From challenges to solutions: A technical recap of IPSF 

The team at Chemuniqué is excited to share key takeaways from our recent attendance at the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) and the International Poultry Scientific Forum (IPSF). These premier events provided invaluable insights into the latest advancements in poultry production. Chemuniqué remains dedicated to sharing this expertise with their customers, as part of our ongoing mission to drive innovation and efficiency forward, empowering their clients to advance in the poultry and feed industry.

Eggshell quality

Eggshell quality directly impacts profitability in egg production systems by minimising waste from cracked eggs, ensuring consumer safety, and extending the laying period, thereby improving overall return on investment.

The effects of eggshell metrics on hatchability and chick development of two genetic lines

Amaya et al. explored how eggshell quality affects hatchability and early chick growth across two genetic lines. The results indicate that eggshell metrics, such as thickness and porosity, significantly impact embryonic survival and post-hatch performance. These findings emphasise the need to optimise eggshell quality to enhance hatch success and chick viability.

Receptor expression in the shell gland of commercial laying hens indicates it may be a novel target for FGF23

This study by Garcia-Meija et al. explored whether the shell gland in laying hens serves as a target for FGF23, a regulator of phosphorus homeostasis. Receptor expression patterns varied across the laying cycle and with age, suggesting that older hens exhibit increased sensitivity to FGF23 signaling. This suggests that FGF23 may play a role in phosphorus regulation during eggshell formation, particularly in the later stages of production.

Chemunique’s off-farm egg quality analysis services provide precise insights into eggshell strength and egg freshness, helping farmers optimise production and deliver superior-quality eggs.

While at IPPE, the Chemuniqué team also visited the Orka stand – the suppliers of our laboratory testing equipment to see what’s new that may be of value to our service offering to our customers. They are currently very excited about their use of artificial intelligence to detect problem areas in processing plants during egg sorting and processing. 

Amino acid nutrition

Focusing on precision amino acid nutrition in poultry operations enhances growth, feed efficiency, health, and sustainability while reducing costs and environmental impact.

Evaluation of interaction effects of various levels of energy and amino acid density in the finisher phase (29–42 days) on Ross-708 broiler performance and carcass yield

Ali et al. analysed how different metabolisable energy (ME) and digestible lysine (dig-Lys) levels affect broiler growth and carcass traits. Optimal performance and breast yield were achieved at 1,15% dig-Lys with lower ME levels, although males and females responded differently. These findings suggest that fine-tuning energy-to-protein ratios could improve broiler efficiency and carcass quality.

Understanding the branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) interactions on bone morphology of pullets (6–12 weeks of age)

This study investigated how different Val:Lys, Ile:Lys, and Leu:Lys ratios influence pullet bone development. Lower Val:Lys (65) combined with higher Ile:Lys (88) and Leu:Lys (220) improved bone mineral density and surface area. Therefore, Waters et al. suggest that optimising pullet BCAA supplementation could be a strategy to improve skeletal health of pullets, optimising health before the laying phase.

Gut health

Prioritising gut health is essential for poultry, especially broilers, as it boosts digestion, nutrient absorption, and immunity, with direct-fed microbials (DFM) offering an effective way to enhance gut integrity and overall growth performance.

Development of an assay to detect cytolysin and a presumptive Enterococcus faecalis pathogenicity island associated with chicken embryo mortality

Researchers investigated Enterococcus faecalis as a potential cause of declining hatchability, developing an assay to detect virulence genes linked to embryo mortality. Strains containing the cytolysin toxin had significantly higher embryo mortality rates than those without. This assay could serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for hatcheries to monitor and mitigate E. faecalis infections (Foote et al.)

Effect of a triple-strain Bacillus-based probiotic on performance of commercial broilers challenged with Enterococcus cecorum

This trial by Meuter et al. evaluated the use of a triple-strain Bacillus spp. probiotic in broilers challenged with Enterococcus cecorum. Birds receiving the probiotic exhibited improved production performance with no differences in livability to that of the negative control diet. This suggests that feeding a triple-strain Bacillus-based probiotic could be a potential solution in a challenged commercial environment to improve production performance.

The power of data in DFM assessment – waterline application

Van der Klein et al. assessed the effect of a dual-strain waterline direct-fed microbial (DFM) on broiler performance across multiple trials. Five different dosing strategies across four trials determined that birds receiving the DFM showed improved body weight gain, suggesting better resilience to intestinal challenges. These results highlight the potential of waterline DFM applications as a practical strategy for enhancing broiler health and productivity.

Local research in the spotlight

Digestible calcium and digestible phosphorus requirements of broilers from hatch to eight days of age

On Wednesday 27 January, senior research assistant at NLR Kean Jacobs also delivered an excellent presentation on determining digestible calcium and phosphorus requirements in young broilers. Chemuniqué is proud of his work and the ongoing research at NLR aimed at advancing precision nutrition in poultry.

Connecting the dots

At Chemuniqué, we are eager to help you ‘connect the dots’ to improve efficiencies in your broiler operations. Our innovative solutions enhance feed efficiency, bird performance, and profitability. Whether optimising feed conversion or reducing costs, our experts are here to guide you.

Contact Chemuniqué today to discover how our scientifically proven products can elevate your broiler production. Let’s work together to achieve sustainable and cost-effective solutions for a more efficient future.

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