ISSUE FOCUS 38 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE July 2024 ductive cycle of laying or breeding hens by interfering with the processes involved in ovulation and egg formation. This results in reduced egg production, poorer egg quality (due to thinner shells), and higher rates of egg abnormalities. Thermal stress has also been shown to reduce egg hatchability. Overall, thermal stress has a marked impact on poultry, which ultimately results in significant financial implications due to its effect on zootechnical performance. Today, genetic approaches offer great potential for combating thermal stress. The selection of poultry breeds or genetic lines that are more tolerant to thermal stress is becoming increasingly important in poultry breeding programs. This will improve overall resilience and productivity, especially in hot climates and during heat waves. BEYOND MANAGEMENT: A NUTRITIONAL ARSENAL FOR THERMAL STRESSED POULTRY Beyond structural and environmental strategies to manage thermal stress, such as ventilation, stocking densities, and housing design, ensuring access to cool, clean water and adjusting feed formulations and schedules remain the most important tools for managing thermal stress. Several nutritional strategies have been proposed to mitigate the destructive effects of thermal stress in the poultry industry. Some of these strategies include the use of feed additives and dietary supplements that contain minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients designed to help birds better cope. Antioxidants such as selenium, vitamins E, and C, and certain B vitamins can help mitigate the negative effects of thermal stress on poultry. These antioxidants support the immune system and help reduce oxidative stress caused by thermal stress. Amino acids, such as lysine and methionine, are important for maintaining protein synthesis and muscle function. Supplying these amino acids can support growth and performance during periods of heat stress. Ingredients such as probiotics, prebiotics, botanical extracts, and zinc can help boost the immune system of birds, reduce the effects of inflammation, and help them better cope with stress. At Biochem, we have a comprehensive range of feed additives and dietary supplements, including our Hepatron® betaine feed additives, E.C.O.Trace® organically bound trace minerals, carefully selected phytoactive ingredients and probiotic strains, as well as the LiquiVit and Stress Pack® ranges. Many of these are water-soluble and can help stimulate appetite and maintain feed intake, ensuring birds continue to receive adequate nutrition in the face of thermal stress challenges. Our ingredients and formulations are tailored to combat thermal stress and can help poultry maintain performance, reduce mortality, and improve overall well-being. About Etienne Effenberger Etienne Effenberger completed his Master of Science degree in Zoology at the University of Stellenbosch, Republic of South Africa. He worked for a period as a senior scientist in the mining sector. Thereafter, he relocated to Czechia, Europe, and began to work for an agricultural research institute that was one of the first developers of a live attenuated coccidiosis vaccine for poultry. For the past 14 years, Effenberger has remained in the poultry sector and has focused on client support and sustainable poultry production by implementing on-farm strategies. Since 2021, he has been working as a global Product Manager for Poultry at Biochem. About Dr. Melinda Culver Dr. Melinda Culver is a veterinarian with a strong interest in animal health and nutrition. After earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2004, she pursued a Ph.D. in Animal Science at Washington State University (2006), focusing on muscle and fat cell development. Dr. Culver transitioned from veterinary practice to the supplement industry, where she's spent over 15 years using her knowledge to improve animal and human well-being through advancements in nutrition. She joined Biochem in 2022, bringing her extensive experience to the team.
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