September 26, 2024

 

Cargill's broiler trial with Indian university leads to better growth, lower pathogen levels from animal nutrition

 

Cargill, through its work leading the USAID-funded TRANSFORM project, has partnered with West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences in India on a broiler trial that resulted in enhanced growth performance, improved vaccine efficacy, and reduced pathogen levels from animal nutrition. 

 

The trial, detailed in scientific journal Animals, is the first time an animal nutrition intervention has been reported to show an impact on infectious bursal disease vaccination efficacy in broilers. The study evaluated two animal nutrition interventions: Bacillus subtilis (a probiotic) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product (SCFP, a postbiotic). 

 

Key findings include:   

 

    - Enhanced growth performance: SCFP improved feed conversion ratio, allowing broilers to gain the same weight with less feed. Both additives increased VH:CD, indicating a larger intestinal surface area for nutrient absorption;

 

    - Improved vaccine efficacy: SCFP increased antibody titers (the measurable response to either a vaccine or a disease) following Newcastle disease and infectious bursal disease virus vaccinations, suggesting better protection;

 

    - Reduced pathogen levels: SCFP effectively reduced antimicrobial-resistant ESBL-Enterobacteriaceae and Salmonella sp., marking the first report of a dietary supplement reducing antimicrobial-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in poultry. 

 

Cargill's Annie Kneedler, TRANSFORM Chief of Party, explained: "The world faces significant challenges with antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases, and we know animal agriculture must be part of the solution. Through TRANSFORM, we're working to identify market-driven animal nutrition solutions that improve immune response, reduce disease pathogens, increase productivity, and reduce the need to use antimicrobials. This study shows animal nutrition could drive meaningful change, with benefits to both animal productivity and global health security." 

 

With multiple trials underway, TRANSFORM plans to complete nearly two dozen research trials across four species by 2026. 

 

To learn more about TRANSFORM visit: www.cargill.com/sustainability/transform 

 

- Cargill