December 28, 2022

Study finds benefits of using apple pomace-enhanced feed for broiler diets

Past studies have suggested that the phytochemicals and prebiotics, which are naturally present in apples, may boost intestinal health and the gut microbiome, according to Cornell University.

With these facts in mind, a Cornell team led by Assoc. Prof. Elad Tako and doctoral student Cydney Jackson set out to see if apple-pomace-enhanced feed might improve the health of broiler chickens, which are an established model for evaluating the effects of plant-based compounds on gut health.

For the study, the scientists injected apple pomace extract into the amniotic fluid of developing embryos inside chicken eggs. Tako said that doing so is a reliable means of "demonstrating the potential beneficial nutritional effects of a specific dietary ingredient."

When the eggs hatched and the chicks were analysed, it was found that as compared to a control group, the pomace extract increased the animals' transport system for amino acids, improved the bioavailability of iron, boosted microbial populations in the large intestine and supported the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Planned long-term feeding trials could support these findings.

"Pomace is treated like industrial waste now. If we can potentially use the pomace, which is rich in nutrients, we can add it to the diet of broilers," said Tako. "We can improve the nutrition in their feed and achieve productivity in a more natural way – and potentially reduce the use of added dietary chemicals."

A paper on the research was recently published in the journal, Nutrients.

- Cornell University