The optimal bedding for broiler health – characterization of various bedding materials for an optimal broiler environment

To achieve optimum growth performance of growing broilers, reducing environmental contamination by microbes and pathogens plays an important role. One aspect that needs to be considered to minimize the risk of disease transmission is the provision of litter that prevents health and inhibit bacterial growth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize different litter materials according to health-related criteria and determine the optimal range of trait values to reduce bacterial growth in order to develop practical indicators. A literature research was performed to identify all relevant bedding materials and health-related criteria. Various bedding materials (e.g., cereal straw, spelt husks, maize silage, wood shavings) were then bought to determine characteristics such as volume, grain size, dust content, pH value and buffer or water-binding capacity. In addition, nutrient fractions and degree of soiling were chemically analyzed. It is already known from the literature that bedding materials should generally have a high water binding capacity and buffering capacity. In addition, a low dust content is beneficial to prevent respiratory diseases, as well as a low pH value and degree of soiling reduces microbial growth and supports health. The results from the laboratory analysis will be presented. In conclusion, the study tested practical indicators were suitable to provide additional information to farmers and generate value for preventive health management. This work (Model- and Demonstration Project for animal welfare) is financially supported by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, granted by the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food.     «

To achieve optimum growth performance of growing broilers, reducing environmental contamination by microbes and pathogens plays an important role. One aspect that needs to be considered to minimize the risk of disease transmission is the provision of litter that prevents health and inhibit bacterial growth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize different litter materials according to health-related criteria and determine the optimal range of trait values to reduce bacterial growth...     »