, Melbourne, Australia, key Aviagen and industry experts exchanged ideas with their valued customers on topics that had been previously requested by them,” said Aviagen AANZ Managing Director, Michael Leahy. Organised biannually by the Aviagen Australia New Zealand (AANZ) team, the seminar brings together valued customers to keep them abreast of the latest genetic gains and trends, while advising on the best growing techniques to achieve these performance advances. The April seminar was designed to help broiler and breeder customers get the most from their Ross 308 birds. Aviagen specialists discussed with customers techniques in nutrition, breeder uniformity, disease prevention, optimum house ventilation, female and male management, and a host of other subjects critical to excellent flock performance. The Ross 308 is very popular among producers throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific due to its excellent breeder performance, healthy broiler growth rate, feed efficiency, meat yield and livability. The seminar was highly beneficial to attendees and the Aviagen team alike. “This event was an excellent opportunity to keep abreast of the Ross bird’s current and future performance, and always a great opportunity for networking with industry friends,” said Gerard Sprenger, General Manager, Woodlands Enterprises Pty Ltd. “A very practical and useful two days, when we were reminded of the importance of attention to detail and getting the basics correct to achieve the birds’ genetic potential,” added Alan Parnham, Farming Director, Inghams Group Limited, Australia. Mr Leahy, who facilitated the seminar said, “A tremendous opportunity to get together with old friends while being brought up to date on developments by very knowledgeable technical experts.” “This seminar gave customers the chance to network with the wider Aviagen team, who work hard to supply them with a great product,” added Debbie Fisher, Technical Service Manager, Aviagen ANZ.

The Aviagen Technical Seminar brings together valued customers to keep them abreast of genetic gains and trends while providing advice on the best growing techniques by industry experts.

If you would like to subscribe to Poultry Digest Magazine and not miss any issues please call Rosemary Embery on 0409 944 472 or landline 02 9797 2406. Email: primarymedia@bigpond.com Website: www.primarymedia.com.au

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NEWS v CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 protein and increase energy, reduced embryonic mortality, improved shell quality and aided egg production persistence,” Wayne concluded. After a group photo and lunch Debbie Fisher, Technical Services Manager ANZ, introduced the afternoon session with ‘Male management – post 30 weeks and spiking’. Managing the male correctly from day old to death is extremely important for overall flock fertility and hatch and though the male may represent a small part in the shed they are responsible for 10x the chick output (1 female =150 chicks and 1 male 150 chicks),” Debbie said. “Critical male management post 30 weeks involved attention to feeder management, feed amount with positive increases and an optimal male feed ration. “Feed stealing by females can be an issue and non-performing males need to be removed. “Spiking (the introduction of young broiler breeder males into an older flock to compensate for declines in fertility that can occur with ageing male birds), was a critical management issue with male birds,” Debbie said. “Bodyweight control for the life of the flock is important and so is uniformity for even feed allocation and consumption. “Managing feeding with attention to stealing, distribution, and pan height is also critical. Use positive feed increases and energy balance. “Always handle birds and check condition as well as monitoring mating activity. “Aim for quality males not quantity,” Debbie concluded. ‘Common issues in the hatchery’ was the next topic for Dr Ampai Nangsuay, Hatchery Technical Service Manager for Aviagen-Asia. In a comprehensive report Ampai gave a guideline for egg storage. “Eggs should be cooled to below physiological zero (22 deg C) soon after collection from the nest boxes. “The farm egg stores should run about 2 deg C higher than storage at hatchery, and be careful with condensation,” she said. “It is important to keep the egg storage temperature constant.” She described key elements of field investigation in Indonesia taking into account bird age, local environments and transport times. On the problem of low hatchability and high percentage of ‘clear eggs’, Dr

Nangsuay recommended identifying problems such as fertility or early dead. “Check for true infertile/early dead and candle eggs by hand some time between 10 and 12 days of incubation and to candle at least 500 eggs to attain reasonable accuracy,” she said. On length of storage and temperature, Dr Nangsuay stated that “temperature reduction below 15 deg C does not show any additional benefit and almost always causes condensation. “Fluctuating storage temperature during seven day storage results in a higher early embryonic mortality.” On egg handling and storage to minimise early dead and improve hatchability she said “avoid advanced embryonic development. The target is to have less percentage of embryo >13. “At all flock ages, hatchability was increased by storing eggs at 15 deg C compared to 18 Deg C with no fluctuation of temperature during egg storage. “The highest hatchability was observed in eggs stored at 15 deg C and treated with short periods of incubation during egg storage.” In her concluding slides Dr Nangusay mentioned the dangers of high temperature exposure including “high yolk sac weight, decrease in heart size, smaller proventriculus, gizzard and small intestine and poor bone development all leading to decreased broiler performance,” she said. The final presentation of the day ‘Minimum and night ventilation’ was delivered via satellite by Aviagen Asia’s Technical Service Manager and oultry housing expert, Bernard Green. On the following day, Bernard delivered his second presentation on housing management, ‘Trouble shooting you ventilation’. Poultry Digest considers both of these comprehensives guides to shed management worthy of full length reports in later issues. Alex Chang, Senior Poultry Nutrition Specialist for Asia-Pacific at Aviagen, spoke about the importance of feed physical form, quality and particle size for optimal broiler performance. “Feed costs represent between 60 to 70% of production costs and each step of feed processing can have positive or negative impact on poultry performance. “Feed processing offers a good opportunity to reduce the cost of manufacturing and influence performance,” he stated in introducing his presentation.

1. Bernard Green, Aviagen Asia’s Technical Service Manager. 2. Dr Tim Ryan, veterinarian Aviagen ANZ. 3. Mike Block, Technical Services Manager (Asia). 3. Wayne Miller, Operation Manager, Aviagen ANZ.

NEWS First he dealt with the need and reasons for grinding feed, in that the process â&#x20AC;&#x153;increases surface area, allows for greater heat and moisture penetration during conditioning, greater interaction with digestive enzymes and reduces segregation after mixing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;?Grinding improves pellet quality and reduces selective feeding,â&#x20AC;? he said. He continued by explaining the disadvantages of finely ground and highly processed feed and the benefits of larger particle size in coarse ground feed including improved gut health. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The production of high quality broiler feeds begins with ingredients of high quality, which must be ground to an optimal particle size, batched accurately, mixed uniformly, and pelleted at the right temperature with a minimum amount of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;finesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Inclusion of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;micro structureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in pellets and/or whole wheat helps to stimulate gizzard function and gut health. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The balance between effects of conditioning temperature on nutrient availability and pellet quality will determine the outcome on bird performance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The nutritionist and feedmill manager must work together to decide optimum particle size, pelleting temperatures and pellet quality,â&#x20AC;? Alex concluded. Dr Tim Ryan, veterinarian at Aviagen ANZ spoke about â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Trends in Coccidiosis vaccinationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. After outlining the various strains of Eimeria, including those that specifically affect poultry, Dr Ryan reviewed some of the alternatives to antimicrobials before moving to a review of the three generations of vaccines used to combat coccidiossis. His conclusions were that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the supply of current attenuated vaccines is limited due to the nature of its production and is prone to interruption. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the meantime demand is increasing by 400% according to one supplier. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is dependent on antimicrobial use and will only increase. Any increase in supply is by increase in productive capacity rather than better methodology. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This will not increase reliability,â&#x20AC;? Dr Ryan stated. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The search for a third generation of more cost effective vaccines continues with a number of candidate antigens investigated, however, no effective vaccine of this type has appeared after 25 plus years of research â&#x20AC;&#x153;This use of unattenuated vaccines in the US has led to a greater uptake,â&#x20AC;? he revealed. Mike Block, Technical Services Manager (ASIA) next spoke about â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Using data to maximise broiler performanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are you keeping up with a changing landscape as an anti biotic free era approaches, welfare standards are getting higher and changing genetics deliver ever increasing performance? â&#x20AC;&#x153;So now little things suddenly become big things,â&#x20AC;? Mike said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Collect accurate data and use it to make good day to day decisions and use best tools available to collect necessary data. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bird is your best indicator of success and pay attention to detail,â&#x20AC;? Mike stated in concluding his presentation. Using actual statistics from various of Aviagenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clients present at the seminar, Dominic Elfik, International Product Manager, Aviagen, demonstrated the specific cost savings benefits and profitability prospects generated by the recent genetic improvement in the Ross broilers. Wayne Miller, Operation Manager Aviagen ANZ, was the final speaker and he gave an update on the new Aviagen quarantine facility recently completed at Wagga Wagga. Poultry Digest visited that new facility on March 26 and a full report appears in this issue.

1. Dominic Elfick (left), International Product Manager, Aviagen with Debbie Fisher, Aviagen Technical Services Manager, ANZ.

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NEWS v

v CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37 funded an ACMF surveillance pilot study for the meat chicken industry that aligns with similar studies undertaken in the pork and cattle industries. The results of the chicken meat study were released in early 2018, and will allow comparison (as far as possible) with previous studies in 20009 and 200310. Further, the industry has recently produced a position statement11 on antimicrobial resistance that has provided industry with a policy framework to underpin the industry’s continuous efforts to minimise the impact of the chicken industry on the development of antimicrobial resistance. References 1. Use of antimicrobial drugs in veterinary practice. Australian Veterinary Association; 1999. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: http://www.ava.com. au/policy/22-use-antimicrobial-drugsveterinary-practice 2. Guidelines for prescribing, authorizing and dispensing veterinary medicines. Australian Veterinary Association; 2005. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: https://www. ava.com.au/sites/default/files/docu-

Don’t

ments/Other/Guidelines_for_prescribing_authorising_and_dispen sing_veterinary_medicines.pdf 3. Code of practice for prescription and use of products which contain antimicrobial agents. Australian Veterinary Association; 2008. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: https://www.ava.com.au/sites/default/files/documents/Other/Code%20 of%20Practice%20for%20Antimicrobial%20 Agents.pdf 4. The use of antibiotics and other drugs in the poultry industry – code of practice. Australian Poultry Industries Association document; 1987. 5. Code of Practice for the Use of Antibiotics in the Poultry Industry. Australasian Veterinary Poultry Association; 2001. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: http://www.avpa.asn.au/veterinariansupport/avpa-code-of-practice-for-theuse-ofantibiotics-in-the-poultry-industry-2001-edition/ 6. National Farm Biosecurity Manual for Chicken Growers. Australian Chicken Meat Federation document (ratified by Animal Health Australia); 2010. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: http://www. chicken.org.au/files/_system/Document/Biosecurity/National%20Farm%20 Biosecurity%20Manual%20f or%20

Chicken%20Growers%20-%20Feb%20 2010%20-%20web.pdf 7. Whithear KG, Soeripto, Harringan KE, Ghiocas E. “Safety of temperature sensitive mutant Mycoplasma gallisepticum vaccine”. Aust Vet J. 1990 May;67(5):159-65. 8. Survey of disc diffusion antimicrobial sensitivity testing in avian bacteriology laboratories and the evaluation of a standardised method. KG Whithear, Tin Htwe, I Sulaiman (1986). Australian Veterinary Journal; 63(4)113-117. 9. Antibiotic resistance in bacteria isolated from poultry. Mary D Barton & Jodi Wilkins; 2001. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: https://rirdc.infoservices. com.au/items/01-105 10. Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria of Animal Origin. Department of Agriculture and Water Resources; 2003. Accessed 11/07/2017 at: http://www. agriculture.gov.au/animal/health/amr/ antimicrobial-resistance-bacteriaanimalorigin#executive-summary 11. Chicken meat industry position statement on antimicrobials. Australian Chicken Meat Federation. 2017 http://www.chicken.org.au/page. php?id=14&issue=7 (can also contact acmf@chicken.org.au for a copy).

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