The Effect of Nanosilver-Based Preparation Added to Litter on Silver and Antagonistic Elements Content in Broiler Tissues and Organs

Abstract

Nanosilver has a wide range of applications in many industries, including animal production. Its beneficial effects resulting from, among others, antibacterial properties are known; however, some concerns remain related to safety of its use and possible accumulation in the environment and all its components. This study aimed to analyze the content of silver and antagonistic elements (copper, selenium, zinc) in breast and thigh muscles, abdomen skin, liver, lung and blood serum of broilers exposed to a nanosilver-based preparation added to litter. Ross 308 broilers were divided into three groups: control and two experimental (84 birds in each) differing by the amount of preparation addition. The study lasted 24 days, after which the birds were slaughtered and the mentioned samples were collected for laboratory analyses using atomic absorption spectroscopy. An application of preparation based on nanosilver caused an increase in Ag content in chickens’ liver, lung and abdomen skin. Cu content decreased in all experimental groups, except for abdomen skin, while Zn content increased in most cases compared to the control. No clear decrease of the increasing tendency was found for Se. It did not demonstrate an antagonism with respect to the content of Cu, Se and Zn in examined samples.