Dirty egg problem solved by dietary tributyrin supplementation in layers

Gut health challenge is one of the major factors affecting production and profitability in commercial laying hens. In addition, chronic heat stress results in lowered feed intake, egg production, egg quality, gut microbiome and also impairs acid-base balance in laying birds. Numerous data support that laying birds fed with organic acid improved egg production and quality (Sakdee et al., 2018; Zhang et al., 2022). Butyric acid, an important organic acid serves as a primary source of energy for enterocytes in the gastrointestinal tract of poultry. Tributyrin has emerged as a feed additive with significant potential to improve gut health in poultry.The short-chain fatty acid butyric acid in a triglyceride form, has been shown to exert a positive effect on the intestinal barrier function and microbial balance within the gut. 

The mechanism by which tributyrin functions involves its hydrolysis in the small intestine, releasing butyric acid and monobutyrin. Butyric acid serves as an energy source for enterocytes, the absorptive cells lining the gut. This process not only provides nourishment to these cells but also strengthens the gut barrier, preventing the translocation of harmful bacteria and their toxins. On the other hand, monobutyrin exhibits a strong antimicrobial effect, specifically against Salmonella spp. and E. Coli.

Studies have demonstrated that the inclusion of tributyrin in poultry diets leads to improved bird performance and reduced mortality rates. The additive has been associated with improved feed conversion ratio and a decrease in the prevalence of wet litter. Furthermore, tributyrin has been found to modulate the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting pathogenic species. 

A commercial laying farm in Andhra Pradesh, India was facing incidence of dirty egg problem for the last 5 months period in 61 weeks (older flock) and 31 weeks (young flock) of age laying hens. The incidence of dirty egg problem was higher for older flocks (300 to 310 dirty eggs per day) compared to young flock (150-180 dirty eggs per day). The customer also had a challenge of lowered egg production during that period. To address this problem, the layer farmer has been advised for tributyrin (SpeoCare^TM T60) supplementation at the rate of 500 gm per MT in laying diets. After 28 days feeding period, dirty egg problem significantly reduced from 6 trays to 1 tray/day in young flock and in old flock reduced from 11 trays to 1-2 trays/day. Egg production was increased by 2.76% in young flock and 3.13% in old flock. 

This case study supports clearly the claims of dietary tributyrin improves intestinal barrier function and microbial balance within the gut. Thus, dietary tributyrin supplementation improves gut health and function, consequently favors improved egg production and quality in commercial layers.