Effects of different feed additives alone or in combination on broiler performance, gut microflora and ileal histology

1. The objectives of this experiment were to investigate the effects of different xylanases, alone or in combination with different organic acid and oligosaccharide sources, on bird performance, gut microflora and ileal histology. 2. Birds were given a diet based on a commercial formulation, which was split into 8 batches. Batch 1 contained the antibiotic growth promoter Avilamycin and acted as the positive control. To batch 2 the enzyme Allzyme PT® was added and to batch 3 Allzyme PT was added with the organic acid and oligosaccharide mixture Avimos®. To batch 4, Allzyme PT was added with the oligosaccharide mixture Biomos®. To batch 5, yeast extract 2012 was added with the organic acid mixture Gustor and the enzyme xylanase XP20. To batch 6, yeast extract 2012 and feed acidifier Gustor were added as before, with the enzyme Avizyme 1300. Batches 7 and 8 both acted as negative experimental controls, with no added growth promoters. 3. A total of 64 birds were housed in individual wire cages in each of thre...