Using phytogenic supplements to manage coccidiosis in broilers

Using phytogenic supplements to manage coccidiosis in broilers

We all know that the parasite which causes coccidiosis in poultry (of the genus Eimeria) is ever-present in the shed and farm environment. The parasite attaches itself to the gut wall where it reproduces in several cycles before being excreted out to mature and start the cycle all over again. Not surprisingly, this cycle eventually takes its toll on the gut lining of the bird, hampering its ability to absorb nutrients and potentially leading to enteric issues. It takes 21-28 days for the parasite to build in sufficient numbers for the symptoms to start showing, by which time performance will have been compromised.

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Concerns over traditional treatment

Traditionally, coccidiosis has been controlled by the routine use of antibiotics, but legislation is looming which will put an end to this. The medical community has long voiced concerns about the over-use of antibiotics within animal rearing for food, leading to humans developing a dangerous antibiotic resistance. It is believed that regular consumption of eggs and meat from broilers that have been routinely treated with antibiotics would add to this resistance. The EU has already banned all forms of routine antibiotic use for farm animals as well as imports of meat and eggs that have been produced using antibiotics to stimulate rapid growth. Many UK poultry producers have also started cutting back or eliminating antibiotic use on their farms in the face of anticipated UK legislation.

Prevention is better than cure

Concerns around the over-use of antibiotics are entirely understandable, but it stands to reason that it would be better to prevent the disease from getting a hold in the first place, thereby removing the need for antibiotics entirely. Coccidiosis can spread quickly in a large flock, affecting performance and profitability. Increasingly, forward thinking farmers are using nutritional supplements called phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) to prevent coccidiosis from the outset.

Sometimes referred to as botanicals or phytobiotics, PFAs contain natural, plant-based bioactive molecules which can enhance gut health and disrupt the reproduction of the parasite that causes coccidiosis (as well as other parasites). Essentially, PFAs are a preventative measure rather than a cure. They can be a cost-effective, natural source of microbial suppression for poultry producers looking to reduce antibiotic use on their farms.

TriCox+ is a completely natural PFA which is rapidly setting itself head and shoulders above other products in its class. It consists of a carefully selected mixture of phytogenic components designed to keep your flock fighting fit during the most sensitive time window of the production cycle. It is a powerful tool in coccidiosis control management.

A UK trial recently compared TriCox+ against a leading competitor product across four sheds.

Detailed data was recorded and the TriCox+ sheds showed improved feed conversion, drier litter with reduced hock and podo scores, and reduced incidence of coccidiosis. You can read the full trial report here.

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TriCox+ helps promote health and vitality in poultry by using the following active ingredients:

  • Artemisinin slows down the reproduction rate of the parasite, and its flavonoid and phenolic compounds help birds maintain vital beneficial microflora and absorb nutrients from feed. These compounds also improve the innate and acquired immune response in poultry.
  • Turmeric helps to maintain the intestinal barrier function of the gut and has been found to increase weight gain. The curcumines in turmeric are well known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidative capacities.
  • Fenugreek contains high levels of diosgenin (phytosteroid sapogenin) which is a known gut health promotor.
  • Garlic contains allicin and other sulphur compounds which inhibit the sporulation of Eimeria sp. Garlic can also increase the absorptive capacity in the duodenum by enlarging the intestinal villi.

See for yourself

In addition to TriCox+ outperforming a leading competitor in the trial, we have also been hearing very positive feedback from customers who are already using TriCox+ in their sheds. Contact the Interhatch team to arrange a trial of TriCox+ and discover the benefits for yourself.