Effect of condensed (quebracho) and hydrolysable (sweet chestnut) tannins on growth performance and contact dermatitis in broilers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with condensed (quebracho) and hydrolysable (sweet chestnut) tannins on growth performance and the severity of contact dermatitis in broiler chickens. A total of 150 Ross 308 broilers were divided into three groups: a control group (no tannins), a group receiving hydrolysable tannins, and a group receiving condensed tannins, each at a dose of 0.75 g/kg of feed over a 42-day fattening period under commercial conditions. Body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, litter moisture, and the severity of footpad dermatitis and hock burn dermatitis were recorded. The group supplemented with hydrolysable tannins had a significantly higher final body weight and average daily gain, compared to the control. Both tannin-supplemented groups showed significantly lower litter moisture and a reduced severity of contact dermatitis lesions throughout the study. In conclusion, this study suggests that tannins, particularly hydrolysable tannins, may improve broiler growth and reduce the severity of contact dermatitis, highlighting their potential as functional feed additives. However, further research is required to determine optimal inclusion levels and elucidate their mechanisms of action.