Source: Michael Fielding, MEATINGPLACE, 12/9/16


Three well-defined, degenerative breast diseases of broiler chickens — woody breast, white striping and deep pectoral myopathy — are not associated with infectious or pathogenic agents, nor do they present a threat to food safety, according to a new report by the American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP).

All three breast diseases have been seen in all breed crosses of broiler chickens as early as 2 weeks of age, with varying prevalence under a wide-range of slaughter weights, management, feeding and rearing systems.

The cause of these conditions have not yet been identified. However, inadequate blood supply to the tissues — which may result from sudden exertion, overstretching and/or compression — as well as a lower rate of blood supply and a decline in metabolic waste-product removal (carbon dioxide and lactic acid) from the muscle fibers are “likely to be involved,” according to AAAP.

The AAAP white paper, “Breast Muscle Abnormalities in Broiler Chickens,” was authored by S.F. Bilgili, PhD, poultry professor emeritus at Auburn University.

Consumer preference for white meat and economic forces have led to a steady increase in the market weight of broiler chickens. Nevertheless, from a development standpoint, the birds are considered juveniles when slaughtered, according to the report. In addition, it is a period when there is a high rate of cellular protein synthesis and accumulation, which leads to efficient animal growth, including the muscle tissue.

While research is ongoing to help reduce or prevent these conditions, processors are conducting comprehensive quality controls and removing affected fillets to maintain product quality specifications.

The American Association of Avian Pathologists is an international association whose mission is to promote scientific knowledge to enhance the health, well-being and productivity of poultry to provide safe and abundant food for the world.

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