Supplementing phytogenic feed additives improve layer performance during Spotty Liver Disease outbreak by impeding bacterial functions involved in metabolism, energy and pathogenicity

A range of antibiotic alternative products is increasingly studied and manufactured in the current animal agriculture, particularly in the poultry industry. Phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) have been assiduously investigated and are known for their great ability in suppressing pathogens such as Clostridium, Escherichia coli and Salmonella. Other than enhancing biosecurity, improvements in productivity and performance were also observed. However, clear mechanisms of these improvements were not established. In this study, 20,000 Lohman-Brown layers were supplemented with PFAs from 16 to 40 weeks of age, and performance parameters were assessed against unsupplemented control. Cloacal, ileum and cecum contents were collected and analysed using 16S rRNA sequencing to differentiate any modification in the microbial community.