Source: Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 12/8/14


Using litter amendments during grow-out may improve poultry production, broiler health and the environment, according to new research funded by the USPOULTRY Foundation.

Researchers at the University of Delaware field-tested a novel method to apply a litter amendment at various times throughout the life of broiler flocks. This, according to the results of the project, “Effects of Frequent Application of Litter Amendments in Broiler Houses during Grow-out on Animal Health, Production and Environment.”

They found that more frequent applications of the litter amendment during grow-out not only reduced NH3 emissions but also improved live production parameters, improved foot pad quality and reduced salmonella isolations from the litter.

Although litter amendments have shown promise as a cost-effective and viable technology to reduce NH3 emission, their application has been limited to the few days before birds' placements due to health and safety concerns related to acid materials.

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