Zootecnica International - English edition - 4 April 2018

Zootecnica International – April 2018 – POSTE ITALIANE Spa – Spedizione in Abbonamento Postale 70%, Firenze

Housing systems and egg production Welfare and cost benefits through automated grading and vaccination The value of digestibility coefficients

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2018

The new feeders of the «Gió» range, specifically developed for great poultry farms, thanks to the easiness in the regulation of the feed and to the absence of grill (that avoid chicks perching) have many advantages: they are easy to use and their cleaning is extremely easy and fast too, leading to an overall reduction in labour costs.

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EDITORIAL Not all broiler losses can be prevented but they can greatly reduced by following recognized principles of disease prevention and control.

Mortality and increased medication costs are two most obvious losses caused by diseases in broilers. But even greater economic losses may result from decreased growth, lowered feed efficiency, condemnations, culling, and lower quality of the final product. Not all broiler losses can be prevented, but they can greatly reduced by following recognized principles of disease prevention and control.

The disease problem may be looked upon as a constant struggle between the host and the invading organisms. The flock owner acts as a sort of referee, whose interests and sympathies are entirely with the host but who is too often helpless to do much more than watch a losing battle, while all his profit and some of his capital are hauled away to an incinerator or disposal pit.

If the poultry man is to avoid this unhappy circumstance, he must become, in effect, a health officer for his flock. He must plan and carry out a program of flock management, which will turn the tide of battle always, or nearly always, in favour of the host. There are three distinct approaches to such a program.

The first is to adopt strict sanitary and quarantine procedures which will keep host and disease organisms apart.

The second general method is to weaken the attacking agent so that it is unable successfully to invade the host and establish itself. This is usually accomplished by placing various sort of barriers in the way, or by destroying large numbers of the invaders through the use of strong disinfectants.

The third method of approach is to strengthen the position of the host so that it is better able to withstand the constant onslaught of invading organisms of various kinds.

This objective may be partially accomplished through natural means, such as breeding for increased resistance to specific diseases, improved nutrition which helps to ensure the physical well-being of the broilers, and provision for clean and comfortable surroundings. It may also take the form of purely artificial protections, such as vaccination.

In actual practice, all three methods of disease control are used, as well as occasional treatment for specific diseases. As a general rule, medicinal treatment is ineffective, and dependence must be placed on other methods in attempting to reduce or prevent mortality. The poultry man needs information in solving this problem.

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GLOBAL REACH

LOCAL TOUCH

SUMMARY WORLD WIDE NEWS............................................................................ 4 COMPANY NEWS................................................................................... 8 REPORTAGE

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"Alta Tuscia" new laying hens farm..................................................................... 12

INTERVIEW Agritech, 30-years’ experience in silos’ production................................................ 16

FOCUS A new perspective on feeding broiler breeders.................................................... 18 Feeding turkey breeding stock.......................................................................... 22 Relationship between plumage and body condition in non-debeaked laying hens.... 26 Management tips to maximize male fertility......................................................... 30 Management techniques for a hot climate........................................................... 34

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The challenging world of a primary breeder, matching genetics to market requirements.......................................................... 36 Hy-Line accelerates genetic progress across all lines........................................... 40

MARKETING Housing systems and egg production: a 2016 status report................................... 44

TECHNICAL COLUMN Use of injection syringes in the animal production industry.................................... 48

MANAGEMENT

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Welfare and cost benefits through automated grading and vaccination.................... 50

NUTRITION The value of digestibility coefficients.................................................................. 54 Poultry Probiotics Market to amass huge profits as an alternative to antibiotics........ 58

MARKET GUIDE................................................................................... 60 UPCOMING EVENTS........................................................................... 63 INTERNET GUIDE................................................................................ 64

WORLD WIDE NEWS

©Orchad Organic Farm

Improving hens health and productivity

Scientists at Roslin and two other institutions received funding from FFAR to improve health and productivity of egg-laying hens.

The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) awarded three grants totalling $1.4 million to the Roslin Institute, Purdue University and University of California, Davis, respectively, to improve the health and productivity of egg-laying hens.

Dr Ian Dunn from the Roslin Institute and collaborators at the major poultry genetics companies Hy-Line and Lohmann Tierzucht, will lay the groundwork for breeding hens with stronger bones by developing a novel x-ray based measurement system adapted for on-farm use.

The three awards are the result of a competitive call for innovative proposals for research to reduce keel bone fractures in egg-laying hens. Bone fractures, which decrease egg production, are one known challenge to raising hens in cage-free housing systems and are particularly prevalent in the keel, or breastbone.

These grants support the FFAR Protein Challenge, which aims to enhance and improve the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of producing diverse proteins for a growing global population. The grants were funded by a partnership with the Open Philanthropy Project designed to improve the welfare and productivity of egg-laying hens and commercially raised pigs. The partnership, which supports producers’ ability to adapt to a changing animal production landscape, is funded with a $1 million grant from Open Philanthropy matched by a $1 million investment from FFAR. “We know that bone quality in hens can be improved by genetic selection as well as improving the environment. The major obstacle has been finding a way of measuring bone quality in a living hen that is practical. This project aims to deliver a practical and reliable method to give breeders the tools to improve bone quality and reduce fractures”, said Dr Ian Dunnof of the Roslin Institute.

Role of animal nutrition solutions & the EU feed strategy at 63rd FEFAC general assembly FEFAC and its French member EUROFAC announce symposia on feed, animal nutrition and the European protein strategy in Lyon, France, on 20-21 June 2018, on the occasion of FEFAC’s 63rd General Assembly.

©upi.com

Plan against AMR released by the European Commission in June 2017 stated, “feeding regimes to support good animal health and welfare help reduce the need for antibiotics at farm level”.

The draft programme includes representatives from the European Commission and the French Government as well as livestock chain and feed industry speakers and experts from the scientific community. The symposium on 20 June will focus on the role of animal nutrition solutions in tackling challenges in the animal health and welfare area. The EU One Health Action

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In discussion with industry representatives from the animal health, farming and veterinary sectors, the European feed industry seeks to develop a multidisciplinary framework which could deliver a holistic health management approach towards reducing AMR at livestock farm level.

The symposium on 21 June will set the scene on the announced future EU Plant Protein Plan, expected being published by the European Commission by the end of 2018. The EU Commission, French Government Speakers and panel experts from the EU grain trade & livestock chain will exchange views on the competitiveness of European vegetable protein production.

Also the challenges of boosting production and market acceptance of alternative protein sources and the strategic importance of maintaining access to imported protein-rich feed materials will be part of the discussion.

- world wide news -

WORLD WIDE NEWS

©Katy TX Vet Lab

©BioMedResearch

Testing Dutch hens for Chlamydia

In 2015 and early 2016, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research tested Dutch hens for the presence of chlamydia. Chlamydia gallinacea DNA was found in laying hens on 71 of the 151 farms that were tested. However, there is no evidence that the bacteria C. gallinacea can be transmitted to humans.

Poultry carry various types of the bacteria Chlamydia, of which Chlamydia psittaci and Chlamydia gallinacea are the most important. The Dutch situation had not been studied before these tests. Wageningen Bioveterinary Research conducted their study to establish whether the key Chlamydia species, C. psittaci and C. gallinacea, occur in Dutch laying hens and if there is a relationship between chlamydia disease in poultry and in humans.

Chicken manure samples were analysed from a total of 151 poultry farms using a test that identifies DNA (PCR). No C. psittaci DNA was identified, but C. gallinacea DNA was found on 71 farms. No link could be established between the presence of this DNA in poultry and disease.

try farmers, their families and employees (provided voluntarily). Chlamydia was not found in any of these swabs.

There is therefore no evidence to support the statement that the bacteria C. gallinacea can be transmitted to humans.

C. psittaci causes psittacosis, or parrot disease. It is a zoonosis, a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, which is why this disease must be officially reported in the Netherlands if it is discovered in pet birds such as parrots and pigeons. Cases in poultry do not have to be reported, because chickens appear to be less susceptible to the disease.

The C. gallinacea variant of the Chlamydia bacterium was discovered only relatively recently. This species is mainly found in chickens and as of yet, little is known about the pathogenic properties of this type of chlamydia.

This study was conducted as part of the ‘monitoring of zoonotic pathogens in livestock’ and the public-private partnership ‘1H4F-Chlamydia and respiratory conditions in poultry’.

The researchers also collected throat swabs from 69 poul-

Bolegg Gallery

Wageningen University and Research www.wur.nl

Managing aviary birds is easier than you think • Easy management • Perfect egg quality • Optimal house layout www.vencomaticgroup.com

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WORLD WIDE NEWS

2017 Australian Poultry Award to Chris Morrow

The Australian Poultry Award is presented annually to an Australian resident who has made a long-term outstanding contribution to poultry science and/or the Australian poultry industry. The Award is made by the Australian Branch of the World’s Poultry Science Association (WPSA) and takes the form of a suitably inscribed plaque, which includes the winner’s name, together with a framed citation. Here pictured, Chris Morrow receiving the 2017 Australian Poultry Award

Chris Morrow graduated from Melbourne University with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 1980, and was initially employed as a Government Veterinarian (Poultry) in Tamworth, NSW, where he developed a rapport with the Poultry Industry and colleagues in the NSW Poultry Branch.

In 1985, he returned to Melbourne University to undertake PhD studies on Mycoplasmas of Poultry, under the supervision of Professor Kevin Whithear. Chris developed the MS-H Mycoplasma synoviae vaccine, and he became a recognised international authority on avian mycoplasmas. Since completing his PhD studies, Chris has maintained a strong continuing interest in this area of science throughout his career in Poultry Science in research and commerce.

In 1990, Chris was recruited by then Victorian Department of Agriculture as an Avian Pathologist, at the Victorian Institute of Animal Science, Attwood, where he continued his research on mycoplasma typing and diagnosis, worked on Newcastle disease virus virulence and avian influenza typing and diagnosis, and played an important role in resolving the issues of the Marek’s disease control following the importation of international seedlots in 1992.

In 1996, Chris became a company veterinarian for Aviagen Ltd, Scotland. In 2006, Chris was offered a position of Global Technical and Marketing Manager of Bioproperties Pty Ltd and this new role capitalised on his scientific strengths and his international reputation and knowledge. He was able to utilise his in-depth knowledge of avian mycoplasmas to develop markets for the Bioproperties vaccines, and at the same time reengaged with his colleagues at the University of Melbourne to stimulate new technical developments on the vaccine front and in the diagnostic area. Chris has been a vital component in the effective commercialisation of vaccines for both Bioproperties

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and the University of Melbourne (where he is an honorary Associate Professor), with royalties from international sales of the mycoplasma vaccines also flowing into AECL and RIRDC to support poultry research.

Some of Chris’s most significant achievements include: research on lentogenic Newcastle disease virus in broiler chickens prior to Australia’s major Newcastle disease outbreak in 1998-1999, development of PCR technology for diagnosis of Mycoplasma synoviae, development of the MS-H live Mycoplasma synoviae vaccine, detection and differentiation of M. meleagridis and M. iowae in turkeys by PCR, characterisation of Influenza A viruses isolated from Victoria ducks between 1990-1996, leader of the Avian Mycoplasma team of the International Research Program for Collaborative Mycoplasmology, specialist lectures on veterinary input into modern poultry industries for the University of Melbourne Veterinary School, continuous contributions to the Australian Veterinary Poultry Association and World Veterinary Poultry Association and regional Poultry Health forums in Australia, reviewer for Avian Pathology, Avian Diseases, Virus Research, the Veterinary Record, the Australian Veterinary Journal and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, development of international markets for the mycoplasma vaccines produced in Australia. He has published 37 papers in scientific journals and four major chapters in books on avian medicine. He has also contributed to our understanding of fowl cholera, coryza and avian hepatitis E viruses, and has been a potent force in driving collaboration between international and Australian researchers on poultry diseases.

Chris is well known for his quick wit, lateral thinking, problemsolving ability, outgoing and humorous personality and his willingness to share his knowledge with others. He is a most deserving recipient of the WPSA Australian Poultry Award.

- world wide news -

BREEDAZA The innovative rationing system

WORLD WIDE ! NEWS

Image: Fotolia - © Minerva Studio

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COMPANY NEWS

Petersime launches automation solutions for single-stage hatcheries New automation solutions from Petersime launched at IPPE 2018. More and more hatcheries have invested in single-stage incubation and see their business growing significantly. Because of the higher production of chicks every day, it is crucial to strive for improvement in terms of speed, consistency and cost reduction. As adding personnel would have an enormous impact on the labour costs, at Petersime, they are convinced that automation is the way to go.

Automatic Candling and Transfer Machine This compact candling machine picks out non-viable eggs and transfers fertile eggs carefully to the hatching basket. This minimizes the amount of breakage and hairline cracks and reduces the risk of contamination. Moreover, it registers all data so customers can both provide feedback about the flock to the breeder farm and better manage your egg supply because the estimation of the number of chicks hatching will be more precise. This way, they will be able to guarantee security of supply to their customers.

Petersime Automatic Candling and Transfer Machine

Petersime Sexing and Vaccination Line

Petersime Washing Machine

Petersime helps facing these challenges by offering a range of standard automation solutions to increase the efficiency of essential processes in hatcheries. With professional assistance, Petersime experts can help find out which automation solution will deliver the most added value to the customer’s hatchery.

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- company news -

Petersime Chick Counter

COMPANY NEWS

Washing Machine When

striving

for

uncompromised

bio-security, this automated washing machine is very useful. Next to an increased hygiene in the hatchery because of the qualitative cleaning of setter trays, hatcher baskets and chick boxes, it also works

“Petersime automation provides plenty of benefits going from a minimal operational cost to an excellent bio-security. The equipment is robust and easy to maintain and the company ensures maximum business continuity of the customers’ operations by being a reliable support partner for their hatching business”

faster with less people involved.

Sexing and Vaccination Line For an optimal workflow, it is important to be able to process more chicks with less

BioStreamer™ HD

effort on a minimum amount of space.

This space saving line provides a com-

High Density single-stage incubators featuring Operational Excellence Technology™

fortable working position for the hatchery employees and guarantees a higher speed of operation.

Chick Counter With manual counting, great accuracy on a high speed is hard to realize. This machine eliminates errors of hatchery employees and operates faster which results in healthier chicks because they have to spend less time in the take-off room.

The benefits of Petersime automation are plenty Next to an optimized value chain, Petersime automation provides plenty of benefits going from a minimal operational cost to an excellent bio-security.

The equipment is robust and easy to maintain. Moreover, the company en-

The new generation of BioStreamer™ incubators, now equipped with the Operational Excellence Technology™, are easier to use and provide even higher chick quality with reduced energy costs.

liable support partner for their hatching

What is more, Petersime’s BioStreamer™ HD or High Density setters and hatchers hold 12% more eggs compared to standard BioStreamer™ incubators. The BioStreamer™ HD offers you the same high level of hatchability, chick quality and post-hatch performance, but with lower investment costs per egg.

business. Petersime can design, deliv-

Learn more at www.petersime.com

sures maximum business continuity of the customers’ operations by being a re-

er and install complete hatcheries. This means customers only need one partner for their complete business lifecycle. As a result, their organization will grow gradu-

Headquarters Petersime nv Centrumstraat 125 - 9870 Zulte (Olsene) - Belgium T +32 (0)9 388 96 11 - F +32 (0)9 388 84 58 - info@petersime.com - www.petersime.com

ally, maximizing their profit for life.

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COMPANY NEWS

Moba Middle East FZCO open for business Moba B.V., the leading manufacturer of egg grading, packing and processing equipment for consumption eggs is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in the Middle East.

In addition, Moba has appointed Rik Bosch as its Regional Director and he will have the opportunity to further expand staffing and will recruit additional professionals for the sales and service organization in Dubai as part of the worldwide company’s team.

About Moba Group

The Moba Middle East FZCO office will be located in Dubai, UAE. Moba opened the Moba Middle East FZCO office to support its growth in the Middle East market and to be closer to its customers. With this decision Moba will enhance its abilities to respond to customer needs proactively.

The new office is located in the Dubai Airport Freezone.

Moba is a global player with approximately 700 employees in the egg industry. With its product lines Moba, Diamond and Pelbo, the company offers the broadest portfolio of total solutions in the industry. Moba’s head office is based in Barneveld, The Netherlands, and it has subsidiaries in England, Germany, USA, Malaysia, Japan, China, Italy and United Arab Emirates.

Moba is represented in more than 60 countries through an extensive network of agents.

Munters launched revolutionizing IoT solution in connecting farms and processing plants the two elements significantly improves the access to big data and removes the traditional separation between hardware and software. With a concrete business model built to generate value through efficiency and profitability to all stakeholders in the value chain, the Echo/Sonar solution promises to revolutionize the poultry production industry. In the near future also other industries such as pig and greenhouse production will be covered by this IoT solution.

Munters launched a IoT (Internet of Things) solution through their products at the International Production and Processing Expo, using innovative technology in order to shape the future of how business in the farming industry connect.

Munters Group, a global leader in energy-efficient air treatment and climate solutions, announced the launch of the Echo/Sonar Solution at the International Production and Processing Expo on January 30th 2018 in Atlanta. Combining forces, Munters delivers Echo, the new on-farm wireless sensor technology in conjunction with innovative analysis software Sonar, developed and supported by newly acquired MTech Systems.

The collaboration of connecting farms through equipment and software will transform the Munters’ offering through advances in data analytics and machine learning. The combination of

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The Echo/Sonar new solution merges hardware development into the software cycle, ultimately ensuring full control of the whole supply chain from farm to fork. Echo is a communication module that is easy to install, flexible and wireless, and contribute to increased production efficiency. Sonar is a software monitoring solution, constantly improves creation of information and data analytics, bringing new levels of intelligence and finding the previously unknown cause-and-effect factors that are today limiting the end results in poultry production.

“By leveraging the expertise and experience of MTech and the Munters organization, it has allowed the company to offer a solution that puts the power of information in the customer’s hands. The first large order was confirmed in 2017, with customers on the way to install Munters IoT application gearing to partake in the future of farming. The overall objective is to optimize the value chain for integrators, distributors and farmers all over the world to uncover and maximize opportunities,” said Peter Gisel-Ekdahl, President Business Area AgHort.

- company news -

COMPANY NEWS

Aviagen earns longstanding exhibitor accolades Celebrating decades of customer and industry service, leadership and innovation

Aviagen is the first primary poultry breeder to achieve the certification from government officials in both the U.K. and the U.S., enabling it to freely ship its premier day-old chicks and eggs to all countries that accept compartment status. Since compartmentalization has been in place, Aviagen has successfully exported to several countries throughout the world that recognize compartments during outbreaks of notifiable disease. late-breaking industry trends and further strengthening our common bonds. Our deep-rooted relationships with poultry professionals in every corner of the world make up the foundation of our business and our continued success,” said Aviagen CEO Jan Henriksen.

Aviagen experts featured important interviews Aviagen President of North America Kevin McDaniel offered an overview of Aviagen as a corporation, giving unique insight into its innovative breeding program, and how it strives to provide world-class poultry breeding stock to meet ever-advancing market needs and feed a growing world population.

Kevin McDaniel (right), president of Aviagen North America, accepts the long-time exhibitor plaque from Jerry Moye, Hendrix Genetics, Ontario, Canada and outgoing US Poultry chairman

This year the International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE), hosted by the US Poultry and Egg Association (USPEA) in Atlanta, signalled a special occasion for Aviagen®.

Among a line-up of innovations and accomplishments to share with poultry industry colleagues and visitors, the global poultry genetics company has been recognized for 65 continuous years as a valued exhibitor at the International Poultry Expo portion of IPPE. On Monday, Jan. 29, the USPEA honoured Aviagen along with seven other veteran exhibitors at a special award ceremony held at the new Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

“The US Poultry and Egg Association honoured Aviagen along with seven other veteran exhibitors at a special award ceremony held at the new Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta” “We’re honoured to be recognized this year for our long-time participation in the world’s largest assembly of poultry professionals. For Aviagen, IPPE represents one of the year’s best opportunities to reach out to our customers and colleagues – together sharing knowledge and information, exploring

Director of Global Health Monitoring Bill Stanley shared his indepth knowledge on “compartmentalization” — a much-needed solution to free up export-crippling restraints placed on trade during outbreaks of Avian Influenza (AI) and other poultry diseases.

In times past, sections of the global poultry export network have come to an abrupt halt during a disease epidemic due to bans imposed on key export countries. Introduced by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), compartmentalization makes it possible to export primary breeding stock from approved, biosecure farms known as clean “compartments” when avian disease strikes the exporting country.

Success through Global Reach, Local Touch strategy IPPE also provided the ideal forum for Aviagen to emphasize its continued success through a Global Reach, Local Touch business approach. Similar to IPPE’s global reach - attracting more than 8,000 international visitors from 129 countries - Aviagen comprises a global team of more than 3,900 dedicated and highly skilled employees, along with offices, production facilities and export bases spanning six continents. From these locations, a consistent supply of high-quality breeding stock is shipped to customers in more than 100 countries.

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REPORTAGE

“Alta Tuscia” new laying hens farm

MBE Breeding Equipment outfitted a new free-range farm, which has recently been inaugurated in Montefiascone, Italy A celebration event for the “Alta Tuscia” company, located in Montefiascone, where the Pagliaccia family inaugurated their new free-range laying hens farm in the presence of numerous layer breeders, poultry operators and staff of the Marche-based MBE Breeding Equipment company.

Lara Naldini

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The farm is located in a beautiful area just a few kilometers from the enchanting village of Montefiascone, near Viterbo, in central Italy. The owners, the Pagliaccia sisters, who have traditionally been in the sheep farming for more than half a century, decided to open up to the poultry sector starting a new adventure as an investment for their sons, who will run the entire company in the future.

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REPORTAGE

The project actually includes another poultry house, very similar to the one inaugurated, that is going to be started once the first farm is successfully operating.

The whole plant was completely designed and equipped by MBE Breeding Equipment, the Vencomatic Group’s official Italian dealer for about two years, as well as of Prinzen company starting from January 2018.

Founded by Giorgio Laudazi, MBE Breeding Equipment has been operating since 1980 in the supply of turnkey technology solutions for the eggs and meat production and for the animal husbandry in general, creating prefabricated poultry barns and zootechnical stables of all types and sizes.

product and there is no a similar one on the market", continues Simone Laudazi.

"The solid construction ensures a long lifetime to the nest. Vencomatic’s sidebelt concept with tipping floors was designed 30 years ago and it is at the base of the new Grando Castle nest, which is characterized by its flat roof. If we look at its sideways, we understand where its name derives from because it recalls the design of the battlements, typical elements of medieval military architecture and castles”.

With this new feature, the farmer is able to maximize available living surface to the birds. In fact, thanks to its structure, the Grando Castle allows to adjust one and two tiered nests on a single row, depending on the characteristics of the barn and type of breeding.

“Founded by Giorgio Laudazi, MBE Breeding Equipment has been operating since 1980 in the supply of turnkey technology solutions for the eggs and meat production and for the animal husbandry in general, creating prefabricated poultry barns and zootechnical stables of all types and sizes” “We are able to provide projects of any complexity and dimension, following them at every stage: from the design to the production of structural parts; from the plant engineering to the livestock equipment; from the assembly to the training of the customer's technical staff.

As regards the planning of this farm, we started working on it around two years ago”, explained Simone Laudazi, MBE Breeding Equipment Administrator.

“Along the way, some changes have been made and the most significant modification was related to the Grando Castle nest, a truly innovative product, which was launched on the market by the Vencomatic Group about a year and a half ago".

Thanks to its flexibility and walkable roof, the Grando Castle nest represents a big step forward for this farm, which will soon housing 27,000 Hy-Line hens.

“Grando Castle nest is a Vencomatic

“We can alternate the use of nests with flat roofs - providing extra living surface to the birds - with nests supplied with traditional roof, and place a second nest and so on where needed, until we find the best solution both for the hens and for the farmer. With competitors’ nests it is not possible to increase the walkable area in the barn as much as the Grando Castle nest allows”, explains Laudazi.

What would have happened in the “Alta Tuscia” farm, where the barn is 14 meters wide, if the Grando Castle nest had not been placed? “We would have to make two rows of nests, cutting at least one and a half meter of space per row, with certainly less efficient results. The Grando Castle nest permits to develop a larger area for birds: a two-tiered nest develops 6,65 m2 of surface while the single-tiered nest 5.47 m2. At the same time, hens are better distributed even in the lateral sides of the barn”.

- april 2018 -

Broiler-Turkeys

Tunnels

Rabbit

Quails

MBE srl via delle Fornaci 88/A 60044 Fabriano (AN) - Italy

Tel. 0732/627167 info@mbefabriano.it www.mbefabriano.it

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REPORTAGE

ing system is from VDL Agrotech. The drinker lines - equipped with Impex’ nipples - are integrated into the nest.

MBE Breeding Equipment provided all the other equipment in the “Alta Tuscia” farm. The Italian company has also studied the ventilation’s management in every single detail: the poultry house is provided with several air circulators and nebulization systems to reduce heat stress and improve air quality at low noise levels.

Lighting is an essential component for a successful laying hens operation. MBE Breeding Equipment gave it particular care: the ceiling lights are of excellent quality, LED technologies have been used everywhere and the nests are in a dim light compared to the other more illuminated areas to prevent hens from laying eggs out of the nest.

As for the flooring, the entire surface of the barn consists of grids (slats), while the area of ​​scratching is outside. The poultry manure collection system is collocated under the slatted floor ensuring a healthier and more hygienic environment.

At the end of the cycle, slats are cleaned and disinfected, while the litter is removed and taken away with trucks.

“Grando Castle nest is a Vencomatic product and there is no a similar one on the market.

The solid construction ensures a long lifetime to the nest. Vencomatic’s sidebelt concept with tipping floors was designed 30 years ago and it is at the base of the new Grando Castle nest, which is characterized by its flat roof” Simone Laudazi, MBE Breeding Equipment Administrator

Some other features introduced in the “Alta Tuscia” farm The whole farm consists of a barn, - whose dimensions are 132 meters long x 14 wide, plus the egg collection room of 6 meters - and a surrounding land totally dedicated to the hens, who are free to perform their natural behaviour. This free-range farm was built according to the German KAT legislation, imposing a strict control system for the egg safety and traceability, whose certification attests compliance with severe rules for animal breeding and hygiene.

“The barn is equipped with doors and insulated rack windows, which are innovative for this area; they are separated into two engines, giving the possibility to run a multifunctional system, and creating forced air, in case the owners will decide in the future not to follow the KAT rules anymore”, Laudazi tells us.

While the nest is designed using smart Vencomatic innovations, including the Vencomat tipping floor, the automatic feed-

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- reportage -

REPORTAGE Our high-tech feeding systems are suitable for any age of animals

We offer a vast choice in the poultry breeding sector in order to meet the demands of modern animal production

Now we’re able to meet any requirement also in the pig breeding and feeding sectors

Corti zootecnici srl via volta N°4 - Monvalle (VA) - Italy tel: +39.0332.799985 - fax: +39.0332.799358 / 799787 - april 2018 e-mail: info@cortizootecnici.com

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INTERVIEW

Agritech, 30-years’ experience in silos’ production Agritech, located in Calvisano, in the Brescia district, Italy, is a company specialized in the design and production of fiberglass silos and specific equipment for the industry. Continuous growth and positive feedback at national and international level have characterized Agritech’s history since its foundation in 1987. Last June the company celebrated their 30th anniversary, a successful event with the participation of customers coming from all over the world.

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- interview -

INTERVIEW

Mario Ardenghi, Export Manager, outlined the various activities, which have been developed over the years, focusing on product innovations and target markets.

“At Agritech, as Export Manager, I deal with and oversee the foreign business that represents our main sector, covering the 85% of our global turnover. The company was founded in 1987

by Floriano Zappettini who is still running it with Giuseppe Tosi. Agritech is a leader player in the production of storage fiberglass silos for storing bulk dry products from feed to food, and minerals, liquids and chemical powders.

Over time, we have added a whole series of related products: automatic loading and unloading systems, feed transport bins, silos filling systems, livestock boxes and modules, all based on fiberglass as a basic building material. As regards poultry, Agritech offers the opportunity to integrate silos with a whole line of specific products.

All silos and other equipment are manufactured with the best available materials and comply with the UNI EN ISO 90012008 Quality Standard System and the Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik of the German Federal Office. This makes them suitable to meet the needs of various industrial sectors.

We started with one model and we are now producing 6, each with about 10 different capacities to reach a range of 60-70 variants. Our products received an immediate positive feedback from the market and soon we started exporting to neighboring countries, throughout the European Community, and then expanding our business range worldwide, through a network of distributors, agents and retailers. Europe remains our main target market – Germany, France, England, Poland and Scandinavia are among the leading countries – but growth is constant and significant also in extra-European areas. Today, we distribute in more than 60 countries. Thanks to the installation of photovoltaic panels, Agritech generates the required power using only green energy, thus fully respecting the environment.”

Which are the specific traits of your silos and how do they differ in the offer?

“Compared to galvanized sheet-based products, we provide a number of additional benefits, such as the durability the fiberglass material ensures, as it is indestructible. The thermal insulation - being the fiberglass a non-conductive material offers a high level of safety, preserving the feed from thermal changes and humidity, eliminating the presence of bacteria, mold and various contaminations. The quality of the stored feed is kept intact, avoiding problems in transport and improving livestock’s performance and health.

Especially in humid areas, characterized by frequent precipitation, the use of fiberglass can overcome the problems of rust providing a prolonged duration of the structures. In addition, fiberglass is particularly light and easy to handle, making transport and installation simpler.

Our modular systems enable us to fill containers efficiently; we can also ship 30-40 silos in a single 40-foot container, thus reducing transport costs to distant countries. The silos capacity ranges from 2 cubic meters - just over a ton - up to 100 cubic meters.”

Which are your livestock target industries?

“Currently, the pig sector is the most relevant to us. Due to their intrinsic characteristics, feeds used in the pig farming are particularly suitable to be stored in fiberglass and producers are indeed oriented to choose specific storage facilities, separate from the turnkey plant.

As far as the poultry sector is concerned, we have a consolidated position in Europe and future growth prospects are excellent. Today, large groups tend to provide turnkey projects for poultry with producers traditionally opting for metal silos, which are generally cheaper. However, fiberglass silos have greater advantages in terms of efficiency, quality and feed safety. This undoubtedly opens great opportunities in this sector, considering that the market is increasingly oriented towards a total assessment for health and quality.

In the future, our idea is to constantly improve our product range, aiming to expand in the agro-industrial sector with our latest fiberglass solutions, creating modular fiberglass coverings for wastewater tanks for water mains, and wherever there is a need for securing waste products.

Specialization and diversification are the cornerstones of our business strategy. Over the years, other sisters companies belonging to the Group have been founded: Poly3, producing special paints and gel coats for the fiberglass industry; Intech, specializing in the design and manufacturing of storage plants for bulk industrial products; Eltech, serving the green energy sector and Spirotech, which manufactures bulk material conveyors.

Two additional join-ventures have recently been established; one in China, near Shanghai - Shanghai Extra machinery which we are the main shareholders of, and one in Thailand, near Bangkok, - KPI-Agritech – for the production of our silos in that area. Thus, we have been able to reach areas of Asia that are very far apart. We would like to do something similar in Latin America, and we have already started contacts with local organizations.

Our wide experience in the design and construction of silos allows us to meet any specific storage requirement with safe, reliable solutions targeted to the specific needs of each market.”

Agritech Via Rimembranze 7 - 25012 Calvisano (Brescia) Italy Tel.: +39 030 99 68 222 - Fax: +39 030 99 68 444 Email: agritech@agritech.it - Website: www.agritech.it/en

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17

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A new perspective on feeding broiler breeders Due to sophisticated genetic selection programs carried out by poultry breeding companies such as Aviagen, today’s broilers can grow with very efficient feed conversion and exceptional carcass and breast yield. Broiler performance objectives published

by Aviagen (2014) show that a 10-day old male Ross 308 bird can reach a target bodyweight (BW) of almost 300g with a feed conversion rate of just around 1.00.

Such improvements in the performance of commercial broilers also change the way in which the parent generations should be reared and managed.

Alex Chang Senior Poultry Nutrition Specialist, Asia Pacific Region, Aviagen Group

By Courtesy of Aviagen Group

18

Why a new perspective?

Like their progeny, broiler breeders are now more sensitive to high intakes of crude protein (CP) and amino acids, such as lysine. At the same time, they are less likely to develop body fat reserves. A high intake of CP in broiler breeders results in heavy birds (Figure 1) with high breast meat yield; these characteristics are not required for broiler breeders and have a negative impact on egg production and fertility.

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FOCUS 4300

The values for CP and most amino acids for both the rearing and laying periods have been reduced, reflecting the lower requirements and the bird’s sensitivity to a high CP intake. This should minimise early muscle tissue gains and reduce breast muscle and follicular development to influence breeder productivity positively. Tables 1 and 2 compare the nutrient specifications from 2016 with those from 2013 for a 4-stage rearing programme and during production respectively.

4200

Body Weight, g

4100

4000

3900

3800

In the 4-stage rearing feeding program the ME is low (2600 kcal/kg) in the grower period. This allows a higher daily feed volume to be given. The lower energy (2700 kcal/kg) and lower digestible lysine in the Pre-Breeder diet helps support better feed distribution and flock uniformity. Adopting a 4-stage instead of a 2- or 3-stage rearing feeding program allows easier management of bodyweight and helps pullets achieve higher fat reserves before they come into production.

3700 16.09

16.71

17..32

17.97

18.72

19.16

20.44

Protein Intake (g/d/hen)

Figure 1 - Effect of protein intake on BW of broiler breeder females

Broiler breeders should be raised on a profile that optimizes breast meat and supports maximal chick numbers during production. Modern broiler breeders have the genetic potential to support high peak egg production and persistency of lay but this can only be achieved if they are provided with optimal nutrition in terms of body fat reserves (Figure 2) and adequate dietary metabolisable energy (ME). The lower the fat reserves, the lower persistency of lay. Hence, the concept of feeding low CP/high ME in the parent generations (PS and GP) has been developed.

2016 Aviagen Parent Stock (PS) nutrient specifications In 2016 with the newer genetics coming through in the field, Aviagen published its updated Parent Stock Nutrient Specifications and Performance Objectives with a continued focus on BW and control of egg weight, persistency of production, and better fertility and hatchability. The new nutrient specifications ensure that the bird’s needs for maintenance, growth and production of eggs are met at every stage.

Figure 2 - Checking fatpad in a female

Do we need breeder 2 and 3 diets?

A one-phase layer feeding program can be used successfully. However, feeding one breeder feed only during production requires good management, with far greater attention to BW

Table 1 - Comparison of a 4-stage rearing feeding programme from the 2016 Aviagen Parent Stock Nutrient Specifications with a 4-stage rearing programme from the 2013 Aviagen Parent Stock Nutrient Specifications

Starter 1 (0 - 21 days)

Starter 2 (22 – 35 days)

Grower (36 -105 days)

Pre Breeder (106 days – 5% production)

Energy (kcal/kg) WPSA

CP (%)

Dig Lys (%)

Dig M+C (%)

Dig Met (%)

Dig Thr (%)

Na (%)

2013

2800

19.0

0.95

0.74

0.40

0.64

0.16

2016

2800

19.0

0.95

0.74

0.46

0.66

0.18

2013

2800

17.0

0.67

0.58

0.28

0.51

0.16

2016

2800

17.0

0.67

0.59

0.37

0.53

0.18

2013

2600

14.0

0.52

0.47

0.31

0.40

0.16

2016

2600

13.0 -14.0

0.52

0.52

0.33

0.44

0.18

2013

2800

15.0

0.56

0.50

0.33

0.43

0.16

2016

2700

14.0

0.52

0.51

0.32

0.41

0.18

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FOCUS Table 2 - Comparison of the production feeding program from the 2016 Aviagen Parent Stock Nutrient Specifications with the 2013 version

Breeder 1 (5% - 35 weeks)

Breeder 2 (36 – 50 weeks)

Breeder 3 (> 50 weeks)

Energy (kcal/kg) WPSA

CP (%)

Dig Lys (%)

Dig M+C (%)

Dig Met (%)

Dig Thr (%)

Ca (%)

Na (%)

2013

2800

15.0

0.60

0.56

0.35

0.47

3.00

0.15

2016

2800

15.0

0.60

0.59

0.37

0.49

3.00

0.18

2013

2800

14.0

0.56

0.55

0.34

0.45

3.20

0.15

2016

2800

14.0

0.56

0.57

0.36

0.47

3.20

0.18

2800

13.0

0.52

0.54

0.33

0.47

3.40

0.18

2013 2016

gains as the CP and amino acids are constant from point of lay to depletion. Feeding Breeder 2 and 3 diets is more beneficial as it allows the CP/amino acids in the diet to be reduced and calcium levels to be increased in line with the birds’ requirements. This will ensure birds do not receive excessive CP (especially lysine) so that the correct development of bodyweight and control of egg size can occur, as well as ensuring sufficient calcium is provided for improved egg shell quality.

What about a male diet?

Trials conducted internally by Aviagen have consistently demonstrated the advantages of introducing a male diet during production. Males provided with low CP and optimal energy diets tend to have less breast yield and heavier testes (Table 3).

It is important to introduce the male feed at the start of lay or around 24-25 weeks of age if the benefits of a separate male diet are to be realized. It can be expected that the benefits of Table 3 - Effect of male feed on body composition during production.

Data from a 59-week Aviagen trial conducted in Europe, 2010, involving 50 males per treatment Control (No separate male diet)

Separate Male diet

P-value

Bodyweight (g)

4960

4771

0.032

Breast (with bone)(g)

1145

1070

0.004

23.1%

22.4%

Testes (both) (g)

31.7

34.1

Testes (both) %

0.64%

0.72%

Treatment

Breast %

Hatchability improvement

20

+0.5 - 1.0%

0.097

feeding a separate male diet on fertility and hatchability will be seen from around 30-35 weeks onwards.

Important consideration – daily nutrient intake More important than the actual CP and energy content of the breeder diets (of both males and females) is the actual daily nutrient intake of the birds compared to the birds’ requirements at various stages of production. It is not good enough for breeder managers to know the feed energy (e.g. ME of 2800 kcal/kg) or the dietary CP level alone (e.g. 14% CP), daily feed allocation must also be considered (e.g. 165 g/d). In this way, the actual energy or CP intake can be calculated and it can be compared with the bird’s requirements (these numbers can be found in the breeder company’s manual or performance objectives). A decision can then be made to either adjust daily feed allowance or to reformulate diets if the birds are found to be over- or under-consuming a given nutrient.

Importance of vitamins and minerals For optimal breeder and offspring performance, the diets must also satisfy the birds’ requirements for vitamins and minerals.

Among the vitamins, A, D3 and E in particular are of major significance for proper embryonic development and subsequent chick quality, and should be adequately supplemented in the breeder diets. The use of a more bio-available form of vitamins (D3) and organic trace minerals (Se, Zn, Mn) has been shown to increase the deposition of these nutrients in the egg and also their transfer to the tissues of the hen and the embryo, thereby giving the newly hatched chicks the best possible start in life.

Case Studies Below are case studies from two of Aviagen’s broiler breeder customers who have applied the low CP and high ME intake concept successfully, and using this concept regularly achieve high levels of breeder performance.

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Case study 1 PS Customer A, in tropical S.E Asia with both open-sided and controlled-environment closed housing systems. The feeding programme during production incorporates 3 phases with the following CP and ME values: • Breeder 1 – 14.6% CP, 2825 kcal/kg ME, • Breeder 2 – 14.0% CP, 2825 kcal/kg ME, • Breeder 3 – 13.0% CP, 2825 kcal/kg ME. The feed amount given during peak production was 167g/d/bird for flocks in open-sided housing, giving a CP intake of 24.2g/d/ bird and an ME intake of 471 kcal/b/d.

The average breeder performance achieved on this lower CP/ higher ME diet regime was something to be envious of: • Peak egg production > 89%, • Cumulative hatchability >90%, • Chicks/hen housed =154 (range 148 -158, depending on bird size).

The performance with flocks in closed houses was even better.

Case study 2 PS Customer B, in temperate Asia with controlled-environment closed housing system. A Breeder 2 diet was fed from the beginning of production to 35 weeks of age, a lower CP/high ME Breeder 3 was then fed from 36 weeks onwards. The egg production and egg weight records were again something to be proud of (see Figure 3).

Figure 3 - A graph showing % egg production and egg weight (g) over time Grey (--) curve = Aviagen standards; Red (--) curve = no. of total eggs; Blue/Navy (--) = no. of hatching eggs or actual egg weights

Conclusions Less protein with adequate energy, appropriate minerals, vitamins and trace elements in both female and male breeder diets will enable better body weight gain and egg weight control in modern broiler breeders. This in turn will ensure persistency of production, and better fertility and hatchability to give a greater number of total eggs and hatching eggs during the laying cycle.

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Feeding turkey breeding stock Breeding companies have made significant strides in improving the genetic capability of modern turkey breeds as part of a balanced breeding programme.

Improved weight gain and efficiency of the commercial cross has resulted in increased growth potential with simultaneous improvement of health, welfare, robustness and sustainability. While these advancements continue to improve production efficiency, the result is a high performing breed whose nutritional and feed management requirements need consideration.

The importance of rearing The rearing and laying phases are strongly associated, success in laying is largely determined during the rearing phase. Management of the hen during the rearing stage has become more important in influencing productivity in the laying period and exploiting the reproductive potential of the bird.

Marcus Kenny

By Courtesy of Aviagen Turkeys

22

The main objective in rear is to achieve adequate physiological development by growing the birds to the breed bodyweight objective standards.

Managing the growth of turkey breeder hens to a bodyweight profile in rear will lead to better production than uncontrolled development. Achievement of the bird bodyweight objective results in - focus -

birds that are fit and active and pre-conditioned to respond to light stimulation. Birds also require adequate reserves to support production through natural periods of weight loss at the onset of lay.

Physiological events in rear Acquiring the right body weight and conditioning prior to lay is dependent on achieving certain key physiological ‘events’ through the rearing period (Figure 1). The bird must achieve essential organ development in the first six weeks of age - cardiovascular, digestive and immune system development is critical in this period. Without these, the bird will be compromised through later growth.

FOCUS

Birds must be able to consume as much feed as possible to get off to a good start. Feeding a good quality pre-starter diet as either a crumb (Figure 2) or mini-pellet will encourage appetite and maximize nutrient intake. The diets should have enough structure to enable the young birds to pick up particles.

Too large a particle size and the birds will not be able to swallow the feed. Aim for a particle size profile as shown in Table 1.

Table 1 - Ideal particle size profile of a starter crumb diet Particle Size (mm)

<1mm

1 to 2mm

2 to 3mm

>3mm

Proportion %

<10%

40 to 50%

30 to 40%

5 to 10%

bodyweights may reduce and females should be changed back to higher density diets during this period.

• At 16 weeks, if it has not been possible to grow birds to the objective growth profile, it is essential not to continue to force these flocks back to the objective line by more severe nutritional controls. A revised objective line should be drawn that runs parallel to the original line (Figure 3).

If the hen is in a positive growth status at lighting, even if the flock is slightly overweight, then the response of the bird to the light stimulus allows good production.

From 6 weeks of age through to 22 weeks of age, the birds continue to develop their skeletal structure as well as feather coverage and musculature. The growth profile of birds needs to be monitored at key critical ages; 6, 16 and 22 weeks to ensure bodyweight objectives are achieved and birds are fit for the production period.

Figure 2 - Starter crumb and mini-pellet

Figure 1 - Physiological development of breeding stock

Adaptable feeding approach • Adjustment of the feeding programme is an active process which will ensure birds achieve the bodyweight objective.

Samples of birds should be checked for bodyweight development every week from 2 weeks of age onwards.

• Regular weighing of birds and plotting of actual weights against objective is an important activity during this time period. It is important to make an early response to growth trends that move away from the objective profile and adjust the feeding schedule as necessary.

• Heavy flocks should move to the next stage diet sooner whilst lighter flocks should be held on the higher protein diet until the bodyweight objective is achieved. Reduced feed physical quality or mash diets can also be used to slow birds down. Events which place increased demands on the bird such as high temperatures, feed intakes and

Persistency of lay is influenced by the way the female grows during the last 5 to 10 weeks of the rearing period. Females need to be in a positive growth status when day length is increased so they can respond to light stimulation and meet the rapid changes in the reproductive system. Hens must continue to gain weight every week from 22 to 29/30 weeks and it may be necessary to feed a higher balanced protein density diet to ensure weight gain occurs. Flocks which plateau in weight prior to light stimulation do not respond as positively to light stimulation and therefore peak egg production is likely to be lower and spread over a longer period. Any flock which is heavier than objective, should not be forced back to the objective bodyweight by more severe nutritional management, instead a new bodyweight objective should be set that runs parallel to the original line.

The key point is that the feeding programme must be adapted to meet the bodyweight objective. Following a predetermined programme week by week will not give the best results.

General guide • Growth should be controlled to the published breed objective, critical ages being 6, 16 and 22 weeks.

• Weigh a good sample of birds each week (100 birds) from 2 weeks of age onwards.

• Bodyweight management needs to start early, prior to 6 weeks.

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• If bodyweight is within ± 5% of the bodyweight objective, stay with the standard feed programme.

• If bodyweight is greater than ± 5% of the objective, modify the feed programme but do not make changes that are too severe.

• React to trends, remember the time lag between feed ordering and consumption.

development of the turkey breeder hen. Feeding programmes based on qualitative feed management are capable of controlling body weight by gradual reduction of protein (amino acids) supply to the hen through a series of diets with decreasing levels of protein.

Flock uniformity

• From 16 weeks onwards, flocks that are overweight should not be forced back to the bodyweight objective.

• From 20 to 29 weeks of age, hens need to be increasing in weight every week.

• Actual weight at stimulation is not as important as weight development to that weight (within limits of ± 0.5kg of the target).

• Uniformity should improve as flocks gets older.

• Provide an increased nutrient density diet during periods of vaccination to compensate for the lower feed intakes and bodyweights in this period.

Other key factors that give indications of the status of a flock and can be used as tools during the rearing stages are the evenness (number of birds ± 10% of mean) or coefficient of variation (% C.V.). These numbers express the variability of weights within the sample of birds weighed.

There should be a continuous improvement in these numbers over the life of the flock as it is being reared. At point of lay a flock should have an evenness greater than 90% or a CV of less than 10%.

If there are changes in these numbers indicating the flock is becoming less even then factors such as bird health, feed access, feed quality and water availability should be checked.

Diets as management tools The nutritionist’s role is to supply a range of diets suited to the birds’ requirements that become the ‘tools’ for the manager to use during the rearing phase. A range of diets with reducing protein levels will assist in managing the growth pattern through rear (Table 2).

Rearing the breeder hen is a combination of nutrition and management. A system of monitoring and dynamic reaction to bodyweights in rear will achieve the best from modern turkey breeds.

The laying period Introduce the laying ration at lighting or no more than one week after lighting. The laying ration needs to be a similar energy level to the rearing diets. Protein, energy, minerals and vitamins must be present in the correct relationship.

For economy, change to a lower protein diet after 10-12 weeks in production. Flocks performing above target should not change until at least 15 weeks in lay (Table 2).

Qualitative feed management

For hot weather, increase added fat to at least 3% and total fat to at least 6% and increase vitamin and trace mineral levels by 5-10% (Table 3).

Qualitative feed management of the breeder hen remains the most effective tool that is currently available to manage the

Predefine the hot season period and feed the hot weather diet to all flocks reaching peak egg production in this period.

Table 2 - Summary of nutrient recommendations in rear Starter

Rearer

Grower 1

Grower 2

Grower 3

Grower 4

Quality Managed Male Feed

Quantity Managed Male Feed

Protein

25-26

21-23

16-18

12-14

10-12

9-11

9-12

14-15

Energy (Kcals/Kg)

2800

2800

2800

2800

2800

2800

2800

2866

(Mj/Kg)

11.6

11.6

11.6

11.6

11.6

11.6

11.6

12.0

Digestible Lysine

1.40

1.04

0.81

0.58

0.40

0.25

0.40

0.58

Calcium

1.45

1.35

1.25

1.10

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

Available Phosphorous

0.73

0.68

0.62

0.55

0.50

0.50

0.50

0.55

24

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FOCUS

Table 3 - Summary nutrient specifications for breeders in lay Layer 1

Layer 2

Units

18

17

Kcals/Lb

1280

1270

Kcals/Kg

2820

2800

Mj/Kg

11.8

11.72

Digestible Lysine

%

0.74

0.7

Calcium

%

2.8

2.75

Available Phosphorous

%

0.38

0.37

Protein

Energy

Male weight should be managed in the same way as described for the hens with regular monitoring of the weight against objective and adjustment of the feeding schedule when the birds begin to move away from the line. Avoid excessive drops in dietary protein (digestible amino acids) density in feeds fed to birds under 14 weeks of age.

Following final selection (18 to 20 weeks) males should be fed diets which enable them to make positive weight gains week on week without becoming overly conditioned. Males transferred to the laying farm overweight will produce less sperm, they will also be more difficult to handle due to excessive weight and will have a higher mortality.

16

14

Feeding the embryo

ACTUAL 16 WEEK WEIGHT

Breeder nutrition should also facilitate the needs of the growing embryo - after all the end objective is to produce as many viable poults as possible. Work with broiler breeders has shown that progeny from young parents fed higher vitamin and trace mineral levels resulted in improved viability in early life. Ensuring the vitamin status of the parent is optimal at all ages is critical especially at the commencement of lay when the quality of poults is more variable.

BODYWEIGHT (kg)

12

REDRAWN TARGET WEIGHTS

10

8

NEW

6 WEEK TARGET

6

22 WEEK TARGET

4

2

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 WEEK

Males

Figure 3 - Adjusted bodyweight profile

The males must follow a feeding schedule nutritionally matched to their needs and not compromised by following the hen regime. The requirement of the male for protein at an early stage is much higher and they must therefore receive a minimum of 4 weeks of starter diet.

This can be achieved by either feeding a low density ‘holding ration’ fed ad libitum or by applying quantitative feed management. Unlike females controlled daily feed allocation, at strategic times, has been proven to be effective for males.

Table 4 - Feeding programme for breeders in hot and cool weather situations Units

Cold Weather

Hot Weather

°C

7 – 21

>32

Fahrenheit

45 – 70

>91

%

15 – 16.5

18.5 – 20

Kcals/lb

1270

1316

Kcals/kg

2800

2900

MJ/kg

11.7

12.2

Digestible Lysine

%

0.70

0.84

Calcium

%

2.7

2.9

Available Phosphorous

%

0.35

0.41

Temperature range

Protein

Energy

Conclusions • The rearing period is the most important part of the breeders’ life and dictates future performance.

• Rearing the breeder hen is a combination of nutrition and management, a system of monitoring and dynamic reaction to bodyweights in rear will achieve the best results.

• Management of weight development of the breeder is critical to exploit the full genetic potential of modern turkey breeds.

• The feeding programme should be used as an adaptable ‘tool’ by the farm manager to keep the flock to the desired bodyweight profile.

• The nutritional needs of the male should be considered separate to the female; this is of particular importance in the early rearing period.

• Maturing males benefit from qualitative or quantitative feed management whilst management of female bodyweight into production is best achieved with qualitative feed management using a range of diet densities.

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Relationship between plumage and body condition in non-debeaked laying hens As result of the EU Council Directive 99/74/EC of 19 July 1999 laying down minimum standards for the protection of laying hens, the use of the conventional cage system is prohibited since the 1st of January 2012 in the European Union member countries.

Simultaneously, in some of the member countries (for example: Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Germany) the beak trimming of the laying hens – which is momently allowed till 10 days of age in the European Union – is also prohibited, while in some other member countries (for example: United Kingdom, France and Netherlands) its prohibition is being considered.

Dr. Gábor Milisits and Dr. Anita Almási, Bábolna TETRA

26

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FOCUS

The spread of both alternative and non-cage laying hen housing systems and the more forceful European refuse of beak trimming generate new problems in the commercial egg production. The hybrid layers, which have been reared in cages for more than 70 years, have vital temperament, are susceptible for feather pecking and in more cases they are expressly aggressive. This type of social stress was not considerable in the small group (4-5 hens/cage) housing systems, because its occurrence was efficiently eliminated by the beak treatment with thermocautery, laser or infrared light.

However, it seems that this decades-long selection has resulted in a higher production, but also, – in spite of the purpose of the breeders –, in even greater birds’ aggressiveness, which can generate permanent conflicts in large groups raised in alternative systems.

Stopping the beak trimming in laying hens could improve the mortality in the farm in case the current genetic programs remain in use.

Therefore, the present aim of Bábolna TETRA Ltd. is to develop a new hybrid, which is able for high production in alternative housing systems without beak trimming. As first step of this development, non-debeaked layers from 4 lines of the TETRA breeding program were tested in order to compare the changes in their plumage and body condition during the first egg-laying period.

Image 1 - Fixing of laying hens for the CT measurement

The hens’ body condition (body fat content) was determined by means of computer tomography (CT) in vivo at the Institute of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation Oncology of the Kaposvár University. Before the CT measurements the live weight of the hens was always recorded.

“The spread of both alternative and non-cage laying hen housing systems and the more forceful European refuse of beak trimming generate new problems in the commercial egg production”

The plumage and body condition of randomly selected 120 hens (30 hens/line, assigned with wing tags individually) were examined at 20, 46 and 62 weeks of age. The plumage condition in five different body parts was checked: neck, breast, wings, back and tail, taking as a reference the Tauson’s et al. (2006) photo series. The plumage condition was evaluated for each body part on the basis of a 4-grade scale, where 4 points were given in case of complete plumage and one point was given in case of very incomplete plumage. By summarizing the plumage points for the different body parts, a total plumage point was calculated for each hen. It could be ranged from 5 to 20.

22

Line 1

Line 2

Line 3

Line 4

20 Total plumage point

The experiment was carried out with 1742 non-debeaked TETRA laying hens, raised in EU-compatible furnished cages (1,800 cm² basic area each; 10 hens/cage), in a closed building at the Poultry Test Station of the Kaposvár University, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, in Hungary. Hens were fed ad libitum with commercial diet during the whole experimental period. Drinking water was constantly available from self-drinkers.

18 16 14 12 10

20

46

62

Age (Weeks)

Figure 1 - Changes in the plumage condition of non-debeaked laying hens of four different lines during the first egg-laying period

During the CT scanning procedures birds were fixed with belts in a special plexi-glass container, without using any anaesthetics.

Three animals were scanned simultaneously (Image 1). Due to the special arrangement of the hens, they were separable on the CT images (Image 2); therefore, their body fat content was individually determined.

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For the statistical evaluation of the differences in the plumage and body condition of the examined lines One-Way Analysis of Variance was used.

On Figure 1 it can be seen that the plumage condition of Line 1 was the worst during the whole examined period.

The total plumage point was significantly lower already at the start of the egg production in this line than in the others (P<0.05). While the Lines 2-4 had almost fully complete plumage (Image 3) at 20 weeks of age (average total plumage points between 19.4 and 19.7), the plumage of the hens in Line 1 was strongly damaged (Image 4) already at this age (average total plumage point 16.7). While total plumage points under 18 were not observed in Lines 2-4, thirteen hens of Line 1 had total plumage points between 11 and 17 and none of them had 20 points at this age.

Image 2 - Cross-sectional CT images of laying hens

Image 3 - Complete plumage in Line 3 at 20 weeks of age

The CT measurements consisted of overlapping 10 mm thick slices covering the whole body using a Siemens Somatom Emotion 6 multislice CT scanner. From the images obtained the volume of fat was determined by using the total number of pixels with X-ray density values of fat, i.e. the range between -20 to -200 on the Hounsfield-scale. For determining the body condition of the hens, the ratio of the volume of fat to the live weight was calculated.

Image 4 - Strongly damaged plumage in Line 1 at 20 weeks of age

28

Image 5 - Good plumage condition in Line 2 at 62 weeks of age

Although the total plumage points declined in all examined lines during the experimental period, Lines 2-4 had relatively good plumage condition (Image 5) at the end of the experiment (average total plumage points between 17.4 and 18.6). In spite of this, the average total plumage point was only 13.0 in Line 1 at 62 weeks of age (Image 6).

Image 6 - Bad plumage condition in Line 1 at 62 weeks of age

- focus -

FOCUS

Body fat content (cm3/kg)

140

Line 1

Line 2

Line 3

lines at the middle and particularly at the end of the experiment.

In this line the hen’s body fat content was more than double at 62 weeks of age compared to that one of the Line 1.

Line 4

120 100 80 60 40 20 0 20

46

62

Age (Weeks)

Figure 2 - Changes in the body condition of non-debeaked laying hens of four different lines during the first egg-laying period

As it is visible on Figure 2, also the body condition of the hens was the worst in Line 1 during the whole experimental period.

In this line the body fat content of the hens decreased by 14.5% between the start and the end of the experiment.

The best body condition of the layers was observed in Line 3 at all examined ages. In this line the body fat content of the hens showed an intensive increase between 20 and 62 weeks of age, and it significantly differed (P<0.05) from that of the other

From these results it can be seen that the worst body condition was observed in the line with the worst plumage condition, while the best body condition was recorded in the line with the best plumage condition. Therefore, it can be concluded that the occurrence of feather pecking in non-debeaked laying hens results not only in damages in the plumage condition, but also in decreasing the body fat content, i.e. in failure of the body condition. Therefore, for maintaining the high production level also in non-debeaked layer flocks, selection of the hens (lines, families, individuals) for calm temperament seems to be very important in the future.

References Tauson, R. – Kjaer, J. – Maria, G.A. – Cepero, R. – Holm, K-E. (2006): Welfare implications of changes in production systems for laying hens. Work package 3. Final report health, D.3.1. The creation of a common scoring system for the integument and health of laying. Specific Targeted Research Project (STR eP).

“The present aim of Bábolna TETRA Ltd. is to develop a new hybrid, which is able for high production in alternative housing systems without beak trimming”

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FOCUS

Management tips to maximize male fertility The role of males in poultry breeding is extremely important. Each male is responsible for fertilizing 10 or more females. Each hen produces at least 140 chicks at 60 weeks of age, so that each male is responsible for producing at least 1,400 day-old chicks.

Our geneticists select for better feed conversion and robust health to reduce broiler production cost. This advance also benefits parent stock males, which are now using feed ever more efficiently and are better able to withstand challenges.

The rearing period

By Mohamad Kallas, Senior Accounts Manager, Cobb Europe

30

Cobb males, for example, have an excellent appetite, which helps them to grow efficiently from the first few weeks. This is essential for good development of the internal organs, immune system and skeletal frame but, most importantly, the reproductive Sertoli cells responsible for fertility. Sertoli cells start to develop as early as two weeks and are essential for sperm formation later. Weight, protein and calorie intake are essential for their proper development.

- focus -

FOCUS

Control of frame size is as important as bodyweight control to prevent males becoming very big later. Select males as early as first week, with another selection at three to four weeks to maintain a high level of uniformity (>90%).

Ensure a good skeleton frame with long shank length in the first four weeks. Fleshing is better controlled later and very small males can be culled. Fleshing Score should be 3 at this stage.

After 10-11 weeks of age the skeletal development is almost complete and select males into homogenous groups for bodyweight and frame. From 10 weeks males should be reared at a density of 3-4 males/m2 for an optimal development. At this stage a fleshing score of 2-2.5 is required.

“Control of frame size is as important as bodyweight control to prevent males becoming very big later. Select males as early as first week, with another selection at three to four weeks to maintain uniformity” From 18 weeks the males must start to show red combs, and start crowing. If not, they are behind, probably due to over restriction on feed or very low light intensity. But we also don’t want the males to be sexually maturing earlier than females.

We need to achieve sexual synchronization. Focus on the feed levels from 17-27 weeks – this is when you can make or break a flock. Feed a low crude protein male diet (12%-14%), with adequate weekly increments, to control bodyweight and breast development.

The top 25% performing parent flocks in the region showed the following male bodyweight profile in rearing:

Testes growth is very rapid once light stimulation begins. Some mature sperm is formed, but the male is still not sexually mature. Management now can have a dramatic impact on early and peak hatchability. You need to achieve the weekly bodyweight gain in the first four weeks after light stimulation. Ensure that bodyweight profile is parallel to standard between 20-29 weeks to ensure optimal testicular growth, especially at 24 weeks. This is when male fertility is determined.

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FOCUS

The laying period Ensure that males find water immediately after transport so they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t become dehydrated and lose condition.

Adopt the sex separate feeding. Cobb males consume feed efficiently. They may access the female feeders, too, after mixing.

Keep an eye on the male bodyweight profiles to prevent overgrowth.

With sex separate feeding, males need to identify their specific feeders, so keep the same type of male feeder in rearing and production.

The top 25% parent stock performer in the region showed the following bodyweight profile after 20 weeks:

Transfer in three to seven days according to feeder type, as shown in the table.

Poor dietary management and stress can lead to a regression of the male reproductive system and decreased fertility. A reduction of 4 to 10% in feed consumption can result in lower sperm production.

In general, you can mix males as early as 20 weeks but when males are more sexually mature than females, mix only 5% males and assess receptiveness of females after one week.

If males are still overaggressive, keep the same and reassess after one week.

A normal mating ratio of 8.5% males is sufficient to achieve up to 95% fertility. Good sexual synchronization is extremely important. Starting flocks on an 8% ratio for males through 25-30 weeks and then going up to 9% seems to boost early fertility and lower hen mortality. Generally, if the weight differential exceeds 40%, female receptivity will be disrupted resulting in reduced mating efficiency. Then you may need to place fewer males (ie 7% ratio) to prevent male aggression, topping up to 8.5% after two weeks. The quality of the males is important as some flocks have only 5% males at the end of production, yet still with excellent fertility.

32

- focus -

FOCUS

Because sperm formation requires 15 days, any factor affecting sperm formation can affect fertility for at least 15 days. Early correction of male infertility is essential (eg, adding 5 grams extra feed).

Feed the males by monitoring the breast muscle development and feather quality: 1. Young males 18-30 weeks must have scores 2 and 3.

2. Post 35 weeks try to maintain 70% on a score 3, a few 4s but no 5s yet. Only from 50 weeks onwards should you see some 5s.

3. Observe the feathers very carefully; feather loss around the back, thighs and wings is a sign of energy deficiency.

4. Score the males every three weeks.

When you see a change in breast muscle score: • 2s are increasing, increase the feed by 3-5 grams in the same week.

• If you see the 4s and 5s developing, increase feed by 1-2 grams to stimulate mating activity. That will control the further development of breast muscle.

• Feed allocation is calculated at 2.8-3.0% of the weight for best performing flocks.

• High nutrient density male feed is not recommended as with low feed levels birds may lose uniformity as feeding time is so short.

Good feed distribution is essential, ensuring the males get equal opportunity and appropriate daily feed allocation. Feeding space of 20 cm/male is the minimum. Feed the males in one place or one row only. Males need competitive feeding to control their feed intake and weekly growth.

Evaluate the quality of males at 40-42 weeks by physical examination. Cull males with emaciated breast (score<2), atrophied and pale combs, leg issues, de-feathering and crooked beak.

Conclusion Male uniformity is the key to high hatchability. Start male grading at three to four weeks ensuring good skeleton development.

Rear three to four males/m2 for optimal development. Control male body weight according the breed standard and maintain fleshing between 2-2.5 in rearing and beginning of production.

For good female acceptance a good sexual synchronization between male and female is extremely important. At 24 weeks 8.5% good quality males are enough. Ensure males don’t lose condition, but avoid over fleshing to maintain high hatchability.

A male feed can help to control male bodyweight.

- april 2018 -

33

FOCUS

Management techniques for a hot climate Hot conditions significantly affect the performance of layers, particularly in temperatures higher than 30°C. Getting good technical results requires some adjustments in the management of layer flocks. The main impact of hot temperature is on the daily feed intake, which can affect growth during the rearing period and egg production during the production period.

By Dr. Paul Grignon Dumoulin, Veterinarian and Technical Specialist, Hendrix Genetics Layers

34

- focus -

FOCUS ®

ORIGINAL

General management

Importance of drinking water

Ambient conditions must be optimum in terms of density, ventilation, and access to water and feed (density on the floor must not be more than six birds/m² in hot conditions). Fans can be added to increase air speed inside the house (an increase of 0.2m/s reduces the temperature felt by the birds by 1˚C). In the case of an open house system, curtains should be added to the side of the house in order to reduce light intensity. Control of bodyweight is very important as good bodyweight is one of the key factors to

Water quality can deteriorate more quickly than in temperate countries.

Therefore, water must be treated to be of good quality. Chlorination is the easiest way to treat the drinking water. Residual chlorine levels must be checked in the end of the drinking system once per week to ensure that this is effective.

Water temperature is also a key point as it influences the feed intake. The water tank must not be exposed to direct sunlight and temperatures should be kept as cool as practical. Flushing the pipes can help to maintain fresh water in the pipes

POULTRY EQUIPMENT

“Control of bodyweight is very important as good bodyweight is one of the key factors to achieve optimum performance. Any deviation must be detected quickly in order to adapt management as soon as possible and limit the impact on production” achieve optimum performance. Any deviation must be detected quickly in order to adapt management as soon as possible and limit the impact on production. A weekly measurement until the end of the growth period (0-30 weeks) is necessary.

Feeding Feed presentation must be good in order to optimize feed consumption and get the best possible growth and production. Do not hesitate to maintain starter feed (crumble feed presentation is recommended for the starter feed) until six weeks of age if growth is not good enough in the first weeks. We recommend allowing the birds to empty the feeders in the hot period of the day to guard against selective feeding and to give the last feeding three hours before lights off. The feed formula (protein level in particular) must be adjusted to compensate for lower feed intake levels seen during higher temperature periods.

and avoid stagnant water whose bacteriological quality may decrease.

Biosecurity We often see open house systems in hot conditions. This increases the risk of introduction of contaminants in the flock. Strict biosecurity rules must be applied: houses must be bird-proof and rodent-baiting stations must be installed around the house. Ideally farms should not be placed close to another poultry house. Single age farms are also desirable.

Overheating of birds In case of overheating, electrolytes (KCI) and antioxidant products (C or E vitamins can be used in the drinking water to reduced stress induced by high temperatures (oxidative stress and respiratory alkalosis). With these techniques in mind, egg producers will be well equipped to manage the potential challenges of an extreme climate and achieve the best performance from their birds.

- april 2018 -

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rd according More space per bi irements of to the current requ animal welfare. under the Excellent overview as under ell installation as w in each tier. g area and Water, feed, restin in each level. nest are available n due to Good nest inspectio t on the their arrangemen outside. the Due to tiltable floor e nest th automatic lock of is possible. ensure The wide egg belts e eggs. th r fo e ac sufficient pl in the Additional perches installation. el above the The additional lev nests is possible. manufacDirectly from the r own turer. Since 1961 ou fabrication. perience.

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FOCUS

The challenging world of a primary breeder, matching genetics to market requirements It is Hubbardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to offer a wide range of products ranging from conventional cost-efficient broilers to slow(er) growing Premium chickens. It is clear that Hubbardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s genetic programs are designed and dedicated to meet the growing challenges of our civilization by providing efficient, healthy, high-quality and tasty chicken meat for the world's growing population.

A rapidly changing world, demanding more The world population is growing at a frightening level of 220,000 persons per day (or 80 million per year). Asia and Africa are the regions likely to experience the fastest growth. We can also see a transition from a staple diet of cereals and vegetables in developing countries to a diet based on further processed foods consumed by families in some of the most developed economies resulting in much higher food expenditure by family per week.

By Frederic Fagnoul and Paul van Boekholt of Hubbard

36

Some may be looking for a return to organic farming methods to feed the growing world population, but to our opinion this just answers a specific demand for a niche market and will not be the answer to feed a growing human population sustainably.

- focus -

FOCUS

Main R&D objectives Within Hubbard, as a primary broiler breeder, it is our main objective to continue to improve the efficiency and profitability of the broiler industry which is challenged by more and more difficult and complex circumstances; cost of raw materials, on-going disease challenges around the world, increased pressure on animal welfare and use of antibiotics and uncertainties about market developments in some regions/countries.

At Hubbard, we sincerely believe that it is our responsibility to help the industry to provide all the elements for its future growth. Genetic selection is by definition actively involved in the development to produce more with fewer resources, making the broilers more efficient to produce good quality meat for different market. This accounts for as well as Conventional broilers as for Premium chickens of the high-end market.

Selection for the best feed efficiency has been general practice within Hubbard for many years, which is proven by the actual performance of our products, being recognised as, or among, the most efficient products in the field. Selecting for feed efficiency has the final aim to improve the profitability of the broiler industry, but also targets a more sustainable future. Hubbard is proactively embracing this challenge to make the poultry industry more sustainable over time, to be able to continue to feed

the growing world population. At Hubbard we actively contribute to this objective by selecting for more saleable meat with less feed, but on top we are also actively working on the hardiness and robustness of the products we offer.

The ongoing challenge for a primary broiler breeding company is to make sure that the R&D strategies not only are related to commercial broiler performance (live, processing), broiler robustness and welfare performance, but also to breeder performance. Hatching egg numbers, a balanced egg weight curve, good egg shell quality, high percentage of hatch are key traits in the female lines breeding programs. In the male lines the breeder performance focus is more on fertility measured under natural mating conditions.

Matching market requirements and R&D Continuously upgrading breeding programs in order to match changing market requirements is the main goal of the R&Dteam of a primary breeding company. One of the biggest challenges that geneticists are facing is running breeding programs where the Elite level pure lines flocks are kept under top conditions (in order to maximise the expression of the genetic potential as well as guaranteeing a disease-free status) and, at the same time, breeding for robustness and the ability to perform under a variety of environments.

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37

FOCUS

This difficult equation is tackled within Hubbard by: • breeding the pure lines in highly bio-secure environments, • placing pedigree sibs (the relatives of selection candidates) in test facilities in challenging commercial conditions.

BREEDING PROGRAM GENETIC IMPROVEMENTS BROILER TRAITS

BREEDER TRAITS

Eggs #: Product, Persistency, Egg WT Chicks #: Fertility, Hatchability Quality: Egg & Chick

Growth FCR Uniformity

PROCESSING TRAITS Yields Meat Quality: WB-WS Uniformity

BEHAVIOUR LIVABILITY FLOOR EGGS LIVABILITY

BEHAVIOUR WELFARE - ROBUSTNESS

FOOT PADS HOOK BURNS

Livability, Skeletal Strength, Foot Pads, Floor Eggs

PEDIGREE FARMS

& ROBUSTNESS FARMS

To match market requirements, geneticists also have to include many breeding objectives in the pure line programs. As mentioned, one of the most important objectives is Feed Conversion Rate (FCR). Since the early 80’s, Hubbard has been delivering to the industry significant gains in FCR. Besides the conventional way of selection for FCR (i.e. by using individual cages), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology allows measuring “whole life FCR” of individual birds kept in group pens on the floor, much closer to field conditions. This technology also gives access to feeding behaviour traits (meals/day, meal size, etc.).

In both types of facilities all chicks are grown as broilers. The pedigree sib-tests are operated in Europe (temperate climate conditions) and in South-East Asia (hot and humid conditions).

All the information recorded on an individual basis is integrated into the pure lines genetic index evaluation. Evaluating genetic potential under challenging commercial conditions is especially important for robustness and welfare traits such as liveability, lower frequency of leg disorders (twisted legs, tibial dyschondroplasia), hock burn and foot pad lesions.

A variety of traits is measured in the multiple environments design (pure line facilities plus challenging commercial conditions sib-testing): leg defects (valgus, varus and rotated tibia), tibial dyschondroplasia, gait score, foot pad lesions and hock burn. Mortality is recorded by cause of death (ascites, flip-over, runting, etc.). Blood oxygen saturation, a trait related to resistance to ascites, is also recorded on all selection candidates.

All these data are analysed with state-of-the-art statistical methods allowing identifying the individuals showing the best genetic potential for robustness and welfare traits in different environments.

Modern broiler R&D also includes selecting for better breast, legs, total meat yields and meat quality. To achieve this goal selection candidates are evaluated for breast yield by using a conformation score (subjective scoring assessing breast length, width, shape) and CT-technology in the pedigree lines.

On top total meat, yield and meat quality (e.g. wooden breast, white striping, etc.) are evaluated by processing and deboning samples of the sibs. Hubbard geneticists are closely collaborating with research institutes in order to investigate the potential of meat quality criteria and support a PhD study with the French research institute INRA on wooden breast and white striping.

By maintaining a close contact with the different broiler markets and customers, selection goals will keep on being adjusted to match future needs. At Hubbard we will work on further intensifying the use of techniques and state-of-the-art breeding tools such as genomics, statistical methods, RFID technology and novel technologies such as genotyping by sequencing which is being looked at with prudent expectation.

38

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FOCUS

- april 2018 -

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FOCUS

Hy-Line accelerates genetic progress across all lines “We are achieving progress in all lines faster than has ever been seen before,” noted Dr. Danny Lubritz, research and development director for Hy-Line International, in a recent discussion regarding Hy-Line’s intensified efforts in genetic selections. “We are making significant strategic changes in the Hy-Line breeding program to accelerate the rate of genetic progress.”

By courtesy of Hy-Line International

40

Hy-Line’s team of geneticists is making the genetic engine more powerful and more efficient. In fact, the recent pure line selections have documented a considerably higher response than achieved in previous years.

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"We have narrowed the scope of genetic traits we analyze and, ultimately, use to select the next pure line generations, with the goal to achieve increased egg numbers, persistency, shell strength, egg weight and feed efficiency", they explained.

Genetic Progress =

Selection Intensity x Accuracy x Genetic Variance Generation Interval Selection Intensity Hy-Line increased its selection intensity by increasing the elite population. The expansion of the Dr. Dennis Casey Farm allows Hy-Line to place more pedigree birds from which to identify top performing individuals to keep as breeders of the next generation. Selection intensity will be amplified even more when HyLine’s third research farm is completed in 2019.

(Left to Right) Hy-Line's team of geneticists: Dr. Ania Wolc, Genomics Geneticist; Dr. Petek Settar, Applied Geneticist; Dr. Danny Lubritz, Director of Research & Development; Dr. Jesus Arango, Statistical Geneticist; and Dr. Janet Fulton, Molecular Geneticist.

“Hy-Line discovered untapped opportunity to gain egg numbers beyond 60 weeks by extending the single-cycle lay data to 90 weeks. This increased genetic variance allows selections for birds with the highest rate of persistency late into lay”

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- april 2018 -

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FOCUS

100 900

%PRODUCTION

800

3x the Egg Numbers

700 600

400 300 200 100 0

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

More Eggs

500

18

2022

22

26

30

34

38

42

44

48

52

56

60

64

68

72

76

80

84

88 90

WEEKS OF AGE

Accuracy Accuracy increased by applying genomics to all commercial lines. Genomic (DNA) data, combined with pedigree data and phenotypes, provide us with the ability to make precise selections. Rather than selecting a family of males based solely on the performance of their sisters, Hy-Line directly identifies elite individual males through genetic values and genotypes. This ensures Hy-Line selects genetically superior males to sire the next generation of pure line birds.

frequent selections and use pedigree males at 25 weeks-ofage instead of waiting to 55 weeks-of-age.

“We are putting more selection pressure on increased egg numbers and shell strength while not overlooking other key traits,” said Dr. Lubritz while noting a major improvement in the most recent generation. “Our layers must be productive, yet balanced.”

Genetic progress is a function of selection intensity, accuracy, genetic variance within the lines and generation interval between selections. Because genetic progress is expressed as a fraction in this equation, anything to increase the numerator will increase genetic progress. Anything to decrease the denominator will increase genetic progress.

“Additionally, we now deliver superior genetics to the customer sooner,” said Dr. Lubritz.

Previous Selection: Families

New Selection: Individuals

Genetic Variance Hy-Line discovered untapped opportunity to gain egg numbers beyond 60 weeks by extending the single-cycle lay data to 90 weeks. This increased genetic variance allows selections for birds with the highest rate of persistency late into lay.

Generation Interval Genomics allows us to shorten the generation interval and more rapidly accrue genetic progress. We collect blood samples from all male chicks at a day-of-age in the hatchery. Then we isolate DNA from their blood and have it genotyped. Individual genotypes and genomic breeding values are available to us within 12 weeks-of-age. This means we now make more

42

The compilation of these improvements, combined with local technical service and sales support and an excellent network of distributors secures Hy-Line’s commanding presence as a world leader in layer genetics for our customers for years to come.

- focus -

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Housing systems and egg production: a 2016 status report Hans-Wilhelm Windhorst The Author is Prof. Emeritus and Scientific Director of the Science and Information Centre Sustainable Poultry Production (WING), University of Vechta, Germany

44

Five years after the banning of conventional cages in laying hen husbandry, the situation has stabilized in such a way that a status report on the patterns of egg production and trade can be presented.

The data is based on reports of the Committee for the Common Organisation of the Agricultural Market for Eggs. In this paper, an overview on the situation of the housing systems in the EU and egg production in 2016 will be given.

- marketing -

MARKETING

Housing systems in EU laying hen husbandry In 2016, 384.1 mill. laying hens were kept in EU member countries. Table 1 and Figure 1 document the share of the four housing systems which are used presently. Enriched cages are the dominating housing system with a share of 55.6%, followed by barn and free range systems.

The share of organic egg production is still very low with only 4.6 %.

Table 1 - Housing systems in EU laying hen husbandry in 2016 (Source: EU Committee 2017) Housing system

Laying hens (1,000)

Share (%)

Enriched cages

213,476

55.6

Barn

98,544

25.7

Free range

54,309

14.1

Organic

17,738

4.6

384,068

100.0

Total

The regional concentration of laying hen husbandry in the EU is quite high. The 10 member countries with the largest hen population shared 86.1 % of the total inventory (Table 2). Germany was in a leading position with 52.6 mill. hens, followed by France, Spain and Poland.

These four countries contributed 48.8% to the EU laying hen population the leading seven countries 70.9 %. The laying hen inventory reflects the number of inhabitants.

In Table 3, the five member countries with the highest absolute share in each housing systems are documented. A comparison reveals the considerable differences between these countries. The number of laying hens in enriched cages was highest in Spain and Poland. Germany and the Netherlands were leading in barn systems, the United Kingdom and Germany in free range laying hen husbandry. The highest number of laying hens in organic husbandry was to be found in Germany and France.

The highest relative share of enriched cages showed Lithuania (95.6%) and Spain (92.9%). In barn systems, Sweden (65.9%) and Austria (65.5%) were ranking in top positions. The United Kingdom (52.8%) and Ireland (40.5%) had the highest relative share of their laying hens in free range systems. Organic laying hen husbandry reached the highest share in Denmark (28.6%) and Sweden (16.3%).

Figure 2 documents the great differences between the 28 EU member countries regarding the share of the four housing systems.

- april 2018 -

45

MARKETING

Table 2 - The ten EU member countries with the highest laying hen inventories in 2016 (EU Committee 2017)

Table 4 - The development of egg production in the EU between 2012 and 2016 (Source: MEG 2017)

Country

Laying hens

Share (%) in the EU laying hen flocks

Year

Egg production (1,000 t)

Index (2012 = 100)

2012

7,047

100.0

Germany

52,580

13.7

2013

7,303

103.6

France

48,598

12.7

2014

7,400

105.0

Spain

43,612

11.4

2015

7,470

106.0

Poland

43,474

11.3

2016

7,478

106.1

United Kingdom

42,176

11.0

Italy

41,627

10.8

Netherlands

34,180

8.9

Romania

8,209

2.1

Portugal

8,192

2.1

Sweden

8,041

2.1

10 countries

330,698

86.1

EU (28)

384,068

100.0

only 1.4% between 2013 and 2014, 1.0% between 2014 and 2015 and only 0.1% between 2015 and 2016.

Table 3 - The five countries with the highest number of laying hens in each housing system in 2016 (Source: MEG 2017) Country

Laying hens (1,000)

Share (%)

Enriched cages

Spain

40,535

92.9

Poland

38,387

88.3

France

33,584

69.1

Italy

27,353

65.7

United Kingdom

16,599

39.4

Country

In Table 5, the ten leading EU countries in egg production in 2016 are listed. A comparison with the layer flocks (see Table 2) reveals some differences. They are a result of the wide difference in the share of housing systems in the member countries.

France ranks in an unchallenged first place, followed by Germany, Spain and Italy. The regional concentration in egg production is rather high. The ten leading countries share 84.4% in the overall production volume of the EU. With the exception of the Netherlands, the ranking in production reflects the ranking in population.

Table 5 - The ten leading countries in EU egg production in 2016 (Source: MEG 2017) Egg production (1,000 t)

Share (%) in EU production

France

953

12.7

Germany

881

11.8

Spain

866

11.6

Country

Barn systems

Germany

32,628

62.1

Italy

840

11.2

Netherlands

20,923

74.6

United Kingdom

776

10.4

Italy

12,166

29.2

Netherlands

715

9.6

Sweden

5,298

77.5

Poland

600

8.0

Austria

4,305

66.8

Romania

345

4.6

Belgium

176

2.4

Czech Republic

156

2.1

10 countries

6,308

84.4

EU

7,478

100.0

Country

Free range

United Kingdom

22,284

52.8

Germany

9,302

17.7

France

8,832

18.2

Netherlands

5,291

15.5

Spain

1,756

4.0

Country

A projection of production and demand until 2025

Organic

Germany

5,566

France

3,500

7.2

Netherlands

1,833

5.4

Italy

1,366

3,3

Sweden

1,312

16.3

In Table 6, a projection of the development of production and demand until 2025 is presented.

10.6

Table 6 - Projected development of egg production and consumption in the EU between 2017 and 2025; data in 1,000 t (Source: EU Committee 2017) Year

Patterns of egg production Between 2012 and 2016, egg production in the EU increased from 7.0 mill. t to 7.5 mill. t or by 6.1% (Table 4). The growth was not homogeneous. Between 2012 and 2013, after the banning of conventional cages, the production volume grew by 3.6%. In the following years, the growth rate was considerably lower with

46

Production

Consumption

Surplus

2017

7,762

7,391

371

2019

7,885

7,498

387

2021

8,010

7,607

403

2023

8,138

7,718

420

2025

8,270

7,831

439

6.5

6.0

18.3

Increase (%)

- marketing -

MARKETING

4.6%

Housing system

14.1%

Enriched cages Barn

55.6%

25.7%

Free Range Organic

Total: 384.1 mill.

Figure 1 - The share of housing systems in EU laying hen husbandry (EU Committee 2017; design: A. Veauthier)

One can easily see that egg production in the EU will grow faster than consumption. This will result in an increasing surplus. If this surplus cannot be exported either as shell eggs or as egg products, a lasting period of low egg prices could be the result.

Despite the comparatively high prices, high-quality egg products should find a market, however.

References and additional literature Committee for the Common Organisation of the Agricultural Markets (Ed.): EU Market Situation for Eggs. Brussels, August 27th, 2017. https://circabc.europa.eu/sd/a/18f7766e-e9a9-46a4-bbec94d4c181183f/23.03.2017_eggs_Europa.pdf MEG-Marktbilanz: Eier und Geflügel 2016. Stuttgart 2016.

Figure 2 - Housing systems in laying hen husbandry in the EU member countries (2016) (Source: MEG 2017) MEG-Marktbilanz: Eier und Geflügel 2017. Stuttgart 2017.

Windhorst, H.-W.: The Netherlands – the leading country in European egg and poultry meat exports. In: Zootechnica international 38 (2016), no. 1, p. 32-38.

Windhorst, H.-W.: Germany – remarkable recovery from the earlier banning of conventional cages. In: Zootecnica international 38 (2016), no. 3, p. 36-41.

Windhorst, H.-W.: Economic impacts of the AI-outbreaks in the USA in 2015. A final evaluation of the epizootic disaster. In: Zootecnica International 38 (2016), no. 7, p. 34-39.

Windhorst, H.-W.: The EU Egg Industry in Transition. London: International Egg Commission April 2017. 31 p.

Windhorst, H.-W.: Poland – growing importance of egg exports. In: Zootecnica International 39 (2017), no.6, p. 26-29.

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47

TECHNICAL COLUMN

Use of injection syringes in the animal production industry Animal health is an important factor to consider, as any disease outbreak can potentially have drastic economical consequences. For this reason, planning and preparing an injection campaign should be done carefully. system. Simple conception, perfect balance and ergonomic design provide for ease of use, operator comfort and fatigue free fieldwork. The syringes are intended for mass vaccination of poultry, swine, cattle, fish and small laboratory animals. They are used and recommended by many pharmaceutical companies in the animal health market. Customers appreciate its efficiency and reliability, the simple syringe conception, perfect balance and ergonomic design.

Table 1 - Example of use according to needle size Animal type

Planification When preparing a campaign, consider appropriate animal age and time in the year to run it. Select adequate injectable product and carefully follow manufacturer’s instructions to reconstitute the vaccine. Because of limited shelf-life of opened vials, prepare and mix only the quantity required at the time.

Instrument preparation Unless previously autoclaved, both syringe and feed tubing must be cleaned (aspiration of boiling water). A sterilized instrument can be used straight away. Disinfectant or chemicals must not be applied, as they may destroy vaccine efficiency.

Select the best appropriate syringe model and capacity and pay attention to adequate needle choice.

Needle selection Prefer quality material (high mechanical resistance) and choose appropriate length and gauge in accordance with animal size/ age and vaccine type. Select smallest possible needle diameter (gauge) to minimize tissue damage. Change needle if bent, dirty, worn or blunt edged. The Socorex safety needle packaging is intended for operator’s protection, avoiding hand / finger injury when handling.

A superior syringe programme Socorex Isba SA is a Swiss manufacturer of self-refilling injection syringes with spring-loaded plunger and three-way valve

48

Needle diameter

Needle length

Baby bird, fish

0.5 – 0.7 mm (25 – 22G)

3 – 9 mm (1/8’’ – 1/3’’)

Poultry

0.7 – 1.0 mm (22 – 19G)

10 – 13 mm (3/8’’ – ½’’)

Large bird, piglet, lamb, goat

1.0 – 1.2 mm (19 – 18G)

15 – 30 mm (5/8’’ – 1 1/8’’)

Pig, sheep, calf

1.2 – 1.6 mm (18 – 16G)

20 – 30 mm (3/4’’ – 1 1/8’’)

Swine, cattle

1.6 – 1.8 mm (16 – 15G)

20 – 40 mm (3/4’’ – 1 5/8’’)

Cleaning-up after vaccination Once the campaign is over, operator must rinse, disinfect, clean and dry the injection syringe according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Single-use and worn-out needles must be disposed of in an appropriate safety container. Store re-usable equipment in adequate clean and dry location to prevent risk of corrosion. All vaccines, diluents and any other biological sensitive materials must be stored in cool and dark place. Prefer a locked place to prevent access to unauthorized persons.

Observing rules and legislations For traceability purpose, always keep track record of all vaccination parameters (based on farm’s or company’s procedures).

As example, date of injection, operator’s name, animal ID, vaccine type/name/ manufacturer and volume, vaccine lot and expiry date.

It is recommended to fully respect applicable local and national laws. Mind permanent or temporary rules/guide lines issued

by MOA, animal directorates, professional associations, etc. and remember that safety of farm personnel and consumers comes first.

Combining a good planning, the use of a first class self-refilling syringe for highly professional work and respect of present rules and legislations, is the most efficient way to run successful injection campaigns.

- technical column -

TECHNICAL COLUMN

Innovating the future

Processed chicken feet have become a $500 million market - and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Meyn developed the Automatic Feet Selection System. It provides a fully automated process complete with camera and product sensing equipment, and now complemented by an automatic ejection machine. Grading and sorting takes place in real time, and animal welfare data is captured to comply with local regulations.

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- april 2018 -

Another innovation

by Meyn

49

MANAGEMENT

Welfare and cost benefits through automated grading and vaccination Evaluation of working time requirements of different grading and vaccination processes

One of the most important measures for the quality of poultry breeding stock is the uniformity of the flock (Zuidhof et al. 2015).

Even though flock uniformity does not allow for the prediction of the birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance, good flock uniformity can help ensure optimal flock management.

Prof. Dr. Ludwig Theuvsen, Hauke Tergast, JĂśrg Hurlin

50

Good uniformity allows flock managers to ensure the nutritional needs of the birds are met by way of feed increases and it also adds to the success of the photo-stimulation period thus resulting in a better - management -

MANAGEMENT

overall flock performance (Robinson 2003, Marcos 2013). It also helps to eliminate competition between birds improving their welfare. In order to enable consistent development of the entire flock, dividing into different weight groups is an established and effective method to manage broiler breeders.

In practice, birds are graded various times according to their weight and fed in a way that achieves a desired weight, leading to a more uniform population (Harrison 2006). The leading breeding companies grade birds either by visual assessment or by weighing each individual bird. This process can be ergonomically challenging and labor-intensive. During the rearing period, many routine tasks are not automated. Another task that requires considerable manual input is vaccination.

Because the wings are supported in a fixed position, the chest is easily accessible. As well as grading, the device allows precision breast vaccination, as well as other types of vaccination methods - via the eye, neck or wing. All of these are undertaken in a calm manner with the birds head in an upright position at all times.

Solution approach To simplify the process, a specialized device was developed over a period of 3 years by Agri Advanced Technologies (AAT), an EWÂ GROUP subsidiary specializing in automation. This device saves time and labor by combining the vaccination and grading processes and birds only need to be handled once. It also contributes to higher precision during data collection. For this purpose, operations are partially automated and combined.

The device weighs and grades the birds in up to three groups, and is equipped with 22 suspension cradles, in which the birds are supported at the base of their wings, ensuring comfortable handling of the birds with their heads in an upright position.

Once applied onto the grading device, the birds can be vaccinated manually during the grading process.

Image 2 - Schematic representation (Plan view) of grading device

The device is operated and controlled via a touchscreen interface. The grading data is saved on a USB and can be transferred to a computer using evaluation software compatible with Microsoft Excel. In addition to the average flock weight, the coefficient of variation (CV), uniformity and weight of every bird are collected. In doing so, the uniformity of the entire flock can be reliably determined during grading, whereas without the device, securing uniformity is more or less based on random sampling of birds and visual assessments.

Image 1 - Five-week-old broiler grandparents on the AAT device

The cradles are mounted to a chain moving counterclockwise around the device. Different areas are designated for vaccination, grading and placement. The yellow strips in Image 2 illustrate where the birds are placed on the device. Vaccinations can be performed in the green area and grading in up to three different weight groups takes place in the blue area. In front of the grading area, a weighing cell records a birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weight with an accuracy of 98 percent.

Image 3 - Chest vaccination of a bird on the AAT device

Until now there has been no scientific data to determine the hourly rate and working time requirements of manually undertaking the grading or vaccination process versus automation of the process.

- april 2018 -

51

MANAGEMENT

Method

Results

A project at the University of Göttingen examined the extent to which automated vaccination and grading processes are superior to manual processes. Before comparing the different procedures, the University’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development used a questionnaire to evaluate the vaccination and grading processes in different Aviagen® grandparent operations throughout the world. Wage levels and processing costs in different countries were examined for economic assessment. The results of the survey showed differences in the grading process between individual farms, meaning grading processes could not be directly compared.

The most comparable farms were therefore selected based on working times. Farms with faster grading and vaccination processes were selected in order to set a benchmark for the device output.

The results of the analysis were statistically evaluated and differences were statistically tested. All epsilon values and CVs were below P = x, in line with the parameters provided in the literature.

For the study, working times were measured in accordance to the established REFA method (time and motion study), which breaks the process down into individual working elements, which were measured until the metrics were statistically valid.

Working elements are differentiated between cyclic and noncyclic. For cyclic working elements, the epsilon value is applied to assess data quality. The epsilon value should lie below 15 percent in agricultural working time recording. The aim is to achieve the lowest possible epsilon value (Schick 2006; Fricke 2016). The quality of non-cyclic working elements is determined by the CV, which should lie below 35 percent in agricultural measurements. The lowest-possible CV is desirable (Marbé-Sans et al. 2005).

Analysis The survey of the operations showed that both grading and vaccination are carried out in various different ways. The manual grading scales (as applied in the U.K.) and the manual vaccination (as applied in the Netherlands) were used as the basis for further research. Only vaccinations in the chest were considered.

Within the survey, work flows were classified in different working elements, and were documented from the set-up to dismantling of the necessary equipment. Measurements were recorded from the device entering the pen until leaving the pen. Within the six month investigation period from April until September 2017, 3,461 individual measurements of different working elements were performed. As well as working time recording of manual processes in the U.K. and the Netherlands, an evaluation of automated grading and vaccination in Spain took place. The main reason for this was that Aviagen S.A.U. had already used the first prototype of the grading and vaccination device and thus had experience with the new device.

52

In a second step, a farm was set-up with 10,473 birds, which was representative for broiler grandparent rearing houses.

Working time requirements of the individual processes were extrapolated and compared. To determine flock-specific boundary weight values, the manual and automated separation test weighing was included for 10 percent of the bird population.

The work required for the individual processes was fundamentally different. For the average house with 10,473 birds using manual grading and vaccination, 105.5 working hours were needed, while the automated process required only 35.1 working hours. With automated processes the five employees took 7.02 hours to grade 10,473 birds. The working time was shorter with the manual method, however 13 additional people were required and therefore the total working time was higher.

The results of the working time evaluation are illustrated in Table 1.

Table 1 - Working hour requirements for the evaluated procedures per average house Device

Manual Grading

Manual Vaccination

Manpower Requirements

5 Employees

13 Employees 1 Person (pre/ and post weighing)

8 Employees

Process Cycle Time

7.02 Hours

5.49 Hours 6.40 Hours (pre/ and post weighing)

3.47 Hours

Total Working Time Requirements

35.1 Hours

77.77 Hours (incl. pre/ and post weighing)

27.76 Hours

In the course of manual grading, for a 10 percent sample of the flock, both pre and post weights are required, and are carried out independently of the grading. With the automated procedure, the pre-weighing is already integrated in the process run-time.

The need for post weighing is not required as the device records all individual bird weights. This fact is already taken into account in the total working time requirements.

Apart from the working time requirements, the different processes can be analyzed additionally by their hourly capacities, which indicates the performance of each employee.

This analysis showed that the performance per employee is twice as high for automated vaccination and grading compared to manual grading alone. Due to the high hourly output of

- management -

MANAGEMENT

Table 2 - Number of vaccinated and graded birds

Manpower Requirements

Output per Employee

Hourly Performance

Device

Manual Grading

Manual Vaccination

5 Employees

13 Employees 1 Employee (pre/ and post weighing)

8 Employees

298 Birds/Hour

147 Birds/Hour 327 Birds/Hour (pre- and postweighing)

367 Birds/Hour

1,490 Birds/ Hour

1,911 Birds/Hour 327 Birds/Hour (pre- and postweighing)

2,936 Birds/Hour

Image 4 - High pressure cleaning of the AAT device

manual vaccination, the output per employee is also higher than that of the device-based process. The results are shown in Table 2.

Apart from the acquisition costs of the grading and vaccination device, knowing the hourly wage and possible number of gradings and vaccinations per device is crucial to determine the cost-effectiveness of automation.

Special attention was paid to the biosecurity and hygiene of the device during the design process. The risk is minimized by having one device per site, a multi-stage cleaning and disinfection program, and rest periods between grading and vaccinations. The reduced need for personnel when using automated grading and vaccination also improves biosecurity because fewer external workers are needed.

“The newly developed automated vaccination and grading process is superior to the manual process when it comes to working time requirements” Conclusion

References

The newly developed automated vaccination and grading process is superior to the manual process when it comes to working time requirements. The total run time of 7.02 hours enables the vaccination and grading of an average farm with five employees within a working day. Due to the device’s support and the integration of vaccination and grading processes, the working time requirements are reduced by simultaneously increasing efficiency and accuracy.

Fricke, W. (2016): Arbeits- und Zeitwirtschaft verstehen – Von der Zeitstudie bis zur Abtaktung. 1. Auflage. Books on Demand, Norderstedt.

Harrisson, J. (2006): Management of broiler parent stock in rear after grading to 15 weeks. Zootecnica International (2006) 58 (9): 1 – 2.

Marbé-Sans, D.; Heitkämper, K.; Schick, M. (2005): Arbeitswirtschaftliche Kennzahlen in Spezialkulturen. Agrarforschung 12 (8): 338 – 343.

Marcos, C. (2013): Grading breeder pullets for uniformity and best production. Zootecnica International 65 (5): 54 – 58.

Robinson, F. E. (2003): Flock Uniformity and Female Broiler Breeder Management. In: Robinson, F.E., Fasenko, G.M., Renema, R.A. (Hrsg.): Optimizing Chick Production in Broiler Breeders – Volume 1: Broiler Breeders Production Series. Spotted Cow Press, Edmonton, S. 59 – 64.

Schick, M. (2006): Dynamische Modellierung landwirtschaftlicher Arbeit unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Arbeitsplanung.

Habilitationsschrift. Ergonomia Verlag, Stuttgart.

Zuidhof, M.J.; Holm, D.E.; Renema, R.A.; Jalal, M.A.; Robinson, F.E. (2015): Effects of broiler breeder management on pullet body weight and carcass uniformity. Poultry Science 94 (6): 1389 – 1397.

The automated process is preferable to manual grading and vaccination as seen in the results of this study. However the advantage of the automated process is that it reduces the labor requirement. Furthermore, when using the device, it is recommended that vaccination and grading are to be carried out at the same time. By combining the grading and vaccination process it promotes animal welfare by reducing the number of times the birds are handled and also because the birds head stays in an upright position.

With regards to workplace efficiency, automated processes offer additional benefits apart from ergonomic advantages. The digital collection of the flock’s individual bird weights enables optimal flock management and a record can be maintained and referred back to.

Prof. Dr. Ludwig Theuvsen and Hauke Tergast, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Germany Jörg Hurlin, Agri Advanced Technologies GmbH, Visbek, Germany

- april 2018 -

53

NUTRITION

The value of digestibility coefficients Ariane Helmbrecht Evonik Nutrition & Care GmbH, HanauWolfgang, Germany

54

The consumption of animal protein especially meat protein is recognized to be the main trigger for evolution of human being.

At all times and for all human cultures animal protein took an important part of nutrient supply and has been always of a high value.

- nutrition -

NUTRITION

This got even more obvious during the last century when an increase in wealth was positively correlated with the increase in consumption of meat products. Poultry became globally more and more important as a supplier of animal meat, the main reason for this fact is the high efficiency for meat production in comparison to feed consumption. This advantage was produced by a strict genetic selection, which was favored by the genetic potential of poultry species. Within the poultry species improved for efficient meat production turkey fills a special position: turkeys provide the positive qualities of being lean by nature and therefore turkey meat is meeting the demand for a more healthy nutrition, but also turkeys are big enough to get parts for a roast serving for a family dish.

Improvement by genetic selection Examining the development of turkey breeds of the last 70 years reveals the tremendous potential for protein deposition and therefore, for muscle growth. Research on the optimal particle size of turkey diets by Ziegenhagen et al. (1947) resulted in body weights of 1.77 kg and a feed conversion ratio of 2.57 for the best group at 8 weeks of age (mixed sex of Broad Breasted Bronze poults). Nowadays, male BUT 6 toms achieve 4.7 kg at 8 weeks of age with a feed conversion ratio of 1.66.

As a consequence of selection, it was possible to increase not only the growth in time but also altering the muscle and fat deposition towards leaner birds. In Germany BUT 6 turkeys are grown up to 24 weeks of age with a final body weight of 25.82 kg and a feed conversion ratio of 2.77. Objectives for body composition at 22 weeks of age predict 34.0% breast meat and 13.6% thigh meat yield of 23.36 kg live weight. Johnson and Asmundson (1957) reported 10% breast meat and 4% tibial muscle weight for a bird of 10.01 kg live weight at 24 weeks of age. Although the objectives for the modern strain calculated inclusive skin, the difference is huge and the progress in the efficiency of protein deposition remarkable.

Havenstein et al. (2007) compared a randombred turkey strain known as RBC2, which was developed in 1966 at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC;

Wooster, OH), with a commercial turkey strain of 2003.

Summarized results showed a doubling in growth rate to market age (13.99 vs. 7.26 kg) and feed efficiency was 20% better at 20 weeks of age (2.638 vs. 3.278 g/g) and 50% better at 11 kg body weight (2.132 g/g at day 98 vs. 4.208 g/g at day 196). This improvement was partly dedicated to the change in nutrition and nutritional management. For instance, the introduction of 2-3 week feeding periods instead of only three phases overall.

But also the nutrient composition of diets had changed. Crude protein content in 1966 was 29.0 % for the period week 0-8, in 2003 the 2-week-period phases provided 27.5, 26.5, 25.5, and 23.5 %. Due to the possibility of using crystalline amino acids, crude protein quality changed. While in 1966 birds received 1.72% of lysine (Lys) and 0.92% of methionine + cystine (Met+Cys), in 2003 birds of the first two weeks were served with 1.80% Lys and 1.20% Met+Cys, which was reduced stepwise to levels of 1.45% Lys and 1.00% Met+Cys at weeks 7 to 8.

The work of Havenstein et al. (2007) reveals not only the tremendous progress in breeding, but also the impact of an improved nutritional management. During the last 60 years research regarding the need for nutrients resulted in recommendations for the optimum nutrient support closer and closer to the real need for maintenance plus maximum growth in alignment with genetic improvement.

Ideal protein profile In turkeys data for amino acid requirement is scarce, especially data dedicated to the different growing stages. Another approach to estimate the requirement for amino acids is the Ideal Protein concept. For this, the ratio of every amino acid to Lys is determined either in a dose response study for a single amino acid or in a dilution study for a batch of amino acids. The team of Firman conducted several trials to improve the amino acid profile for turkeys and challenged the so-called Missouri Ideal Turkey Protein. They found the scientifically determined profile not meeting the genetic potential but already a 5% increase did, which is also close to current recommendations by breederâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s companies.

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- april 2018 -

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55

ŠRoxell

NUTRITION

In least cost formulations the next limiting amino acid not supplemented in a free form is always determining the crude protein content and therefore, the cost of the diet. Right now the use of free methionine, lysine, threonine and in some regions tryptophan has been established. Valine and isoleucine are introduced more and more for the very last years. The next amino acid is arginine (Arg), which is also available on the market but still expensive. Due to high prices Arg is not yet considered in turkey diets. When considering recommended levels of Arg, diet optimization is asking for protein-bound Arg, which is of course increasing crude protein and therefore costs.

In practice, feed formulators tend to ignore Arg requirement to keep the crude protein level as low as possible. These lower Arg levels are contrary to currently available scientific data as in a first test the current recommendation of 105% Arg to Lys was challenged. This test showed no significant difference in growth performance and breast meat yield between recommended and reduced levels. Only the numerical difference in breast meat yield (30.03 vs. 28.59% of carcass) resulted in discussions for the profitability of a reduced Arg level.

Arg:Lys ratio and its effect on growth performance and breast meat yield

male BUT 6 turkeys during growing phase P5 and P6 on growth performance, breast meat yield and foot pad lesions. The trial was run in cooperation of Aviagen Turkeys Ltd., Moorgut Kartzfehn von Kameke GmbH & Co. KG and Evonik Nutrition & Care GmbH. At the research facility of Moorgut Kartzfehn in Germany 1,408 male turkeys distributed to 16 floor pens were fed with commercial diets from P1 to P4. Pens were randomly allocated to one of the four feeding treatments: 90, 95, 100, and 105% Arg:Lys ratio adjusted by protein-bound Arg. For none of the measured performance parameters a significant difference could be detected. However, analysis of diets showed deviation of actual Lys and Arg content from diet composition resulting in even lower Arg:Lys ratios (90, 94, 96, and 100%). Calculating the intake of Arg:Lys and sorting it in descending order, revealed a ratio of 94-96% Arg:Lys being the most beneficial for maximum growth and breast meat yield.

As a conclusion of this second trial to the same topic, a ratio lower than the recommended 105% Arg:Lys seems not to result in reduced growth performance or breast meat yield. From economic point of view such a diet would be more profitable only due to the reduction in crude protein.

Therefore, a trial was conducted testing the effect of four increments of Arg:Lys ratio adapted by varying the CP level in

56

- nutrition -

From the Proceedings of the 11th Turkey Science and Production Conference

NUTRITION

- april 2018 -

57

NUTRITION

Poultry Probiotics Market to amass huge profits as an alternative to antibiotics

ŠAgrieze

Poultry probiotics market has witnessed phenomenal gains over the recent years, with the growing pressure regarding reducing the use of antibiotics in the food chain.

With the surging demand for meat and meat products, there has been a subsequently high demand for natural growth promoters (NGPs) for livestock over the antibiotics. Basically, poultry probiotics are live microorganisms that exhibit several beneficial effects on animal health. These probiotics are usually incorporated in animal feed supplements or drinking water to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in animals. Taking into account the growing awareness regarding animal nutrition and health, the global poultry probiotics market is slated to witness massive remuneration over the coming years. As per the statistics, the poultry probiotics industry share was valued over USD 1 billion in 2016, which vividly validates the growth potential of this business over the years to come.

Global Market Insights

58

Animal feed additives industry, which is profoundly challenged by various antibiotic bans, is another important vertical leaving a profound impact on poultry probiotics market share. The developments and trends depict this business space to witness a highly competitive terrain in the coming years. To sustain in the - nutrition -

growing competitive scenario, prominent poultry probiotics industry players are focusing on technological collaborations and acquisitions to amplify their products portfolio and expand their regional presence. The early 2017 announcement of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health to collaborate with Novozymes is one of such latest instances where the industry players are blending their expertise to gain a competitive advantage, in terms of product innovation, pricing strategy, and production capabilities. With the aforementioned partnership, Novozymes is set to expand its network and utilize Boehringer Ingelheimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide access to establish new distribution channels across the globe. Other major companies partaking in poultry probiotics industry include Chr. Hansen, Evonik, Adisseo, and Prowell.

According to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the Food and Agriculture Organization, the global meat consumption is estimated to average 36.3 kg in retail weight by 2023, a 2.4 kg increase from 2013. Moreover, around 72% of the increased

NUTRITION

consumption is expected to come from poultry meat. In response to this fact, a definite growth is seen in livestock production particularly in the developing countries. Estimates claim that the meat consumption growth in the developed economies will be slower than in the developing regions. By 2023, the average intake in the developing countries will be more than double of that in the highly-established countries. Asia Pacific being one of the prime belt of emerging economies, is likely to witness a phenomenal expansion in animal health industry, which will in turn make it one of the most lucrative avenues for poultry probiotics market expansion. Rising meat consumption in India, Malaysia, China, and Indonesia are set to drive the regional poultry probiotics market size to significant heights.

For the record, Asia Pacific broiler meat consumption crossed 35 million tons in 2016 and contributed to more than 50% of the global share.

The significant upsurge in protein intake among the healthconscious consumers have favored the growth of poultry meat

U.S. Poultry Probiotics Market Size, by Application, 2016 & 2024 (KT)

50

Chicks & poults

40

Breeders Turkeys

30

Layers

20

Broilers

10 0

2016

2024

is actively planning to launch its products in the emerging markets. Owing to the increasing demand for antibiotic-free poultry, Chr. Hansen is all set to develop its animal nutrition portfolio in Asia Pacific poultry probiotics market. Reportedly, the company is also developing probiotics that can naturally inhabit the livestock’s gut.

“Animal feed additives industry, which is profoundly challenged by various antibiotic bans, is another important vertical leaving a profound impact on poultry probiotics market share. The developments and trends depict this business space to witness a highly competitive terrain in the coming years.” in the developing countries. Chicken is the most affordable, versatile, nutritious, low in fat, and high-quality source of protein. Increasing broiler meat consumption, subject to the growth in protein intake and rise in per-capita income is poised to bring lucrative growth avenues in China. As per the estimates, China poultry probiotics industry size is expected to surpass a valuation of USD 250 million by 2024. With countries including China, India, and U.S. getting big in terms of chicken and swine consumption, industry players are making vigorous efforts to exploit these regional opportunities. Chr. Hansen, one of the world’s top three manufacturers of probiotics for animals,

The aforementioned trends and statistics vividly claim the poultry probiotics industry to be profoundly characterized by R&D investments focusing on product and regional expansion.

Moreover, the increasing regulations, for instance strict norms

by EU Commission and FDA, pertaining to the use of antibiotics will further boost poultry probiotics market share in the ensuing years. In terms of industry size, Global Market Insights, Inc., estimates poultry probiotics market to witness a valuation of USD 1.8 billion by 2024.

Source: Global Market Insights

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TURNKEY PROJECTS POULTRY INTEGRATED PROJECTS POULTRY EQUIPMENT FOR BROILERS AND LAYERS AVIARY SYSTEMS Officine Facco & C. S.p.A. Via Venezia, 30 - Marsango (PD) Italy

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via Marco Polo,  (Z.I.)  Campodarsego, Padova Italy tel. +   fax +   info@lubing.it www.lubingsystem.com

UPCOMING EVENTS 2018 May, 9 to 12 International Poultry Congress Cultural and Convention Center Omer Halisdemir University Nidge, Turkey For information please contact: Prof Dr Ahmet Sekeroglu Email: ahmet.sekeroglu@ohu.edu.tr Website: www.ipc2018.org

May, 15 to 16

May 31 to June 2 12th "Hafez" International Symposium on Turkey Diseases Hotel Steglitz International Berlin, Germany For information please contact: Prof. Dr. H. M. Hafez Institute of Poultry Diseases, Free University Berlin, Königsweg 63, 14163 Berlin, Germany Tel.: +49 – 30 83862677 Fax: +49 – 30 458244 Email: hafez@vetmed.fu-berlin.de

June, 18 to 20

British Pig & Poultry Fair

6th Mediterranean Poultry Summit

NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh Park, Warks CV8 2LG Grandstand Stoneleigh Events Ltd Stoneleigh Park Warwickshire CV8 2LG, United Kingdom

For information please contact: Prof. Nuhad Daghir Email: torino2018@mpn-wpsa.org Website: www.mpn-wpsa.org

For information please contact: Switchboard: +44 (0) 24 7669 6969 Fax: +44 (0) 24 7685 8393 Email: teresag@stoneleighevents.com

May, 15 to 17 World and Russian poultry breeding development trends, the realities and future challenges Federal Scientific Centre «All-Russian Research and Technological Institute of Poultry» Russian Science Academy (FSC “VNITIP” RSA), Serguiyev Posad, Moscow Region For information please contact: Russian branch of the WPSA: Mrs. Tatiana Vasilieva Email: vasilievatv@gmail.com

May, 16 to 18 Feed Additives Asia Bangkok, Thailand For information please contact: Annabel Ly Tel.: +44 0 207 202 0914 Email: annabel.ly@briefingmedia.com

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June, 20 to 22 VIV-Europe 2018 Jaarbeurs, Utrecht, The Netherlands For information please contact: Ruwan Berculo Project Manager Tel.: +31 30 295 2879 Email: ruwan.berculo@vnuexhibitions.com Website: www.viveurope.nl

September, 17 to 19 VIV China 2018

P.R. of China Tel.: +86 10 6498 8358 Fax: +86 10 6497 2776

September, 17 to 21 XV European Poultry Conference Valamar Resort Dubrovnik, Croatia For information please contact: Assist. Prof. Danijela Horvatek Tomić, Email: horvatek@vef.hr Sponsors and exhibitors: Prof. Dr. Zlatko Janječić, Email: zjanjecic@agr.hr PCO: Adria Congress Ltd., Katija Ljubimir Email: info@adria-congress.com

October, 2 to 3 New Zealand Poultry Industry Conference Organised by World's Poultry Science Association New Zealand Branch in association with the Monogastric Research Centre, Massey University, New Zealand Quality Hotel Plymouth International New Plymouth, New Zealand For information please contact: Mr M. Abdollahi Massey University Poultry Research Unit Private Bag 11 222 Palmerston North New Zealand Email: M.Abdollahi@massey.ac.nz

VIV China 2018 will move to Nanjing For information please contact: The VIV China Organizers VIV Worldwide VNU Exhibitions Europe Ms. Anneke van Rooijen P.O. Box 8800 3503 RV Utrecht The Netherlands Tel.: +31 30 295 2772 China Ms. SHAO Jennifer Rm 2013, Kelaowo Building No. 23, Huixindongjie Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029

November, 6 to 8 2nd PSA Latin American Scientific Conference Royal Palm Hotel and Convention Center São Paulo, Brasil For information please contact: Poultry Science Association 701 Devonshire Drive, C-51 Champaign, IL 61820 Tel.: 217-356-5285 Fax: 217-239-6644 Email: psa@assochq.org

Internet Guide ABVista emea@abvista.com www.abvista.com Agritech agritech@agritech.it www.agritech.it Arion Fasoli nicolabonetti@arionfasoli.com www.arionfasoli.com Aviagen info@aviagen.com www.aviagen.com Aviagen Turkeys Ltd turkeysltd@aviagen.com www.aviagenturkeys.com Aza International info@azainternational.it www.azainternational.it Barbieri Belts info@barbieri-belts.com www.barbieribelts.com Bayer HealthCare www.bayer.com Big Dutchman big@bigdutchman.com www.bigdutchman.de Biochem info@biochem.net www.languages.biochem.net Carfed Headquarters info@carfed.ch www.carfed.ch Carfed Italian Branch info@carfed.it www.carfed.it Cobb Europe info@cobb-europe.com www.cobb-vantress.com Codaf info@codaf.net www.codaf.net Corti Zootecnici s.r.l. info@cortizootecnici.com www.cortizootecnici.com DSM Nutritional Products www.dsm.com Elanco www.elanco.com Eurosilos SIRP contatti@eurosilos.it www.eurosilos.it EuroTier eurotier@dlg.org www.eurotier.com Facco Poultry Equipment facco@facco.net www.facco.net Farmer Automatic info@farmerautomatic.de www.farmerautomatic.de FIEM fiem@fiem.it www.fiem.it Fiera di Forlì info@fieravicola.com www.fieravicola.com FierAgricola Verona info@veronafiere.it www.veronafiere.it Gasolec sales@gasolec.com www.gasolec.com Giordano Poultry Plast info@poultryplast.com www.poultryplast.com Hendrix Genetics www.hendrix-genetics.com Hubbard contact.emea@hubbardbreeders.com www.hubbardbreeders.com Hy-Line International info@hyline.com www.hyline.com Impex Barneveld BV info@impex.nl www.impex.nl Intracare info@intracare.nl www.intracare.nl Jamesway USA-sales@jamesway.com www.jamesway.com Jansen Poultry Equipment info@jpe.org www.jpe.org Marel Poultry info.poultry@marel.com www.marel.com/poultry-processing Mbe Breeding Equipment info@mbefabriano.it www.mbefabriano.it Menci commerciale@menci.it www.menci.it Meyn sales@meyn.com www.meyn.com MOBA sales@moba.net www.moba.net MS Technologies sales@MSTegg.com www.MSTegg.com Newpharm info@newpharm.it www.newpharm.it Officine Meccaniche Vettorello luciano@officinevettorello.it www.officinevettorello.com Omaz srl omaz@omaz.com www.omaz.com Pas Reform info@pasreform.com www.pasreform.com Petersime N.V. info@petersime.com www.petersime.com Prinzen BV info@prinzen.com www.prinzen.com Reventa info@reventa.de www.reventa.de Roxell info@roxell.com www.roxell.com Ska ska@ska.it www.ska.it Socorex socorex@socorex.com www.socorex.com Space info@space.fr www.space.fr Specht Ten Elsen GmbH & Co. KG info@specht-tenelsen.de www.specht-tenelsen.de Tecnoclima tecnoclima@tecnoclimaspa.com www. tecnoclimaspa.com TPI-Polytechniek info@tpi-polytechniek.com www.tpi-polytechniek.com Twinpack Special Products B.V. sales@twinpacksp.com www.twinpacksp.com U.S. Poultry & Egg Association info@uspoultry.org www.uspoultry.org Val-co intl.sales@val-co.com www.val-co.com Valli info@valli-italy.com www.valli-italy.com VDL Agrotech info@vdlagrotech.nl www.vdlagrotech.com Vencomatic info@vencomatic.com www.vencomaticgroup.com Victoria victoria@victoria-srl.com www.incubatricivictoria.com VIV Europe viv@vnuexhibitions.com www.viv.net Vostermans ventilation@vostermans.com www.vostermans.com

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