Zootecnica International - English edition - 04 April - 2021 by Zootecnica International

Zootecnica International – April 2021 – POSTE ITALIANE Spa – Spedizione in Abbonamento Postale 70%, Firenze

Hubbard celebrates 100 years commitment to poultry breeding Current health and industry issues facing the US turkey industry Broiler Economics

2021

The new feeders of the «Gió» range, specifically developed for great poultry farms, thanks to the easiness in the regulation of the feed and to the absence of grill (that avoid chicks perching) have many advantages: they are easy to use and their cleaning is extremely easy and fast too, leading to an overall reduction in labour costs.

CODAF Poultry Equipment Manufacturers • Via Cavour, 74/76 • 25010 Isorella (Brescia), ITALY Tel. +39 030 9958156 • Fax: +39 030 9952810 • info@codaf.net • www.codaf.net

EDITORIAL The multimedia interactive era in which we live has created a huge range of options. These infinite opportunities can however result in bewilderment and a waste of energy. In the current pandemic context, levels of anxiety have obviously increased. Having more options is certainly an expression of freedom, but excessiveness can be disorienting and as such, can influence one's decisions, even on a behavioral level. A type of syndrome has arisen due to people’s fear of making the right choice or not and, as such, being excluded from opportunities. The increase in anxiety and stress in these times requires a complex approach. A good start could be to concentrate our decision making on what we really want, without letting ourselves be manipulated. The lack of deep motivation, so frequent in young people and adults of our digital age, makes them vulnerable. We should learn to slow down certain rhythms and understand that the real decisions are, as always, inside of us.

SUMMARY WORLDWIDE NEWS............................................................................. 4 COMPANY NEWS................................................................................... 6 COMPANY FOCUS Hubbard celebrates 100 years commitment to poultry breeding......................... 8

INTERVIEW AGRIVOL chooses Breedaza......................................................................... 10 Developing a broader choice of slower-growing and colored breed options............................................................................. 12

REPORTAGE The EU rural poultry sector contributes to sustainable and resilient food system............................................................................... 16

DOSSIER

Current health and industry issues facing the US turkey industry – First part................................................................. 18

FOCUS Ingredient selection for broiler feed................................................................. 24 Performance, immunity and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens fed diets containing Kappaphycus alvarezii......................... 28

MARKETING Broiler Economics......................................................................................... 34

TECHNICAL COLUMN

Preparing the lifelong layer............................................................................. 40

NUTRITION Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT4529): 35 years of Italian research (1985-2020)......................................................... 46 A shot of sunshine provided via the drinking water.......................................... 50

MARKET GUIDE.................................................................................52 EVENTS.................................................................................................55 INTERNET GUIDE.............................................................................56

WORLDWIDE NEWS

MPF shifts to 100% virtual event Attendees can also expect live Q&A opportunities with speakers; a new product showcase highlighting all the new products and services available to the poultry industry; a resource center with job postings and other information; and on-demand access to the entire convention through May 31, 2021.

Multi-State poultry feeding & nutrition conference added to schedule

In light of ongoing developments with Covid-19 and after thoughtful discussions with its Board of Directors, the Midwest Poultry Federation has made the decision to shift its 2021 MPF Convention to a fully online, virtual experience May 18-21. “We were so hopeful that we might be able to bring attendees, exhibitors, and speakers together safely in-person in May but after careful consideration of all the factors, it became clear that this was the best decision we could make for everyone involved,” said MPF President Scott Waldner of Purina Animal Nutrition. Waldner represents the Chicken and Egg Association of Minnesota on the MPF Board.

for its 2020 virtual event last August.

What to expect in 2021

• a flexible education program with a mix of livestream and taped presentations, offering more flexibility;

MPF is 100% committed to provide a safe and effective way for everyone to participate and network at the convention. Attendees and exhibitors will recognize the same, robust, 3-D virtual platform that MPF utilized

Several exciting enhancements are in the works including: • an expanded schedule over four days, offering much more flexibility and more on-demand sessions to fit your busy schedule;

• all exhibitors in one virtual exhibit hall, with enhanced search functions by both company names and product categories to quickly and easily find who and what you are looking for; • video chats enabled for all booths so that companies can easily connect in real-time with potential customers (text chats will continue to be available as well);

• fun upgrades to the Networking Lounge to enrich the virtual social atmosphere and help people make better connections.

- worldwide news -

MPF is proud to welcome the MultiState Poultry Feeding & Nutrition Conference to its program on Wednesday, May 19. This event is a longstanding cooperative effort between the poultry industries and Michigan State University, The Ohio State University, Indiana University, the University of Illinois, and the University of Kentucky. Due to the pandemic, the conference will be held within MPF’s virtual platform instead of in person and will replace the MPF’s Poultry Health & Nutrition Symposium this year.

Partnership with NCADC continues MPF is pleased to announce its partnership with the North Central Avian Disease Conference (NCADC) will continue virtually. NCADC will be held May 18-19, 2021 directly within MPF’s virtual platform. (For NCADC registration details, please visit https://2021ncadc.eventbrite.com) Registration opened for the 2021 MPF Virtual Convention on March 1 via www.midwestpoultry.com

WORLDWIDE NEWS

Broiler breeders are calmer when fed twice a day Broiler breeders which are fed twice a day display less foraging and pecking behaviour and more eating and resting behaviour. Furthermore, some birds even produced more eggs. This is what researchers at Wageningen University & Research recently discovered. On average, more and more broiler breeders stay fit and productive at an older age. It would therefore be good if the animals could stay with the farmer for longer than the customary 60 weeks. This is sustainable and logical from an economic perspective. In older animals, however, the eggshell quality is sometimes substandard. That is why researchers from Wageningen Livestock Research set out to investigate whether twice-daily feeding has an impact on the quality of the eggshell. As it turns out, this does have positive effects, but not directly on the eggshell.

Broiler breeders are fed early in the morning. In the study, a group of broiler breeders therefore received regular feed at a single set time. Another group was fed twice a day with regular feed and another group was fed twice a day with special morning and afternoon feed (split-feeding). Researcher Rick van Emous: “The assumption is that by providing one portion of morning food, the nutrients may not be available at the right time of day to meet the needs of the broiler breeders. This is especially true for calcium, which is essential for eggshell formation. The formation of the eggshell starts in the afternoon or early evening and takes about 20 hours. So multiple hours after the feed has been provided.” This research demonstrates that animals that received split-feeding laid more eggs. Furthermore, twice-daily feeding and split-feeding had negligible effects on hatchery quality. Van Emous: “However, we did observe a different behavioural pattern between the various groups of animals during the day. Both groups of twice-daily fed animals were much calmer. They forage and peck less and those are clear signs of improved animal welfare.”

Sustainability

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The right nutrients at the right time

says Emous. “Breeders normally receive extra calcium and grit from 40 weeks on, to support eggshell formation. We have now used 50-week-old animals and conducted this feed research over 10 weeks. In the follow-up study, I would like to monitor a longer period of time to see what benefits split-feeding and twice-daily feeding can introduce for reproduction, hatchery quality and behaviour.” As far as Van Emous is concerned, it would be good in any case to feed breeders twice a day: “Even the young breeders. It’s better for them physiologically and in terms of digestion, as well as for their behaviour and well-being. In the long run, it would be nice to have breeders with better welfare, whose lives we can extend up to 65 weeks.”

However, this does not solve the original problem of weaker eggshells produced by older animals. “No, that’s true”,

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Source: WUR

COMPANY NEWS

Roxell introduces three types of convection heaters: gas, water or oil Range of heating systems: a unique solution for every livestock farmer With Holland Heater joining the Roxell group starting from March 1st, the company heating product range will be expanded and strengthened. The Holland Heater products for the livestock industry will be incorporated into Roxell’s offer and now they are launching their first new set of heaters under the "Siroc" brand. Roxell, the leading manufacturer of automated feeding, drinking, nesting and heating systems, is expanding its range of convection heaters for poultry and pigs with three new types. For clean indoor air, they offer the Siroc Pure™ space heater with closed combustion and extra-long horizontal flow, which is essential in large spaces. The Siroc Hydro™ hot water heater removes the combustion process from the animal’s living space entirely and allows you to use alternative fuels. For a direct fired appliance one can opt for the Siroc Turbo™ cannon heater with open combustion. The expansion of the range of heaters means that every livestock company can find a reliable, safe and high-quality heating system at Roxell. There is a solution for every situation, fuel type, house volume and climate in the comprehensive range.

Siroc Pure™ space heater with closed combustion For farmers that heat with gas and want clean air (no combustion gas) in the house, there is the Siroc Pure space heater with closed combustion. It creates a better living environment because a chimney carries away the residual CO, CO2 and condensate from the combustion process. This means less ventilation is needed to keep the indoor air clean, dry and low in ammonia. Siroc Pure therefore improves the condition of the litter and the animals’ health. The chimney only carries away combustion air, which is good for the energy consumption. 92% of the heat produced remains indoors, which is one of the highest percentages for this type of heating. When tested in cold regions, the heater achieved the target temperature in the house in less than two days following the start of a new flock. This is a speed that is unmatched by competing types.

Siroc Pure™ space heater with closed combustion.

The chimney is double-walled with one flue drawing in the outdoor air that is required for the combustion. Through heat exchange the second inner flue with the hot combustion gases heats the incoming cold air. This recuperation of heat makes the Siroc Pure a very energy-efficient heater. This high performance heating is transmitted via a long-range heat projection fan. The air flow reaches 70 meters and this powerful fan distributes the heat optimally. In terms of projection, Siroc Pure is a market leader, which means you need fewer heating appliances in large hous-

- company news -

COMPANY NEWS

es. Roxell’s first new heating appliance with closed combustion therefore offers extra-long heat projection while ensuring clean indoor air quality.

Siroc Hydro™ hot water heater Removing the combustion process from the house reduces the risks to almost zero and opens the door to renewable energy such as biomass and wood pellets. In this case, the obvious choice is the Siroc Hydro hot water heater. A hot water radiator draws air in through the inlet, heats it and releases the air radially at a height close to the animals via a fan with six adjustable outlet grills. This heating system is a circular system but it also takes in oxygen from outdoors and mixes it with the warm air. Recuperation, energy efficiency and low ventilation are the advantages of Siroc Hydro and are particularly favorable in cold climates. It is also beneficial to the health of the animals because there are no emissions or condensate in the house.

Siroc Turbo™ cannon heater with open combustion Roxell is enhancing its range of convection heating with the Siroc Turbo cannon heater running on gas or oil. Siroc Turbo is 100% efficient due to the open combustion that keeps all the heat generated indoors.

Siroc Turbo™ cannon heater.

The energy performance of the Siroc Turbo is therefore very high. Safety is the number one priority with this appliance. LED lights indicate the status and defects, so the cause of a problem can be identified immediately. The long list of built-in safety checks can be consulted on the Siroc Turbo page on roxell.com. Roxell has given this basic appliance a wide set of features that ensure a reliable performance.

Convection heating for poultry and pig houses

Siroc Hydro™ hot water heater.

The design of the air distribution unit that blows air over the animals is unique. The six adjustable outlet grills are put in a special angle and that gives the hot air an extra spin. This effect ensures better circulation and therefore an improved heat distribution. You can individually adjust the shutters on the outlet grills to the dimensions of the house. Siroc Hydro also has a very powerful radiator that effortlessly achieves an indoor temperature of 35 °C (95 °F), even in cold climates, which is an absolute must for day-old chicks. The Siroc Hydro hot water heater will be popular with farmers that are seeking an alternative with high thermal efficiency.

“These new space heaters and the hot water heater are made of stainless (chromium alloy) steel and contain high-quality components”, says Frank Hartmann, Marketing Manager at Roxell. “The quality label that you are familiar with from our feeding, drinking and nesting systems is also present in our heating range. The expansion of the range was necessary to allow Roxell to offer a suitable heating system to every region in which we operate. Some countries have a preference for convection or infrared heating, and fuel choices differ. Moreover, farmers are justifiably increasingly concerned about safety, the environmental impact and the health of the animals. Requirements such as energy conservation, efficiency and easy maintenance are universal and our heating appliances always meet these needs.”

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COMPANY FOCUS

Hubbard celebrates 100 years commitment to poultry breeding In 1921 Mr Ira Hubbard officially created the Hubbard Farms company in Walpole, New Hampshire, USA. This was the very beginning of what finally became one of the leading primary broiler breeding companies in the world. From the early start onwards, the Hubbard family members quickly built up their reputation and business through smart and hard work, paying respect to their employees and customers, and continuously improving the quality of their chicks. The evolution of markets’ and consumers’ demands engaged Hubbard Farms in keeping on the move despite the several economic and conjunctures we know. They adapted their breeding, keeping their traditional New Hampshire barred feather bird, to diversify and offer a white feather breed to meet a new market segment. In the 50’s Hubbard Farms strengthened its portfolio, offering various breeds to the US operators. Gradually, they moved to a fully integrated system allowing for an even better control on the breeding process and product quality, and started up the sales of Parent Stock and Grandparent stock day-old chicks.

- company focus -

COMPANY FOCUS

International expansion started in the 1960’s in Europe and then towards the rest of the world. At that time Research & Development became the core business to ensure to keep on moving forward and continuously listening to market trends, customer needs and consumer demands. During the following decades, business has been made with great successes and some setbacks. The start of the new century highlights a turning point in market trends and consumer demand especially in North America and Europe for higher welfare values, better animal health and meat quality. Through its long experience and large Hubbard Premium portfolio, Hubbard has been able to continue to be the undisputed preferred supplier in this growing market segment. Since 2018, becoming an independent member of the world leading Aviagen Group, a new era has begun. Substantial additional investments in the Hubbard Premium and Conventional R&D programs in France and the USA, as well as in the production facilities in France, USA, Brazil, and Poland have further strengthened Hubbard’s future. The Hubbard teams are even more than ever committed to deliver quality chicks with good customer support, meeting or exceeding expectations, should it be with the outstandingly performant Hubbard Efficiency Plus breeder female or with the well-known Hubbard Premium range. Hubbard’s genetic programs remain designed and dedicated to providing efficient, healthy, high-quality and tasty chicken meat for the world’s growing population. The original company values have remained intact: knowledge and passion, commitment and respect to its customers and values. Hubbard has a rich history of longstanding breeding experience, continuous product and process improvements, implementation of stateof-the-art selection tools, managed by dedicated teams duly trained and always committed to deliver high quality products. Initially Hubbard planned to celebrate this important event with its customers and business partners at industry meetings and trade shows, but due to the still ongoing Covid-19 situation they have unfortunately had to postpone until 2022. For more information: marketing.hubbard@hubbardbreeders.com

About Hubbard From the small flock of chickens with which Ira and Oliver Hubbard began the business in 1921, Hubbard has grown to one of the major international broiler breeding companies in the world. The poultry industry has seen remarkable changes during the past 90 years, with dramatic results for the benefit of humankind. Hubbard has played, and will continue to play, an important and vital role in this great industry. Oliver Hubbard’s graduation from the New Hampshire Agriculture College in 1921 can be seen as the beginning of Hubbard in the commercial poultry business. From 1921 up to the acquisition by Merck in 1974, Hubbard has always been a family company. In 1997 Hubbard merged with the ISA-group from France, purely focusing on broiler breeding as from 2003. In 2005, Hubbard was acquired by Groupe Grimaud (a French family group). During February 2018 Hubbard has become a member of the Aviagen Group ®, of the German family group Erich Wesjohann Group (EWG), and continues to operate as independent breeding company within the Aviagen Group ®. Hubbard’s commitment is to offer a wide range of products ranging from conventional cost-efficient broilers to slow(er) growing chickens. The company’s genetic programs are designed and dedicated to meet the growing challenges of our civilization by providing efficient, healthy, high-quality and tasty chicken meat for the world’s growing population. Hubbard operates its selection programs in North America and Europe. The company has a longstanding experience in breeding, developing and marketing breeding stock for both conventional and premium markets. A presence in nearly 100 countries around the world and the support of dedicated teams involved in R&D, Production, Customer Support, Sales and Marketing assure the continuity to deliver quality products that are best suited to the different broiler markets throughout the world.

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INTERVIEW

AGRIVOL chooses Breedaza

Interview with Giorgio Forloni, CEO of AGRIVOL, a turkey and breeding farm company AGRIVOL, a fifty-year-old company specializing in poultry breeding, have several turkey and breeder farms in Bergamo, Brescia and Cremona provinces. Mr Giorgio Forloni, CEO of the company, has recently met Mr Paolo Pandolfi, export manager of AZA INTERNATIONAL to discuss about the Breedaza, the innovative feeding system for layers and breeders conceived by AZA INTERNATIONAL and installed at Agrivol’s farm in Cignone (CR) Italy six years ago. 50 years and have been using their systems for many years now. I know that if any problem arises, AZA INTERNATIONAL is ready to fix it immediately, coming up with proper solutions according to my needs. This fast reaction is paramount for me, because I've to manage many farms during the day. We've been one of the first customers who have installed the Breedaza in Italy, believing in its technology and in the advantages that this product has immediately shown. What are the advantages that you noticed in comparison with other feeding systems on the market?

Breedaza

Mr. Forloni, why did you choose AZA INTERNATIONAL for your farms and why did you decide to buy the Breedaza?

Well, first of all there isn't any kind of breaking and reliability is 100% with minimum maintenance. As you know, access to breeder farms must always be minimum, both for biosecurity reasons and in order not to stress the birds, as continuous access to this particular kind of farms for any kind of maintenance can negatively affect the performances of the birds.

I chose AZA, because I knew how serious this company was. In my opinion, the reliability of a company is the most important thing and comes even before the quality of their products.

Secondly, the speed of feed distribution, as well as the uniformity of the feed represent the winning points of this feeding system and, last but not least, roosters cannot access the linear trough feeder and immediately get used to eating from their feed pans.

We’ve been breeding poultry for more than

Third, the chain with links turning inside

- interview -

INTERVIEW

the tube doesn't demix the feed as happens in flat chain feeding systems. This means that all birds eat the same quality of feed. Could you explain briefly how your system works? My building size is 150 X 14 m and contains approx. 15,000 breeders. The Breedaza ring is approx. 300 m long and works with one drive unit and one loading hopper that are installed at front of the farm and not in the middle. This is very practical to me. The tube in which the chain turns gets filled in approx. 4 minutes and the first distribution contains roughly half of the daily portion. The whole feed is distributed and entirely eaten by the birds in approximately one hour and ten minutes. At the end of every meal, the linear trough feeder always remains clean and free from feed residues since there is no obstacle like happens for example inside flat chain feeding systems. Compared to the flat chain systems, the Breedaza is better performing, easier and faster to clean, but above all this linear feeder represents an im-

From Left: Paolo Pandolfi, export manager of AZA International with Giorgio Forloni, CEO of Agrivol

portant advantage for us, since it's not made from metal which rusts, but with hi-resistance plastic material. If we have to build or renovate some farms of ours, we would definitely opt for your system, as it has given great satisfactions and no specific problem up to now. Sponsored content by AZA International

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- april 2021 -

INTERVIEW

Developing a broader choice of slower-growing and colored breed options With continual market developments and expanding consumer preferences, change is the only constant for the poultry sector. Global poultry breeding company Aviagen® has always viewed the market from a longer lens, anticipating changing requirements and developing new product options to stay in tune with them.

Aviagen offers the industry’s broadest selection of breeds, all with excellent health, welfare and sustainability, which form the core of the company’s business. Included in its breed portfolio is a variety of slower-growing options known as the Rowan Range ®. The objective is to give poultry producers the right bird for the right market at the right time, ensuring they have what they need to be competitive while supplying their growing communities with affordable, sustainable and healthy chicken meat.

- interview -

INTERVIEW

In this article, Magnus Swalander, Director of R&D and General Manager of Aviagen Ltd, and Claudio Ambrogio, Business Manager for Rowan Range Europe and General Manager of Aviagen Italia, talk about the company’s strategy for addressing a kaleidoscope of market needs, including the rising slowergrowing market, while putting its values of welfare and sustainability first.

“One goal of our balanced breeding program is to enable choice for our customers – the right bird for the right market. Toward this aim, we maintain a broad and diverse genetic pool, allowing us to address the requirements of today, and we keep our finger on the pulse of the market so we’re ready with the next generation as needs change”

How does Aviagen approach ever-changing market needs and consumer asks? Magnus – Because we care about the health and welfare of our birds and the success of our customers, Aviagen takes a balanced, responsible approach to breeding. One goal of our balanced breeding program is to enable choice for our customers – the right bird for the right market. Toward this aim, we maintain a broad and diverse genetic pool, allowing us to address the requirements of today, and we keep our finger on the pulse of the market so we’re ready with the next generation as needs change. With our Rowan Range, our customers serve consumers who prefer slower-growing varieties, and we are planning even more alternative breed options for the future. Thus, we are already well positioned to align with the European Chicken Commitment (ECC) and other welfare initiatives. Within the Rowan Range, our Ranger Classic™ and Ranger Gold™ birds qualify for the ECC, and they are accredited by welfare schemes in various European countries, including RSPCA Assured in the UK, Tierschutzlabel in Germany and Beter Leven in the Netherlands (Ranger Gold). We are now working with customers to expand our offering with further breeds within this portfolio. How has the Rowan Range been received in the European marketplace? Claudio – Our Rowan Range journey in Europe has gone from strength to strength, as more producers in key markets come to recognize the benefits of the RSPCA-approved Ranger Classic and Ranger Gold. In the Netherlands, the Ranger Classic is the leader in the “Chicken of Tomorrow” welfare brand, and the Ranger Gold is marketed under the Beter Leven welfare label, while in Germany both are included in the higher welfare premium meat segment. The Scandinavian market, where these products are also highly popular, is mostly all organic, while in Italy the Ranger Classic is the organic choice, and the Ranger Gold is a Premium selection.

— Magnus Swalander

Both the Ranger Classic and Ranger Gold blend great welfare with excellent production and processing performance. These birds give our producers a healthy daily gain, along with strong liveability, meat yield and feed efficiency, and they also display extra welfare traits like robustness, livability and strong legs and healthy footpads. They are lively and active, and engage in foraging and exploring the outdoors. How do Aviagen birds contribute to sustainability? Claudio – Our motto at Aviagen is “Breeding Sustainability,” reflecting our commitment to bird welfare and sustainability, which we believe go hand in hand. Our balanced breeding approach coupled with decades of investment in Research and Development (R&D) has allowed our customers to see ongoing progress in both areas.

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INTERVIEW

important part of our R&D program and play a key role in our genetic selection. These trials complement information collected at our own pedigree farms. We are now considering new breed options to add to those that qualify for the ECC, and are currently undertaking trials in Spelderholt, the Netherlands, our European flagship trials facility. We are also field testing with customers to get direct feedback on these new breeds.

“Our slower-growing alternatives are leaders in feed efficiency, and deliver excellent processing performance, health and welfare. Healthy animals are more biologically efficient, which is good for the environment and strengthens the economic sustainability of producers” — Claudio Ambrogio

Welfare forms the cornerstone of the widely recognized Environmental, Economic and Social sustainability pillars. Our slower-growing alternatives are leaders in feed efficiency, and deliver

Breed

in their growing communities, thus contributing to the Social pillar. Our breeding program selection is based on more than 50 traits, with approximately 40% of the focus on bird welfare traits. So you see,

Daily gain (g/day)

FCR kg/kg (2.5kg)

Breast Meat Yield (2.5kg)

Rustic Gold

50 to 54

1.75

23.0

Ranger Classic

48 to 51

1.80

22.3

Ranger Naked Neck

47 to 50

1.82

22.1

Ranger Gold

45 to 48

1.87

20.9

excellent processing performance, health and welfare. Healthy animals are more biologically efficient, which is good for the environment and strengthens the economic sustainability of producers. Healthy birds with good welfare are also more disease-resistant and robust, and their performance is strong. This, along with their efficiency, strengthens the ability of farmers to put food on the tables of families

“Breeding Sustainability” is more than just a theme for our company -- it’s what we live every day. So what is the next step for Aviagen? Could you give us an exclusive peek inside the breed portfolio pipeline? Magnus – The product trials that we regularly conduct at our dedicated facilities around the world are an

- interview -

The new “Rustic Gold,” has done exceptionally well and is going through testing for ECC approval. The bird is a slower growing breed, with a mix between brown and white plumage, with higher meat yield, feed efficiency, exceptional welfare traits and excellent reproduction. We are encouraged, as trial results have been extremely promising, and we will come back with more results on this over the coming months. Claudio – I can also tell you a little about our bird in Italy we call the “Ranger Naked Neck.” It features strong performance and welfare, along with outstanding skin quality and a superior meat flavour. Again, test results for this new breed have been very positive. And, we do have others in the pipeline; so stay tuned for more great news from the Aviagen breeding program. You can be assured that all of our current and future poultry lines will be developed using our Breeding Sustainability approach with bird welfare at the forefront, and we believe this is how we fulfil our vision to help our customers, the world’s poultry producers, supply a growing population with healthy, affordable and sustainable chicken meat.

INTERVIEW

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©ERPA

REPORTAGE

The EU rural poultry sector contributes to sustainable and resilient food system More than 150 participants followed the European Rural Poultry Association’s webinar on “Rural Poultry at the heart of the European Green Deal” on February 2, 2021. “The European rural poultry sector is intensive in terms of job creation while being environmentally friendly and playing a key role in providing local and quality products,” said MEP Benoît Lutgen (EPP, Belgium), Chair of this event. Consequently, the EU Farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategies as well as the Common Agricultural Policy should give more space to sustainable poultry farming. The European Commission intends to do so since, as highlighted by Maciej Golubiewski (Head of Cabinet of Janusz Wojciechowski, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development), alternative poultry production fully contributes to sustainable food systems and is therefore fitting very well within the current EU priorities. On the environmental side: “The production relies on lo-

cally produced feed, thus contributing to a circular economy while lowering the negative environmental impact of imported feed,” added Mr Golubiewski. Rural poultry has a low greenhouse gas emission share in the agricultural emissions. One of the key elements in this regard is the use of agroforestry with the development of woody open-air areas. Alexandre Parizel (French Agroforestry Association) explained that these areas notably allow to preserve biodiversity, recycle nutrients, capture carbon, limit erosion and pressure on the environment. “Rural poultry is at the crossroads of the three pillars of sustainable development: economically resilient, environmentally friendly, meeting social expectations and bringing added value to the territories thanks to human-sized

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REPORTAGE

family farms,” summed up Louis Perrault (ERPA Representative). Furthermore, ERPA is convinced that the type of farming it defends ensures a high level of animal welfare. A label that could guide European consumers in choosing animals reared with a high respect for animal welfare is currently under discussion within the EU institutions. During the roundtable, Carlos Terraz (ERPA President) underlined that if put forward, this system should be mandatory, based on the types of farming defined in the EU marketing standards and should apply to the whole EU poultry production. Moreover, the highest level of animal welfare should not be exclusively reserved for organic production and should also cover systems with very high animal welfare level, like “traditional free-range” productions. The need for coherence with the current production systems, the importance of transparent information to consumers, the call for ensuring a level playing field with the imported products from Third countries and the difficulty to choose the right criteria were highlighted by

the other panelist, MEP Norbert Lins, President of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Parliament, who expressed his support to animal welfare labelling on the condition that: “The costs are not supported by farmers alone, but also by all the actors of the supply chain and the consumers”. ERPA will keep on preserving and revitalizing rural environment, family farms and genetic diversity of free-range poultry by acting to ensure that the needs of the producers, animals, as well as those of their consumers are taken into account in the future EU pieces of legislation. Chaired by Marie Guyot, ERPA Secretary General, the roundtable gathered four panelists: Norbert Lins, MEP, President of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Parliament; Simon Schreiber, Attaché to the German Permanent Representation to the EU; Carlos Terraz, ERPA President and Ines Grenho Ajuda, Farm Animals Programme Leader, Eurogroup for Animals.

inal !

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DOSSIER

Current health and industry issues facing the US turkey industry – First part

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In preparation for this report to the USAHA Committee on Poultry & Other Avian Species, the subcommittee chairman, Dr. Clark, surveyed turkey industry professionals and veterinarians representing (n=26) the US turkey production regarding the health status of turkeys produced in August 2019 through August 2020.

Dr. Steven R. Clark1,2, Professional Veterinary Services Manager, Turkeys, Huvepharma, Inc. Peachtree City, Georgia Dr. Lindy Froebel, Senior Advisor for Scientific and Regulatory Affairs National Turkey Federation (NTF) Washington, DC 1 Turkey

Industry subcommittee chairman of the United States Animal Health Association Committee on Poultry and Other Avian Species 2 Clark, et.al. Turkey Industry Annual Report available since 2000

The turkey industry reports several disease challenges for this 12 months varying by geographic regions within a state and across the United States. This report will list in Table 1, the challenges by disease and issues. Of particular interest in 2020 are issues with lack of efficacious drugs, Colibacillosis, Clostridial Dermatitis, ORT, Salmonella, leg problems, Bordetella, and Coccidiosis. The top-10 list for 2020 was near identical to 2019 with notable exception Coccidiosis jump in rank to #5 from #8. Blackhead ranking also increased to #11 from #18 the prior year, and the number of reported cases decreased by 15%. Cas-

- dossier -

es of turkey Reovirus increased +12% and dropped in rank to #19 from #9. The “lack of approved efficacious drugs” continues to be the top health issue (Table 1). The withdrawal of the NADA (New Animal Drug Application) for enrofloxacin in 2005 for use in poultry leaves the industry with no adequate therapeutic response to Colibacillosis (has ranked #2 since 2016), or Fowl Cholera (ranked #12 from #14). In July 2011 the sale of roxarsone was suspended; September 30, 2013, the FDA marketing authorization NADA was withdrawn. The sponsor of Penicillin-100 Type A medicated article (in feed administration) with-

DOSSIER

drew the approval (NADA) June 30, 2015. Nitarsone (see blackhead) approval was withdrawn December 31, 2015. Issues over the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture remains a major concern for the turkey industry and for all of animal agriculture. Clostridial Dermatitis (CD), also referred to as Cellulitis, remains a major disease issue across all geographic regions as the survey average changed slightly to a score of 4.0 (from 3.7 in prior year) and stayed at #3 rank (from #5 in 2018, #4 in 2017, #3 in 2016 and #2, 2008-2015). CD is most commonly seen in, but not limited to commercial male turkeys nearing market age. Clostridium septicum, C. perfringens type A, or C. sordelli are isolated from fluid or affected tissue samples of affected or dead birds. Affected turkeys present with two or more of the following clinical signs: subcutaneous emphysema (crepitus); serous or serosanguineous subcutaneous fluid; vesicles on the skin, especially on the breast/inguinal area; moist, dark, wrinkled skin, especially breast/inguinal area; cellular necrosis (microscopic); organ involvement (spleen/ liver); vesicles on the skin, and/or moist, dark, wrinkled skin on the tail area. The affected flock will have mortality greater than or equal to 0.5 dead per 1,000-birds, fitting the individual bird definition, for two consecutive 24-hour periods. Opinions vary as to risk factors and potential causes of the problem. Some of the key areas to control of CD include: early recognition; removal of mortality 2-3 times per day; medicating affected flocks with appropriate antimicrobials; promptly managing all water spills, wet litter, feed outages and do not compost litter within 200 feet of poultry barn. Vaccinating at-risk flocks with autogenous bacterins and toxoids has not proved a viable option for the industry. ORT (Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale) stayed at #4 ranking in 2020 and 2019 and 2016 (#3, 2017, 2018; #7, 2015), it is a highly contagious respiratory disease in poultry caused by a Gram-negative pleomorphic rodshaped bacterium. It has been isolated from chickens, ducks, partridges, and guinea fowl. It was originally recognized in Europe and South Africa. ORT was first confirmed in the US from turkeys in 1993. Horizontal transmission (such as, bird-to-bird, contaminated people and equipment) by direct and in-direct contact is the primary route of spread. However, vertical transmission is suspected. In the fall of 1995 it was a major cause of respiratory disease in midwestern states and since has become endemic across most of the USA. Management systems,

such as brood-and-move have increased the exposure of ORT-naive birds to ORT in the finisher barns, resulting in respiratory disease and mortality in some operations. Biosecurity procedures must be taken. Proper water sanitation can minimize the severity and spread. Vaccination is limited and results are varied (toxoids, bacterins). Bacterins are used in breeders. No commercial vaccine is approved. Limited application of controlled exposure efforts on individual flocks have shown value. ORT in turkeys is an identified critical research need. Coccidiosis increased to #5 from #8 ranking in 2019 (#4, #6, #13 in 2018-2016, respectively) most likely reflects the industry increasing raised without antibiotics (RWA) and no antibiotics ever (NAE) market. RWA and NAE programs do not permit the use of ionophore anticoccidials and some programs prohibit FDA approved chemical anticoccidials, so anticoccidial programs consist of alternative phytogenics or vaccination. An effective coccidiosis control program in turkeys involves the use of anticoccidial medications and/or phytonutrients and/or live vaccines and the subsequent development of immunity. Table 3 summarizes the US turkey production coccidia control products (n=260.0 million head, survey total) and ionophores represent the majority, 60% (62%, 2019; 44%, 2018; 55%, 2017) of heads for an average use of 7.0 (7.3, 7.7 and 7.5, 2019-2017) months during the 12-month survey period. Chemical anticoccidials account for 28% (29%, 30% and 33%, 2019-2017) head and 5.5 (5.5, 4.6 and 4.5, 2019 - 2017) months. Coccidia vaccination was limited to 11% (10%, 10% and 7%, 2019-2017) head; the low incidence might be in part due to the limited availability of the only USDA approved commercial turkey coccidiosis live vaccine. Also, several colleagues are utilizing autogenous coccidiosis vaccination. Nutritional dietary supplementation with phytonutrients, reported at 23% (27%, 28% and 14%, 2019-2017) head, either via in-feed application or drinking water administration. Programs may utilize phytonutrients in addition to the current anticoccidial program, to potentiate the possible benefits, or as the sole supplement for coccidia control. Some phytonutrients have purported activity against coccidia. Programs may utilize phytonutrients in addition to the current anticoccidial program, to potentiate the possible benefits, or as the sole supplement for coccidia control. Some phytonutrients have purported activity against coccidia. Phytonutrients consist of ‘alternative’ products including: organic acids, yeast, phytonutrients from plant

- april 2021 -

DOSSIER

Bordetella avium continues as a significant respiratory disease challenge in several geographic regions; Bordetellosis ranked #8 and fluctuates between #5 and #8 the prior year 5-years. Bordetellosis, otherwise known as Turkey Coryza, is a highly infectious, acute upper respiratory tract disease of turkeys characterized by high morbidity and usually low mortality. Bordetella avium (BA) is a small, Gram-negative, nonfermentative, motile, strictly aerobic bacillus. Other birds and older turkeys can be carriers, but may not show clinical signs. Commercial vaccines are available but are not routinely used. Water sanitation and biosecurity are emphasized to control Bordetella.

extracts (saponin, yucca, etc.) and essential oils (oregano, carvacrol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, capsicum oleoresin, turmeric oleoresin). Essential oils may be natural extracts or synthetic nature-identical compounds. Leg problems are ranked #7 in 2020 (#6, 9, 6, 6, 10 in 2018-2015, respectively) among the top concerns of the turkey industry. Leg problems are a common complaint, such as, spiral fractures of the tibia or femur. Leg problems may be defined as lameness, particularly in toms, several weeks prior to slaughter. Leg problems are attributed to various conditions (refer to Table 1), including, pododermatitis, fractured femurs, fractured tibia, osteomyelitis (OM), tibial dyschondroplasia (TDC), spondylolisthesis, “shaky leg”, etc. The year 2017-2019 was particularly noted increased incidence of valgus and varus leg deformities across much of the US industry due to undetermined etiology; the issue contributed to increased mortality in affected flocks. Issues were less prevalent in 2018. Bacterial Chondronecrosis with Osteomyelitis (BCO)-associated lameness, as described by Dr. Wideman, has been diagnosed in some cases. Leg problems can represent substantial production losses and welfare issues of turkeys.

Turkey Arthritis Reovirus (TARV) also called, Turkey Reovirus Digital Flexor Tendon Rupture (TR-DFTR), was recognized as a newly emerging disease in 2011. A unique reovirus has been isolated and identified as the cause of tenosynovitis and digital flexor tendon rupture in commercial turkeys. Clinical signs in young flocks are reportedly mild to nonexistent, but can develop into lameness and/or abnormal gait in older flocks, starting at about 12 weeks of age. Affected flocks may also report an increased incidence of aortic ruptures and poor flock performance (weight gain, uniformity). Research continues into pathogenesis, virus characterization, diagnostics and epidemiology. Research indicates that the Turkey Arthritis Reovirus is distinct from the recently identified novel reovirus causing arthritis in chickens, and most similar to the Turkey Enteric Reovirus. TR-DFTR was added to the survey in 2011 and dropped to #19 rank from #9 in 2019 and #17 in 2018 (Table 1) with >548 “definitive” and “suspect” cases or flocks (Table 2). In 2019 the NTF Reovirus Subcommittee released three documents to the industry, including the case definitions and nomenclature. Second, the Reovirus Diagnostic & Testing Reference Sheet listing contacts of 6 TARV researchers and the tests available. The third document was the results of an industry survey titled, Economic Impact of Turkey Arthritis Reovirus, reporting an average of 5.6 cent increased cost per pound for flocks affected by TARV compared to the companies’ surveyed production costs for unaffected flocks. TARV 2019 Survey reports approximately 2% incidence of all turkeys produced annually and primarily affects toms (approximately 5% incidence of toms produced annually). The severity of impact on the industry could be as high as $33.7 million with highly pathogenic strains of TARV. Turkey Arthritis Reovirus (TARV) is a progressive condition that appears as early as 10-12

- dossier -

DOSSIER

weeks of age in male, and sometimes female, commercial turkeys. Younger birds are occasionally affected. The disease does not appear to be transmitted from chickens. Signs are most severe when the birds reach 15-16 weeks of age. Clinical signs are characterized by reluctance to move, recumbency and limping on one or both legs. There is often uni- or bilateral swelling of the hock (intertarsal) joint. Morbidity can be as high as 40% and mortality is usually a

Table 1 – Turkey health survey (August 2019-2020) of professionals in US turkey production ranking current disease issues (1= no issue to 5 = severe problem). n=26. Score Average (1-5)

Score Mode (1-5)

Lack of approved, efficacious drugs

Issue

4.5

Colibacillosis

4.2

Clostridial Dermatitis (Cellulitis)

4.0

Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale (ORT)

3.8

Coccidiosis

3.6

S almonella

3.5

Leg problems

3.2

Bordetella avium

3.2

Late mortality

3.1

Poult Enteritis of unknown etiologies

2.9

Blackhead (Histomoniasis)

2.8

Cholera

2.8

Cannibalism

2.7

Round Worms (Ascaridia dissimilis)

2.6

Protozoal Enteritis (Flagellated)

2.6

Necrotic Enteritis

2.6

Tibial Dyschondroplasia (TDC, Osteochondrosis)

2.5

THRV (Turkey Hepatitis Reovirus)

2.5

TR-DFTR (Turkey Reovirus Digital Flexor Tendon Rupture)

2.5

Avian Influenza

2.4

Breast Blisters and Breast Buttons

2.3

Heat stress

2.2

Bleeders (aortic, hepatic ruptures)

2.0

Osteomyelitis (OM)

1.9

Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)

1.9

Shaky Leg Syndrome

1.8

Turkey Coronavirus

1.8

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG)

1.7

Fractures

1.7

PEMS (Poult Enteritis Mortality Syndrome)

1.6

Mycoplasma synoviae (MS)

1.6

H3N2 (H1N1) Swine Influenza

1.4

Erysipelas

1.4

Avian Metapneumovirus

1.2

Spondylolisthesis (Kinky-Back)

1.2

Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM)

1,1

- april 2021 -

result of culling or aortic rupture. Lesions observed in acutely affected birds at necropsy are uni- or bilateral enlargement (subcutaneous edema) of the hock joints, which contain increased volume of clear yellow to serosanguinous synovial fluid. Similar fluid can expand the sheath of the gastrocnemius and digital flexor tendons. In chronic cases there is bruising of the skin of the hock, with prominent periarticular fibrosis, edema and occasional large flecks of fibrin within the subcutis and tendon sheaths. In a small percentage of cases one can observe partial or complete rupture of the proximal gastrocnemius tendon or a digital flexor tendon with hemorrhage at the level of the rupture. Histological sections of gastrocnemius tendon and sheath reveal lymphocytic infiltrates in the subsynovium in acute cases, progressing to prominent subsynovial and peritendon fibrosis in chronic cases. Secondary bacterial infections (e.g., Staphylococcus) occasionally occur and are accompanied by heterophilic inflammation. Affected breeder companies have implemented an autogenous reovirus vaccination program to induce the maximum production of antibodies and resulting transfer of maternal antibodies. Historic results originally showed a significant reduction in associated clinical signs in those poults placed from vaccinated flocks. A commercial turkey lighting program of 4-8 hours of continuous dark in a 24-hour period has also been recommended. The combined efforts of breeder vaccination, commercial farm biosecurity and flock management once appeared to be controlling this disease. TR-DFTR is an identified critical research need.

DOSSIER

Table 2 – Turkey health survey (August 2019-2020) of professionals in US turkey production reporting cases of diseases. n=26. Cases (##) of

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

Blackhead (Histomoniasis)

127

109

101

Mycoplasma synoviae (MS)

Turkey Coronavirus (TCV)

185

119

Turkey Reovirus Digital Flexor Tendon Rupture

548

486

234

182

146

150

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG)

Table 2a – Turkey Blackhead (Histomoniasis) survey (August 2019-2020) of professionals in US turkey production.

How many cases (##) of Blackhead (Histomoniasis) did you confirm in last 12-months (since Aug.)?

How many blackhead flocks/barns destroyed?

11%

How many respondents?

How many respondents reported blackhead?

62%

... coccidiosis prior to Blackhead break?

23%

… colibacillosis (E. coli) prior to Blackhead break?

23%

How many cases of Blackhead (Histomoniasis) diagnosed ...

Table 3 – Turkey health survey (August 2019-August 2020) of professionals in US turkey production coccidia control programs (n=260.0 million head). How many months (average)

How many head (count divided by total survey count)?

Ionophore

7.0

60%

Chemical

5.5

28%

Alternative (Phytonutrients)

4.7

23%

Vaccine

5.5

11%

Program

Blackhead, also known as Histomoniasis, increased to position #11 from #18 (#11, 8, 9, 13 in 2018-2015, respectively). There were 82 reported cases of Blackhead in 2020, down from 96 in 2019, and (Table 2) a decrease from the peak of 127 in 2018. Histomoniasis occurs regionally and seasonally in turkeys, and can result in significant mortality. Dimetridazole was extremely efficacious and previously approved for use in turkeys for the prevention and treatment of blackhead; it was banned in 1987. The lack of any legal treatment for Histomoniasis is of concern, especially in the case of valuable turkey breeder candidate flocks. Losses to Blackhead have been severe in several areas of Europe, and sporadic cases are occurring in North America. Nitarsone FDA approval was withdrawn December 31, 2015, leaving the industry with no drugs approved with indications against Histomoniasis. Nitarsone was approved for the prevention of Histomoniasis (Blackhead disease) in turkeys and chickens, and was the only ap-

proved animal drug for this indication. Table 2a list some additional blackhead responses, including a two-question survey as to inciting factors that might be associated with a blackhead break. Of those 16 respondents reporting 82 blackhead cases in 2020, 23% (n=19) reported a coccidiosis diagnosis and 23% (n=19) reported a Colibacillosis (E. coli) diagnosis prior to the blackhead break. Sixteen respondents equal to 62% of survey reported one or more cases of Blackhead (54%, 63%, 2019; 74%, 2017). Of the 82 reported cases at least 11% (n=9) were destroyed to alleviate animal suffering and due to excess morbidity and mortality. Without efficacious approved pharmaceuticals, early diagnosis and start of interventions is considered part of controlling Histomonas meleagridis in field conditions; for this reason, a sound monitoring system using diagnostic tools, such as, PCR and serology is needed, in particular on problem farms.

- dossier -

End of First Part

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Ingredient selection for broiler feed Broiler feed accounts for approximately 70% of broiler production, and ingredients are the major contributor. Ingredients play important roles in pellet quality and broiler performance. In general, ingredient selection often uses commercial parameters including price and supply. However, quality parameters are also important. This article aims to provide the general aspects of ingredient selection for commercial broiler feed. when selecting ingredients. Instead, nutrient bioavailability including metabolizable energy, digestible amino acids, fatty acids, available phosphorus, and other nutrient values should be considered. Many references can be used as the guideline values (Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique [INRA], Brazilian Tables for Poultry and Swine). The nutrient matrix is very important for feed formulation. The precision and accuracy of the analyses will consequently affect the structure, cost, and chemical composition of the feed. The nutrient matrix of each ingredient can be influenced by season, source, and storage time. For example, the starch content in cassava is lost during storage. The longer the storage time, the more cassava starch and energy will be lost. Therefore, nutrient matrices of each ingredient must be frequently evaluated and separated by sources.

Nutrition aspects

Suttisak Boonyoung, Ph.D., Nutritionist, Cobb Asia-Pacific

Nutrient values are important for nutritionists in terms of ingredient selection. Typically, the focus is on incoming ingredients composition in terms of factors including moisture, crude protein, fat, fiber, and ash. However, we cannot consider only amounts

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Antinutritional factors are compounds that can interrupt nutrient absorption and metabolism and negatively impact health. Antinutritional factors can be found in a variety of ingredients (Table 1). Their adverse impact can be alleviated by physical, chemical, and/or biological processes. The limited inclusion of ingredients is another option to reduce the risk of antinutritional factors.

Economic aspects Supply and demand influence feed costs. The sufficient supply of ingredients must be

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Enzyme application is widely used in the broiler feed production. It can alleviate the effects of antinutritional factors and reduce feed costs by re-

©Cobb-Vantress

considered prior to evaluating the cost and nutritional value. Generally, the ingredient supply and price vary depending on the season. In some cases, it is necessary to find a lower-priced alternative to replace a higher-priced ingredient without adverse effects on broiler performance. For example, soybean meal may be partially replaced with other alternative protein sources such as canola and rapeseed.

Figure 1 – Good-quality feed begins with good-quality ingredients.

Table 1 – Major antinutritional factors and their adverse impacts. Antinutritional factors

Ingredient source

Adverse effect

Alleviation method

Protease inhibitor

Soybean meal

Amino acids’ availability and pancreas hypertrophy

Heat

Saponin

Lupin, sunflower meal, alfalfa

Decreased feed intake

Inclusion limitation

Phytic acid

Plant meal

Reduced mineral utilization

Phytase

Glucosinolate

Rapeseed

Depressed synthesis of thyroid hormone (T3 and T4)

Genetic improvement and inclusion limitation

Gossypol

Cottonseed meal

Reduced feed intake and bodyweight

Genetic improvement and inclusion limitation

Haemagglutinin

Soybean meal, legume seeds

Inflammation of intestines, kidneys, and thyroid

Heat

Cyanogen

Cassava, sorghum

Poor growth and feed efficiency

Evaporation and inclusion limitation

Antivitamin

Soybean meal, corn, linseed meal, cottonseed meal

Reduced vitamin availability

Heat and water extraction

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leasing nutrients from the feed matrices. Enzyme applications have many benefits for broilers. However, some enzymes may not tolerate heat treatment during the production process. Although post-pellet liquid application systems can be used to circumvent heat sensitivity, the enzyme recovery and uniformity in the final feed must be monitored regularly. Relative value (RV) is the one tool that can determine the nutrient value of ingredients by comparing standard nutrients such as crude protein, digestible amino acids, metabolizable energy, or available phosphorus among ingredient sources. This value does not consider the inclusion level. It can be calculated and expressed in a cost-per-nutrient unit (Table 2). Table 2 – Example of relative value calculation by nutrient sources. Ingredient

Nutrient content

Price/metric ton

RV ($/nutrient unit)

Energy source Corn

3,441 kcal/kg

150

$4.35/100 kcal

Wheat

3,107 kcal/kg

186

$5.99/100 kcal

Feed safety and regulatory aspects Feed safety is an important criterion for ingredient selection. Feed ingredients must be from safe sources. To reduce the risk of broiler feed contamination, feed safety assessments with testing and auditing are prudent. The hazards in feed ingredients are somewhat dependent upon the ingredient sources and processing types. Ingredient hazards can be classified into 3 main groups: chemical, biological, and physical. The major chemical hazards include pesticides, heavy metals, dioxins, melamine, and antibiotic residues. Pesticides are primarily monitored in grain products whereas heavy metals are issues associated with mineral sources. Microbes present biological hazards that can cause broiler health issues and include bacteria, primarily Salmonella, as well as fungi that can produce mycotoxins. The last group, physical hazards, are contaminants such as plastic, glass, or metal. Physical hazards can be detected within process interventions (magnets) and laboratory analyses (Table 3).

Protein source Soybean meal

48% CP

585

$12.19/CP

Rapeseed

35% CP

303

$8.65/CP

Phosphorus source MCP

360

$21/AvP

14% AvP

320

$22/AvP

©Cobb-Vantress

DCP

17% AvP

Table 3 – Examples of hazard risks associated with broiler feed ingredients.

Figure 2 – Ingredients must be tested for microbiological, chemical, and physical hazards to ensure the safety and health of the flock.

Ingredients

Biological

Physical

Chemical

Corn, sorghum

Mycotoxin

Sand, plastic, wood

Pesticides

Animal products

Salmonella

Sand

Melamine

Plant protein

Mycotoxin

Plastic, wood

Pesticides, melamine

Cassava

Mycotoxin

Sand, wood

Hydrogen cyanide (HCN)

Phosphate sources, limestone

Heavy metals, dioxins

Oils

Pesticides, dioxins

Quality assurance (QA) methods and standards must be used for ingredient selection to minimize hazards. The QA process starts from ingredient purchasing by setting standards and conducting ingredient quality checks at reception in feed mills. The inspection of ingredients must be in place to ensure all newly arrived ingredients are safe to use in broiler feed production. The sampling and analysis must be rigid and precise. Sampling should be suitable for the volume and nature of ingredients, and methodology should be appropriate for the ingredients.

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Feed safety must comply with the regulatory agencies. Therefore, the national and international regulations must be considered as criteria for ingredient selection, particularly export and import requirements. Regulatory criteria include prohibited ingredients, safety levels of ingredients, and contaminants that relate to food safety. Different countries have different restriction levels and regulations. For example, animal protein in broiler feed is prohibited for use in flocks reared for meat that is exported to the European Union.

process for broiler feed production. Considerations should include the cost, quality, and safety of the ingredients. A solid QA program is key to a consistent supply of quality ingredients. Given the importance of feed for high-production performance, it is clear that well-performing flocks require high-quality feed ingredients.

Additionally, a monitoring program must be efficiently scheduled and suitable.

Feed processing and pellet quality Ingredients also impact the feed mill performance and pellet quality. The varying content and type of starch in ingredients require different levels of conditioning to achieve gelatinization. Moreover, different inclusions of starch-rich ingredients require specific dyes to extrude an optimal pellet while maintaining optimum production capacity. Other factors that can affect pellet quality and feed processing are fat and fiber content in ingredients. Fat is a necessary nutrient but also acts as a moisture barrier. Consequently, steam cannot be transferred to make the optimal gelatin. Fiber can reduce the capacity of the feed mill process and can cause equipment wear due to the abrasive properties.

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Performance, immunity and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens fed diets containing Kappaphycus alvarezii A. Biswas, S.S.N. Qadri and A.B. Mandal Avian Nutrition and Feed Technology Division, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, India

Kappaphycus alvarezii (KPA) can be incorporated at 1.50% in diets for improved performance, immuno-responsiveness and blood biochemical parameters in broiler chickens. Introduction Kappaphycus alvarezii (KPA) is a red alga that is also called Eucheuma cottonii. Seaweeds have received significant attention for their potential as sources of natural antioxidants at-

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tributed to the carotenoids, tocopherols and polyphenols present which contribute to inhibition or suppression of free radical generation. Kappaphycus alvarezii is rich in enzymes, nutrients, minerals, calcium, iron, fibres and jelly forming proteins. Typical analysis of KPA shows it contains 64.2% carbohydrate, 4.5% protein, 0.9% fat, 1.07% calcium, 9.3 mg/kg iron, 1520 mg/kg magnesium and 22 mg/kg niacin. The total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents of KPA were 0.180 and 0.634 mg/g of fresh weight, respectively. Therefore, seaweeds are sources of nutrients as well as nutraceuticals having antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, anticoagulant, anti-cancerous and antibacterial activity and can be grown artificially and thus can be produced in aquatic farms. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of KPA on the performance, immune-response, blood biochemical and gut health status of broiler chickens.

Matherials and methods Two hundred and eighty (280) day old straight run (sex ratio ≈1) chicks (CARIBRO-Vishal) were housed and distributed randomly into thirty-five groups each of 8 chicks (7 treatments × 5 replicates). The experiment was conducted strictly in accordance with the guidelines of the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee (IAEC).

Table 1 – Ingredients of starter diet (0-21 d). Ingredients

Starter diet (0-21 d) T1

51.48

51.23

50.99

50.74

0.25

0.5

0.75

1.25

1.5

Soyabean meal

40.3

Rapeseed meal

Oil

Limestone powder

0.9

DCP1

1.6

Salt

0.3

DL-Meth

0.1

L-lysine HCl

0.1

TM. Premix1*

0.15

Vit Premix2**

0.015

0.015 0.015

B complex premix#

0.05

Ch. Chloride, 60%

0.05

(kg/100kg) Maize, yellow KPA$

50.49 50.23 49.99

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The experimental diets (T2-T7) were supplemented with 0.25% KPA (T2), 0.50% KPA (T3), 0.75% KPA (T4), 1.00% KPA (T5), 1.25% KPA (T6) and 1.50% KPA (T7) respectively and the basal (T1) was prepared without any addition of KPA. The source of the KPA was the M/s Aquagri Processing Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, India. The basal and experimental diets contained 21.51% crude protein, 2950 kcal/kg metabolizable energy, 0.98% calcium, 0.43% available phosphorus, 1.21% lysine, 0.48% methionine and 0.96% threonine respectively (Tables 1 and 2). Body weight changes were recorded every three weeks (0-3 and 4-6 wks) during the experimental period. A weighed quantity of the respective diet was offered ad-lib daily in the morning and the residue was weighed next day to determine pen feed intake. Weekly and period wise feed conversion ratio (FCR) of birds was determined. At 28 d of age, 8 birds/dietary treatment (56 birds in all) were inoculated intravenously with 1.0 ml of 1% sheep red blood cells (SRBC) suspension to investigate the effect on the humoral immune response and, at 35 d of age, 0.2

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Table 2 – Ingredients of finisher diet (22-42 d). Ingredients

Finisher diet (22-42 d)

(kg/100kg)

57.09

56.84

56.59

56.34

56.09

55.84

55.59

0.25

0.5

0.75

1.25

1.5

Soyabean meal

34.2

Rapeseed meal

Oil

2.7

Limestone powder

0.8

DCP1

1.5

Salt

0.3

DL-Meth

0.17

0.1

L-lysine HCl

0.1

TM. Premix1*

0.1

0.15

Vit Premix2**

0.15

0.015

B complex premix#

0.015

0.05

Ch. Chloride, 60%

0.05

Maize, yellow KPA$

Trace mineral premix supplied Mg- 300, Mn- 55, I- 0.4, Fe- 56, Zn- 30 and Cu- 4 mg kg-1 diet. **Vitamin premix supplied vitamin A, 8250 IU; vitamin D 3, 1200 ICU; vitamin K, 1 mg; vitamin E, 40 IU.# B-complex premix supplied vitamin B1, 2 mg; vitamin B2, 4 mg; vitamin B12, 10 mcg; niacin, 60 mg; pantothenic acid, 10 mg; choline, 500 mg kg-1 diet; KPA$ = Kappaphycus alvarezii; DCP1= Di-calcium phosphate

Table 3 – Effects of dietary inclusion of Kappaphycus alvarezii on production performance of broiler chickens. Group

Body weight gain (g)

Feed Intake (g)

Feed Conversion Ratio

0-21d

21-42d

0-42d

0-21d

21-42d

0-42d

0-21d

21-42d

0-42d

492.7

915.6a

1408.3a

845.6

1884.1

2575.8

1.71

2.05

1.83

495.8

937.8a

1433.6a

862.8

1896.1

2609.1

1.74

2.02

1.82

505.5

936.2a

1442.2a

879.6

1900.4

2509.5

1.74

2.03

1.74

490.9

960.1ab

1450.9a

829.6

1955.4

2539.0

1.69

2.04

1.75

484.9

964.7ab

1449.6a

806.4

1978.6

2568.9

1.66

2.05

1.77

533.9

1026.2b

1560.1b

865.0

2124.5

2699.0

1.62

2.07

1.73

513.9

1021.1b

1535.1b

827.5

2052.5

2640.4

1.61

2.01

1.72

SEM

6.20

11.5

19.56

5.9

23.12

28.45

0.001

0.002

0.001

P-value

0.319

0.038

0.027

0.057

0.076

0.240

0.052

0.062

0.057

Mean values bearing the same superscript in a row did not differ significantly (P<0.05). T1 = Basal diet; T 2 = 0.25% KPA; T3= 0.50% KPA; T4= 0.75% KPA; T5 = 1.00% KPA; T6 = 1.25% KPA; T 7= 1.50% KPA

- focus -

ml PHA-P mitogen (1 mg/ml PBS) was injected intra-dermally into the left foot web (another 8 birds/dietary treatment) for measurement of the cell-mediated immune response. Blood samples from 10 birds/treatment (n=70) were randomly collected at 42 d into sterile glass tubes without anticoagulant. Serum was separated by centrifugation at 1512 g for 10 minutes and decanted into plastic vials, and then stored at -20 °C for estimation of serum enzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), kidney function test (creatinine and uric acid), total cholesterol, total protein and albumin using commercially available biochemical kits (Span Diagnostics, India). Data were tested for significance by SPSS- 20 in a completely randomized design, and means were compared using Duncan’s multiple range test at P<0.05.

Results Body weight gain (g) was significantly (P<0.05) improved in growing (2142 d) and overall (0-42 d) phases in T7 compared to the control and other treated groups; however feed intake (g) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) did not differ significantly (P>0.05) (Table 3). The haem agglutination (HA) titre to sheep red bold cells (SRBC), an index of humoral immunity, and the mitogenic response to PHA-P measured as the foot pad index (FPI), an index of cell-mediated immunity were significantly improved (P<0.05) by dietary supplementation of 1.5%

FOCUS

KPA when compared to other treated groups (Table 4). No significant (P>0.05) differences were observed in total protein, creatinine and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration; however, significant (P<0.05) increases in albumin and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentration, and decreased (P<0.05) alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cholesterol and uric acid concentrations in T7 (1.5% KPA) group compared with control birds and other KPA treated groups were observed.

Discussion There are very few reports available in the literature regarding the effect of KPA in poultry diets. In the present study, KPA had a positive effect on growth performance, which was associated with improved immunity. Microalgal KPA had excellent antioxidant properties in the linoleic acid system, and also, ferrous ion-chelating activity which may influence production performance and immune response of broilers. It is not clear how KPA enhances immune responses; one possibility is through greater antioxidant property which may protect the membranes and organelles of the lymphocytes from the detrimental effects of pro-oxidants. Moreover, KPA has some beneficial effect on immune characteristics i.e., lymphocytes, IgA, IgM and IgG concentrations which may be involved in modifying the metabolism of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin precursors or related compounds, enhancing immune responses by reducing the endogenous production of prostaglandin. KPA is rich in polysaccharides, minerals, proteins and vitamins. The inclusion of 1.5% KPA in broiler chicken diets was associated with significant decreases in blood concentration values of cholesterol, uric acids and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The decreased blood cholesterol seen in the present study was presumably due to the presence of more fibre, which may have inhibited hepatic cholesterol synthesis from fermentation metabolites by intestinal microflora. Fibre fermentation produces volatile fatty acids, including propionic acid, which is immediately absorbed through the hepatic portal vein and is transported to the liver where it inhibits the activity of HMG-CoA-reductase and, in turn, the rate of cholesterol biosynthesis. In the present study, albumin level increased significantly af-

- april 2021 -

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FOCUS

Table 4 – Effects of dietary inclusion of Kappaphycus alvarezii on immune response and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens. Group

Immune response

Blood biochemical parameters

CMI

HA titre

Protein

Albumin

ALP*

ALT**

AST***

Cholesterol

Uric acid

Creatinine

(mm)

(log2)

(g/dl)

(IU/L)

(mg/dl)

0.50a

1.92a

3.79

1.39a

205.15

52.23b

26.73a

161.36b

1.55b

0.24

0.51a

1.94a

4.34

1.42a

210.86

52.14b

27.04a

160.90 b

1.52b

0.25

0.54ab

1.98a

4.26

1.44a

207.17

47.25ab

28.88a

156.74ab

1.50 b

0.27

0.54ab

2.01a

4.49

1.48ab

216.65

48.43ab

28.96ab

154.50ab

1.44ab

0.24

0.55ab

2.07ab

4.43

1.46ab

214.03

47.22ab

31.74ab

155.12ab

1.40ab

0.23

0.54ab

2.09ab

4.81

1.49ab

183.38

44.49a

32.20ab

152.63ab

1.42ab

0.23

0.58b

2.26b

4.56

1.57b

186.27

44.17a

33.48b

149.32a

1.28a

0.22

SEM

0.05

0.07

2.17

0.16

5.14

0.17

0.30

5.12

0.10

0.09

P-value

0.021

0.032

0.064

0.027

0.076

0.024

0.039

0.032

0.017

0.119

Mean values bearing the same superscript in a row did not differ significantly (P<0.05). T1 = Basal diet; T 2 = 0.25% KPA; T3= 0.50% KPA; T4= 0.75% KPA; T5 = 1.00% KPA; T6 = 1.25% KPA; T 7= 1.50% KPA* *ALP= Alkaline phosphatase; **ALT= Alanine aminotransferase; ***AST= Aspartate aminotransferase; CMI= Cell mediated immunity; HA=Haem-agglutination.

ter supplementation with 1.5% KPA suggesting that KPA had hepato-protective effects which may be exploited as growth promoters in the broiler chicken; positive outcome on the performance, irrespective of the type and level of seaweed used, might be due to a beneficial antimicrobial effect apart from positive impact on structural health of the small intestines, thereby facilitating nutrient absorption and growth performance in broiler chickens.

Thus it is concluded from this study that Kappaphycus alvarezii (KPA) @ 1.5% inclusion in the diet improved performance, immunity and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens.

- focus -

References are available on request From the Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 2020

FOCUS

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MARKETING

Broiler Economics The demand for animal protein is normally diminished during periods of economic recession since meat is a luxury for most of the world’s population. In the case of this recession, the weakest period of demand worldwide for meat may come in the next several months. Vaccines provide hope for 2021

Paul W. Aho, Ph.D. PaulAho@PaulAho.com

With the approval of vaccines in multiple countries and the beginning of mass vaccinations, there is renewed hope for a return to economic growth worldwide. As people become inoculated over the course of the next year, the recessionary effects on the world economy of the pandemic will diminish and something resembling normal will begin to emerge.

- marketing -

Until the cavalry arrives, the world is suffering a recession that reduced world GDP by approximately 4% this year. Although growth will return next year, the recovery may be halting at first and take longer than expected. A truly robust year of worldwide economic growth may have to wait until 2022. The demand for animal protein is normally diminished during periods of economic recession since meat is a luxury for most of

MARKETING

the world’s population. In the case of this recession, the negative effects on protein demand have been mitigated by massive efforts by many governments to prop up consumer income. However, many of those assistance programs are either coming to an end or diminishing in effectiveness. Therefore, the weakest period of demand worldwide for meat may come in the next several months before the vaccines becomes widely available. The poultry industry is well positioned to ride out this crisis, however long it lasts. In periods of economic recession there is a shift in demand from more expensive meats toward poultry. In addition, the current high price of grains works against competing meats.

trary to earlier expectations, the worst time to buy corn this year turned out to be during harvest. A better opportunity may come along if South America has a normal crop in the next few months.

US Ending Stock of Corn, Millions of Bushels

2500 2000 1500 1000 500

Corn 0

Corn prices rose steadily in the last four months due primarily to increased feed use, higher exports, and substantial crop damage from storms last crop year. Ending inventory is dropping, always a bad sign for grain users. Last crop year, 2019-2020, ended with an inventory of 2.0 billion bushels. This crop year, 2020-2021, ending inventory is expected to drop to just 1.7 billion bushels given an accelerating rate of exports to China. World ending inventories are also falling.

US Corn Supply and Demand – WASDE December 2020 USDA to 2019-2020 - Millions of Bushels 2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 Harvest

14,340

13,620

14,507

Supply Total

16,509

15,883

16,527

Ethanol

5,378

4,852

5,050

Exports

2,066

1,778

2,650

Feed

5,429

5,827

5,700

Total Use

14,288

13,887

14,825

Ending Inventory

2,221

1,995

1,702

Farm Price

$3.61

$3.56

$4.00

Bushels

2015 1731

2016 1737

2017 2293

2018 2140

2019 2221

2020 1995

2021 1702

World Ending Stock of Corn USDA - Million Metric Tons

375 350 325 300 275 250 225 200 MMT

$4.00

2016 337

2017 350

2018 341

2019 320

2020 304

2021 288

Average US Farm Price of Corn USDA to 2020-2021, $/Bushel

$3.50 $3.00

In Chicago, the price of the December corn futures rose from $3.20 in August to $4.20 in December. There was clearly a shortage of $3.20 corn but probably not of $4.20 corn. That price may mark the highest price for this crop year. Without any additional bullish news, the price could drift sideways over the rest of the current crop year. Con-

$2.50 $2.00

- april 2021 -

2014-2015

2016-2017

2018-2019

2020-2021

MARKETING

Soybeans US Soybean ending inventory fell dramatically in the last crop year due to a lower harvest and is expected to fall even further this crop year due to rapidly rising exports. Inventories are projected to fall to pipeline levels, basically no inventory at all. It is, therefore, highly likely that the average price of soybean meal this crop year will be considerably higher than last crop year. China, as always, is a

US Ending Stock of Soybeans USDA - Millions of Bushels

1000 800 600 400 200

US Soybeans – USDA to 2019-2020 WASDE December 2020, Millions of Bushels

0 MB

2018-2019 2019-2020 2020-2021 Harvest

4,428

3,552

4,170

Total Supply

4,880

4,476

4,709

Export

1,752

1,676

2,200

Total Use

3,971

3,953

4,534

Ending Stock Inventory

909

523

175

Meal Price short ton

$308

$300

$370

2015 191

2016 197

2017 302

2018 438

2019 909

2020 523

2021 175

wild card because it is difficult to predict if exports will continue to rise to that country given political uncertainties. Much will depend on production in South America. The US does not dominate world soybean production as it does corn. Each year, Brazil and Argentina have a greater and greater effect on the world supply of soybeans. It is too early to predict the next South American harvest at the beginning of 2021 but the development of a “La Nina”

- marketing -

MARKETING

the chicken market moved back to something closer to equilibrium. However, falling consumer income as support payments are withdrawn once again threatens to upset the balance of supply and demand. The price of deboned breast is bearing the brunt of the lack of food service demand.

World Ending Stock of Soybeans USDA - Million Metric Tons

120 100 80 60 40 20 0 MMT

2013 57

2014 63

2015 78

2016 78

2017 96

2018 99

2019 113

2020 96

2021 86

Average US Crop Year Price of Soybean Meal USDA to 2020-2021

$400 $350 $300 $250 $200

2014-2015

2016-2017

2018-2019

This year China opened their market to US poultry and became a major market. Assuming politics allow exports to continue, the US is on track to export a billion dollars of chicken each year to China. Sales to China this year helped overcome the decline in the demand elsewhere and consisted of both paws and a substantial amount of leg quarters. Paws were 40% of the volume and “other chicken” mostly leg quarters were 60% of volume. Although the world is in a recession, and that reduces the demand for meat in general, China remains a bright spot. The USDA (December WASDE) expects chicken production to be 1% higher next year. As can be seen on the graph below, chicken production is expected to be lower in the first quarter and higher in every other quarter next year. Lower consumer revenue during this winter coming at the time of seasonally lower chicken prices and higher grain cost will mean that the industry is likely to go through several months of unprofitability. As Covid-19 recedes during the year and the economy begins to recover, consumer demand for meat should recover.

2020-2021 11750

event in the eastern Pacific may bring soybean production down in Argentina and possibly Brazil. Also, political turmoil is affecting Argentine exports. None of the current news appears to be favorable for buyers of soybean meal.

US Quarterly Broiler Production USDA - Million Pounds

11500 11250 11000

2021 2020

10750

US Chicken Industry The year 2020 was a strange one for the chicken industry. Food service demand plummeted while supermarket demand increased. Production dropped and rose again. Prices have been volatile as unimaginable events changed the market. Although chicken is wildly popular in supermarkets, the loss of so much food service demand meant that there was too much chicken supply chasing a smaller total market. After an adjustment in the supply of chickens,

10500 10250

1st Q

2nd Q

3rd Q

4th Q

Taking the chick placement numbers forward by 7 weeks, the graph below shows how production is slowly falling at the beginning of next year; running slightly below January of 2020. After a decline from 2007 to 2013 (the great recession)

- april 2021 -

MARKETING

disappointing prices at the end of the year. The lack of food service demand and falling consumer income are weighing heavily on deboned breast meat prices.

Weekly Chick Placement - Millions 7 Weeks Forward - 2021 versus 2020

190

2020 2021

186

Deboned Breast - 2019-2020 USDA Northeast Price - Cents/lb 140

182

2019

130

2020

120

178

110

174

2-Jan

9-Jan

16-Jan

23-Jan

100 90

US consumption of both red meat and poultry rose steadily year after year until 2019. This year, beef and pork leveled out while chicken consumption continued to increase albeit at a slower pace. There is undoubtedly some substitution of chicken for beef and pork going on during the Covid-19 recession. Meat demand overall was supported somewhat by stimulus payments and extra unemployment insurance. As those programs were reduced, demand dropped for all meats. Next year, pork and beef consumption are both likely to fall while chicken consumption continues to rise.

80 70

Jan

Red Meat

Leg Quarter Price - 2019-2020 USDA Northeast Price - Cents/lb 2020 2019

36 32

100

28 2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

2017

2019

2021

Deboned Breast

24 20

Wings

The price of deboned breast was on a roller coaster this year. Prices rose during the supermarket hoarding phase, fell due to the fall off in food service, rose when some plants closed and then fell when the plants reopened. Breast meat prices have now fallen even below last year’s

Nov

105

Sept

Poultry

110

Jul

Leg quarter prices are highly dependent on the export market. The good news from China is being offset by the bad news from the rest of the world. Countries in recession tend to import less meat and the entire world is in a recession at this moment.

115

May

Leg Quarters

US Per Capita Consumption of Red Meat and Poultry Pounds (lbs) - USDA to 2020 120

Mar

Nowhere was the collapse of food service demand more evident than in the wing market. High unemployment, falling wages, sports being cancelled, and restaurants and bars being closed were a blow to wing prices, but

- marketing -

MARKETING

only temporarily. Wing prices bounced right back in May and continued higher the rest of the year. Part of the reason for the bounce back was lower supply as large bird deboning production dropped. More importantly, even economic and pandemic calamity will not keep Americans from their beloved wings.

“The year 2020 was a strange one for the chicken industry. Food service demand plummeted while supermarket demand increased. Production dropped and rose again. Prices have been volatile as unimaginable events changed the market”

Whole Wing Prices - 2019-2020 USDA Northeast Price - Cents/lb

240 220 200 180 160 140

2019

120

demand for all meat including chicken although chicken is less affected than pork and beef. Chicken production can be expected to grow by only 1% this year accelerating to 2.5% next year.

2020

100 80

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sept

Nov

At the beginning of this calendar year the production of chicken in the US was slightly profitable. Then the industry suffered a period of losses followed by slight profitability and now losses again. The industry is likely to struggle through the period of seasonal low prices this year and the beginning of next year.

World Economic Growth Rate in %

6 4 2 0 -2 -4

Winter 2020/2021 Leg Quarters

$0.27 per pound

Deboned Breast

$0.93 per pound $2.23

Chicago Corn

$4.20 per bushel

Soybean Meal

$387/Ton

Total Cost of Wholesale Chicken $0.79 $0.71

Gain (Loss) per pound

$- 0.08

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

World Bank to 2021, Real GDP

Wings

Revenue

-6

World and Chicken Growth Rate World economic growth took a dive in 2020. The World Bank projects a negative 4% growth rate for 2020. It will take at least until 2022 for the world economy to get back to where it was in 2019. The weak economy affects the

World Chicken Growth Rate in % 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0 -0.5 -1.0

- april 2021 -

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

TECHNICAL COLUMN

Preparing the lifelong layer ‘Well begun is half done’, is an old saying which also is true for egg producers as a good quality pullet helps to reach the targets set for the productive life of laying hens. The pullet rearer has about 17 weeks to develop this tiny day-old chick into a ready to lay laying hen. The productive life of a laying hen has increased drastically over the past decades and because of balanced genetic selection this is still increasing 1 week with every new flock that enters the poultry house. Keeping laying hens all the way up to 100 weeks of age without molting is no longer exceptional, it is not the global standard yet, but more and more proven results are clearly there. A good quality pullet is essential to get the best out of your flock, in this technical paper we aim to describe some of the main objectives and targets to be reached during the rearing period.

By Rafael Lera, Poultry Veterinarian, Hendrix Genetics Layers

The rearing period is of major importance for the performance of the flock later in life. The productivity of a flock depends to a large extent on the successful attainment of bodyweight targets from an early age. Also, egg size profiles during lay and the feather cover during the productive period are influenced by the development of the pullets. During first weeks in rearing, management should focus on rapid and steady chick growth while the second half of the rearing period is the right time to work on developing feed intake

- technical column -

TECHNICAL COLUMN

capacity. In addition to this, achieving a proper uniformity within a flock is also essential to obtain good laying performances.

The different chick development phases in the rearing period The main objectives during the brooding period are: • rapid growth to reach body weight target at 5 weeks of age; • good uniformity from the beginning; • maintaining excellent livability. From day old to transfer, the chicks will grow slowly, and organ development occurs at various ages. A lack of growth during any of the growth stages can have a detrimental impact on the 17-week-old pullet quality. Any delay in growth at 4-5 weeks of age, will be reflected in a reduction in bodyweight at 16 weeks and then in performance, particularly in mean egg weight in temperate climates. Keep in mind that two pullets with the same bodyweight haven’t necessarily developed the same body composition, it all depends on the growth curve. Good growth curves result in good pullet development. The growth and developments of laying hens is split in the following stages (visualized in Graph 1):

impact on pullet quality and body composition, which will in return impact negatively the birds’ performance; • from week 7 to week 15 growth rate is starting to slow down. By 12 weeks skeleton is almost completely developed and the pullets are practically fully grown in terms of size; • the final stage is characterized by ovary development and rapid growth of the reproductive tract. Sexual hormonal regulation takes place around 18 weeks and leads to sexual maturity around this age. Medullary bone also develops during this period, about 2 weeks before first egg is laid. At all stages of chick development, flock uniformity needs to be reviewed. The objective is to have a very high uniformity to facilitate flock management and proper light stimulation. It is well known that low flock uniformity leads to poor egg laying performance: slow onset of lay, poor and late peak of production and increased number of small eggs. The

number of feeders and drinkers, feed distribution, the presentation of the feed and the farmers’ management are strong contributors to ensure uniformity. Heterogeneity at early age has a negative impact on uniformity at the end of the rearing period, before birds are transferred.

Building the potential during the growing period After a good start during the brooding period, the main goal of the growing period is to ensure the full development of the birds so that they reach their highest potential for producing eggs later in life. The objectives during the growing period are: • to establish a good feeding behavior pattern; • to develop the digestive tract (crop and gizzard); • to obtain a good uniformity of at least 80%; • to achieve the recommended body weight at sexual maturity.

• the first 3 weeks are devoted to a rapid development of the organs of the digestive tract and the immune system; • from week 3 to week 6, skeleton and muscles are rapidly growing. Bodyweight at 5/6 weeks is the most important determinant of pullet quality. Any delay in growth at this stage is harmful to the birds, as it will have a detrimental

Graph 1 – Bodyweight development.

- april 2021 -

TECHNICAL COLUMN

These objectives can be achieved by: • correct stocking density, proper feeding and drinking equipment and housing conditions; • a lighting program adapted to the rearing conditions; • a good standard of beak treatment (when local legislation allows the application of beak treatment); • correct disease prevention: good biosecurity and adapted vaccination program; • good management of the feeding program and feeding techniques.

We will now highlight feeding techniques and the monitoring of chick development.

Feeding techniques Feed management in rearing has an impact on feed consumption later in production. The idea is to develop the digestive tract during the rearing phase to prepare the birds to eat enough during the laying phase, especially immediately after transfer, when feed intake should increase sharply in just a few weeks. The crop is the bird’s feed storage 60% of the feed in the afternoon 2 to 3h

Night-time

Empty feeders every day 2 to 3h

Night-time

10 - 12h of light at plateau

Graph 2 – Feed distribution management in rearing.

- technical column -

organ. Rapid feed consumption during rearing leads to crop development. Therefore, feed consumption during the rearing period needs to be fast enough and eating speed will depend mainly on feeding times and feed texture. Birds naturally eat earlier in the morning, when their digestive tract is empty, and in the evening, to satisfy their energy needs throughout the night. It is important to take advantage of this natural behavior and get empty feeders in the middle of the day. The feeding techniques used between 5 and 16 weeks are designed to avoid the build-up of fine particles in the feeders and to encourage crop development through rapid feed intake. By nature, chickens are grain eaters with a strong preference for coarse particles. Fine particles are more difficult for birds to eat; therefore, they spend more energy for the same quantity consumed. The accu-

TECHNICAL COLUMN

mulation of fine particles in the feeding system leads to under-consumption. To ensure the birds can get all the necessary nutrients of the diet, it is essential that the feeders are emptied every day from week 5 of age onwards. Even at earlier age it is recommended that chicks get used to empty the feeders at least once per week. This “empty feeder” rule applies equally to pullets and layers.

KEEP UP ON

TRENDS AND CHALLENGES of poultry industry with

To encourage rapid consumption, we recommend that the complete daily ration should be given about 2 to 3 hours before “lights off”. At “lights on” – because the digestive system is empty, the birds will eat finer particles. If the feeding system does not allow the entire daily ration to be given in one distribution, distribute 60% of the daily ration in the early afternoon and the 40% in the morning, at “lights on”. This feeding routine can be started between 4 and 8 weeks according to the feeding equipment in use. The length of time, during which the feeders are empty, should be gradually increased, so that by around 10-12 weeks of age the feeders are empty for a minimum of 2 to 3 hours per day. Pullet feed presented in coarse particles helps gizzard development. It is recommended using a feeding system which distributes feed rapidly throughout the house and enables the birds to finish all the feed distributed each day. This encourages the birds’ intake capacity and avoids fine particle accumulation. Feed troughs with rapid chains are the best option, with the easiest feed intake control. If pan or tube feeders are used, they should be adapted specifically for this technique. Developing the gastrointestinal tract and feed intake capacity, by both developing the gizzard for optimal digestion and by training the pullets to eat, are key to help them to rapidly increase their feed consumption in the first few weeks of lay and therefore a much smoother transfer towards the laying phase.

Monitoring development Weekly measurement of growth is an absolute must to check the actual development of the flock. Early detection of abnormal weight gain is of extreme importance to determine what corrective actions must be taken. Late attempts to correct low bodyweight are not efficient at improving body composition and frame size. In addition to this, monitoring of body weight is essential to calculate the appropriate quantity of feed to be issued, as require-

- april 2021 -

It’s been 50 years since Zootecnica International started serving the poultry industry and professionals. Today the magazine is edited in three languages (English, Italian and Russian) and delivered monthly in 120 countries, reaching around 30.000 readers all over the world. The target of Zootecnica International includes: farmers, egg producers, breeding companies, hatcheries, feed mills, poultry and egg meat processing companies. Both magazine and website offer a broad overview on the poultry industry, providing in-depth news on international markets, business management, trends and practices in poultry, genetics, incubation, nutrition, veterinary and management.

zootecnicainternational.com

TECHNICAL COLUMN

ments vary according to the energy level of the diet as well as the house temperature and the health status of the flock. Besides the average body weight of the flock it is also important to calculate its uniformity. The objective is to have a high uniformity to ensure an even response across the flock to management techniques, treatments and especially to light stimulation. If all the birds within a flock have a uniform development, they will react as one and they will be easier to manage. Method of weighing control: • weighing time should be fixed, preferably in the afternoon; • it is recommended carrying out individual weighing and using histogram type weighing sheets (see the chart below) which shows immediately the weight distribution within the population; • a sample of a minimum of 100 birds should be taken to obtain a good estimate of mean

bodyweight and uniformity. However, if the flock is divided into separate pens, it is necessary to take a sample of 60 birds from each pen and then to calculate the overall mean. When rearing in cages, weigh all the birds from 5 or 6 cages, chosen at random, in different parts of the poultry house (upper and lower tiers, start and end of feeding lines), to make up a significant sample. All the birds from these same cages should be weighed every week. The most important factor in judging the quality of a flock is its uniformity. A batch is uniform when at least 80% of the weights lie within a range of ± 10% of the mean. Using modern weighing devices, it is also possible to obtain the coefficient of variation (CV), which is the ratio of standard deviation to the mean of the population expressed in %. A CV below 8% is good. If uniformity/CV % is outside the target range, it is necessary to identify the causes and to check:

• stocking density; • available feeder space; • distribution and height of feeders and drinkers; • speed of the feed chain; • feeding technique: accumulation of fine particles; • feed texture: if inadequate it leads to feed selection; • feed composition and quality; • quality of beak treatment; • vaccination status and possible post-vaccinal reactions; • health condition of the flock: disease and parasitism presence. Depending on the identified causes and the conclusions that can be drawn from the analyses, corrective actions should be implemented, and management adapted to improve the uniformity of the flock.

To conclude The monitoring of the development of your flock during the rearing period is key. Objective data tells you more than observing the flock on a daily base alone. It is the combination of data and a careful inspection to catch the signs that your flock are giving to you. Ask yourself the question: are chicks growing well and developing into quality pullets with the desired body weights? Is the flock uniformity according to your standards, and how do they respond to vaccinations? By careful monitoring the development of the flock and trying to look for answers you can re-act better and steer better to develop the chicks into lifelong layers. For more information: layinghens.hendrix-genetics.com

- technical column -

TECHNICAL COLUMN breed for We have the best every market

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- april 2021 -

NUTRITION

Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT4529): 35 years of Italian research (1985-2020) The history of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) follows that of many strains produced by Centro Sperimentale del Latte and acts as a natural solution for gut health of reared poultry. an industrial scale. All strains collected are kept in the CSL strain collection, and after 72 years of operation, the company boasts a collection of over 6,000 strains of lactic acid bacteria, a real record. The history of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) follows that of many strains produced by CSL and acts as a natural solution for gut health of reared poultry.

Discovery of the strain

Alberto Giardini CSL - Centro Sperimentale del Latte S.r.l.

Since 1948, research has been at the heart of Centro Sperimentale del Latte’s work, which focuses on the isolation and selection of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from their natural habitats (plants, animals, intestines, etc.). Once the preliminary selection phase has been completed, both in vitro and in vivo, the most promising microbial strains for use “in the field” are tested by the pilot laboratory, that is, selected again based on their ability to be successfully replicated on

- nutrition -

L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529)’s journey started in 1984-85 (Bianchi Salvadori B. et al., 1985) with the isolation of 19 lactic acid bacteria strains from the gastrointestinal tract of a healthy rural chicken: six strains were L. acidophilus, five were L. fermentum, four were L. salivarius, two were L. delbrueckii, one was L. helveticus and the final one was L. viridescens. During preliminary in vitro selection, the L. acidophilus strains seemed to be the most promising for probiotic use in poultry, mainly due to the rate of acidification on “chicken feed” medium and the ability to adhere to the gastrointestinal epithelium of chickens in the presence of bile. Further preliminary in vivo tests on Hubbard broilers confirmed the remarkable ability of the L. acidophilus and L. salivarius strains, administered as fresh washed cells, to colonise the gastrointestinal tract of chickens and improve the balance of the intestinal microbiota (Bianchi Salvadori B. et al., 1985). However, results of comparative tests in our pilot laboratory advocated for the L. acidophilus D2/CSL

NUTRITION

strain due to its superior performance in terms of amount of viable cells (CFU) collected after replication, centrifugation and lyophilisation. In short, out of the intestinal lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from chickens, L. acidophilus D2/CSL proved to be the most “robust” strain and the easiest to reproduce.

al., 2015; Forte C. et al., 2016; De Cesare A. et al., 2017; Forte C. et al., 2018; De Cesare et al., 2020). In laying hens, better “gut health” (or eubiosis) due to L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) has led to significant improvements in terms of: • FCR (kg feed/kg eggs); • egg production;

In vivo studies

• egg quality (ESG, shell thickness, Haugh Units);

L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) has undergone numerous small and large scale in vivo scientific studies. Some of these studies have been published while others have been made public through conferences or have not yet been published. Overall, this lactic acid bacterium boasts a remarkable wealth of evidence regarding its efficacy, especially on broilers and laying hens, and it can be administered via water or feed (Giardini A. et al., 1993; Giardini A. et al., 1994; Giardini A. et al., 1995; Gatto V., 2007; Gallazzi D. et al., 2008; Marelli S.P. et al., 2008; Cesari V. et al., 2012; Cesari V. et al., 2014; Forte C. et

• saleable eggs (less egg wastage: dirty eggs, thin shelled, cracked, etc.); • environment: reduction of volatile N compounds and faecal moisture within the poultry house. In broilers, the improvements are measured in terms of: • gut morphology (villus height); • weight increment; • FCR (Kg feed/kg weight increment); • reduced morbidity and pasty vents; • environment: reduction of volatile N compounds and faecal moisture within the poultry house.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR CHICKENS HEALTHY? Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL CECT 4529 A PROBIOTIC STRAIN ISOLATED FROM CHICKEN'S INTESTINE Autochthonous of the Gallus gallus species

Typically living in symbiosis in the chicken’s intestinal tract Able to improve the digestive functions through fermentation ntee

uara

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a Effic

D2/C

ECT SL C

A natural antagonist of putrefactive and pathogenic microorganisms

4529

CENTRO SPERIMENTALE DEL LATTE SRL Strada per Merlino, 3 - 26839 Zelo Buon Persico (Lodi) - Italy Phone: +39.02.90696.1 - Fax: +39.02.90696.99

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- april 2021 -

NUTRITION

Authorisation in the EU After the EFSA was established (2002), CSL started the European authorization process to register Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) as zootechnical feed additive, functional group 4/b, gut flora stabilisers. By definition, these additives “favourably affect animal production, performance or welfare, particularly by affecting the gastro-intestinal flora” (Regulation (EC) 1831/2003, art. 5, f). The D2/CSL (CECT 4529) probiotic strain obtained its first European approval as an additive for laying hens in 2003, the second in 2007 and the third in 2015 (EU Regulation no. 2015/38). The most recent approval concerned broilers (EU Regulation no. 2017/2275). The product is authorised for administration via feed and drinking water at a minimum dose of 1*109 CFU/kg of feed and 5*108 CFU/L of water. There is no maximum dose as the D2/ CSL (CECT 4529) strain has QPS status and is therefore absolutely safe for the animals, consumers and the environment (EFSA Journal, 2014, 12,7:3789).

Identikit of the strain We know that farmed poultry are constantly subject to intestinal dysbiosis which can lead to a severe disease (acute inflammation) or, more frequently, subclinical conditions associated with low yield (growth, egg production, FCR), lack of growth uniformity, and poor quality of egg produced (faecal stains, thin shells, breakages, etc.). Furthermore, this dysbiosis, as well as having a negative impact on the gastrointestinal function, vitality and productivity of the animals, lowers the environmental quality within the poultry house (increased humidity, ammonia and pathogens of faecal origin) and reduces hygiene safety levels of both meat and eggs (increase in pathogenic microbial loads). Restoring the balance of the intestinal microbiota (that is, the eubiosis) is achieved naturally through the administration of indigenous autochthonous strains of lactic acid bacteria, i.e. selected from the gut of chickens. Today, 35 years since its discovery and with the support of a substantial body of in vitro and in vivo trial data, we can confirm that the Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) strain is:

in symbiosis in the gastrointestinal habitat, stimulating the GALT and supporting the naturally occurring microbiota to the chick; • a leader of useful fermentations: it improves gastrointestinal function by fermenting carbohydrates (not amino acids) and producing lactic acid, which is an additional source of energy for the host; • a natural antagonist of proinflammatory, putrefactive and pathogenic bacteria (coliform and clostridia in particular) and thus prevents gut dysbiosis and inflammation, and diarrhoea.

Three important considerations 1. L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) is one of the first indigenous bacteria to colonise the gut in chicks, creating a favourable habitat for the establishment of a more balanced microbiota; 2. each flock is composed by a mix of “healthy“, “subclinically ill“, and “clinically ill” birds. The primary aim of feeding birds with L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) is to prevent or resolve the gastrointestinal dysbiosis, namely to protect the “healthy” birds (prophylaxis) and/or “sub-clinically ill” birds (metaphylaxis); this is why we see an increase in the overall performance of the group as well as the quality of the produce; 3. the dose of L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) must be high enough to positively “infect” the host. If you use a low dose, you will not see a “causeeffect” relationship because you have generated an “asymptomatic carrier”!

Antibiotic-free production As we know, L. acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT 4529) is a completely safe microorganism which leaves no toxic residue in poultry products and can even be used on organic farms. The use of this probiotic strain meets the needs of modern consumers, who are looking for products from antibiotic-free farms, i.e. animals reared without using antibiotics.

• a natural ally to the chicken gut: it colonises and lives

- nutrition -

For more information: Website: www.saccosystem.com Email: info@saccosystem.com

NUTRITION

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- april 2021 -

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NUTRITION

A shot of sunshine provided via the drinking water Broiler chickens grow bigger and faster compared to a decade ago and the laying rates of layer hens have increased by 20%. To prevent musculoskeletal and egg shell issues, it is of essence to provide a good balance of the essential building blocks: Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P) and Magnesium (Mg). In order for these minerals to reach the bones and egg shells in the first place, their bioavailability must be assured.

Cheng Lee, DVM Intracare Marc Spackler, MSc Intracare

Vitamin D3 is the key for these minerals to be absorbed from the intestine into the blood. When in deficit, these minerals can’t be absorbed which results in problems with the locomotor system and egg shell quality. Intra Calferol is a liquid nutrient mixture of highly concentrated and stabilized Vitamin D3 alongside organic calcium and magnesium and a phosphorus

- nutrition -

NUTRITION

releaser, which improves the ease of absorption in animal intestines. This supplement is the golden formulation which keeps the animal’s calcium, magnesium and phosphorus balance in optimal condition.

Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D3, but what if there is no sunlight? On average, broilers and layers require up to 40 IU of vitamin D3 per day to support their growth and health, all while trying to achieve their full genetic potential. When in deficit, softened and weak skeletons and egg shells can be seen on farm resulting in significant economic losses. To stay healthy, humans need about 10-15 minutes of UVB per day with 40% of our skin exposed. In high performing poultry, Vitamin D3 is formed when sunlight contacts the non-feathered parts such as their legs and feet. However, as most poultry are housed indoors, a Vitamin D3 deficiency can occur. Even poultry in houses with glass windows can suffer from Vitamin D3 deficiencies due to the fact that glass filters out the essential UVB rays for Vitamin D3 formation. In general, poultry feed contains sufficient Vitamin D3, but these levels can be sensitive to factors like temperature, time, humidity, oxygen and pH. Mixing of Vitamin D3 in poultry feed, transport in lorries and containers or storage in warehouses or silos are factors that can break down Vitamin D3 levels, becoming too low at feeding. On the other hand, sometimes animals need supranutritional support during critical phases of rapid growth or to keep up the high performance of older animals. Also, feed intake is depressed during stressful phases like when in heat stress. These factors could induce musculoskeletal and egg shell quality problems due to Vitamin D3 deficiency.

mineral in the form of small calcium-phosphorus based bio materials, also called ‘hydroxyapatite crystal’. Magnesium acts like “cement between the calcium bricks” and contributes to bone stabilization, growth and mineralization. • Egg shells are mainly composed of long columns of calcium carbonate (98.2%), phosphorus (0.9%) and magnesium (0.9%). The layer hen will metabolize and transport the total weight of her skeleton several times to produce eggshells during the course of the laying cycle. Especially in older hens (>40 weeks of age) eggshell quality deteriorates and is mainly reflected in an increase of cracked eggs. The laying hen requires approximately 2.5 g calcium in around 20 hours to produce a fully developed egg of 60g. About 60-70% of the required calcium can be provided via the feed which is not enough to cover the peak in calcium requirement during eggshell formation. All the rest has to be metabolized from the bodily reserves or has to be supplemented at the right time.

Timing is crucial to supplement Intra Calferol While additional precision supplementation via the feed is not possible, the drinking water is a quick and strategic tool for every poultry farmer to mitigate diminished animal performance during challenging periods. Supplementation is crucial to support the creation of a strong skeleton in broilers and layers during rearing. Furthermore upon facing bone or egg shell issues in older birds, a protocol with only a few days of supplementation can already provide good support.

Vitamin D3 is the key for bone and egg shell quality! • Vitamin D3 is key to the maintenance of essential mineral homeostasis by stimulating its absorption and uptake. Deficiencies of these minerals can result in sub-optimal skeletons and eggshells.

Intra Calferol is a stable, wellemulsified vitamin D3 solution which provides the ability to apply a shot of vitamin D3 via the drinking water for immediate support. Together with the organic calcium and magnesium and the phosphorus releaser, bone and egg shell quality can be optimised at the right time.

• Development of strong skeletons in broilers and layer hens occur during the rearing phase. The bones itself consists mainly of collagen fibres and an inorganic

- april 2021 -

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Equipment

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TURNKEY PROJECTS POULTRY INTEGRATED PROJECTS POULTRY EQUIPMENT FOR BROILERS AND LAYERS AVIARY SYSTEMS Officine Facco & C. S.p.A. Via Venezia, 30 - Marsango (PD) Italy

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UPCOMING EVENTS 2021 May, 17 to 19 Meat and Poultry Industry Russia Industry Russia & VIV 2021 IEC Crocus Expo, Pavilion 2, Halls 7 and 8 Moscow, Russia For information contact: Asti Group Tel.: +7 (495) 797-69-14 Email: info@meatindustry.ru Website: meatindustry.ru

May, 19 to 21 2021 MPF Convention Virtual Event For information contact: Tel.: 763-284-6763 Email: info@midwestpoultry.com Website: midwestpoultry.com

July, 21 to 23 ILDEX Vietnam Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam For information contact: Saengtip Techapatiphandee Tel.: +662 111 6611 ext. 330 Email: saengtip@vnuasiapacific.com

September, 7 to 9 FIERAVICOLA International Poultry Fair Rimini Expo Center Via Emilia, 155 – 47921, Rimini, Italy For information contact: Tel.: +39 0547 1877115

September, 14 to 17 SPACE 2021 Parc-Expo Rennes Rennes Cedex, France For information contact: Tel.: +33 (0) 2 23 48 28 80 Email: info@space.fr Website: uk.space.fr

November, 23 to 25

VIV MEA International trade show from feed to food for the Middle East and Africa ADNEC- Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE For information contact: VIV worldwide VNU Exhibitions Europe Tel.: +31 (0) 30 295 2999 Email: viv.mea@vnuexhibitions.com Website: www.vivmea.nl Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company Khaleej Al Arabi Street – P.O. Box 5546 Abu Dhabi,United Arab Emirates

Email: info@vnuasiapacific.com Website: vivasia.nl

January, 18 to 20 VICTAM and VIV Health & Nutrition Asia 2022 Trade show & forum focusing on feed, pharma & genetics in the animal protein production Bitec, Bangkok, Thailand For information contact: Panadda KongmaHead of competence center livestock Tel.: +662 670 0900 Ext. 204 Email: panadda@vnuexhibitionsap.com

Tel.: 800 23632 and international +971 (0) 2 444 6900 Fax: +971 (0) 2 444 6135 Website: www.adnec.ae

Zhenja Antochin, Event Manager Tel.: +31 (0) 6 8379 9693 Email: zhenja.antochin@vnuexhibitions.com Tel.: +66 (0) 2 726 1999 +66 (0) 2 366 9797 Fax: +66 (0) 2 726 1939 (Sales Office) Website: www.bitec.net

November, 24 to 26

January, 25 to 27

ILDEX Indonesia 2021 5th International livestock, dairy, meat processing and aquaculture exposition ICE Jakarta, Indonesia For information contact: Website: ildex-indonesia.com/contactus

2022 January, 12 to 14 VIV ASIA International trade show from feed to food for Asia New venue: Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand For information contact: Worldwide VNU Exhibitions Europe Tel.: +31 (0) 30 295 2700 Fax: +31 (0) 30 295 2809 South East Asia VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. 88 The PARQ, 4th Fl., West Wing Ratchadaphisek Rd., Khlong Toei, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel.: +662 111 6611

IPPE International Production & Processing Expo Georgia World Congress Center 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW Atlanta, Georgia USA For information contact: U.S. Poultry & Egg Association 1530 Cooledge Road Tucker, GA USA Tel.: +1 770 4939401 Fax: +1 770 4939257 Email: pstates@ippexpo.org Website: www.ippexpo.org

2023 June, 8 to 10 VIV TURKEY International trade fair for poultry technologies Istanbul Expo Center, Istanbul, Turkey For information contact: Mrs Hande Çakıcı Tel.: +90 212 216 4010 Fax: +90 212 216 3360 Email: hande@hkf-fairs.com Website: viv.net/events/viv-turkey-2021istanbul

INTERNET GUIDE ABVista emea@abvista.com www.abvista.com Agritech agritech@agritech.it www.agritech.it Arion Fasoli francesca@arionfasoli.com www.arionfasoli.com Aviagen info@aviagen.com www.aviagen.com Aviagen Turkeys Ltd turkeysltd@aviagen.com www.aviagenturkeys.com Aza International info@azainternational.it www.azainternational.it Barbieri Belts info@barbieri-belts.com www.barbieri-belts.com Big Dutchman big@bigdutchman.com www.bigdutchman.de Biochem info@biochem.net www.biochem.net Carfed Headquarters info@carfed.ch www.carfed.ch Carfed Italian Branch info@carfed.it www.carfed.it Cobb Europe info@cobb-europe.com www.cobb-vantress.com Codaf info@codaf.net www.codaf.net Corti Zootecnici S.r.l. info@cortizootecnici.com www.cortizootecnici.com Elanco www.elanco.com Eurosilos SIRP contatti@eurosilos.it www.eurosilos.it EuroTier eurotier@dlg.org www.eurotier.com Facco Poultry Equipment facco@facco.net www.facco.net Farmer Automatic info@farmerautomatic.de www.farmerautomatic.de FIEM fiem@fiem.it www.fiem.it FierAvicola info@fieravicola.com www.fieravicola.com FierAgricola Verona fieragricola@veronafiere.it www.fieragricola.it Gasolec sales@gasolec.com www.gasolec.com Giordano Poultry Plast info@poultryplast.com www.poultryplast.com GI-OVO B.V. sales@gi-ovo.com www.gi-ovo.com Hendrix Genetics info@hendrix-genetics.com www.hendrix-genetics.com Hubbard contact.emea@hubbardbreeders.com www.hubbardbreeders.com Hy-Line International info@hyline.com www.hyline.com Impex Barneveld BV info@impex.nl www.impex.nl Intracare info@intracare.nl www.intracare.nl Jamesway USA-sales@jamesway.com www.jamesway.com Jansen Poultry Equipment info@jpe.org www.jpe.org Marel Poultry info.poultry@marel.com www.marel.com/poultry-processing Mbe Breeding Equipment info@mbefabriano.it www.mbefabriano.it Menci commerciale@menci.it www.menci.it Meyn sales@meyn.com www.meyn.com MOBA sales@moba.net www.moba.net MS Technologies sales@MSTegg.com www.MSTegg.com Newpharm info@newpharm.it www.newpharm.it Officine Meccaniche Vettorello luciano@officinevettorello.it www.officinevettorello.com Omaz srl omaz@omaz.com www.omaz.com Petersime N.V. info@petersime.com www.petersime.com Prinzen B.V. info@prinzen.com www.prinzen.com Reventa info@reventa.de www.reventa.de Royal Pas Reform info@pasreform.com www.pasreform.com Roxell info@roxell.com www.roxell.com Ska ska@ska.it www.ska.it Socorex socorex@socorex.com www.socorex.com Space info@space.fr www.space.fr Specht Ten Elsen GmbH & Co. KG info@specht-tenelsen.de www.specht-tenelsen.de Tecnoclima tecnoclima@tecnoclimaspa.com www. tecnoclimaspa.com TPI-Polytechniek info@tpi-polytechniek.com www.tpi-polytechniek.com Val-co intl.sales@val-co.com www.val-co.com Valli info@valli-italy.com www.valli-italy.com VDL Agrotech info@vdlagrotech.nl www.vdlagrotech.com Vencomatic Group B.V. info@vencomaticgroup.com www.vencomaticgroup.com Victoria victoria@victoria-srl.com www.incubatricivictoria.com VIV Europe viv@vnuexhibitions.com www.viv.net Vostermans ventilation@vostermans.com www.vostermans.com

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English Edition Year XLIII April 2021

purely professional.

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SPECHT is everywhere where hens are! • Rearing in aviary system

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• Egg collecting system

Zootecnica International - English edition - 04 April - 2021

Articles inside

Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL (CECT4529): 35 years of Italian research (1985-2020)

Developing a broader choice of slower-growing and colored breed options

Preparing the lifelong layer

The EU rural poultry sector contributes to sustainable and resilient food system

AGRIVOL chooses Breedaza

Hubbard celebrates 100 years commitment to poultry breeding