A newly published study assesses the effect of Nor-Grape®, Nor-Feed’s standardized dry grape extract, on bone quality and metabolome of future laying hens reared in commercial conditions. The results showcase an enhanced bone mineral status and fewer bone deformities in the pullet control group that was supplemented with the product.
Nor-Feed has announced the publication of a new peer-reviewed study in the journal Poultry Science, highlighting the positive effects on pullets of Nor-Grape®, which selected grape polyphenols potentiate antioxidant defenses. The research shows that supplemented pullets had better bone mineralization via a unique modulation of bone metabolic pathways. The avian bone health is a key factor for extending the laying cycle and improving hens’ welfare.
The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of a standardized dry grape extract (SDGE) on bone quality and metabolome of future laying hens reared in commercial conditions.
The results of the study showcase that the pullets supplemented with Nor-Grape® exhibit significant enhancements in several key areas compared to the ones in the control group, such as:
- Enhanced bone mineral status showed by higher bone-dry matter, calcium and phosphorus content;
- Fewer bone deformities, supporting better animal welfare;
- Benefits explained by a unique modulation of bone metabolic pathways;
- Results achieved without any modifications of feed content in calcium, phosphorus or enzymes.
In this study, pullets receiving Nor-Grape® entered the laying phase with an improved bone health. The results showcase the unique and advanced modes of action of Nor-Grape® and add to the growing body of evidence supporting its efficacy, Nor-Feed points out.
Nor-Grape® is composed of 100% natural and is standardized in polyphenols extracted from grape. According to the statement, this solution provides water-soluble physiological antioxidants. Grape polyphenols from Nor-Grape® potentiate the animal’s antioxidant defenses.
Overall, this study suggests novel mechanisms related to estrogen signaling through lipid metabolism in SDGE supplemented pullets and highlights that nutritional intervention with SDGE in early developmental stage of future laying hens improves their bone health prior to entry into the laying phase, thus proving a useful tool in bone health management.
Regarding the results, Nor-Feed stated: “A special congratulations to Fatima Zohra Aberkane, Dr. Paul Engler, PhD, and all our research partners at the SONAS Laboratory and the co-authors – for their outstanding work on this publication.”
