Effect of probiotics and acidifiers on feed intake, egg mass, production performance, and egg yolk chemical composition in late-laying quails

Abstract

Background and Aim: Probiotics can be used as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters because antibiotics are prohibited worldwide. This study investigated the potential combination of probiotics and acidifiers to improve feed intake, productive performance, egg mass, and egg yolk chemical composition of late-laying quail for the health of humans who consume quail products. Materials and Methods: One hundred laying quails were divided into 4 × 5 treatments, with each group consisting of five replications. The adaptation period was 2 weeks, and the treatment was continued for 4 weeks. Probiotics and acidifiers were added to drinking water and incorporated into the diet. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Treatment duration (1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and 4 weeks) and additional feed treatment (control, probiotic 2% + 0.5% acidifier, probiotic 2% + 1% acidifier, probiotic 4% + 0.5% acidifier, and probiotic 4% + 1% acidifier, respectively). Results: Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in feed intake, quail day production, feed efficiency, egg mass in laying quails, and the chemical composition of egg yolk with probiotics and acidifiers in late-laying quails. Conclusion: The combination of probiotics and acidifiers can improve feed intake, production performance, egg mass, and egg yolk chemical composition in late-laying quails. Keywords: acidifiers, feed additive, health, performance, probiotic.