March 1, 2016
Framelco presents new trends in broiler nutrition at VIV MEA
Framelco consultant nutritionist Ir. André Meeusen presented the latest trends in broiler nutrition based on the revolutionary "eubiotic nutrition" during the Dutch Poultry Centre seminar at VIV MEA 2016, which was held in Abu Dhabi last Feb 16-18.
One strategy is to discourage the proliferation of undesirable organisms in the animals' digestive systems by encouraging beneficial microorganisms in the gut (in contrast to antibiotics, which are believed to reduce harmful organisms).
"Eubiotic nutrition is a revolutionary strategy which combines feed additives with modern nutrition technology. This strategy is based on 'eubiosis', a concept to encourage a healthy intestinal microflora by suppressing the pathogenic bacteria and promoting the LAB in the GIT", Meeusen said.
He explained that managing the gastro-intestinal microflora by using the glycerol esters of organic acids is essential for the eubiosis effect. Indeed, the effect of antibiotics on growth promotion is thought to be related to the gut microflora. Hence, alternatives to antibiotics often focus on impacting the gut ecosystem.
He pointed out the importance of maximising energy and protein use from feed by using multi-enzyme systems breaking down the NSP and proteins in typical vegetable diets and the indigestible oligosaccharides in typical corn-soya diets. Indeed, any non-digested nutrient, especially non-digested proteins are a potential nutrient for pathogen bacteria to grow on.
He added that these nutrients are only of value if they are quickly absorbed. A good emulsification of the digesta in the aqueous environment of the intestinal lumen is essential, especially when higher levels of fats and oils are included in the feed. Hydrolysed phospholipids form micelles, which allow a better dispersion and transportation of the fats and the LPC (lysophosphatidyllcholine), an LPE (lysophosphatidylethanolamine) present in hydrolysed soylecithins to improve thefluidity of cell membranes and enhance the absorption of nutrient.
Key is to assist the animals' digestive system by supporting their natural digestion physiology as shown in the picture below:
Meeusen explained the differences in the mode of action between short chain fatty acids and medium chain fatty acids. He also specified that α-monoglycerides are proven to be more active than acids. Also, monoglycerides affect fat enveloped viruses and bacteria, which are most beneficial.
Meeusen concluded his presentation with trial results from typical broiler performances with eubiotic nutrition in the Netherlands, which showed interesting average daily gain and feed conversion ratio.
