Effect of a probiotic mixture with lactic acid activity on productive and allometric indicators in broiler chickens

Abstract

Background and Aim: The feeding and sanitary conditions significantly influence the productivity of farm animals. This study aimed to assess the impact of a lactic acid-producing microbial additive on broiler chicken productivity. Materials and Methods: A 42-day experimental period utilized 120 1-day-old Cobb 500 chicks with an average weight of 46 g. In groups of 30 each, the chicks were randomly assigned to four experimental designs. The following treatments were assessed: T1 without intervention (control), T2 with bacitracin at a concentration of 0.5 g/L, T3 with a 5% probiotic mixture (PM), and T4 with a 7.5% PM. The birds were fed the commercial balanced feed without anticoccidials daily, while vaccines were administered according to the recommended biosecurity plan by the commercial house. Drinking water was treated with PM containing lactobacilli, yeasts, and short-chain organic acids. Results: In T4, a 7.5% PM resulted in a final weight of 2361.2 g (p < 0.05), a total weight gain of 1412.8 g (p < 0.05), and improved feed efficiency with a feed conversion of 2.00 (p < 0.05), during which feed intake was lower than in the other groups. Conclusion: Microbial additives with lactic acid activity are a cost-effective and feasible solution for broiler chicken productivity. Keywords: broilers, lactic acid bacteria, probiotic mixture, productive indicators.