Propionic acid and calcium propionate in diets for egg-type layers and broiler chicks

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of low levels of supplemental propionic acid or calcium propionate on performance when these nutrients were included in diets for laying hens and broiler chickens. A supplementation of 1g calcium propionate/kg significantly increased egg production and 1g propionic acid/kg or 1g calcium propionate/kg significantly increased the body weight gain of broiler chickens at 4 weeks of age. Inclusion rates of propionic acid or calcium propionate up to 1 g/kg were safe and without any depressive effect on the performance of laying hens and broiler chickens in feeding trials of 28 and 4 weeks durations, respectively. The maximum tolerable level of propionate in diets for growing chicknes. Was 2g/kg. Calcium propionate appeared to be associated with antistress function in layìng hens. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.