Determinants of broiler chicken meat quality and factors affecting them: a review

Effects of Yupingfeng polysaccharide in diet on slaughtering performance and meat flavor of Qingyuan partridge chicken

With the improvement of living standards, people's expectations for chickens' quality and flavor have also grown. Yupingfeng polysaccharide (YPF-P) has pharmacological effects such as regulating fatty acid composition and gut microbiota. In this study, different doses of YPF-P were added to the feed of qingyuan partridge chickens. The results showed that 8 g/kg YPF-P increased thigh muscle yield by 16.8 % and improved chicken breast flavor by elevating its pH1h and protein content, thereby enhancing flavor richness by 17.16 %.The non-targeted metabolomics (LC-MS) analysis of chicken breast revealed significant enrichment in Arachidonic acid metabolism. Correlation analysis showed the results of LC-MS are significantly correlated with flavor, protein and fat content. Taken together, YPF-P could provide better taste by changing muscle metabolism and increasing the deposition of beneficial compounds in muscle. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of YPF-P as feed additive on the meat flavor quality of poultry.

Meta-Analysis of Dietary Curcumin Supplementation in Broiler Chickens: Growth Performance, Antioxidant Status, Intestinal Morphology, and Meat Quality

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary curcumin supplementation on growth performance, serum antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and meat quality of broiler chickens. The database was constructed with 28 peer-reviewed scientific papers published between January 2013 and January 2025, identified and selected from the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases following the PRISMA methodology. All response variables in the database were analyzed with random effects models using the R statistical software, and the results were reported as weighted mean differences (WMD). Dietary curcumin supplementation did not affect (p > 0.05) average daily feed intake. However, dietary curcumin supplementation increased (p < 0.001) daily weight gain and decreased (p < 0.001) feed conversion ratio. Dietary curcumin supplementation increased (p < 0.01) serum superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity but decreased (p < 0.001) serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. Dietary curcumin supplementation decreased (p < 0.001) crypt depth (CD) and increased (p < 0.001) villus height (VH) and VH/CD ratio in the duodenum. Dietary curcumin supplementation increased (p < 0.05) carcass yield and color (L*, a*, and b*) in meat and, at the same time, decreased (p < 0.01) cooking loss and fat and MDA content in meat. Curcumin can be used as a dietary additive to improve productive performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, intestinal morphology, and meat quality in broiler chickens.

Can a mixture of Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio molitor meals be feasible to feed broiler chickens? A focus on bird productive performance, nutrient digestibility, and meat quality

Hermetia illucens (HI) and Tenebrio molitor (TM) meals have widely been used in broiler chickens, but their mixture has never been tested. This study investigated the effects of HI and TM meals - alone and as a mixture (MIX, 1:1) - on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass traits, and meat quality of broiler chickens. After assessing the nutrient digestibility of the insect meals (72 26-day-old male broilers, 4 treatments, 9 cages/treatment, 2 birds/cage), a total of 420 1-day-old male broiler chicks were allotted to 7 diets for 37 days (6 pens/diet, 10 birds/pen): C (control), HI5 (5 % HI), HI10 (10 % HI), TM5 (5 % TM), TM10 (10 % TM), MIX5 (5 % MIX), and MIX10 (10 % MIX). In the whole experimental period, better feed efficiency was observed in TM5, TM10 and MIX5 than C, HI10 and MIX10 birds (P < 0.001). Overall, TM5 and MIX5 groups showed the highest slaughtering, ready-to-cook carcass, and chilled carcass weights, while the lowest values were observed in HI10 and MIX10 (P < 0.001). Meat pH and color were limitedly influenced by dietary insect meal inclusion, while higher breast cooking losses were observed in HI10 birds than C, HI5 and MIX5 (P < 0.001). Higher breast dry matter was observed in HI5 birds than TM5 and HI10 (P < 0.001), with the same broilers displaying greater breast crude protein than TM5 (P < 0.001). The highest and lowest percentage of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, respectively, were observed in TM10 birds, along with the lowest polyunsaturated:saturated fatty acids ratio (P < 0.001). The TM5, HI5 and HI10 meat displayed lower tenderness than C meat (P = 0.001), with lower juiciness and overall liking being also overall identified for TM5 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, including 5 % of TM and MIX meals in diets for broiler chickens improved growth performance and carcass traits, while the 10 % inclusion level of HI and MIX meals was associated with the worst outcomes. Including 10 % of HI meal or using TM meal (mainly 5 %) also worsened meat quality and consumer perception.

Age-related changes in carcass composition, physicochemical properties, texture and microstructure of meat from White King pigeons

1. An experiment was conducted to explore the age-related changes in carcass composition, physicochemical properties, texture and microstructure of meat from White King pigeons. The study used 32 carcasses collected from White King pigeons (16 aged 4 weeks and 16 aged 180 weeks).2. The 180-week-old White King pigeons had a higher percentage of eviscerated carcass characteristics. The 4-week-old pigeons were characterised by higher percentage of skin with subcutaneous fat and carcass remainders. There were significant differences in chemical and physicochemical characteristics as well as in texture and microstructure parameters amongst White King pigeons of different ages.3. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that the age of White King pigeons has a considerable impact on carcass composition, physicochemical properties, meat texture and microstructure. Older pigeons had higher percentages of eviscerated carcass components, which may reflect maturation, while younger pigeons had greater proportions of fat and carcass remainders. These findings suggest that age-related changes should be considered when evaluating meat quality and composition, as each age group presented distinct characteristics.

Black soldier fly larvae oil downregulated gene expression related to fat metabolism of broilers fed low protein diet

Feeding low crude protein (LCP) diets supplemented with crystalline amino acids improves environmental and welfare parameters of broilers. However, increased body fat contents in broilers fed LCP diets have become a concern. Black soldier fly larvae oil (BSFLO), rich in lauric acid, has been reported to inhibit lipogenesis and reduce body fat. A 3 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of BSFLO on performance, blood biochemistry, carcass quality, fat metabolism gene expression, and litter quality in broilers fed protein-reduced diets. A total of 288 broilers were divided into 6 treatments: three CP levels (200, 185, or 170 g/kg; high [HCP], medium [MCP], or low [LCP]) and two oil sources (BSFLO and Crude Palm Oil [CPO]), with 6 replicate pens of 8 birds each. Results showed a 15 g/kg CP reduction had no effect on body weight and feed intake (P > 0.05) but increased FCR (P = 0.001). A 30 g/kg CP significantly reduced the body weight and feed intake with inferior FCR (P < 0.05). However, negative effect of low CP diets on FCR was mitigated by BSFLO (P = 0.008). Reducing CP by 30 g/kg increased fat pads (P = 0.033), whereas BSFLO reduced fat pads (P = 0.049) at all three CP levels. Protein-reduced diets increased blood cholesterol (P = 0.002), HDL (P < 0.001), and LDL (P = 0.002). BSFLO decreased blood triglyceride (P = 0.026) and cholesterol (P < 0.001). Reducing 30 g/kg CP increased meat cooking loss (P = 0.035), while BSFLO decreased cooking loss (P < 0.001). BSFLO increased meat protein (P < 0.001) and decreased cholesterol (P = 0.003). The inclusion of BSFLO in protein-reduced diet down-regulated the gene expression of FAS, ACC, SREBP-1, and HMGR in broilers (P < 0.001). Reducing CP levels decreased litter pH (P = 0.011), nitrogen (P < 0.001), ammonia (P < 0.001) and moisture (P = 0.018). The study concludes that BSFLO reduced body fat by down-regulating the lipogenesis gene expression. In addition, BSFLO enhanced feed efficiency in broilers fed protein-reduced diet.

Outdoor access versus conventional broiler chicken production: Updated review of animal welfare, food safety, and meat quality

Growing consumer demand for animal welfare and environmental sustainability in the poultry industry is driving the adoption of outdoor access for broiler chickens in the United States. However, shifting to outdoor access from conventional housing may pose tradeoffs for animal welfare, meat quality, and food safety. Research comparing conventional and outdoor access housing on these attributes has not been reviewed for approximately a decade. We reviewed and compared animal welfare, food safety, and meat quality outcomes in conventional versus outdoor access broiler production, focusing on recent research. Despite the prevailing notion that outdoor access improves animal welfare due to more behavioral opportunities, the utilization of the range is highly variable and affected by a variety of environmental, management, and bird characteristics. Outdoor areas containing vegetation and tree cover promote use by the birds, and slow-growing breeds appear to be best suited for these production systems. Typically, welfare-related health outcomes (i.e., footpad dermatitis, mortality, and lameness) are improved with outdoor access. However, birds with outdoor access are at a higher risk for endo- and ectoparasitic infections. Antimicrobial resistance is typically lower on outdoor access farms, and birds with outdoor access have more diverse microbiomes. There are mixed results for the prevalences of Salmonella and Campylobacter between conventional and outdoor access farms. Meat quality varies in complex ways related to rearing system, age, breed, diet, and behavior. Meat from outdoor access broilers may present better taste or flavor, yet there can be tradeoffs for texture and moisture, particularly for older, slower-growing breeds that are typical of outdoor access production. Taken together, studies to date indicate multiple benefits and tradeoffs for animal welfare, food safety, and meat quality. Variations in management between farms and certification criteria result in inconsistent outcomes. The majority of outdoor access research has been conducted outside of the United States. Region-specific research accounting for geography, climate, and available breeds would be beneficial for improving outdoor access production outcomes in the United States.

Implementing reduced-protein diets for broiler chickens in emerging economies: supplementation with only the first three limiting amino acids

This study evaluated the effects of reduced-protein diets supplemented with only the first three limiting amino acids (AAs); methionine, lysine, and threonine, on broiler performance, profitability, and nitrogen (N) utilization. Two hundred Cobb-500 broiler chicks were assigned to four dietary treatments in a Completely Randomized Design: a control diet and three reduced crude protein (CP) diets (-1PP, -2PP, -3PP). Diets contained CP levels of 21%, 20%, 19%, 18% during grower (14-28d) and 19.5%, 18.5%, 17.5%, 16.5% during finisher (28-42d) phases. Broilers on up to 2% CP reduction exhibited similar (P < 0.05) or superior growth performance and feed conversion ratio compared to 3% CP reduction. Gross margin was highest (P < 0.05) with up to 2% CP reduction but declined with further reduction. Carcass traits and breast yield decreased (P < 0.05) with CP reduction, though meat quality was unaffected. N intake and retention decreased (P < 0.05), while excretion and other N utilization parameters were unchanged. Nutrient digestibility remained consistent, but apparent metabolizable energy increased (P < 0.05) as dietary CP decreased. These findings indicate that reducing dietary CP by up to 2%, supplemented with the first three limiting amino acids, maintains growth performance, profitability, and meat quality. This approach also reduces environmental N emissions and offers a cost-effective strategy for developing economies compared to reduced-protein diets with additional amino acid supplementation.

A Narrative Review on the Impact of Probiotic Supplementation on Muscle Development, Metabolic Regulation, and Fiber Traits Related to Meat Quality in Broiler Chickens

Public concern over drug resistance has led to governmental regulations banning the use of antibiotics as growth promoters, stimulating interest in developing complementary strategies to maintain animal production, mitigate infections, and enhance muscle characteristics and quality parameters, especially in meat-producing animals. Probiotics are recognized as a potential strategy for improving growth, primarily by promoting intestinal homeostasis. These microorganisms are suggested to modulate gut microbiota, preserving their ecosystem and influencing secondary metabolite production, which can directly or indirectly regulate skeletal muscle metabolism by influencing the expression of key muscle-related genes and the activity of various signaling factors. Several studies have documented the potential benefits of various strains of Bacillus, Enterococcus, and members of the Lactobacillaceae family on muscle characteristics. These studies have shown that probiotics not only modulated myogenic factors but also influenced proteins and enzymes involved in signaling pathways related to carbon metabolism, inflammatory response, mitochondrial dynamics, and antioxidant activity. These effects have been associated with improvements in meat quality parameters and enhanced growth performance. This manuscript seeks to present a brief overview of the impact of probiotic supplementation on muscle health and the quality of meat in broiler chickens.

Comparative assessment of growth performance and meat quality in Water Hyacinth and antibiotic (growth promoter) supplemented broilers

The use of growth promoters in broiler feed is a common practice to enhance feed efficiency and accelerate growth rates. Ciprofloxacin, a widely used antibiotic in poultry farming, promotes growth and disease prevention but raises concerns about antibiotic residues in meat and the development of antibiotic resistance. This study examines the dietary effects of WH and ciprofloxacin on broiler growth rate, feed conversion ratio (FCR), meat quality, and muscle histology. Ninety broilers were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group, a WH-supplemented group (2.5% of daily feed), and a ciprofloxacin (Cipro) group (8 mg/kg body weight). Feed consumption and body weight were monitored daily, and after sacrifice, breast muscles were collected for meat quality assessment and histopathological analysis. WH supplementation significantly improved (P < 0.05) body weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and meat quality in broilers. Compared to control and ciprofloxacin groups, WH-treated broilers exhibited lower cooking and drip loss (P < 0.05), higher water-holding capacity (P < 0.01), and reduced shear force value (P < 0.05), indicating improved texture. Ciprofloxacin treatment resulted in reduced redness (P < 0.001) and increased yellowness (P < 0.01), while lightness remained unchanged across groups. Histological analysis revealed greater perimysium thickness and intermuscular adipose infiltration in WH-treated broilers, suggesting enhanced muscle structure. WH supplementation presents a safer, sustainable alternative to antibiotics in broiler production.

Meat quality of turkeys after reproductive period depending on genotype and sex

With the increasing demand for animal protein, and poultry meat being the most consumed meat in the world, it was decided to perform a genotype- and gender-specific analysis of turkey meat quality. The study was conducted on 48 breast and 48 leg muscles of the two leading genotypes of reproductive turkeys B.U.T. 6 and Hybrid Converter (12 females and 12 males each) after reproductive period. Physicochemical analysis (acidity, electroconductivity, thermal leakage, color L*,a*,b*), basic chemical composition (protein, collagen, water, fat), and micro- and macronutrient content of pectoral muscle and leg muscle were performed. In addition, texture and structure analysis of the pectoralis major muscle was performed. Hybrid Converter's pectoral muscles had significantly (P < 0.05) higher fat, water, and iron content compared to B.U.T. 6 pectoral muscles. In comparison, the leg muscles of Hybrid Converter turkeys had a higher content of fat, collagen, sodium and phosphorus, and a lower content of protein, manganese and calcium compared to the analyzed features of the leg muscles of B.U.T. 6. Higher acidity (pH24) of pectoral and leg muscles and electro conductivity and horizontal fiber diameter of pectoral muscles were shown in B.U.T. 6 turkeys, while electrical conductivity and yellowness (b*) of leg muscles were higher in Hybrid Converter turkeys. In contrast, the pectoral muscles of males were characterized by significantly (P < 0.05) higher pH levels, protein and copper content, and lower water, collagen, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, thermal loss, and the parameter L*and a*. In contrast, the leg muscles of males were characterized by lower water, collagen, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, zinc, thermal leakage, and the color parameters a*, b*, and higher fat, chromium, copper, pH, and electrical conductivity. The sex of the birds also affected the texture (Warner-Bratzler shear force, chewiness, gumminess, cohesiveness, sum of elastic moduli) and structure (fiber cross-sectional area, fiber perimeter, vertical fiber diameter, horizontal fiber diameter) characteristics which were higher in males with the exception of sum of elastic moduli. Based on the above information, it can be concluded that the genotype of turkeys largely affects the basic chemical composition, acidity reaction, electrical conductivity, and content of some micro and macro elements of pectoral and leg muscles. The texture, texture, color, and thermal leakage characteristics of the above muscles were not affected by genotype except by the color b* leg muscles and horizontal fiber diameter. On the other hand, a greater effect of gender was observed, especially on the analyzed texture and structure characteristics of the pectoral muscle.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking reveal the mechanism of Chinese herb ultrafine powder improving meat nutritional value in aged laying hens

This study investigated the effects of dietary Chinese herb ultrafine powder (CHUP) supplementation on meat quality, plasma biochemical parameters, and fatty acid and amino acid composition in pectoral muscles of aged laying hens. A total of 576 Xinyang black-feather laying hens (300-d-old) were randomly allocated to eight groups, including the control group (fed a basal diet) and different CHUP groups (details in 'Materials and methods' section). The trial lasted 120 d. The findings showed that L-LF and L-LF-T supplementation increased the contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids (P < 0.05), while CHUP supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the total essential amino acid content in pectoral muscles. Network pharmacology analysis predicted that L-LF-T supplementation mainly influenced the PPAR signaling pathway, which is associated with meat quality. These findings suggest that CHUP supplementation can enhance the nutritional value of pectoral muscles, potentially through its association with the PPAR signaling pathway in aged laying hens.

Effect of Dietary Cannabis sativa L. Residue Supplementation on Meat Quality and Flavor-Enhancing Free Amino Acids in Broiler Chickens

This study investigated the effects of dietary Cannabis sativa residues (CR) on broiler growth and meat characteristics. A total of 256 one-day-old male Ross-308 broilers were randomly assigned to four treatments: a basal diet (control) and diets containing 0.5%, 1%, and 2% CR. CR supplementation had no effect on growth performance, survival rate, or European production index but reduced average daily feed intake (p < 0.01). No significant differences were found in meat pH, color, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, or shear force (p > 0.05). However, the ΔE values (0.5% CR: 3.97, 1.0% CR: 3.71, 2.0% CR: 4.95) indicated perceptible color differences compared to the control. CR significantly reduced C12:0, C20:1n9, and C22:1n9 fatty acids (p < 0.05) while increasing free amino acids, including aspartic acid, serine, proline, methionine, and phenylalanine (p < 0.05). It also increased moisture content and decreased fat content, especially at 2% CR (p < 0.05). In conclusion, CR supplementation improves the flavor and nutritional value of broiler meat and is a potential alternative to conventional feed additives.

How do crate materials impact the winter transport of broilers?

OBJECTIVE

Pre-slaughter transportation adversely impacts the welfare, meat yield, and quality of broilers, yet the effects of different crate types on broiler chickens during winter remain underexplored. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of plastic and iron crates in transit on meat quality, carcass, and physiological traits of broiler chickens during winter.

METHODS

A total of 175 (35-day-old) Ross 308 male broilers with an average body weight of about 1,708±33.3 g (mean±standard error of the mean) were picked after 4 hours of feed withdrawal before transport. The control group comprises birds in the farm (n = 15) without transportation at 173 cm2/kg density. The birds were transported into fixed iron (25 birds per crate) and plastic crates (15 birds per crate) with four replicates per crate type at the same 173 cm2/kg densities. The transportation distance was 20 km for 40 min at an average speed of 30-50 km/h early morning at 8:00 am under -1°C and 47% relative humidity.

RESULTS

There was no difference (p>0.05) in carcass traits among the treatments. Concerning meat quality, broilers transported in both crate types exhibited lower (p<0.01) a* values compared to the control group. Additionally, the iron crate group demonstrated higher (p<0.05) b* values for the breast meat compared to the other groups. In terms of blood metabolites, the iron crate group had higher (p<0.05) cortisol, glucose, and lactate levels compared to the control group that did not transport.

CONCLUSION

Broilers transported in the iron crates increase stress levels in terms of higher cortisol, glucose, and lactate contents in the blood plasma compared to untransported broilers during the winter. Therefore, employing plastic crates, which induce significantly reduced cortisol and numerically lower glucose levels compared to iron crates, appears more favorable for animal welfare by mitigating stress.

Genome-wide association studies of the fatty acid composition of Korean native chicken breast meat

The fatty acid composition of meat, which affects both its quality and the consumer's health, is a complex trait influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Identification of the genes influencing the fatty acid composition of meat is very important for the selection and breeding of chickens with desirable and healthier fatty acid profiles. The objective of this study was to identify functional candidate genes for fatty acid profiles of the breast meat of the Korean native chicken-red-brown line (KNC-R) through genome-wide association studies. We genotyped 382 KNC-R chickens (190 males, 192 females) using the Illumina chicken 60K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA), and association tests were performed by mixed linear model in the Genome-wide Complex Trait Analysis (GCTA) software, based on mixed linear model analysis-leave-one-chromosome-out (MLMA-LOCO). We detected one SNP each on chromosomes 2 (rs13667281), 10 (rs14011157), and 22 (rs10731996) that were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with nervonic (C24:1), linoleic (C18:2), and eicosadienoic (C20:2) acids, respectively. We found 13 protein-coding genes related to lipid metabolism, including IGF2BP3, GPNMB, NPY, OSBPL3, IL6, NR2F2, GPAT4, NKX6-3, ANK1, SFRP1, ERLIN2, STAR, and PPP1R3E. Interestingly, two candidate genes (GPNMB and SFRP1) were reported to regulate the expression of genes known to be involved in fatty acid synthesis, such as the FASN, ACACA, ACLY, ELOVL, and SCD genes. Identification of functional candidate genes for fatty acid profiles might facilitate the selection and breeding of chickens with desirable and healthier fatty acids.

Evaluation of Effect of Dietary Supplementation with Microencapsulated Hydrolyzed Tannins on Growth, Slaughter Performance, Meat Quality, and Lipid Metabolism of Zhongshan Shelducks

This study investigated the effects of microenapsulated hydrolyzed tannins (MHTs) on the growth performance and meat quality of Zhongshan shelducks. A total of 288 healthy Zhongshan shelducks with an average initial weight of 1790.27 ± 0.14 kg were randomly divided into four groups through a 56 d experiment period and were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (CON), 400, 800, and 1600 mg/kg MHTs, respectively. Results showed that 400 and 800 mg/kg MHTs improved the final body weight, average daily gain, glutathione peroxidase activity, and total antioxidant capacity compared to CON (p ≤ 0.05). The diet supplemented with 400 mg/kg MHTs decreased shear force and 800 mg/kg MHTs increased the yield of pectoralis major muscle compared to CON (p ≤ 0.05). Dietary MHTs increased inosine monophosphate content and decreased percentage C14:0 content in meat; however, the b*45 min value, 48 h drip loss, and shear force were increased but the percentage intramuscular fat (IMF) content was decreased in pectoralis major muscle with the increase in MHTs (p ≤ 0.05). Compared to CON, 400 and 800 mg/kg MHTs increased the percentage content of IMF, C18:1n-9, C18:2n-6, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and unsaturated fatty acids in pectoralis major muscle (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, 400 and 800 mg/kg MHTs improved the lipid metabolism of IMF deposition, fatty acid uptake, and adipogenesis by activating the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma pathway to regulate fatty acid synthetase and lipoprotein lipase genes. In conclusion, diets supplemented with 400 and 800 mg/kg MHTs could improve growth, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism in Zhongshan shelducks.

Microbial Shelf Life and Quality Assessment of Broiler Breast Meat: The Role of Cold Storage and Carcass Weight

Globally, poultry products have been associated with outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of cold storage period, carcass weight, and product form on fresh broiler bacteriology and meat quality parameters. A total of 500 one-day-old broiler birds were raised to market age (28-35 days) before slaughtering. The carcasses were classified into two groups: light weight (approximately 1100 ± 50 g) and heavy weight (approximately 1400 ± 50 g). After 4 h of post-chilling aging, 256 carcasses were randomly selected to represent the two categories. Each category of 128 carcasses was randomly distributed into two groups of 64 carcasses. One group was stored as whole carcasses, while the other group was stored as part-cut deboned breast meat at 4 °C for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days of cold storage (16 samples per storage day). Post-chilling temperature, pH, cooking loss, water holding capacity, and shear force were significantly affected by product form and storage period. Water holding capacity and shear force were also affected by carcass weight (p < 0.001). Meat colors (L*, a*, b*, chroma, and hue values) were significantly affected by the storage period. The L* value was only affected by product form and carcass weight (p < 0.01). Crude protein and ether extract were significantly affected by carcass weight and storage period, while ash was only affected by carcass weight. Aerobic plate count, psychrotrophic count, proteolytic count, lipolytic count, and coliform count were significantly increased with storage time. In conclusion, carcass weight had no impact on overall meat quality, but the meat began to deteriorate and showed an increased spoilage rate after five days of cold storage.

The effects of acetylsalicylic acid on performance, carcass traits, breast meat quality and white striping muscle defects in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

This research aims to reduce white striping muscle defects induced by vascular inflammation and hypoxia using the anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet and anti-atherothrombotic properties of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). To this end, the effects of different doses (0.3, 0.6, 1, 3 and 6 g L-1) of ASA added to drinking water at 24-48 days on growth performance, carcass traits, footpad dermatitis, white striping and breast meat quality parameters were investigated.

RESULTS

The results indicate that 0.3, 1, 3 g L-1 and especially 0.6 g L-1 ASA treatment significantly improved growth performance and meat quality parameters. Also, doses of 0.3, 6 g L-1 and especially 0.6 g L-1 of ASA treatment reduced the incidence of white stripe muscle defects.

CONCLUSIONS

Consequently, 0.6 g L-1 ASA treatment reduced macrophage infiltrations and myodegeneration caused by growth rate. In addition, this dose increased vascular endothelial growth factor and decreased irisin level in breast muscle. The study also shows that high doses of ASA treatment (3 and 6 g L-1) may make footpad dermatitis more common. This may be due to the fact that ASA can cause side effects such as gizzard ulcers and kidney damage in broiler chickens. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Metabolomics, network pharmacology, and microbiome analyses uncover the mechanisms of the Chinese herbal formula for the improvement of meat quality in spent hens

BACKGROUND

Meat originating from the spent hen is an important source of poultry meat production; however, multiple factors cause the decline in the meat quality of spent hens. Chinese herbs have been widely used as medicine for a long time to prevent diseases and as nutrient supplements to improve the product quality. This experiment explored the effects of adding 1.0% Chinese herbal formula (CHF, including 0.30% Leonurus japonicus Houtt., 0.20% Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge., 0.25% Ligustrum lucidum Ait., and 0.25% Taraxacum mongolicum Hand.-Mazz.) for 120 d to the spent hens' diet through metabolomics, network pharmacology, and microbiome strategies.

RESULTS

The results indicated that CHF supplementation improved the meat quality by reducing drip loss (P < 0.05), b* value (P = 0.058), and shear force (P = 0.099) and increasing cooked meat percentage (P = 0.054) and dry matter (P < 0.05) of breast muscle. The addition of CHF improved the nutritional value of breast muscle by increasing (P < 0.05) the content of C18:2n-6, n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), total PUFA, PUFA-to-saturated fatty acids (SFA) ratio, and hypocholesterolemic-to-hypercholesterolemic ratio, and tending to increase serine content (P = 0.069). The targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the biosynthesis of SFA, linoleic acid metabolism, fatty acid degradation, fatty acid elongation, and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways were enriched by CHF supplementation. Furthermore, the network pharmacology analysis indicated that CHF was closely associated with oxidative stress and lipid metabolism. The CHF supplementation increased the glutathione peroxidase level (P < 0.05) and upregulated gene expression related to the Nrf2 pathway (including HO-1, P < 0.05; Nrf2, P = 0.098; CAT, P = 0.060; GPX1, P = 0.063; and SOD2, P = 0.052) and lipid metabolism (including PPARγ, P < 0.05; SREBP1, P = 0.059; and CPT1A, P = 0.058). Additionally, CHF supplementation increased Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes, Spirochaetes, and Synergistetes abundances (P < 0.05), which may contribute to better meat quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that CHF supplementation improved the quality and nutritional value of meat, which will provide a theoretical basis for the utilization of CHF as a feed additive in spent hens' diets.

Beneficial effects of ε-polylysine on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and gut microbiota in broilers fed a lysine-deficient diet

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary ε-polylysine supplementation on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and gut microbiota in broilers fed a lysine-deficient diet. A total of 960 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were randomly allocated into six groups with eight replicates and 20 birds per replicate. Birds in the six groups were fed a lysine-deficient basal diet (-0.20 % lysine, NC) or basal diets supplemented with 0.20 % L-lysine hydrochloride (normal lysine level, PC) or varying levels (0.10 %, 0.20 %, 0.30 %, or 0.40 %) of ε-polylysine hydrochloride for 10 weeks. Results showed that compared with the NC group, dietary supplementation with 0.10 % and 0.20 % of ε-polylysine improved growth performance, meat quality and intestinal morphology, evidenced by increased average daily gain, decreased feed-to-gain ratio, increased water holding capacity of breast muscle, and increased jejunal and ileal villus height in ε-polylysine-treated broilers (P < 0.05). In addition, 0.10 % and 0.20 % of ε-polylysine supplementation improved serum nitrogen metabolism, immune and antioxidant capacity to varying degrees. No significant diffrences in growth performance, meat quality, or intestinal morphology were observed among PC and ε-polylysine-supplemented groups (P > 0.05). Interestingly, compared with the PC group, dietary 0.10 % of ε-polylysine positively altered the microbiota composition of broilers, evidenced by the increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Faecalibacterium and Phascolarctobacterium) and decreased the abundance of harmful bacteria (e.g., Lachnoclostridium and Peptococcus). In conclusion, diets supplemented with ε-polylysine have beneficial effects on growth performance, meat quality, and gut health of broilers via replenishing lysine or favorably altering immune and antioxidant capacity and gut microbiota. The recommended supplemental amount of ε-polylysine in lysine-deficient diets (L-lysine content in the starter and growing diet is 0.95 % and 0.80 % of the basal diet, respectively) is 0.10 %-0.20 %.

Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of pork meat exposed to SoRegen® Technology

Background and Aim

Quantum entanglement has been explored as a novel approach in food technology to enhance the quality and nutritional properties of animal products. SoRegen® Technology applies quantum entanglement signals to food products, aiming to induce physicochemical modifications. This study investigates the effects of SoRegen® Technology on the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of pork meat, focusing on meat quality attributes and cholesterol levels.

Materials and Methods

Pork meat samples were exposed to a quantum entanglement signal from a SoRegen® chip for 20 min in an electromagnetic field chamber. Physicochemical properties, including water-holding capacity (WHC), pH, drip loss, and cooking loss, were analyzed. Cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Microbiological analysis included total plate count (TPC), Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes enumeration. Data were statistically analyzed using an independent sample t-test with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Pork meat exposed to SoRegen® Technology exhibited significant improvements in physicochemical properties. WHC increased, indicating better moisture retention, while drip loss and cooking loss were reduced, suggesting improved meat texture and quality. Minor but statistically significant fluctuations in pH were observed at specific time points. Cholesterol analysis revealed a significant 35% reduction in total cholesterol levels, alongside a significant increase in HDL cholesterol levels, indicating potential health benefits. Microbiological analysis indicated no significant differences between exposed and unexposed pork samples in terms of E. coli, L. monocytogenes, and TPC, suggesting that the technology does not directly affect microbial contamination.

Conclusion

The application of SoRegen® Technology significantly improved the physicochemical and nutritional attributes of pork meat, particularly by enhancing WHC and reducing cholesterol levels. However, no significant changes were observed in microbiological characteristics. These findings highlight the potential of quantum entanglement technology in food science, though further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and explore commercial applications.

Integrating lipidomics and metabolomics to reveal biomarkers of fat deposition in chicken meat

Local chicken breeds in China are highly regarded for their superior meat flavor. This study utilized lipidomics and non-targeted metabolomics to identify biomarkers influencing intramuscular fat (IMF) deposition in the breast muscle of 42- and 180-day-old Jingyuan chickens. Results revealed that IMF content was higher in the breast muscle of 180-day-old Jingyuan chickens compared to 42-day-old chickens (P < 0.01). We identified 248 differentially expressed lipids (DELs) and 1042 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs). The breast muscle of 180-day-old chickens contained higher levels of TG, fatty acid (FA) and cholesteryl ester (CE), with C16:1 and C18:1 being particularly abundant. Integration of non-targeted metabolomic analyses emphasized glycerolipid metabolism and vitamin digestion and absorption as the main pathways distinguishing between 42- and 180-day-old chickens. Additionally, the differential metabolites LysoPS 18:1, LysoPC 20:3, LysoPC 18:2, LysoPI 20:3, and Pantothenic acid contributed to enhanced meat flavor in Jingyuan chickens.

The influence of nanochitosan-incorporated edible coating on the characteristics of Pangasius (Pangasius sp.) fillet

Nanochitosan is known to have the potential to protect fish fillets, highly perishable products, as it can penetrate deep into the meat tissue and has high antibacterial activity. This study aimed to analyze the effect of nanochitosan incorporation to edible coating in inhibiting the degradation of Pangasius fillet quality during storage. The fillets were soaked with 2 % chitosan and nanochitosan concentrations (1 %, 2 %, and 3 %), stored for 15 days, and its quality was assessed periodically. On the 10th day of storage, the fillet coated with 2 % nanochitosan-incorporated edible coating (NEC) showed the lowest weight loss (1.41 ± 0.01 %) and maintained the pH close to neutral (6.92 ± 0.08), along with low TVB-N (33.55 mg N/100 g). and TPC (4.7 × 105 CFU/g) value, fulfilling the standard set by Indonesian National Standardization Agency. Based on the results, nanochitosan proved to extended the storage duration of Pangasius fillet while maintaining its quality.

Genetic parameter estimation and genetic evaluation of important economic traits in white and yellow broilers

1. This study calculated descriptive statistics for the production traits of two broiler populations: 1) the Northeast Agricultural University broiler lines divergently selected for abdominal fat content (NEAUHLF white broilers), including fat and lean lines; and 2) the Guangxi yellow broilers. Their genetic parameters were estimated, including (co)variance components, heritability (h2) and genetic correlations (rg), using the REML method.2. Heritability estimates (h2) for NEAUHLF white broilers ranged from 0.07 to 0.61. Traits with high heritability (h2 >0.3) included body weight at 3, 5 and 7 weeks of age (BW3, BW5, BW7), carcass weight (CW), metatarsal circumference (MeC), liver weight (LW), gizzard weight (GW), spleen weight (SW) and testis weight (TeW), while in Guangxi yellow broilers, heritability estimates ranged from 0.18 to 0.76, with every trait exhibiting high heritability, except for SW (0.18).3. Positive genetic correlations for NEAUHLF were found (rg >0.3, ranging from 0.31 to 0.84) between BW7 and metatarsal length (MeL), MeC, body oblique length (BoL), chest angle (ChA), LW, GW, heart weight (HW) and SW. Genetic correlations between abdominal fat weight (AFW) and BW1, BW3, BW5, CW, MeL, keel length (KeL), BoL and LW were positive (rg >0.3, ranging from 0.31 to 0.58).4. Among the Guangxi population, BW (125 d of age) showed strong positive genetic correlations with all other traits (rg >0.3, ranging from 0.30 to 0.99), while AFW displayed strong positive genetic correlations with leg muscle weight (LeW), CW, BW and thigh diameter (TD) (rg >0.3, ranging from 0.44 to 0.51).5. It was concluded that the characteristics of the two populations were different, which means there is a need to use different strategies when performing the breeding work to improve productivity and efficiency in both broiler populations.

Exploring variances in meat quality between Qingyuan partridge chicken and Cobb broiler: Insights from combined multi-omics analysis

Previously, animal breeding prioritized enhancing key economic traits to improve production efficiency, leading to a gradual difference in meat quality. However, the genetic factors influencing meat quality remain unclear. To identify key genetic pathways contributing to meat quality, native Chinese yellow-feathered chicken (Qingyuan Partridge Chicken, QPC; female, n=10), and commercial chicken broiler (Cobb broiler, CB; female, n=10) were used for meat quality assessment through metabolomics, proteomics, and phosphoproteomics sequencing. The results show that QPC had lower pH (93.12%), shear force (81.46%), cooking loss (69.29%), moisture content (93.24%) and muscle fiber area (46.04%), but higher meat color values (a*(163.65%) and b*(250.27%)), drip loss (146.32%), and intramuscular fat content (382.01%) than CB (p < 0.05). Metabolomic, proteomic, and phosphoproteomic analyses were jointly conducted, revealing significant differences in energy metabolism strategies. Higher glycolytic enzyme activity was observed in QPC (ENO1, GAPDH, GPI, PFKM, PKM, and TPI1, p < 0.05), while more energetic phosphate compounds were stored in CB. CB had higher Na+/K+ Pump protein abundance (SCN4A, LOC107051305, ATP1B4, ATP12A, ATP1A1, and ATP1A2, p < 0.05) and phosphorylation (ATP1A2-Ser662, p < 0.05) and Ca2+ channel protein abundance (ATP2B4, SRL, CACNB1, CACNA1S, CACNA2D1, CAMK2G, LOC107050717 and TNNC2, p < 0.05) than QPC. In QPC, CAMKII autophosphorylation activated downstream protein and increased Ca2+. These results suggest CB is more contractile than QPC, contributing to meat quality between CB and QPC.

Creatine monohydrate administration delayed muscle glycolysis of antemortem-stressed broilers by enhancing muscle energy status, increasing antioxidant capacity and regulating muscle metabolite profiles

Preslaughter stress induced a negative energy balance of broilers, resulted in an accelerated glycolysis and finally led to an inferior meat quality. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of creatine monohydrate (CMH) supplementation on muscle energy storage, antioxidant capacity, the glycolysis of postmortem muscle and the metabolite profiles in muscle of broilers subjected to preslaughter transport. Two hundred and forty broilers were chosen and randomly allocated into three treatments (group A, group B and group C), comprising 8 replicates (10 broilers each replicate). Broilers in group A and B as well as group C were fed with the basal diet or diets containing 1200 mg/kg CMH for 14 days, respectively. After 12 h feed deprivation, broilers in group B (T3h group) and group C (T3h +CMH1200 group) were both subjected to a preslaughter transportation (3 h), but those in group A were treated with a 0.5 h-transport (refined as the control group). The results showed that preslaughter stress led to a lower pH24h value, a bigger L* value and a higher drip loss of muscle compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, transport stress accelerated glycolysis in postmortem muscle, decreased energy storage and the antioxidant capacities of muscle (P < 0.05). However, CMH administration ameliorated energy status, delayed muscle glycolysis, elevated mRNA expression involved in Cr metabolism and inhibited AMPK signaling of broilers experienced preslaughter transport stress. Moreover, significant differences in glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, purine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, ABC transporters, carbon metabolism, lysine metabolism and sulfur metabolism were observed using pathway enrichment analysis. Additionally, the contents of Cr and ATP were positively correlated with branched amino acids (L-valine and l-leucine), l-asparagine, inosine, PCr and d-ribose by metabolomics analysis. Taken together, CMH ameliorated energy status, delayed muscle glycolysis and improved meat quality of antemortem-stressed broilers by the regulation of pathways and key metabolites involved in energy metabolism of postmortem muscle.

Effects of graded levels Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi) on growth performance, serum biochemical indices, meat quality, and caecal microbiota and metabolite in yellow-feathered broilers

The Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP), is the aged peel of Citrus fruit, which contains phenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. This study aims to investigate dietary CRP supplementation on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, meat quality, intestinal morphology, microbiota, and metabolite of yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 240 yellow-feathered broilers (1.00 ± 0.22 kg, 9 weeks old) were randomly allotted into 4 treatments feeding a basal diet (control), the basal diet containing antibiotics (positive control), and the control diet containing 1.5% and 3% CRP, respectively. At the end of a 56-day trial, one broiler from each replicate was selected, and samples of ileal tissue and cecal digesta were collected to analyze intestinal morphology, microbial composition, and metabolites. The results revealed that 3% CRP decreased average daily feed intake (ADFI), serum total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The CRP supplementation could increase serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and meat pH. Broilers fed CRP had elevated antioxidant and liquid-regulated metabolites. Together, the results suggested that incorporating a moderate level of CRP has a minor impact on growth performance and could benefit health to some extent by enhancing antioxidants, regulating serum liquid, and changing microbial composition and metabolites.

Partial replacement of soybean with alternative protein sources: Effects on meat quality, sensory attributes, and fatty acids and amino acids content of breast meat of a local chicken strain

The environmental sustainability of soybean cultivation has been questioned as it has been linked to deforestation, eutrophication, pesticide use, and carbon dioxide footprint. Agri-industrial byproducts and black soldier fly (BSF) larvae meal are promising alternative protein sources that can be used to partly replace soybean in broiler diets. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of partial replacement of soybeans with agro-industrial by-products with or without the addition of BSF dried larvae meal on the meat quality, fatty acid and amino acid content, and sensory traits of breast meat of local chickens. A total of 252 one-day-old mixed-sex chicks from the Anadolu-T pure dam line were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 diets; a soybean-based Control diet, a diet in which soybean meal was partly replaced (SPR) with brewers' dried grain, sunflower seed meal, and wheat middlings and an SPR + BSF diet in which 5% of BSF dried larva meal was added to the SPR diet. All birds were slaughtered at a commercial slaughterhouse at 55 days and breast and drumstick muscles were sampled for meat quality analysis from 18 chickens/dietary treatments. No significant effects of diets were observed for the pH24 and lightness, redness, and yellowness of breast and leg meats. Thawing loss significantly decreased and cooking loss increased in the breast meat of chickens fed the SPR + BSF compared with those fed Control and SPR diets. Diets did not affect either texture profile or consumer sensory properties of breast meat. The chickens fed the SPR + BSF had the highest total saturated fatty acid and lower polyunsaturated fatty acid content in breast meat than those fed the Control and SPR diets. The essential and nonessential amino acid content of breast meat decreased by the SPR diet compared with the SPR + BSF diet. The chickens fed SPR + BSF diet had higher values of tasty, aromatic, and umami-related amino acids than those fed SPR and Control diets. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that agri-industrial byproducts with or without BSF larvae meal could be used to partially replace soybean meal in broiler diets without affecting technological meat quality traits. The addition of BSF larvae meal to the diet along with agri-industrial by-products improved the amino acid content of the breast meat of chickens but reduced polyunsaturated fatty acid levels.

The potential of supplementing compound organic trace elements at lower levels in Chinese yellow-feathered broiler diets, Part I: Impacts on plasma biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, carcass traits, meat quality, and tissue mineral deposition

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing inorganic trace minerals (ITM) with compound organic trace minerals (OTM) at lower levels on plasma biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, carcass traits, meat quality, and tissue mineral deposition in Chinese yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 960 one-day-old male broilers were randomly allocated to six treatment groups. The birds were fed with either the basal diets (negative control, NC), or diets supplemented with 1,000 mg/kg (positive control, PC), 300 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg ITM or OTM for 53 d, respectively. The results showed that the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the OTM300 group was significantly higher than that of the NC, PC, and ITM300 groups (P < 0.05). Dietary OTM supplementation could significantly increase the serum concentrations of Fe and Cu, promote the deposition of Zn and Cu in breast muscle, and increase Zn content in the tibia of Chinese yellow-feathered broilers (P < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary OTM300 treatment could significantly increase plasma CAT and CuZn-SOD activities, as well as the CAT activity in the liver (P < 0.05). The liver GSH-Px activity of the OTM500 group were significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the supplementation of dietary OTM could significantly increase the pH45min of breast muscle, as well as decrease drip loss24h and drip loss48h of Chinese yellow-feathered broilers (P < 0.05). Furthermore, pH45min was positively correlated with liver T-AOC activity and the concentrations of Zn, Fe, Cu, and Mn in breast muscle, while drip loss48h was negatively correlated with liver T-AOC activity, plasma CAT and CuZn-SOD, as well as the concentration of Cu and Zn in breast muscle. Trace mineral sources or levels had no significant effect on the carcass traits of Chinese yellow-feathered broilers (P > 0.05). Compared with the ITM groups, OTM300 significantly increased the heart index of Chinese yellow-feathered broilers (P < 0.05). Dietary OTM upregulated the mRNA expression of TGF-β and downregulated the mRNA expression of IL-1β in the spleen (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with compound OTM at lower levels could promote the deposition of trace minerals in serum and tissues, enhance antioxidant capacity, and improve the meat quality of Chinese yellow-feathered broilers.

Use of a plant-based flavonoid blend in diet for growth, nutrient digestibility, gut microbiota, blood metabolites, and meat quality in broilers

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the optimal doses of a flavonoid blend (FB) for enhancing cost-efficient production, digestibility, gut-beneficial microbiota, serum metabolites, and meat quality in broilers.

Materials and Methods

For 35 days, 280-day-old chicks (Cobb-500) were randomly allocated to four groups, each containing 70 birds, with 5 replicates. Birds were given FB (gm/kg) at the levels of 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 in a basal diet (corn-soya-based) and designated as the control, 0.2 FB, 0.4 FB, and 0.6 FB groups, respectively. At 35 days, 15 birds from each group were slaughtered to analyze cecum microbiota, serum profiles, meat, and bone quality.

Results

Compared with the control, birds given FB linearly showed better feed intake and overall performance, with the optimum results observed in 0.6 FB. Birds fed FB resulted in linear, quadratic, and cubic improvements in digestibility, with the 0.6 FB group presenting 12% more (p < 0.01) crude protein digestibility than the control. Birds offered either 0.4 FB or 0.6 FB increased (p < 0.01) the population of beneficial bacteria while reducing (p < 0.01) pathogenic bacteria in the cecum compared to the control. Birds fed 0.6 FB showed substantial improvements in beneficial serum metabolites and liver health, along with reduced bad cholesterol compared with the control. Although FB was unaffected (p > 0.05) by dressed yield, meat composition, lightness, or bone characteristics, the 0.6 FB group showed substantially (p < 0.01) more meat redness and bone ash percentage in broilers than in the control.

Conclusions

Supplementing 0.6 gm FB/kg of diet improved growth performance, enhanced digestibility, increased beneficial gut microbiota and serum metabolites, and ameliorated meat quality in broilers.

Substitution of soybean meal for yellow mealworm meal in the diet of slow-growing chickens provides comparable carcass traits and meat quality

1. This study investigated the effects of incorporating yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larval meal as a partial and/or complete substitute for soybean meal on carcass and meat quality in slow-growing chickens.2. A total of 256 one-day-old male broilers were randomly allocated to 1 of 32 experimental units distributed among four treatments (n = 8): the control treatment (C), where soybean (SB) meal was the protein source, and three experimental treatments, in which SB meal was replaced by Tenebrio molitor (TM) larval meal at levels of 50% (T1), 75% (T2) and 100% (T3), respectively. Three different feed phases (1-29; 29-57 and 57-92 d of age) were used for each treatment. All chickens were slaughtered at 92 d of age, with eight animals per treatment randomly selected to assess carcass and meat quality. Near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIR) was used to classify meat quality.3. Carcass traits were not significantly different between treatments, except for head and thigh weight, which were higher in the control group (p < 0.01). In terms of physicochemical characteristics, treatment T2 showed less yellowness (p < 0.05), while water and cooking losses were lower in treatments T1 and T2 (p < 0.01). Meat from both T1 and T2 groups had lower shear forces (p < 0.01), higher moisture content (p < 0.01) and less protein (p < 0.05) compared to treatments C andT3. Birds fed T3 had the highest meat ash content (p < 0.01). Chickens consuming TM had higher monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) levels and lower polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and n-6 acidsPUFA (p < 0.01).4. Substitution of SB with TM is a protein alternative for slow-growing chickens that supports carcass and meat quality comparable to those fed a conventional diet.

L-lysine enhances pork color through antioxidant activity and myoglobin conformational changes

This study aimed to investigate the effect of L-lysine (Lys) on the color of pork and reveal the possible mechanism. The results showed that the L* and a* values increased from 53.69 to 56.32, 56.39, and 56.47, and from 12.93 to 13.21, 13.24, and 13.52 with the addition of 0.1 %, 0.15 % and 0.2 % Lys, respectively. Meanwhile, the oxymyoglobin (Fe2+) levels increased from 21.14 % to 22.63 %, 23.83 %, and 23.53 %, while the metmyoglobin (Fe3+) levels decreased from 44.69 % to 40.28 %, 41.21 %, and 41.63 % with the addition of 0.1 %, 0.15 % and 0.2 % Lys, respectively. Additionally, the addition of Lys increased total sulfhydryl and active sulfhydryl contents, and decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (P<0.05). The particle size and the absolute value of the ζ-potential increased with the addition of Lys, reaching maximum values of 534.39 nm and -13.73 mV, respectively. The molecular dynamics results suggested that Lys can bind to myoglobin (Mb) through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds, forming a stable Lys-Mb complex, acting as a protective shield to prevent the entry of ROS and other oxidizing agents. Finally, the addition of 0.15 % Lys resulted in the highest surface hydrophobicity, which was 5.79 μg. The multispectral results indicated that Lys primarily induces changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of Mb through interactions with tyrosine residues. These changes stabilized the free-moving rings within the amino acid residues of Mb, thereby improving the structural stability of Mb and ultimately enhancing the color stability of pork. In summary, Lys improved meat color stability through a dual mechanism of antioxidation and interaction with Mb to alter its conformational stability.

Docosahexaenoic acid-enriched diet improves the flesh quality of freshwater fish (Megalobrama amblycephala): Evaluation based on nutritional value, texture and flavor

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a potential regulatory substance for flesh quality of fish, while the related evaluation is still barely. In this study, the effects of DHA-enriched diets on the flesh quality of freshwater fish (Megalobrama amblycephala) were investigated systematically. The sub-adult M. amblycephala were randomly fed with control diet (CON), 0.2% DHA diet (DL) or 0.8% DHA diet (DH). After 12-week feeding trial, the DH group flesh had higher concentrations of essential amino acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to the CON group. Meanwhile, the hardness, springiness, shear force and moisture-holding capacity, as well as the values of umami, richness and sweetness were also improved by DH. The non-targeted metabolomics analysis revealed the key metabolites that may have significantly positive influence on flavor. Collectively, the diet supplementation with 0.8% DHA could achieve the improvement of the flesh quality in terms of nutritional value, texture and flavor in freshwater fish.

Effects of black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens L.) as feed supplements on muscle nutrient composition, meat quality, and antioxidant capacity in Qianbei goat

OBJECTIVE

Black soldier fly (BSF) as an animal protein feed source is currently becoming a hot research topic. This study investigated the effects of the BSF as a protein feed source for goats on slaughter performance, muscle nutrient composition, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidant levels.

METHODS

Thirty Qianbei Ma goats (20.30±1.09 kg) were randomly divided into three groups: the control group (GRPC) supplemented with 10% full-fat soybean, treatment 1 (GRPU) supplemented with 10% untreated BSF, and treatment 2 (GRPT) supplemented with 10% heat-treated BSF. One-way analysis of variance among groups (with Fisher's least significant difference post hoc comparison) was used in this study.

RESULTS

The nutrients, amino acids, fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants in muscle were analyzed. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the moisture, dry matter, crude protein, ash, amino acids, and mineral content of the muscles among the three feeding groups. The slaughter rate and carcass weight of the GRPU and GRPT groups were significantly lower (p<0.05). The overall meat quality of the GRPU and GRPT groups decreased (p<0.05). The individual unsaturated fatty acids and total unsaturated fatty acids in the GRPU group were higher (p<0.05) than those in the GRPC and GRPT groups. Both GRPU and GRPT decreased (p<0.05) the antioxidant capacity of the meat.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, the heat-treated BSF had a better effect on meat quality compared to untreated BSF, but there were greater negative effects on the meat quality of GRPU and GRPT than GRPC.

Dietary metabolizable energy and crude protein levels affect Taihe silky fowl growth performance, meat quality, and cecal microbiota during fattening

The effects of dietary metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) on the growth performance, meat quality, and cecal microbiota of Taihe Silky Fowl (TSF) during fattening were investigated. In total, 900 twelve-week-old female fowl were randomly allocated to 9 treatments (5 replicates per group, 20 fowl per replicate), and were fed a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments diets (ME: 11.30, 11.93, or 12.56 MJ/kg; CP: 15%, 16%, or 17%). As ME increased, the average daily feed intake (ADFI, P<0.001), feed conversion ratio (FCR, P<0.001), pectoral and thigh shear forces (P<0.05), pectoral and thigh muscle fiber diameter (P<0.001) decreased significantly, while muscle fiber density increased (P<0.001). Pectoral muscle fiber diameter was lower and muscle fiber density higher at 16% CP than 15% or 17%. As ME increased, pectoral crude fat content increased significantly (P = 0.007). Pectoral crude protein, total amino acid (TAA), and essential amino acid (EAA) content were higher at 15% dietary CP than 16% or 17%. As ME increased, pectoral inosine monophosphate (IMP, P = 0.006), uridylic monophosphate (UMP, P = 0.003), guanylic monophosphate (GMP, P = 0.009), and adenosine monophosphate (AMP, P <0.001) decreased significantly, while hypoxanthine riboside (HxR, P = 0.045) increased. As dietary CP increased, IMP (P = 0.019), AMP (P <0.001), and HxR (P = 0.024) increased significantly. Cecal microbiota composition varied with dietary ME: 12.56 MJ/kg ME increased the abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae, and 15% CP increased that of Paraprevotella. These findings suggest that 12.56 MJ/kg dietary ME and 15% CP can enhance growth performance, improve meat quality by reducing shear force, enhancing flavor and nutritional value, and benefit for intestinal microbiota in fattening TSF.

Effect of Feeding Sugarcane Bagasse-Extracted Polyphenolic Mixture on the Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Oxidative and Inflammatory Status of Chronic Heat-Stressed Broiler Chickens

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sugarcane bagasse-extracted polyphenolic mixture (SBPM) supplementation on the harmful effects of chronic heat stress (HS) in broiler chickens.

METHODS

Two hundred and eighty-eight day-old male Ross 308 chicks were fed an SBPM in 0, 75, 150, or 300 ppm-supplemented diets and reared under thermoneutral (TN, 22.1-24.8 °C) or chronic HS (28.3-36.2 °C) conditions from 11 d to 42 d.

RESULTS

The chronic HS treatment negatively affected body weight, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05), and these changes were partially attenuated by the SBPM supplementation (p < 0.05). Plasma lipid peroxidation content, inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-β], corticosterone, and uric acid concentrations were significantly increased by HS, and these increases were attenuated by the SBPM supplementation (p < 0.05). Intestinal permeability indicator and serum fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran levels after oral gavage were increased by HS and were also suppressed by the supplementation (p < 0.05). The HS-decreased muscle drip loss, lipid peroxidation, and glutathione content were also suppressed by the SBPM supplementation. The abovementioned alleviating effects of the SBPM were of a dose-dependent manner in most cases.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that SBPM supplementation can improve the growth performance, meat quality, inflammation, and intestinal permeability of chronic HS-treated broiler chickens.

Effects of adding mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) as a replacement for fish meal to broiler chicken diet on performance, carcass parameters, meat quality and nutrient digestibility

The objective of the study was to investigate how substituting fish meal (FM) with mealworm larval (Tenebrio molitor L.) meal (TM) in the diet affects the growth performance, meat quality, nutrient digestibility, and carcass of broiler chicks. A total of one hundred chicks were divided into five groups, each containing twenty birds. The fish meal was replaced with mealworm meal at different levels of 25% (TM25), 50% (TM50), 75% (TM75), and 100% (TM100) in the diets. At the end of the study, replacing different levels the fish meal with mealworms linearly suppressed nutrient digestion, growth, carcass parameters, and water holding capacity and cooking loss. However, the best energy efficiency ratios were obtained in the TM100 group. Consequently, it was concluded that replacement of FM with mealworm up to 25% had no adverse effect on growth performance, carcass parameters, meat quality and nutrient utilization efficiency of broiler chickens.

PPM1J regulates meat quality feature and glycerophospholipids composition in broiler by modulating protein dephosphorylation

The quality of broiler meat affects consumers' purchasing decisions. Numerous studies have shown that phosphorylation of proteins in muscle can affect muscle quality. Here, metabolomics and transcriptomics were used to systematically identify the genetic regulation of differences in meat flavor among different broiler. By constructing the meat flavor-related metabolite-gene networks, we identified that protein phosphatase magnesium/manganese-dependent 1J (PPM1J), which is known to regulate a range of biological processes by modulating reversible protein phosphorylation, was a differentially expressed gene with the highest connectivity to meat flavor-related metabolites. Gain- and loss-of-function analysis revealed that PPM1J induced muscular atrophy, improved meat quality and regulated the composition of glycerophospholipids. More importantly, phosphoproteome and metabolome results found that PPM1J participates in the regulation of meat quality feature and glycerophospholipids composition by catalyzing protein dephosphorylation. Our study provides a basis for further understanding the molecular mechanism of meat quality feature and glycerophospholipids composition in broiler.

Effect of crating density and weather conditions during transit on preslaughter losses, physiological characteristics, and meat quality in broilers

The impact of crating density and prevailing weather conditions during transit on preslaughter losses, physiological characteristics, and meat quality in broilers was investigated. A total of 900 35-day-old Ross 308 male broilers with an average body weight of 1,860 ± 17.458 g (mean ± SEM) in summer and 1,864 ± 17.454 g in winter were allotted to one of six groups arranged in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement according to the three different crating densities (low: 0.039 m2/bird; medium: 0.031 m2/bird; high: 0.026 m2/bird) and two different weather conditions (low: -1°C and high: 30°C). Birds stocked at medium density recorded lower (p < 0.05) body weight loss compared to the low density group; and demonstrated higher (p < 0.05) lactate levels along with lower (p < 0.05) respiration rates when compared to the high crating density group. Extreme conditions of low crating density under low air temperature and high crating density under high air temperature led to higher (p < 0.001) body weight loss and glucose concentration compared to low crating density under high air temperature. In conclusion, both excessively high and low crating densities are not conducive to reducing preslaughter losses and blood stress indicators. Broiler transportation under high crating density in low air temperatures and low crating density in high air temperatures is recommended.

Metabolomic profiles and compositional differences involved in flavor characteristics of raw breast meat from slow- and fast-growing chickens in Thailand

This study aimed to differentiate the flavor characteristics of raw chicken breast meat from Thai slow-growing breeds (NC: native chicken, and KC: Korat/crossbred chicken) and fast-growing broilers (BR: broiler chicken) by using NMR-based metabolomic approaches along with multivariate data analysis. Chemical compounds related to chicken's flavor including free amino acids (FAA), ATP and its related compounds, sugars, as well as volatile compounds (VOC), were also investigated. BR had the highest total FAAs, followed by NC and KC (P < 0.05). In contrast, the accumulations of ATP degradation products, particularly ADP and IMP, were found at higher levels in the NC and KC (P < 0.05), while the highest total reducing sugars were noted in the KC (P < 0.05). Most VOCs found in the fresh breasts were products from the degradation of lipids, especially through lipid oxidation, which was found in varied types and proportions among samples. Not only chemical compounds but varying amounts of metabolites among samples were also detected. Apart from 21 identified metabolites, Glu, Gln, and betaine were the most prevalent in all samples with VIP > 1.00. Among 19 metabolic pathways, the most important pathways (P-value < 0.05, FDR < 0.05, impact > 0.05) were discovered to differentiate the flavor of raw chicken breast meat from various breeds. These metabolic pathways included (1) Ala, Asp and Glu metabolism; (2) D-Gln and D-Glu metabolism; (3) Purine metabolism; (4) β-Ala metabolism; (5) Aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis; (6) Nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism; (7) Pyrimidine metabolism. Interestingly, based on the principal component analysis plot and partial least square-discriminant analysis (R2 = 0.9804; Q2 = 0.9782), NC and KC were clustered in the same area and discriminated from BR, indicating their similar flavor characteristics and metabolic profiles. Therefore, the findings could comprehend and distinguish the flavor of chicken breast meat of slow- from fast-growing chicken breeds based on their chemical characteristics and metabolite profiles.

Meta-analysis to predict the effects of probiotics on meat quality of broiler

The demand for chicken meat has surged globally due to its status as a primary protein source in human diets. However, ensuring high-quality meat products has become an increasingly important subject to consumers. In this study, 21 articles from PubMed and Web of Science databases published between 2005 and 2023 were examined to assess the influence of probiotic supplementation on broiler meat quality. The meta-analysis revealed significant findings across various meat quality parameters. Specifically, probiotics were found to significantly affect meat colour parameters, including redness, yellowness, and lightness, in both breast and thigh meat samples. Moreover, significant differences were observed in parameters such as water-holding capacity (p < 0.001), cook loss (p = 0.047), and shear force (p = 0.025) between control and probiotic groups. However, it's essential to note the considerable heterogeneity among the studies, emphasising the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. Despite this variability, the study underscores the potential of probiotics to positively influence broiler meat quality, highlighting avenues for further research and standardisation in poultry production practices. These findings also contribute to a better understanding of probiotics' role in improving meat quality and meeting consumer preferences for nutritious and high-quality poultry products.

Dietary fat content and supplementation with sodium butyrate: effects on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and myopathies in broiler chickens

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the dietary inclusion of microencapsulated sodium butyrate (Na-butyrate; 0, 150, and 300 mg Na-butyrate/kg diet) and dietary fat reduction (7.7% vs. 6.7% in the grower diet; 8.9% vs. 7.7% in the finisher diet) in 792 (half male and half female) broiler chickens on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality and the occurrence of wooden breast (WB), white striping (WS), and spaghetti meat (SM). Dietary supplementation with Na-butyrate did not affect the growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality traits, or myopathy rates. Dietary fat reduction did not influence feed intake (FI) but decreased average daily gain (ADG); increased feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.001); and decreased the occurrence of WS (-38%; P < 0.01), WB (-48%; P < 0.05), and SM (-90%; P < 0.01). Dietary fat reduction also increased cold carcass weight (P < 0.01), carcass yield (P < 0.05), and pectoralis major yield (P < 0.05), whereas meat quality was not affected. Compared to females, males had high body weight, ADG, and FI and low FCR (P < 0.001) at the end of the trial. Moreover, cold carcass weight and hind leg yield were higher in males than in females (P < 0.001), whereas females had higher carcass, breast, and p. major yields (P < 0.001). Males showed a higher rate of WB (P < 0.001) and a lower rate of SM (P < 0.01) than females, whereas WS occurrence did not differ between sexes. In conclusion, Na-butyrate supplementation did not affect growth performance, carcass traits, or meat quality. Conversely, the reduction in dietary fat greatly decreased myopathy occurrence, whereas moderately impaired growth performance.

Effect of Dietary Crude Protein Reduction Levels on Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Nitrogen Utilization, Blood Parameters, Meat Quality, and Welfare Index of Broilers in Welfare-Friendly Environments

We investigated the effects of feeding different levels of crude protein (CP) on broiler performance, blood characteristics, meat quality, nutrient and nitrogen (N) availability, stress levels, and welfare indicators in a welfare environment. A total of 625 eight-day-old male broilers were assigned to five dietary CP levels (control (CON) and 1-4% CP reductions) during the grower (8-21 days) and finisher (22-35 days) periods. The CON diet contained 20% CP in the grower phase and 19% in the finisher phase, while all birds received a 22% CP diet during the starter period (1-7 days). Intriguingly, reducing CP levels in the diet did not significantly affect growth performance. These results may be due to the adequate supplementation of essential amino acids in the diets of all treatments and the compensatory growth observed in the finisher phase. Low-CP diets reduced CP digestibility, N intake, and N excretion, while N retention efficiency improved (p < 0.001). Serum total protein (TP) levels decreased equally with decreasing CP in the diet, and the crude fat content in meat increased linearly (p < 0.01). The litter moisture content and pH decreased with lower CP levels, and the welfare indices (footpad dermatitis (FPD), serum corticosterone, etc.) improved (p < 0.01). In conclusion, an appropriate reduction in CP levels in their diet can enhance broiler welfare by reducing N excretion and improving litter quality without adversely affecting performance.

Dietary oyster mushroom fermented Vachellia erioloba pods enhance Boschveld chicken meat healthiness without altering its physicochemical quality, growth performance and physiology

The high content of fibre and antinutritional phytochemicals limit the utilization of Vachellia erioloba tree pods as nutraceutical feed additive for indigenous chicken diets. The pods can however be solid-state fermented using oyster mushrooms to enhance the nutritional utility of their spent substrate for the nutrition of the native birds. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of dietary incorporation of V. erioloba pods oyster mushroom spent substrate (OMSS) on growth performance, carcass traits, visceral organs, haemato-biochemistry, and meat quality including its fatty acid composition in Boschveld chickens. In a completely randomized design, 250 4-week old mixed gender Boschveld chicks were randomly allotted to 25 pens in which they were offered treatment diets (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10% OMSS) each with 5 replicates of 10 for 12 weeks and then slaughtered. While there were neither linear nor quadratic effects of diet on overall feed intake (FI) (P > 0.05) and body weight gain (BWG) (P > 0.05), dietary incorporation of OMSS decreased overall feed conversion efficiency (FCE) (quadratic: P < 0.05) particularly in weeks 5 (linear: P < 0.05), 6 (quadratic: P < 0.01) and 11 (quadratic: P < 0.05) with no effects in subsequent weeks (P > 0.05). Also, OMSS induced no effects on all carcass characteristics, visceral organs, haemato-biochemistry and meat physico-chemical quality (P > 0.05) except for the increase in serum albumin (quadratic: P < 0.05) and bilirubin (quadratic: P < 0.05) as well as 24 h post-slaughter meat lightness (linear: P < 0.01), redness (quadratic: P < 0.05), yellowness (linear: P < 0.05), hue angle (quadratic: P < 0.05), and drip loss (quadratic: P < 0.05). Further, the spent substrate decreased meat myristic (linear: P < 0.01), palmitic (linear: P < 0.05), palmitoleic (linear: P < 0.01), and oleic (linear: P < 0.01) acids, as well as its total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (linear: P < 0.05), monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) (quadratic: P < 0.01), and n-6 PUFAs (linear: P < 0.05). Furthermore, it decreased the meat n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio (quadratic: P < 0.01), with meat from birds fed diets incorporated with 2.5% OMSS eliciting the lowest ratio of 3.63. In contrast, dietary OMSS increased meat stearic (linear: P < 0.001), docosahexaenoic (quadratic: P < 0.01), and tricosanoic (linear: P < 0.001) acid concentrations as well as its total saturated FAs (SFAs) (linear: P < 0.01) and n-3 PUFAs (quadratic: P < 0.01). In conclusion, dietary feeding of V. erioloba pods-derived OMSS enhanced meat nutritional healthiness without majorly altering its physico-chemical quality as well as growth performance, carcass traits, and haemato-biochemistry in Boschveld indigenous chickens. It is recommended for inclusion in indigenous chicken diets at 2.5% level.

Identification of Potential Biomarkers and Spectral Fingerprinting for Detection of Foodborne Pathogens in Raw Chicken Meat Matrix Using GCMS and FTIR

Foodborne illnesses pose a serious threat to public health, with increasing global incidence rates driven by factors such as rising meat consumption. Rapid detection of foodborne pathogens in meat is critical for preventing outbreaks. This study investigates the potential of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for identifying biomarkers and spectral fingerprints indicative of foodborne pathogens in raw chicken meat. Raw broiler chicken meat samples were surface-sterilized and inoculated with foodborne pathogens. The samples were challenge inoculated with the specific pathogen and the physical quality parameters like pH, color, texture, drip loss, and water activity were assessed. GC-MS analysis identified 113 metabolites, including potential biomarkers like ureidopropionic acid, 5-sulfosalicylic acid, 11,14-eicosadienoic acid, methyl ester for E. coli O157:H7; 11-bromoundecanoic acid, neocurdione, glafenin, eicosanoic acid for Salmonella; azepan-1-yl-acetic acid, methyl ester, tramadol, cytarabine, dipipanone for Staphylococcus and cyclopentaneundecanoic acid, phosphonofluoridic acid, î-n-formyl-l-lysine for Pseudomonas. Pathway analysis revealed the involvement of fatty acid metabolism and amino acid degradation pathways. FTIR spectral data showed significant variances between control and spiked samples, particularly in the fatty acid spectral region. The identified metabolites and spectral patterns could serve as biomarkers for developing rapid pathogen detection methods, contributing to enhanced food safety protocols.

Dietary niacin supplementation improves meat quality, muscle fiber type, and mitochondrial function in heat-stressed Taihe black-bone silky fowls

Background

A recent study has shown that niacin supplementation induces the conversion of type II to type I muscle fibres, thereby promoting a phenotypic shift in oxidative metabolism in porcine skeletal muscle. These effects may be mediated by modulation of the AMPK1/SIRT1 pathway, which activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), a key regulator of fibre conversion, thereby promoting skeletal muscle mitochondrial biogenesis and myofibre conversion. In this study, we explored how niacin (NA) supplementation impacts the quality of meat and the characteristics of muscle fibers in Taihe Black-bone Silky Fowls (TBsf) exposed to heat conditions.

Methods

Chickens were rationally assigned to five different treatment groups with five replicates of six chickens each: thermophilic (TN), heat stress (HS) and HS + NA (HN) groups, with the HN group being supplemented with 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg (HS + NA0.02, HS + NA0.04 and HS + NA0.08) NA in the premix, respectively.

Results

The results of the experiment showed that addition of 800 mg/kg NA to the diet significantly improved TBsf muscle tenderness compared to HS. Dietary enrichment with 200-800 mg/kg NA significantly increased total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities, while significantly decreasing malondialdehyde compared to HS. Incorporation of 200-800 mg/kg NA into the diet significantly reduced lactate dehydrogenase activity and myosin heavy chain (MyHC-IIB) gene expression. Furthermore, adding 800 mg/kg NA can significantly enhance the mRNA expression of mitochondrial transcription factors (TFAM and TFB1M) in TBsf skeletal muscle. Adding 400 and 800 mg/kg of NA significantly increased the mRNA expression of AMP-activated protein kinase 1 (AMPK1), PGC-1α, cytochrome c oxidase (Cytc), and nuclear respiratory factor (NRF-1) in the skeletal muscle of TBsf. Supplementing NA at 200-400 mg/kg significantly increased the expression of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) mRNA in TBsf skeletal muscle.

Conclusion

The experimental results showed that the addition of NA to the diet reduced the shear force of TBsf muscle under heat exposure conditions. It increased the proportion of type I muscle fibres by increasing the antioxidant capacity of the muscle and by promoting mitochondr fibreial biogenesis. Considering the results of this study, it is recommended that TBsf be supplemented with 400-800 mg/kg of NA in the diet to reduce the adverse effects of heat stress on meat quality.

Responses of Jumbo Quail to a Diet Containing Corticated Marama Bean (Tylosema esculentum) Meal Pre-Treated with Fibrolytic Multi-Enzymes

The nutritional utility of leguminous products such as corticated marama bean (Tylosema esculentum) meal (CMBM) in quail diets is limited by high fibre levels. This study evaluated the impact of dietary CMBM pre-treated with fibrolytic multi-enzyme (FMENZ) on growth performance, and physiological and meat quality responses in Jumbo Coturnix quail. Two hundred and forty 7-day-old Jumbo quail (29.4 ± 2.72 g initial live weight) were randomly distributed to five experimental diets, with six replicate cages each (eight birds/cage). The diets were a grower diet without CMBM, and the same grower diet plus 100 g/kg CMBM pre-treated with 0, 1, 1.5, and 2% (v/w) FMENZ. Positive quadratic responses (p < 0.05) were recorded for overall feed intake and body weight gain in weeks 2 and 3. The control diet promoted the highest (p < 0.05) gain-to-feed ratio in weeks 2 and 3, and the best weight gains and glucose levels, but reduced lipase levels. Final body weights declined linearly [p = 0.037] with FMENZ levels. Breast pH increased linearly, while haemoglobin and 1 h post-mortem chroma showed positive quadratic effects (p < 0.05) with FMENZ levels. The use of the enzymes did not improve the feed value of CMBM in Jumbo quail diets.

Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals the Genetic Architecture of Growth and Meat Production Traits in a Chicken F2 Resource Population

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

For genomic selection to enhance the efficiency of broiler production, finding SNPs and candidate genes that define the manifestation of main selected traits is essential. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for growth and meat productivity traits of roosters from a chicken F2 resource population (n = 152).

METHODS

The population was obtained by crossing two breeds with contrasting phenotypes for performance indicators, i.e., Russian White (slow-growing) and Cornish White (fast-growing). The birds were genotyped using the Illumina Chicken 60K SNP iSelect BeadChip. After LD filtering of the data, 54,188 SNPs were employed for the GWAS analysis that allowed us to reveal significant specific associations for phenotypic traits of interest and economic importance.

RESULTS

At the threshold value of p < 9.2 × 10-7, 83 SNPs associated with body weight at the age of 28, 42, and 63 days were identified, as well as 171 SNPs associated with meat qualities (average daily gain, slaughter yield, and dressed carcass weight and its components). Moreover, 34 SNPs were associated with a group of three or more traits, including 15 SNPs significant for a group of growth traits and 5 SNPs for a group of meat productivity indicators. Relevant to these detected SNPs, nine prioritized candidate genes associated with the studied traits were revealed, including WNT2, DEPTOR, PPA2, UNC80, DDX51, PAPPA, SSC4D, PTPRU, and TLK2.

CONCLUSIONS

The found SNPs and candidate genes can serve as genetic markers for growth and meat performance characteristics in chicken breeding in order to achieve genetic improvement in broiler production.

Weak purifying selection in allelic diversity of the ADSL gene in indigenous and local chicken breeds and red junglefowl in Thailand

High levels of purine and uric acid, which are associated with health issues such as gout and cardiovascular disease, are found in the meat of fast-growing broiler chickens, which raises concerns about the quality of chicken meat and the health of the consumers who consume it. High genetic homogeneity and uniformity, particularly in genes involved in the synthesis of inosine monophosphate (IMP) and subsequent process of purine synthesis, which are associated with the meat quality, are exhibited in commercial broiler chickens owing to intensive inbreeding programs. Adenosine succinate lyase (ADSL) is a key enzyme involved in de novo purine biosynthetic pathway and its genetic polymorphisms affect IMP metabolism and purine content. In this study, we investigated the polymorphism of the ADSL gene in indigenous and local chicken breeds and red junglefowl in Thailand, using metabarcoding and genetic diversity analyses. Five alleles with 73 single nucleotide polymorphisms in exon 2, including missense and silent mutations, which may act on the synthesis efficiency of IMP and purine. Their protein structures revealed changes in amino acid composition that may affect ADSL enzyme activity. Weak purifying selection in these ADSL alleles was observed in the chicken population studied, implying that the variants have minor fitness impacts and a greater probability of fixation of beneficial mutations than strong purifying selection. A potential selective sweep was observed in Mae Hong Son chickens, whose purine content was lower than that in other breeds. This suggests a potential correlation between variations of the ADSL gene and reduced purine content and an impact of ADSL expression on the quality of chicken meat. However, further studies are required to validate its potential availability as a genetic marker for selecting useful traits that are beneficial to human health and well-being.

Impacts of dietary supplementation of chitosan nanoparticles on growth, carcass traits nutrient digestibility, blood biochemistry, intestinal microbial load, and meat quality of broilers

This study explores the impact of chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, blood biochemical, immunity, microbial load, carcass traits, and meat attributes of broilers. A total of 200 7-d-old Cobb chicks were distributed to 4 groups, each replicated 5 times, with 10 birds in each replicate. The experimental diets were as follows: First group was fed a basal diet only (control); 2nd, 3rd, and 4th groups received a basal diet supplemented with 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 g CNP/kg of feed, respectively. Results showed that the body weight (BW) and body weight gain significantly improved (P < 0.05) in the birds belonging to the 0.4 CNP group compared to the other groups. The best feed efficiency (feed conversion ratio [FCR]) was found in the group supplemented with a 0.4-g CNP/kg diet. The digestibility coefficients for dry matter and crude protein were significantly higher, and ether extract was significantly lower in the 0.4 g CNP/kg group than in other groups (P < 0.05). Broiler birds of the 0.4 CNP group had significantly (P < 0.05) reduced serum cholesterol, AST, and ALT levels. The humoral immunity (increased serum IgG and IgM levels) tended to improve in birds fed 0.3 and 0.4 g CNP/kg of feed. Compared to the control, total bacterial load and coliform count decreased significantly (P < 0.05) by supplementing 0.4 g CNP in the diet. The dressing weight, breast weight, and abdominal fat % were altered in birds receiving dietary 0.4 g CNP/kg. The treatment with CNP at 0.4 g/kg feed enhanced the broiler meat quality by increasing the values for water holding capacity, ABTS [2, 2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)], DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) while reducing the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value. Based on the results above, it could be concluded that CNP supplementation at 0.4 g/kg is recommended as a beneficial feed additive for broiler chickens.