[Muhammad Ahmad]

I think it’s good to use in drinking water.in hot weather feed consumption already decreased.

[Muhammad Ahmad]

The short answer is a definitive yes, enzymes absolutely work in poultry. Their efficacy is no longer a matter of debate but is a well-established scientific fact backed by decades of research and practical application in the field.

Let’s delve into the details.

Do Enzymes Really Work? The Evidence and Mechanism

The question is not if they work, but how and under what conditions. Their effectiveness hinges on understanding their mechanism:

1. Countering Anti-Nutritional Factors (ANFs): The primary target in plant-based ingredients (like soybean meal, corn, wheat, and barley) is the cell wall, composed of Non-Starch Polysaccharides (NSPs).

· In Soluble NSPs: In grains like wheat, barley, and rye, soluble NSPs (e.g., arabinoxylans, beta-glucans) create a viscous gel in the gut. This gel:

· Traps nutrients, preventing their access to digestive enzymes.

· Impairs nutrient absorption.

· Leads to wet, sticky litter (a clear sign of poor digestion).

· Enzyme Action: NSP-degrading enzymes (xylanase, beta-glucanase) break down these soluble fibers, reducing viscosity, releasing trapped nutrients, and improving gut health and litter quality.

2. Unlocking Phosphorus and Minerals: A significant portion of phosphorus in plant ingredients (60-80%) is stored as phytate (phytic acid).

· Phytate is poorly digested by poultry as they lack the endogenous enzyme phytase.

· Phytate also chelates (binds) other critical minerals like Calcium, Zinc, Manganese, and Copper, making them unavailable.

· Enzyme Action: Phytase breaks down phytate, liberating the bound phosphorus and minerals. This is the most successful and widely adopted enzyme in the industry. Its benefits are so profound that we now use “super-dosing” levels to unlock additional energy and amino acids from the diet.

3. Improving Standardized Ileal Digestibility (SID): By breaking down the fibrous cell walls, enzymes expose the protein and starch inside to the bird’s own proteases and amylases. This leads to a measurable increase in the digestibility of amino acids and energy, allowing for more precise and cost-effective diet formulation.

In my experience, the proof is seen in:

· Improved FCR: Better nutrient utilization directly translates to less feed per kg of body weight.

· Reduced Nutrient Excretion: This is a major environmental benefit, significantly lowering phosphorus and nitrogen in manure.

· Better Litter Quality: Reduced viscosity leads to drier litter, which improves paw quality and reduces ammonia levels.

· Cost-Effective Formulation: The “matrix values” for energy, amino acids, and phosphorus provided by enzymes allow for the use of lower-cost, alternative ingredients without sacrificing performance.

—

Beneficial Enzyme Cocktails: A Strategic Approach

No single enzyme works for all situations. The ideal cocktail is dictated by the dietary composition.

Here is a breakdown of the most beneficial enzymes and how they are combined:

1. The Base Cocktail for Corn-Soybean Meal Diets

This is the most common diet globally.

· Primary Enzyme: Phytase

· Role: Liberates phosphorus, calcium, and other minerals. With super-dosing (500 FTU/kg and above), it also improves energy and amino acid digestibility by breaking down the protein-phytate complex.

· Experience: This is non-negotiable. The return on investment is exceptional.

· Secondary Enzyme: Protease

· Role: Breaks down specific protein bonds that are resistant to the bird’s endogenous proteases (e.g., in soybean meal and other protein sources). It helps overcome the variability in protein digestibility of ingredients.

· Benefit: Improves amino acid digestibility, reduces undigested protein in the lower gut (which can feed pathogenic bacteria like Clostridium), and supports gut health.

· My Thought: Protease is increasingly moving from a “nice-to-have” to a “must-have” in corn-soy diets, especially in markets with variable ingredient quality or when using alternative protein sources.

· Tertiary Enzyme: Xylanase (or a multi-Carbohydrase)

· Role: While corn is low in soluble NSPs, it still contains a significant amount of insoluble arabinoxylans. Xylanase helps break down these fibers, releasing encapsulated energy and starch.

· Benefit: Provides a consistent energy boost, improves starch digestibility in the ileum, and supports gut integrity.

Recommended Cocktail for Corn-Soy: Phytase + Protease + Xylanase

2. The Comprehensive Cocktail for Wheat/Barley/Rye-Based Diets

These grains are high in soluble NSPs, making NSP-enzymes absolutely critical.

· Primary Enzyme: NSPase Cocktail (Xylanase + Beta-Glucanase)

· Xylanase: Targets arabinoxylans in wheat and rye.

· Beta-Glucanase: Targets beta-glucans in barley and oats.

· Role: Drastically reduce gut viscosity, unlock trapped nutrients, and prevent wet litter.

· Secondary Enzyme: Phytase

· Just as important as in corn-based diets to unlock phosphorus and minerals.

· Tertiary Enzyme: Protease & Amylase

· Protease: As above.

· Amylase: Can help further improve starch digestion, especially in young chicks with underdeveloped enzyme systems or during heat stress when enzyme secretion may be reduced.

Recommended Cocktail for Wheat/Barley: Xylanase + Beta-Glucanase + Phytase + Protease

3. The “Next Generation” & Gut Health Cocktail

This approach focuses on maximizing gut health and prebiotic effects.

· Enzymes: Multi-Carbohydrase Complexes

· These are advanced cocktails that include xylanase, beta-glucanase, cellulase, pectinase, mannanase, etc.

· Role: Their goal is not just to reduce viscosity but to thoroughly break down a wide range of fiber structures into smaller fragments called Prebiotic Oligosaccharides.

· Benefit: These oligosaccharides selectively feed beneficial gut bacteria (like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria), acting as a prebiotic. This leads to a more robust and stable gut microbiome, which is the cornerstone of immunity and overall health.

· My Experience: The shift from single-enzyme to multi-enzyme complexes is one of the most significant advancements. The benefits in gut health and flock uniformity, particularly in antibiotic-reduction programs, are very clear.

Key Considerations for Effective Use

1. Diet-Specific Formulation: You must match the enzyme to the substrate in the diet. Using a beta-

[Bello Bashir]

Yes, enzymes work in poultry to improve nutrient digestion and overall performance. A beneficial enzyme cocktail typically includes phytase, proteases, amylase, and xylanase to help break down non-starch polysaccharides, proteins, and starches, respectively. This combination improves digestibility, nutrient absorption, and can lead to a more efficient feed conversion ratio, better bone health, and reduced environmental impact from phosphorus excretion.

[Bello Bashir]

Well appreciated

[Bello Bashir]

Well detailed

[Muhammad Ahmad]

While all amino acids are essential, and a balanced profile is crucial, the single most critical amino acid for supporting immunity during early brooding is Methionine.

Here is a detailed breakdown of why Methionine takes the top spot, along with other key contenders.

The Primary Answer: Methionine

Methionine is considered the first limiting amino acid in most practical poultry diets, especially those based on corn and soybean meal. Its role in immunity is profound and multi-faceted:

1. Precursor for Cysteine and Taurine: Methionine can be converted into Cysteine (a conditionally essential amino acid). Together, they are the primary sulfur-containing amino acids (SAA) used for:

· Glutathione Synthesis: Glutathione is the body’s most powerful antioxidant. A robust antioxidant system is vital for protecting immune cells (like lymphocytes and macrophages) from oxidative damage as they fight pathogens.

· Taurine Synthesis: Taurine plays a role in regulating inflammation and supporting the function of immune cells.

2. Direct Protein Synthesis for Immune Cells: Methionine is a fundamental building block for all proteins. During an immune challenge, the body rapidly produces immunoglobulins (antibodies), cytokines, and new immune cells. A shortage of methionine directly impairs this rapid-response protein synthesis.

3. Methyl Group Donor: Methionine is a key methyl donor in countless biochemical reactions through its role in the SAMe (S-Adenosyl Methionine) cycle. This is critical for:

· DNA and RNA synthesis, which is essential for the rapid proliferation of immune cells.

· Cellular function and regulation, including that of immune cells.

In practical terms: A deficiency in methionine will not only stunt growth and feathering but will also lead to a visibly compromised immune system. Chicks will be more susceptible to early challenges like E. coli, Salmonella, and Coccidiosis.

—

Other Critical Contenders in the “Immunity Team”

It’s important to recognize that amino acids work in concert. Highlighting methionine doesn’t diminish the vital role of others:

· Threonine: This is arguably the second most critical for immunity. A significant portion of dietary threonine is used for the synthesis of mucoproteins in the gut mucosa and antibodies (IgG and IgA). A strong gut mucosa is the first line of defense against pathogens. If the gut barrier is compromised due to threonine deficiency, pathogens have easy access to the body.

· Lysine: This is typically the second limiting amino acid. It is essential for the production of antibodies and the proliferation of immune cells. While its primary role is often associated with growth (protein accretion), this process is inseparable from building a competent immune system.

· Arginine: Crucial during periods of immune stress. It is a precursor for nitric oxide, a potent molecule used by macrophages to kill intracellular pathogens. It also supports T-cell function and wound healing.

Practical Implications for the Brooding Phase

1. The “Limiting” Concept: The bird’s ability to use all other amino acids for growth and immunity is limited by the first limiting amino acid (usually Methionine). You can have a diet rich in Threonine and Arginine, but if Methionine is deficient, the immune system cannot utilize them effectively.

2. Early Development: The brooding phase is a period of rapid development of both the somatic body and the immune system. The demands for amino acids are extremely high. Any deficiency during this critical window can have long-lasting effects on flock uniformity and disease resilience.

3. Dietary Specification: Modern broiler diets are precisely formulated on a digestible amino acid basis. Nutritionists ensure that the SAA (Methionine + Cysteine) and Lysine levels are met first, followed by Threonine, Arginine, and others, in that order of priority.

Summary

Amino Acid Primary Immune Function(s) Reason for Critical Status

Methionine 1. Glutathione (Antioxidant) synthesis 2. Precursor for Cysteine 3. Methylation (DNA/RNA synthesis) First limiting amino acid; foundational for antioxidant defense and rapid immune cell production.

Threonine 1. Gut mucosa integrity 2. Antibody (IgA, IgG) production Critical for the first physical barrier against pathogens and humoral immunity.

Lysine 1. Antibody and immune cell protein synthesis Second limiting amino acid; essential for overall protein accretion, including immune components.

Arginine 1. Nitric oxide production (macrophage function) 2. T-cell function Vital for cell-mediated immunity and killing intracellular pathogens.

Conclusion:

For a brief, direct answer: Methionine is the most critical amino acid for supporting immunity during early brooding due to its role as the first limiting amino acid and its unique functions in antioxidant production and cellular methylation, which are foundational to a rapid and effective immune response.

A successful brooding program must be built on a diet that adequately meets the methionine requirement, supported by a balanced profile of all other essential amino acids.Of course. This is an excellent question that gets to the heart of proactive poultry management.

While all amino acids are essential, and a balanced profile is crucial, the single most critical amino acid for supporting immunity during early brooding is Methionine.

Here is a detailed breakdown of why Methionine takes the top spot, along with other key contenders.

The Primary Answer: Methionine

Methionine is considered the first limiting amino acid in most practical poultry diets, especially those based on corn and soybean meal. Its role in immunity is profound and multi-faceted:

1. Precursor for Cysteine and Taurine: Methionine can be converted into Cysteine (a conditionally essential amino acid). Together, they are the primary sulfur-containing amino acids (SAA) used for:
· Glutathione Synthesis: Glutathione is the body’s most powerful antioxidant. A robust antioxidant system is vital for protecting immune cells (like lymphocytes and macrophages) from oxidative damage as they fight pathogens.
· Taurine Synthesis: Taurine plays a role in regulating inflammation and supporting the function of immune cells.
2. Direct Protein Synthesis for Immune Cells: Methionine is a fundamental building block for all proteins. During an immune challenge, the body rapidly produces immunoglobulins (antibodies), cytokines, and new immune cells. A shortage of methionine directly impairs this rapid-response protein synthesis.
3. Methyl Group Donor: Methionine is a key methyl donor in countless biochemical reactions through its role in the SAMe (S-Adenosyl Methionine) cycle. This is critical for:
· DNA and RNA synthesis, which is essential for the rapid proliferation of immune cells.
· Cellular function and regulation, including that of immune cells.

In practical terms: A deficiency in methionine will not only stunt growth and feathering but will also lead to a visibly compromised immune system. Chicks will be more susceptible to early challenges like E. coli, Salmonella, and Coccidiosis.

—

Other Critical Contenders in the “Immunity Team”

It’s important to recognize that amino acids work in concert. Highlighting methionine doesn’t diminish the vital role of others:

· Threonine: This is arguably the second most critical for immunity. A significant portion of dietary threonine is used for the synthesis of mucoproteins in the gut mucosa and antibodies (IgG and IgA). A strong gut mucosa is the first line of defense against pathogens. If the gut barrier is compromised due to threonine deficiency, pathogens have easy access to the body.
· Lysine: This is typically the second limiting amino acid. It is essential for the production of antibodies and the proliferation of immune cells. While its primary role is often associated with growth (protein accretion), this process is inseparable from building a competent immune system.
· Arginine: Crucial during periods of immune stress. It is a precursor for nitric oxide, a potent molecule used by macrophages to kill intracellular pathogens. It also supports T-cell function and wound healing.

Practical Implications for the Brooding Phase

1. The “Limiting” Concept: The bird’s ability to use all other amino acids for growth and immunity is limited by the first limiting amino acid (usually Methionine). You can have a diet rich in Threonine and Arginine, but if Methionine is deficient, the immune system cannot utilize them effectively.
2. Early Development: The brooding phase is a period of rapid development of both the somatic body and the immune system. The demands for amino acids are extremely high. Any deficiency during this critical window can have long-lasting effects on flock uniformity and disease resilience.
3. Dietary Specification: Modern broiler diets are precisely formulated on a digestible amino acid basis. Nutritionists ensure that the SAA (Methionine + Cysteine) and Lysine levels are met first, followed by Threonine, Arginine, and others, in that order of priority.

Summary

Amino Acid Primary Immune Function(s) Reason for Critical Status
Methionine 1. Glutathione (Antioxidant) synthesis 2. Precursor for Cysteine 3. Methylation (DNA/RNA synthesis) First limiting amino acid; foundational for antioxidant defense and rapid immune cell production.
Threonine 1. Gut mucosa integrity 2. Antibody (IgA, IgG) production Critical for the first physical barrier against pathogens and humoral immunity.
Lysine 1. Antibody and immune cell protein synthesis Second limiting amino acid; essential for overall protein accretion, including immune components.
Arginine 1. Nitric oxide production (macrophage function) 2. T-cell function Vital for cell-mediated immunity and killing intracellular pathogens.

Conclusion:

For a brief, direct answer: Methionine is the most critical amino acid for supporting immunity during early brooding due to its role as the first limiting amino acid and its unique functions in antioxidant production and cellular methylation, which are foundational to a rapid and effective immune response.

A successful brooding program must be built on a diet that adequately meets the methionine requirement, supported by a balanced profile of all other essential amino acids.

[Muhammad Ahmad]

Thanks

Appreciated

[India]

Please read this article in the attachment on quick assessment of Soybean meal quality.

– Dr Malathi

3-simple-tests-that-tell-you-everything-about-soybean-meal-quality.pdf 749 KB PDF - Click to view

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[Elizabeth Aborisade]

Methionine

[Elizabeth Aborisade]

Water temperature between 18-21°C is considered ideal for poultry birds. Water temperatures between 25- 30°C can be beneficial. Thank you

[India]

Do enzymes really work in poultry?

If so, which enzymes (cocktail) are beneficial? Please share your thought/experience..

-Dr Malathi

[India]

There are many additives which have proven to improve gut health, in terms of improving gut integrity, reducing pathogen load, increasing beneficial microbes load, increasing SCFA, etc

Few of such commonly used additives, which have given positive response are, Probiotics (multiple species), prebiotics, postbiotics (metabolites of probiotic species) organic acids – butyrate (coated/encapsulated), plant extracts (garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, thymol etc) etc

– Dr Malathi

[India]

Please read the article on Fowl pox in the RESOURCE CATALOG section for complete details

– Dr Malathi

[Muhammad Ahmad]

Thanks

[India]

In addition, regular screening of the flock and culling the positive birds

– Dr Malathi