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Articles Management
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3 min read

Common Egg Shell Deformities & Probable Reasons

Common Egg Shell Deformities, Discolouration Issues and Probable Reasons

Dr. B.C Dutta — **Dr B C Dutta (Author)**,
Poultry Consultant
Member – Poultry TRENDS Editorial Board
www.drbcdutta.com

15 common Egg Shell deformities in respect of structure and colour as under:

1. Pale Shelled Eggs
Reasons:
a) Infections like Infectious Bronchitis & EDS
b) Old Age Hen
c) High Stress in flock
d) Toxic Effect of Drug like Sulphonamides & Nicarbazine

2. Pink or Liliac Eggs
Reasons:
a) High Stress in Flock
b) Excess Dietary Calcium

3. Dirty Eggs
Reasons:
a) Poor Gut Health
b) High volume of indigestible ingredients in Feed
c) Enteritis
d) Electrolyte Imbalance

4. Shell-less Egg
Reasons:
a) Disease like Avian Influenza, ND, IB & EDS
b) Immature Shell Gland
c) Nutrients like Ca, P, Mn or Vitamin D deficiency

5. Bloody Eggs
Reasons:
a) Rupture of blood vessels inside Fallopian tube wall
b) Rupture of blood vessels on Yolk surface
c) Deficiency of Vit A or Vit K
d) Large size in Egg in Old hen causing stretching and pressure on the lower area, may lead to bleeding
e) Egg may broke inside hen’s body & cause bleeding

6. Soft Shell Eggs
Reasons:
a) Excess Phosphorus in Feed
b) Heat Stress
c) Old Age of Hen
d) Electrolyte Imbalance

7. Cracked Egg
Reasons:
a) Calcium & Vit D deficiency
b) Heat Stress
c) Old Age of hens
d) Electrolyte Imbalance
e) Mycotoxins

8. Corrugated Eggs
Reasons:
a) Calcium, Copper & Vit D deficiency
b) Heat Stress
c) Old Age of hens
d) Defective Shell glands
e) Electrolyte Imbalance
f) Mycotoxins
g) Overuse of Antibiotics

9. Wrinkled Eggs
Reasons:
a) Stress
b) Infectious Bronchitis
c) Defective Shell glands
d) Overcrowding

10. Pimpled Eggs
Reasons:
a) Eggs with Extra-calcification as granules on the blunt end
b) Old Age Hen
c) Inadequate Nutrition
d) Strain of Chicken

11. Calcium Coated Eggs
Reasons:
a) Defective Shell gland
b) Disturbance during Shell Calcification
c) Excess Calcium in Feed
d) Young hens under any stress usually hold Eggs longer leading to Calcium coated Eggs

12. Mottled Eggs
Reasons:
a) Disease like Avian Influenza, ND, IB & EDS
b) High Humidity in hen house
c) Mycotoxins
d) Manganese Deficiency
e) Overcrowding
f) Any reason leading to shell fails to dry quickly

13. Broken or Mended Eggs
Reasons:
a) Stress during Shell calcification
b) Overcrowding
c) Disturbances during Calcification

14. Misshapen Eggs
Reasons:
a) Immature Shell gland
b) Disease like Avian Influenza, ND, IB & EDS
c) Excessive Lighting
d) Stress
e) Overcrowding

15. Spots (White Brown speckled) on Egg Shell
Reasons:
a) Inadequate Nutrition
b) Defective Shell gland
c) Disturbance during Egg calcification
d) Excess Calcium in Feed
e) Stress during Laying

For any queries, please email at duttabalaiss@yahoo.co.in

Management Spotlight
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14 min read

Building the Future with Technology: Mr. Sanjeev Khanna

In an exclusive interview to Poultry TRENDS magazine, Mr. Sanjeev Khanna talks about the current biosecurity & hygiene challenges in poultry industry and his startup – Envizon Biosciences.

Mr. Sanjeev Khanna is an Entrepreneur, Leader & strategist. He has completed his UG from BHU & PG in Business Management from BYB, Mumbai. He has over 25 years of working experience with renowned MNCs like Ranbaxy, Elanco & Novus in various leadership positions with different job responsibilities & geographies. He was instrumental in establishing some of the great companies & brands in Indian subcontinent and spent most of his career span in business development in Livestock and Poultry segment. When he started his journey in Chandigarh, little did he know that this journey will be so exciting and rewarding.

Currently he is working as Managing Director, Envizon Biosciences, a startup based out in Bengaluru and focused on biosecurity & hygiene program in Indian subcontinent. He is adventurous & an explorer who loves traveling, hiking, camping to offbeat places, he is also a health freak & believes that Living a healthy life would extend longevity and regenerate the body and mind.

Excerpts of the interview:

How you describe yourself?

Team player, strategic thinker, grounded & believes in fundamentals to run the businesses & relations. As a professional I got opportunities to explore different geographies and to lead some of the great teams across sub-continent. Working with people with different mindsets and motivations was always exciting and thought provoking. Influencing teams & individuals to explore their true potential and helping them to become successful is always interesting and exciting for me. My strengths lies in people, team building & business development. I always believe that leadership is not a position or title it is an action & example We make leadership decisions every minute of every day, both at work and in our personal lives. When we speak up for what is right, either at work or in our home lives, we are demonstrating leadership.

How did you come with the idea of entering this field?

After working in different segments including Livestock & Poultry for so many years, I finally decided to take different course and started my own venture in mid 2021. I was looking for the key challenges our Industry is undergoing. What are the challenges faced by the producers and how we should provide them science based & trustworthy solutions.

I would like to quote Albert Einstein “ Relativity applies to physics, not ethics”. As in ethics either you are 100% ethical/honest or you are 0% & you cannot be in between place, same theory applies in Biosecurity, either it is 100% or 0% & there is no space in between.

After lot of research and brainstorming, we found that Biosecurity & Hygiene was one of the most over stretched words across the Industry in whole South Asian region, In spite of so many players and almost everyone talking about Biosecurity, still there are huge challenges of disease outbreaks which ultimately shrink the profitability of producers. There is no proven method to validate the claims made by different solution providers either. For example, a product selling at X price & another at 10X have almost same label claims and the producers are in a fix as to what to use and what are the value offered to them. In Envizon Biosciences we invested in machines and equipment to validate the claims to show the value of the solutions with ROI.

What is Envizon Biosciences? Where is it based at?

Envizon Biosciences is a startup company based out in Bengaluru and focused on science, technology & innovation. Our core is new conceptual products which can add value to the customers business. In 2021 Envizon Biosciences entered into an agreement with Intracare NL, a globally renowned company for biosecurity and hygiene products, for marketing of its solution in India. The combination of these leading businesses will offer greater sustainability and broader scope than either alone. In addition to Intracare’s track record of creating successful collaborations, Envizon looks forward to unlocking the shared potential of its combined business strengths with Intracare. By combining Intracare’s state-of-the-art R&D technologies & future proof solutions with Envizon’s diverse distribution network & able workforce, the joint venture will be a category leader in Biosecurity and Hygiene products. Beside that Envizon Biosciences is also working closely with other strategic business partners across the globe to bring latest technologies with good ROI to Indian producers.

What are the specific challenges or obstacles commonly faced when trying to maintain high levels of hygiene by farmers ?

As mentioned above, the biggest challenge we found is lack of right information and validation points. Also, during our research, we didn’t find right equipment and machines which is required to complete the job properly and professionally with many producers. Even with a good product available in the market, if application is not proper, it cannot produce the desired results. The staff who is applying the biosecurity products needs proper and regular training, scientific information & latest updates to use the solutions correctly. Currently many products sold in the market based on relationship & perception, instead of actual scientific data and information.

What is Intra-Hygiene concept?

As you must aware of, in the intensive livestock farming, we are constantly challenged by the threat of pathogens. If pathogens succeed to enter the farm, we are facing production and economical losses, decreased animal welfare, increased mortality, which ultimately leads to higher antibiotic usages & increase the cost. The only way to prevent entry of diseases into the farm is with optimal biosecurity. To mitigate these challenge and help producers to have ultimate biosecurity, Envizon Biosciences for the first time in India, launched a novel concept of Intra Hygiene program for Sheds, Hatcheries and Processing plants with help of latest science-based technologies.

These technologies have been launched first time in India and has two parts – one is the effective solutions, and another is its effective applications with help of the latest machines (mainly imported from Europe) and they play an important role to give full-proof results. All the program is having different validation points to share the results & ROI.

How is Intra-Hygiene different from existing products available in the market?

The current solutions available in Indian market and used by producers are of industrial grade which has been used mostly in the different industries and then started using in the poultry & livestock Industry as well. They are corrosive, not recommended in Livestock Industry and having lot of adverse effects directly or indirectly on the humans & animals, be it in livestock or poultry. All the Intra hygiene solutions used by Envizon biosciences are of food grade & European Union certified, They all are approved by top rated credentials authorities like ECHA, NSF etc. and all the solutions are highly effective with no adverse impact on livestock, machines & equipment.

How do you test the challenge level in a given poultry farm?

As I mentioned, Biosecurity is one of the most overused word across livestock & poultry Industry. People know of it in literal terms only. Washing the farms, spraying disinfectants is not completing the biosecurity cycle and that is the reason we see lot of incidences of disease outbreaks periodically. Then, the biggest challenge in our markets are validation of results.

Envizon Biosciences have a dedicated and certified team for Intra hygiene services. The team is equipped with all the latest scientific equipment to establish the difference and to validate the results before and after the services.

Explain the various stages involved in the process

There are 7 stages involved here in the process to complete the program successfully. Unless we clean the organic materials from the farm, cages, and other specific places, we can not eradicate micro-organisms from the farm. Therefore, we go with different stages including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleaning, disinfection, and validations at pre & post stages.

Are your products internationally certified? Which other countries is this product being used?

Yes, all the products are internationally certified by international credit rating companies like ECHA, NSF etc under PT01, PT02, PT03, PT04 & PT05. All the products are registered & use in all European, US & Asian countries with extremely satisfied customers. The products are completely safe for the poultry birds, on people who are handling it and on all the expensive machines used in our Industry.

What are the different areas within poultry chain where Intra-Hygiene concept can be applied?

The products can be applied in different poultry chain including Broiler, Layer, Hatcheries, setters & processing units in different dosages. There is no adverse impact of the products as all the products are human grade and safe to use in even food, chicken processing units and even in human hospitals.

What sort of equipment is used for carrying out the task? Do you have a professional team to carry out this task?

Yes, Envizon Biosciences invested in the equipment for proper applications of solutions and we have latest equipment & certified professionals across to do the job successfully.

How has been the market feedback so far? Any big names to share?

We are working on many exciting projects across India and South Asia region. Due to professional ethics & confidentiality agreements, it would not appropriate to share names.

Future depends upon the actions we take today. I do see lot of changes in the producer’s thinking process due to changes in consumer’s behaviour and demand.

India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world & home of 1.4 billion people. With so much development, fast urbanization & youth population, the demand of protein is going to be even higher in coming time. India’s 1Bn young population are well informed, well-travelled and know exactly what they need. With international exposures and social media influences, consumers are now aware and looking for food safety & hygiene while making their choices. This is going to drive our industry and will change the whole scenario and the way it works; the focus is shifting rapidly from production to the processes and safety of the food, which in return is bringing lot of opportunities to the producers to invest in food safety and concepts like Intra Hygiene to achieve their goals.

I am pretty confident that things are changing, and they are changing pretty fast for betterment of our industry.

For any queries, Mr. Khanna can be reached at sanjeev.khanna@envizon.co.in

News Update
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2 min read

PFI and USAPEEC Sign MOU to Address Protein Deficiency

Poultry Federation of India (PFI) and USA Poultry and Eggs Export Council (USAPEEC) Sign MOU to Address Protein Deficiency

In a historic moment, the Poultry Federation of India (PFI) and the USA Poultry and Eggs Export Council (USAPEEC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collectively combat protein deficiency and promote the consumption of poultry and poultry products in India.

The signing ceremony at Hotel The Oberoi, New Delhi on March 20, 2024, brought together esteemed representatives from both organizations, including Mr. Greg Tyler, President & CEO USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, Mr. Clay M. Hamilton, Agricultural Minister Counsellor for Agricultural Affairs, USDA, and Mr. Ramesh Khatri, Chairman, Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, Vice President (HQ), Mr. Ricky Thaper, Treasurer, Mr. Parveen Kumar, Vice-President-North Zone and Mr. Jagdish from Poultry Federation of India. This partnership symbolizes a shared dedication to enhancing the nutritional landscape and fostering a healthier, protein-rich future.

Mr. Ricky Thaper, Treasurer, Poultry Federation of India highlighted the significance of this partnership in addressing critical nutritional needs and fostering international cooperation in the poultry industry. Mr. Thaper said that this occasion marked the beginning of what promises to be a fruitful collaboration aimed at enhancing nutritional standards and promoting economic growth in the poultry sector.

While addressing the gathering, Mr. Greg Tyler, President & CEO USA Poultry & Egg Export Council added that this collaborative approach encompasses a range of initiatives, including educational, research and development, expansion of market opportunities and campaigns to raise nutritional awareness. By combining their expertise, both organizations aspire to raise awareness about the nutritional advantages of poultry products.

Poultry Federation of India Team presented mementoes to Mr. Greg Tyler, Mr. Clay M. Hamilton and Ms. Devna Khanna. Later Ms. Devna Khanna, India Representative of USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, expressed gratitude to all attendees for their support and participation in this milestone event.

This was followed by Trade Reception which provided an opportunity for networking among the invitees including USA Soybean and Corn Grower Farmers, Star Chefs from elite Hotels, Commodity Members, PFI Team and USAPEEC Team.

News Update
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4 min read

NOVUS Acquires BioResource International, Inc. (BRI)

CHESTERFIELD, MO (March 5, 2024) – Novus International, Inc. announces it has completed the acquisition of U.S.-based enzyme company BioResource International, Inc. (BRI).

Under the terms of the agreement, NOVUS becomes the owner of all BRI’s products and intellectual property and takes control of the company’s facilities.

NOVUS President & CEO Dan Meagher pic — NOVUS President & CEO Dan Meagher

“This move will allow us to serve our customers better and expand our innovation pipeline further,” says NOVUS President & CEO Dan Meagher. “Enzymes are vital tools for producers to ensure animal health and well-being and help deliver on-farm profitability. We’re very excited to offer our customers more options, as well as aspire to develop new feed additives.”

The relationship between the two companies isn’t new. NOVUS has partnered with BRI since 2008 to manufacture its protease product, CIBENZA® Enzyme Feed Additive. Meagher says having full ownership and control of the product line and the option to expand NOVUS’ portfolio beyond protease enzymes is a natural fit in the company’s long-term strategic plans.

“As a leader in intelligent nutrition, NOVUS’ priorities include investing further in functional proteins and the gut health segment, growing our portfolio, and achieving stronger control of our supply chain,” he says. “Along with supporting these goals, acquiring BRI also increases our capabilities to develop innovative solutions in the fermentation space.”

BRI’s products include Versazyme® protease feed additive, Xylamax® xylanase feed enzyme, Dymanase® mannanase enzyme, Phytamax® granulated, thermostable, microbial 6-phytase enzyme; and EnzaPro® enzyme and direct-fed microbials, among others.

BRI’s co-founder and CEO Giles Shih, Ph.D., says the acquisition and tapping into the knowledge of employees in both BRI and NOVUS allows for the continued growth of the company he helped create 25 years ago.

“We are super excited about the future where BRI’s products and people combine forces with the global reach and deep industry knowledge NOVUS brings to the feed additive space,” Shih says. “This deal is not one of happenstance. Our two companies have worked closely together since 2008 to launch the first generation of heat-stable protease feed enzymes and shape how they are developed, marketed, and optimized to add value to customers worldwide. This acquisition will enable NOVUS to innovate the next generation of proteases and enzymes that will do even more, from promoting gut health to promoting the bottom line.”

Along with BRI’s current product portfolio, NOVUS also takes over the company’s facilities in North Carolina in the U.S.

Meagher says continuity is key for current BRI customers and they should experience “business as usual” during the integration process.

NOVUS is the intelligent nutrition company providing solutions for the global animal agriculture industry. The company’s portfolio includes bis-chelated organic trace minerals, enzymes, organic acids, essential oils, liquid and dry methionine, and a network of experts worldwide to provide guidance on management best practices. NOVUS is owned by Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.

For information on how NOVUS is supporting producers around the world, visit novusint.com.

Source: Poultry TRENDS magazine

Spotlight
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14 min read

Commitment and Grit always pay back: Dr. Anju Deshpande

Dr. Anju Ajay Deshpande is a veterinarian turned into an entrepreneur. She completed BVSc. from Nagpur Veterinary College and MVSc. in VPH from COVAS Mannuthy. She has worked at various levels, her journey started as veterinary biosecurity officer, as of today she is the director of various organisations engaged in poultry business.

In an exclusive interview to Poultry TRENDS magazine, Dr. Anju shares about her journey, challenges, accomplishments and her message to women.

Q: Please brief us about your background

Dr. Anju Deshpande: My parents were government employees and during my growing up days, I was fortunate to travel pan India gaining exposure of places and things. I realised the huge scope in veterinary science and work offering more flexibility than medical field. Veterinary Public Health specialisation was one of the hottest things, as it is a bridge between human health and animal health science. At the time, there were not many openings for epidemiologists or animal-based food industries in India though. I chose the poultry industry, which was just getting off the ground. However, to gain experience, there were very few poultry companies offering jobs to lady veterinarians.

Q: How was your job as a poultry veterinarian

Dr. Anju Deshpande: In 1995, I joined United Hatcheries Pvt. Ltd. Hyderabad. I may have been the only lady veterinarian in India who not only worked but also stayed at the poultry breeding farm. It was not considered a white-collar job then, and even now very few professionals opt for this job, because, usually breeding farms are in remote places, far away from the nearest village with harsh conditions. However, it was there that I learned the very basics of the poultry industry. After that I worked for Pure Line Poultry Breeding farm too in Tarkeshwara Hatcheries Pvt. Ltd., Nashik.

Later I worked in various positions that required a variety of skills – as an LDO extension, a Lecturer for the State Level Training Centre for officers. After completing “Poultry Viral Vaccine Production Certification” in IVRI, I worked for the Institute of Veterinary Biologicals Pune.

Q: When did you get the idea to start a business and how you started?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: Since my first job, I always thought about the fact that while many veterinary doctors were employees in the poultry industry, and in spite of being domain experts, why they couldn’t become businessmen. But now I understand that only few have the courage to burn their ships. I always had a dream of having my own business someday, to create employment for myself and others. Big dreams, though without any resources or experience.

During my second job in Tarkeshwara Hatcheries, I met Ajay who was working as Production Manager. Ajay is BVSc from College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Parbhani and also my batch mate. As part of his job, he was required to remain in remote area without basic facilities, be it a hospital, market or local transport. I started discussing my business ideas with him as even before we got married, my ideas about creating our own business had started taking shape. However, I was only able to work towards it when I was selected for a government job through MPSC.

We then decided that instead of me, my husband could start business and I would support him in initial stages and later, join the business. This was the time when our first child was 2 years old.

In 2003, we started with a small broiler breeder farm with the help of mentors and well-wishers. Our first child was 6 and second was 2 by then.

Q: How did you contribute and support the new venture?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: In spite of being in a government job, I was one of the founder members in our company. I was always closely involved in policy matters, as we were investing almost every penny of our life-savings there. Being a permanent government employee and a class one officer, I was always the guarantor for the business loans we required.

I started by learning new skills, like accounting, preparing balance sheets, understanding taxes helping him, going to farm on holidays. Discussing practical problems and finding solutions till late waking hours was our routine for years. Even our children’s picnics were always only on poultry farms. Long drives to attend relatives or visiting family was opportunity to discuss more about our experiences with the poultry business. We couldn’t have achieved the goal without each other as team.

Q: What were challenges as first generation in business?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: Major challenges came forth in facing and losing everything at the time of first Bird flu pandemic. Rebuilding from zero was quite an experience; we supplied eggs and sprouts and vegetable to marts to retain our staff in pandemic period.

As a government officer I had to work hard and travel to remote villages to support my family for 15 long years, until our business could support me. Those years weren’t as difficult as waiting for my aspiration; to be able to work full time for my own business; I wanted to explore new ideas, so, letting-go of golden opportunities was a challenging thing for me. In those days, the private sector was growing and everyone was busy, it was difficult seeing the world pass by, while we were simply making ends meet. Whatever money we earned and saving through sacrificing on small things was invested in the business. And, the year Ajay paid his personal tax as much as my salary, I felt free to resign from my government job. By that time, I had some minor health issues, but finally I left the government job, leaving the tension and the highly sought pension.

Q: How did you overcome your hurdles?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: Each hurdle was dealt with as it came but generally speaking, we prepared ourselves for hurdles by anticipating. By thinking ahead and planning, sticking to the agenda, and living for the dream. Other things helping cope up were hard-work of course and keeping personal expenses to a minimum.

I was always prepared so that whenever opportunities presented, we were ready to commit. Avoiding toxic relations helped maintain energy levels to cross hurdles. We kept our morale high, encouraging and appreciating each other, acknowledging the efforts and celebrating small achievements. All is easier said than done. I must say hurdles were easier only because we helped each other in work and at home too. At times Ajay babysat without complain plus my mother always rushed whenever we needed. These things helped me a lot while raising kids.

Q: Where do you find yourself today, tell us about your accomplishments?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: I have planted and nurtured more than 500 trees on our farms, the pleasure is immeasurable. We have 400 employees and that gives me immense happiness.

Besides that currently, I am one of the four directors at Siddhivinayak Poultry Breeding Farm and Hatcheries Pvt. Ltd. The company now has 1 lakh broiler breeders and placement of 20 lakh chicks per month in contract farming.

I am also a director and partner in Avian Research & Development Pvt. Ltd, where my focus is on creating marinated chicken products.

My other company is Percept-Accuity Techno-soft Pvt. Ltd, which specializes in an ERP software designed for all aspects of the poultry industry.

Q: What are your strengths?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: I am focused about my goals. I am aware of what I do want. I appreciate everyone for who they are and cherish every moment. While I am most of the times positive for the future, even in case of failure, I feel like I have given it a good throw and the journey was worth it.

Q: What are you passionate about?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: I am a very passionate person. I take all my responsibilities seriously, whether it is professional work, business and ambience, creating, learning and teaching, or managing my home and cooking for my loved ones. I am usually engrossed in learning new things which I do by reading, watching and keenly observing people and processes.

I share professional and life skills knowledge selflessly. I love to train people for the technical knowhow and soft skills that are essential for optimum performance and dynamic involvement in work. I am happy to delegate work to my teammates. I believe everyone has talent and value, if given space and time. I also love multi-tasking and managing my time. The most rewarding thing for me is finish the work in hand and still have ample time, to explore new things.

Q: What does Power mean to you?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: For me, power is within. It means to be self-sustained, able to survive in all odds and grow big and grow wise. Being strong enough to support others is a mental power. Any individual doing that is powerful.

Q: What are the prerequisites for women to do business?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: Love is the force of all creations and manifestations, love for business is basic. Besides this, knowledge of the sector, deep desire to win, perseverance, courage to risk it all, basic skill-sets and strong support systems to depend on are some prerequisites. Encouragement, appreciation and nurturing is needed for anything to take root and grow.

Q: Any message for women?

Dr. Anju Deshpande: I have three messages for all the women:

Firstly, know yourself; you are already empowered by natural resilience and complex brain wirings. Women work shoulder to shoulder with men, but hesitate to come in the limelight. My message is “be assertive and learn to take credit of your own work proudly and gracefully, and never let anyone brush you or your words aside”.
Second, I feel that every lady should understand the synergetic power of yin and yang. Successful women are successful often because they got support somewhere, from their father, brothers, husband, sons, friends, sometimes from all of them. When necessary, for your pride, fight it out, but don’t be mean to men, cherish and love if you have them in your life.
Lastly, show your man how to support you at home and in the kitchen, it doesn’t make you weak, but it makes him strong.

Dr. Anju Deshpande can be connected at LinkedIn

Articles Management
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5 min read

Selection criterion of Essential Oil Based products for respiratory distress in winters.

The respiratory system is essential to the birds’ performance. It is important not only for oxygen transport, but also for removal of metabolic waste and by-products. A healthy respiratory system can eliminate 80% of the germs inhaled within 1-3 hours. Due to its highly efficient nature and exposure to the external environment, it is easily susceptible to a range of diseases and problems which can insidiously affect the genetic potential of performance livestock.

**Sukhjeet Singh Kahlon**– Technical Manager, Intracare B.V. The Netherlands

In winters and times of respiratory distress and discomfort, animals spend less time eating and drinking. Essential oil-based products with their unique blend have long been used in livestock farming not only to help alleviate the severity and duration of respiratory problems, but also to help keep animals cool during thermal challenges.

Just mixing of some oils at any concentration does not make an ideal product it requires deep know-how to find a fine balance between active ingredients and supporting elements. When a group of animals require treatment, drinking water application is a responsible and useful option on the condition that the drinking water, the system, and the products are of good quality. Products should be selected which are carefully formulated to meet an optimal balance between solubility, stability, and bioavailability. The active ingredients should be well soluble and highly available to the animal. The supporting elements in formulations help to create a homogenous mixture.

With this knowledge in hand, very few products have therefore been optimally formulated to be fully soluble in water and is also very well dispersed in on-farm conditions. The product must be immediately solubilized in water upon addition or injection and is fully homogenous in solution. If added to a bulk tank, minimal stirring needs to be required and does not require much external energy inputs such as a mechanical mixer. The selected product should not require the use of warm or hot water to be fully solubilized, as this is oftentimes not practical on the farm. Being completely soluble and consistently dispersed in water, it should have less risk of encouraging biofilm growth and the risk of drinking nipple blockages is also very much reduced.

With its highly soluble and homogenous dispersion properties, product should be selected based on following criterion to helps farmers to:

1 Reduce labour: Selected product can be directly dosed to the drinking system and doesn’t require warm water and/or a pre-solution step. This valuable time can then be used by the farmer for other important management practices.

2 Equal distribution in the drinking water: Homogeneity and uniformity of the flock is an important factor for producers. Therefore, it is equally important that supplementation is also homogenous and uniformly dispersed in the drinking water, reducing the risks of stragglers and non-uniform growth.

3 High quality, well soluble and stable in solution to prevent biofilm: The Selected product should not only be well soluble but should also stay stable in solution. This not only helps to prevent biofilm formation, and the animals consume a continuous, consistent dose thus reducing risks of taste-aversion and decrease in water consumption.

Figure 1: Product A dispersed fully in water (20°C), right – product B with obvious clump forming after dosing in water (20°C)

A lab-scale comparison was conducted to determine the solubility and dispersion aspects of two leading brands from Europe in room temperature water of 20°C. Product-A and Product-B were dropped into tap water at the advised dosages according to the labels. It was observed that product-A had perfect dispersion and did not form clumps or sediments when compared to other competitor products. Even gentle stirring did not manage to completely break the clumps of competitor products and in a drinking line. This could surely lead to nipple blockage and uneven dosing causing an eventual headache for the farmer.

In conclusion, it is important for a drinking-water based nutritional solution to not only be functional, but also have well soluble properties with good homogenous dispersal at farm conditions.

Articles Health
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11 min read

Understanding Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in poultry.

Avian mycoplasmosis, is a contagious respiratory disease that affects poultry, particularly chickens and turkeys. It is caused by various Mycoplasma spp. and can lead to significant economic losses in the poultry industry. Mycoplasmosis is primarily caused by two species of Mycoplasma: Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and Mycoplasma synoviae (MS). These bacteria are responsible for a range of respiratory and systemic infections in birds. These are simplest prokaryotic microorganisms with the ability of self-replication, the most distinguishing characteristic of these bacteria is lack of cell wall. MG is the most common cause of mycoplasmosis in poultry and infected chicken shows a wide variety of symptoms including rales, coughing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, reduced feed efficiency, air sacculitis and egg production typically declines with initial infection, then recovers and maintained at a lower level.

Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in birds usually takes a long time to manifest and is followed by severe respiratory tract inflammation. In flocks, the disease often goes unnoticed and causes latent infections. According to earlier studies, conditions including high feed density, heat and cold stress, high levels of ammonia, accumulation of feces, fouling of the chicken house, wide temperature variations, and abrupt climatic changes can all contribute to the spread and outbreak of disease.

Virulence factors

Variety of surface polypeptides and lipoproteins of MG plasma membrane are known and have putative function in motility, cytadhesion, surface antigen variation, and nutrient acquisition, all of which are essential virulence factors for MG.

Host- Pathogen interaction

M. gallisepticum attaches itself to the ciliated cells in the respiratory tract of birds using specialized surface proteins. For effective colonization and eventual pathogenesis, the attachment of MG to host cell is utmost important. Once attached, it invades the host cells. The gliding motility of Mycoplasma gallisepticum organisms enables them to enter target tissues and overcome host’s physical defences such respiratory mucus and ciliary activity.

Colonization and Multiplication: Numerous MG cytadhesins and putative cytadhesins have a recognized role in emergence phenotypic variation, which is assumed to be a key virulence component since it appears to facilitate chronic infection and evasion of host immune response. After invading the cells, the bacterium replicates within them. This leads to damage to the host cells, interfering with their normal function.

Inflammatory response: The host’s immune system recognizes the presence of the bacterium and mounts an inflammatory response. This involves the release of various immune cells and inflammatory mediators to combat the infection.

Tissue Damage and Lesions: The inflammation, coupled with the bacterial replication and host immune responses, can lead to damage in the respiratory tissues. This damage may manifest as lesions in the trachea, bronchi, and air sacs.

Transmission

M. gallisepticum can spread within a flock through respiratory secretions, faeces, and contaminated equipment or environment. Some wild bird species, multiage commercial layer flocks, and backyard flocks are potential MG infection reservoirs. The upper respiratory tract and conjunctiva are portals of entry for organism in aerosols or droplets.

The dynamics of MG infection relies heavily on clinically or sub clinically infected carrier birds since Mycoplasma gallisepticum hardly survives outside the host for longer than a few days, yet several studies reported the ability of MG to survive up to several days on contaminated fomite materials (dust, feathers etc) provides important insights on epidemiology of the disease. Some M. gallisepticum strains capacity to develop biofilms may enable them to survive in the environment for longer duration. MG can be transmitted from infected breeder flock to their progeny via transovarian transmission. Some studies concluded that the vertical transmission of MG occurs at the highest rates during the acute phase of disease when the level of MG is at peak in respiratory tract and declines subsequently as the post infection interval lengthens.

Carrier State: Some birds may become carriers of M. gallisepticum, meaning they harbour the bacterium without showing overt signs of illness. These carriers can serve as a source of infection for other birds.

Symptoms

Respiratory Distress: Birds infected with mycoplasmosis often exhibit respiratory distress, characterized by coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and wheezing.

Reduced Egg Production: In laying hens, mycoplasmosis can lead to a decrease in egg production, as well as a decrease in egg quality.

Swollen Eyes and Sinusitis: Infected birds may develop swollen eyes and sinusitis, along with a discharge from the eyes.

Conjunctivitis: The infection can lead to inflammation of the conjunctiva, causing redness and discharge from the eyes.

General Weakness: Infected birds may exhibit lethargy, decreased appetite, and a drop in overall activity levels.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis of mycoplasmosis is crucial for effective management. It is typically achieved through a combination of clinical signs, post-mortem examinations, and laboratory tests. These tests may include serology (blood tests), PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and bacterial isolation from affected tissues.

Prevention and Control

Biosecurity Measures: Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of mycoplasmosis. This includes limiting visitor access, maintaining separate footwear and clothing for workers, and disinfecting equipment and facilities regularly.

Vaccination: There are vaccines available for both MG and MS, determine the most appropriate vaccination schedule for your poultry.

Cleanup Programs: Use of appropriate molecule for effective cleaning up of mycoplasmal infection prior to vaccination may provide better results.

Minimize Stress: Stress weakens the immune system, making birds more susceptible to infections. Provide a low-stress environment by ensuring proper nutrition, ventilation, and living conditions.

Surveillance: Regularly monitor your flock for any signs of illness. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and reduces the spread of the disease.

Authors:

Dr Dushyant Pande, Product Manager- Biologicals, tech.vax@stallen.com
Dr Sanjay Singhal, Chief Operating Officer, dr.ss@stallen.com

Reference:
Beaudet, J., E. R. Tulman, K. Pflaum, X. Liao, G. F. Kutish, S. M. Szczepanek, L. K. Silbart, and S. J. Geary. 2017. Transcriptional profiling of the chicken tracheal response to virulent Mycoplasma gallisepticum strain Rlow. Infect. Immun. 85: e00343- 17.
Browning, G.F., A.H. Noormohammadi, and P.F. Markham. 2014. Identification and characterization of virulence genes in mycoplasmas. In: Mollicutes – Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis. G.F. Browning and C. Citti, ed. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK. 77–90.
Boguslavsky, S., D. Menaker, I. Lysnyansky, T. Liu, S. Levisohn, R. Rosengarten, M. Garcia, and D. Yogev. 2000. Molecular characterization of the Mycoplasma gallisepticum pvpA gene which encodes a putative variable cytadhesin protein. Infect Immun. 68:3956–3964.
Evan, J. D., S. A. Leigh, S. L. Branton, S. D. Collier, G. T. Pharr, and S. M. D. Bearson. 2005. Mycoplasma gallisepticum: current and developing means to control the avian pathogen. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 14:757–763.
Hochachka, W. M., and A. A. Dhondt. 2000. Density-dependent decline of host abundance resulting from a new infectious disease. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 97:5303–5306.
Indikova, I., M. Vronka, and M.P. Szostak. 2014. First identification of proteins involved in motility of Mycoplasma gallisepticum. Vet Res. 45:99.
Ishfaq, M., W. Zhang, W. Hu, S. Waqas Ali Shah, Y. Liu, J. Wang, Z. Wu, I. Ahmad, and J. Li. 2019. Antagonistic effects of Baicalin on mycoplasma gallisepticum-induced inflammation and apoptosis by restoring energy metabolism in the chicken lungs. Infect. Drug Resist. 12:3075–3089.
Jan, G., C. Brenner, and H. Wroblewski. 1996. Purification of Mycoplasma gallisepticum membrane proteins p52, p67 (pMGA), and p77 by high‐ performance liquid chromatography. Protein Expr Purif. 7:160–166.
Keeler, C.L., Jr., L.L. Hnatow, P.L. Whetzel, and J.E. Dohms. 1996. Cloning and characterization of a putative cytadhesin gene (mgc1) from Mycoplasma gallisepticum. Infect Immun. 64:1541–1547. 130.
Ley, D. H. 2003. Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection. Pages 722–743 in Diseases of Poultry. Y. M. Saif, ed. 11th ed. Iowa State Press, Ames, IA.
Mikaelian, I., D.H. Ley, R. Claveau, M. Lemieux, and J.P. Berube. 2001. Mycoplasmosis in evening and pine grosbeaks with conjunctivitis in Quebec. J Wildl Dis. 37:826–830.
Miyata, M. and D. Nakane. 2014. Gliding mechanism of the Mycoplasma pneumoniae subgroup. In: Mollicutes – Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis. G.F. Browning and C. Citti, eds. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK. 237–253.
Raviv, Z., S. Callison, N. Ferguson‐Noel, V. Laibinis, R. Wooten, and S.H. Kleven. 2007. The Mycoplasma gallisepticum 16S‐23S rRNA intergenic spacer region sequence as a novel tool for epizootiological studies. Avian Dis. 51:555–560.
Szczepanek, S.M. and L.K. Silbart. 2014. Host immune responses to mycoplasmas. In: Mollicutes – Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis. G.F. Browning and C. Citti, eds. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK. 273–288.
Zimmermann, C.U. 2014. Current insights into phase and antigenic variation in mycoplasmas. In: Mollicutes – Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis. G.F. Browning, and C. Citti, eds. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK. 165–196.

News Update
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2 min read

Perstorp launches new state-of-the-art Penta plant in India

Sweden-based specialty chemicals innovator Perstorp has built and commissioned a state-of-the-art, ISCC Plus certified, plant in western India, to meet growing market demand for Penta chemicals. Located in Sayakha, Bharuch, in the state of Gujarat, the facility is officially inaugurated on Feb. 20.

“This is the largest investment in Asia so far, in Perstorp’s history. It will further strengthen Perstorp’s position as a sustainable and reliable partner in the region of Asia,” noted Gorm Jensen, Perstorp’s Executive Vice President Commercial & Innovation. “This plant will increase the availability and reliability of products for current, as well as new customers, reducing lead times with about 50% for Asian customers. It is strategically located close to ports, rails and roadways. This will help to ensure that Perstorp can supply products effectively throughout India and across all of Asia. At the same time, the plant is well positioned to also export products globally.”

In Sayakha Perstorp will produce a Penta product mix including Perstorp’s renewable based, ISCC PLUS-certified grade, Voxtar™, as well as offering Penta Mono and Calcium Formate. The plant will use renewably sourced raw materials as well as a hybrid source of electricity. Voxtar™ is a renewable based counterpart to Penta. Based on a traceable mass balance concept, Voxtar™ is designed to reduce the carbon footprint throughout the value chain and to support sourcing of renewable and recycled raw materials. As Voxtar™ is chemically identical to Penta, it provides customers with the same quality and performance as their fossil counterpart.”

Perstorp already produces Penta in Sweden, Germany and the United States, but this investment will represent a significant expansion of its global production capacity. At the new site, Perstorp has the capacity to annually produce 40,000 metric tonnes of Pentaerythritol and 26,000 metric tonnes of calcium formate.

“This is a major investment that Perstorp has been projecting for several years and we are very excited to inaugurate this state-of-the art plant and better serve our current and future customers”, Vinod Tiwari, Managing Director and General Manager India concludes.

The site covers nearly 115,000 square meters (1.23 million square feet) and will employ about 120 people.

Source: Perstorp

Articles Health
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5 min read

Prevention of CRD & C-CRD – Essential in Poultry

Synopsis: CRD & CCRD is a severe & chronic yearlong/anytime infection in all age groups of poultry Poultry Farmers can be victorious and at their ease by overcoming this stubborn infection with the scheduled CRD – C-CRD prevention program with the effective usage of anti-mycoplasma solution through feed and/or through drinking water.

Poultry CRD author pic — Dr. Ram Moorthy D
CEO, Geenat
E: rammoorthyd@gmail.com
W: www.geenat.co.in
Phone: +91 93446 42382

CRD – Round the clock with infection

CRD infection is caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG).

When MG gets complexed it forms C-CRD – Complexed CRD with either of the following reasons

1. C-CRD of Bacterial Infection – MG with Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection

2. Environmental C-CRD MG with contaminated air (High ammonia level)

3. Viral infections – MG with Viral Infection

C CRD

Complexed-CRD (CCRD) is caused by the stubborn infection of Mycoplasma Gallisepticum (MG) ‘clubbed with either E. coli/Ammonia/Viral infection.

CCRD can affect all formats of poultry in anytime in all formats of Poultry in any age- Broiler, Layer & Breeder
It’s highly prevalent during extreme weather conditions like summer or winter.

However, CCRD is round the clock infection with low mortality and high morbidity, which can suppress immune system of the birds.

Sub-clinical level infections are frequent which can cause severe Production loss with high feed intake & low production.

Acute infections can cause an outbreak.

Birds’ Respiratory system – A complex one

CCRD -Complex CRD – CCRD is crucial & vulnerable when MG combines with respiratory infections in Poultry.

Bacterial CCRD – MG + clubs with Bacteria – E. Coli to form Colibacillosis.
Symptoms

Diarrhoea
High Feed consumption & High mortality if not treated well in time

Non infectious CCRD MG with contaminated air (Ammonia Gas)
This CCRD causes ‘Acidic blood’.

Birds’ Excessive inhalation of Ammonia & Low oxygen intake, increase the levels of Carbonic Acid in the blood causing Acidic Blood condition.

Symptoms

Panting, High-water intake, crowding (hurling together)
Feather loss, High stress & Sudden deaths

Viral C-CRD – MG + Viral infection (ILT & IB are common)
MG clubs with ILT – Infectious Laryngotracheitis virus & IB (Infectious Bronchitis) – Common.
MG with other viral infections of Avian Influenza, New castle disease & Infectious Coryza

CCRD – Disease Stages

CCRD Stage 1 – CCRD infects Trachea – URT –Upper Respiratory Tract infection

CCRD Stage 2 – Forms Septicaemia – CCRD Infection spreads into Circulatory system

CCRD Stage 3 – Airsacculitis – CCRD Infection becomes intense & Chronic when it gets deep into the LRT – Lower Respiratory Tract

CCRD Stage 4 with clinical symptoms
There will be notable clinical symptoms of coughing, swollen eyes, noisy & difficulty in breathing, change in colour of the comb – blackish red, severe production loss in laying hens with high feed intake.

With the above clinical symptoms, if CCRD is not treated properly can lead to severe economic losses including acute mortality (sudden deaths of the birds).

CRD & C-CRD – Prevention Program

They are better to control than to treat through feed & through drinking water.

Broiler, Layer & Breeder –

The choice of drug to prevent mycoplasma infection – Macrolide group of antibiotics.

Administration – Through feed.

For treatment to control the mortality

Macrolide and/or Aminoglycoside group of antibiotics
Can be administered through feed, water & through injection (s/c sub cutaneous injection and adult birds through I/M – Intra Muscular)

Dosage can be followed as per the advice of the consulting vets

Complimenting the CRD – C-CRD Prevention program

This Prevention program can be double assured by clubbing the alternative medicines

Phytochemical solutions as extracts – Gingerol, Curcumin, Solanum trilobatum as expectorants, immune booster and blood purifier.
Essential oils combination – can be administered through drinking water.
Acidifier through feed and or drinking water.
Permitted AGPs

AGPs dosage can be followed by the consulting vets’ advice.

Withdrawal of AGPs should be strictly followed to ensure food safety measures.

Summary

CRD & C- CRD (MG – Mycoplasma gallisepticum) infection can cause great economic losses if not attended properly.

However, CRD & C-CRD infection can be prevented & cured in all formats of poultry (Broiler, commercial Layer & breeder) with systematic usage of combination of Anti-mycoplasma drugs with the alternative medicines ‘discussed here.

Previous article by author: Soya Alternatives

Appointment News Update
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4 min read

NOVUS Names new Director for South Central Asia

Bengaluru, India (February 7, 2024) – NOVUS recently named Dr. Manish Kumar Singh its new regional director for NOVUS in South Central Asia. In this role, Dr. Singh is responsible for developing and executing the Novus business strategy in the region.

“Asia represents a huge opportunity for growth for NOVUS,” says Vaibhav Nagpal, DVM, NOVUS vice president and managing director for Asia. “Manish has extensive expertise about the market and the customers throughout South Central Asia. He also has the confidence of his colleagues to make sound, strategic decisions that will help grow the business in the region. With 15 years of experience working in South Asia and Asia-Pacific regions in various roles, I am sure he will strengthen the NOVUS team and grow the business.”

Dr. Singh says his top priority in the new role is his colleagues.

“I aim to build a culture of trust by fully engaging my colleagues,” he says. “Agriculture is a business about animals and plants, but the foundation is people. It takes many people in many roles working together to produce high-quality, safe, nutritious food. By fostering a collaborative working environment across all my teams, we will be more successful as a trusted partner for all our customers and stakeholders.”

Speaking about the poultry and dairy customers in South Central Asia, Dr. Singh says there are many opportunities for intelligent nutrition from NOVUS to positively impact animal performance and help producers achieve their goals.

“Feed cost is a top concern for producers worldwide. We can help optimize feed costs and affect the impact of anti-nutritional factors through our knowledge about feedstuffs along with our CIBENZA® Enzyme Feed Additive,” he says. “Meat consumption and processing is on the rise; we have solutions for those concerned about meat quality, growth efficiency and structural health. Our team also has global expertise in maternal health that, partnered with the use of MINTREX® Bis-Chelated Trace Minerals, can help optimize the reproductive performance.”

As an international company, Dr. Singh said NOVUS has a dedicated team of in-house technical experts and renowned third-party consultants to support producers as they work to improve gut health and immune system function and implement antibiotic-free production.

“Through an integrated approach combining technical know-how with gut health products like AVIMATRIX® Feed Solution and NEXT ENHANCE® Feed Solution, we are helping create effective ABF production,” he says.

Dr. Singh says following the initial success of the NOVUS dairy team in India, the company has invested more resources, allowing further expansion in this market. The goal is to reach more customers and bring innovative solutions backed by scientific research to the largest dairy market in the world.

“There are many challenges and opportunities in dairy production. NOVUS has decades’ worth of research and commercial trials demonstrating how we can improve milk fat production and reproductive performance,” he says. “On the challenge side, we have products that are shown to reduce somatic cell count and manage lameness to improve productivity and extend the herd’s longevity. This is an important growth market for NOVUS and we have a lot to offer.”

Dr. Singh came to NOVUS in 2019 to serve as the head of strategic marketing and technical services for South Central Asia before leading the marketing team for the Asia-Pacific region. He held roles at Cargill and Alltech before coming to NOVUS.