Performance and gut health support during coccidiosis challenge
New study shows: Anta®Phyt optimises coccidiosis management in broiler production
Coccidiosis silently drains profit from broiler production—hurting gut health, performance and litter quality. A new Dr. Eckel study shows that Anta®Phyt, combined with coccidiostats, turns the tables: stronger broilers, cleaner barns and better efficiency. See how phytogenics unlock new power in coccidiosis management.
Transforming challenge into resilience and performance
Modern poultry production faces the dual challenge of meeting the growing global demand for high-quality protein while ensuring sustainable and efficient farming practices. Feed costs represent the largest expenditure in poultry production, often accounting for 60–70% of total expenses. Therefore, optimising feed efficiency is crucial for profitability and sustainability.
Coccidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, remains a significant challenge in broiler production, leading to intestinal damage, impaired nutrient absorption and reduced growth rates. The disease can result in decreased feed efficiency, poor body weight uniformity and increased mortality, posing substantial economic burdens on producers.
Effective coccidiosis control is integral to maximising feed utilisation. Subclinical coccidiosis, even without overt clinical signs, can significantly impair feed conversion ratios, leading to increased feed costs and reduced productivity. Implementing comprehensive coccidiosis management strategies, including the use of feed additives like phytogenics, is essential to achieve the goal of a sustainable and economic poultry production.
Protecting gut health during critical phases
A recent 35-day trial conducted by Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition involved 640 Ross 308 broilers exposed to a coccidiosis challenge. Four strategies to attenuate coccidiosis were tested: vaccination, coccidiostats alone, coccidiostats combined with Anta®Phyt and Anta®Phyt alone.
The results were compelling: broilers receiving coccidiostats and Anta®Phyt (CoccAP group) achieved the best outcomes, whereas the vaccinated birds (Vacc group) performed the poorest. They exhibited higher daily weight gain, improved feed conversion ratios and a significant reduction in oocyst excretion compared to vaccinated birds.
On the day of the challenge, birds in the CoccAP group demonstrated 50% lower oocyst excretion and a 51% better faecal score than the vaccinated group. These findings indicate healthier gut conditions and contribute to better litter quality—a key factor in maintaining animal well-being and housing hygiene.
Amplifying standard coccidiosis control
While coccidiostats remain the standard approach to controlling Eimeria infections, supplementing feed with the right phytogenics can further enhance protection and promote gut health. These findings build on previous studies showing that phytogenic feed additives such as Anta®Phyt can improve intestinal health and support beneficial gut bacteria.
A valuable tool for more robust production
In an environment where intestinal resilience is key to sustainable and efficient production, combining Anta®Phyt with standard coccidiosis management offers clear benefits. Producers can achieve better performance, healthier animals and improved housing conditions—even under coccidiosis pressure.
This study underscores the role of Anta®Phyt as a powerful ally in the quest for more resilient and successful poultry production.
