At the International Poultry Scientific Forum, held in Georgia, USA, earlier this month, Professor Charles Hofacre, president of the Southern Poultry Research Group (SPRG), presented results from trials around the prevent and control of necrotic enteritis.
The trials showed that Orego-Stim and pHorce supplementation was effective in managing broilers and supporting performance through the challenge of the disease.
“Necrotic enteritis is commonly seen in broilers from 14-28 days and is caused by over-population of Clostridium perfringens, with coccidia infection acting as a predisposing factor,” explained Professor Hofacre. “The most common form of necrotic enteritis is subclinical, which can lead to negative effects on growth rate and feed efficiency due to intestinal damage and impairment of nutrient absorption.”
In the trial, 1,800 Ross x Ross chicks were randomly assigned to one of four groups (Challenge control, Orego-Stim: 1000 g/t, Orego-Stim: 500 g/t and Orego-Stim + pHorce: 300 g/t + 500 g/t). On day 0, all groups received a live coccidia vaccine and on day 14 were challenged with Clostridium perfringens in the drinking water. Mortality, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded until day 42.
Broilers fed diets with Orego-Stim and pHorce had a significantly lower mortality rate due to necrotic enteritis, lower overall mortality and improved feed intakes. Orego-Stim supplementation resulted in a numerically improved FCR compared to the control group.
“Feeding Orego-Stim in the diet of broilers also reduced necrotic enteritis lesion scores compared to the challenge control group,” said Professor Hofacre. “Overall, the trial results demonstrated that Orego-Stim had a significant impact on preventing clinical necrotic enteritis and helped to minimise the negative effects of Clostridium perfringens on broiler body weight and FCR.”
For more information on Orego-Stim, developed and manufactured by Anpario, go to www.anpario.com
