An Algal Extract Improves Liver Function and Laying Performance of Turkey Breeders

The digestive system of poultry breeders is highly solicited, especially late in the egg production period when the demand in lipids for yolk development increases. To maintain a good health status and optimal levels of egg production, the digestive system needs to be properly drained and stimulated. This study assesses the impact of the product DigestSea^® containing a sulphated polysaccharide extracted from green seaweeds named MSP^®_LIPIDS, on liver physiology and laying performance of breeding turkeys in comparison with a choline and sorbitol complex. The trial was performed in two buildings, from 23 to 28 weeks of laying. One group of 2,016 turkey breeders received the choline and sorbitol complex at 1 L/1,000 L of drinking water while the test group of 2,110 turkey breeders received DigestSea^® at a dosage of 0.5 L/1,000 L of drinking water, during 2 periods, first 10 days at 23 weeks of laying and again 5 days at 27 weeks of laying. Histological evaluation of the liver was performed at the end of the trial. The results show higher egg production in the DigestSea^® group with a significant reduction of the biliary canal hyperplasia and blood capillaries leucocytosis in the portal area, associated with a statistically significant reduction of lipids overload in the liver. Overall, our results show that the use of DigestSea^® containing MSP^®_LIPIDS helps maintain a high level of egg production and lower hepatic steatosis. In conclusion, the use of the product containing MSP^®_LIPIDS in breeding poultry production may be beneficial to maintain animal health and production levels. Further experiments are required to determine the mechanisms of action as a reduction of lipid resorption, metabolic changes, and an increased energy demand due to improving egg production.