Chicken Meat and Egg Programs - Agrifutures Australia · iii Foreword This year RIRDC has produced...

2001-2002 Research Report

Chicken Meat and Egg Programs

August 2003 RIRDC Publication No 02/070

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© 2003 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation All rights reserved.

ISBN 0 642 58469 9 ISSN 1440-6845

“2001-2002 Research Report RIRDC Chicken Meat and Egg Programs” Publication No 02/070 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Communications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186. RIRDC Chicken Meat Program Research Manager RIRDC Egg Program Research Manager Dr Vivien Kite Dr Irene Gorman RIRDC RIRDC PO Box 579 PO Box 569 NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2059 HURSTVILLE NSW 2220 Phone: 02 9929 4077 Phone: 02 9570 9222 Fax: 02 9925 0627 Fax: 02 9570 9763 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] RIRDC Publications Manager Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 3186 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in August 2003 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Union Offset, Canberra

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Foreword This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June 2002, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 2001-2002 for all of the Corporation’s 20 program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at www.rirdc.gov.au. The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-Programs 3.1 and 3.2. It contains all entries from continuing and completed Chicken Meat and Egg research projects funded by RIRDC in 2001-2002. Additional information on other activities funded by these programs in 2001-2002 and projects and activities to be funded in 2002-2003 have also been included in this publication. The objective of the Chicken Meat Program is to support increased sustainability and profitability in the chicken meat industry by focussing on research and development on those areas which will enable the industry to become more efficient and globally competitive and which will assist in the development of good industry and product images. The objective of the Egg Program is to support improved efficiency, sustainability, product quality, education and technology transfer in the Australian egg industry. Research reported upon herein was funded from industry revenue which is matched by funds provided by the Federal Government. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of more than 900 research report, videos and CD-roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Most of our publications are available for viewing, downloading or purchasing online through our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop Simon Hearn Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm

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CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chairperson: Mr Barry Shay Food Safety Consultant 27 Uther Street CARINDALE QLD 4152 Ph: (07) 3398 1766 Fax: (07) 3398 6631 Email: [email protected]

Research Manager: Dr Vivien Kite RIRDC Chicken Meat Program PO Box 579 NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2059 Ph: (02) 9929 4077 Fax: (02) 9929 0627 Email: [email protected]

Committee Members: Mr Ian Farran Agribiz Engineering PO Box 279 GEELONG VIC 3220 Ph: (03) 5229 7300 Fax: (03) 5229 7566 Email: [email protected]

Dr Tom Grimes Grimes Consultancy Pty Ltd 4 Henry Street LEWISHAM NSW 2049 Ph: (02) 9569 7436 Fax: (02) 9569 4183 Email: [email protected]

Dr Ron MacAlpine Inghams Enterprises Pty Ltd PO Box 4 LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Ph: (02) 9606 5666 Fax: (02) 9606 6640 Email: [email protected]

Dr Margaret MacKenzie Inghams Enterprises Pty Ltd PO Box 1100 BROWNS PLAINS QLD 4118 Ph: (07) 3297 0222 Fax: (07) 3297 0578 Email: [email protected]

Dr Harvey Westbury CSIRO Animal Health Private Bag 24 GEELONG VIC 3220 Ph: (03) 5227 5115 Fax: (03) 5227 5555 Email: [email protected]

Dr Jeff Davis RIRDC PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Ph: (02) 6272 4152 Fax: (02) 6272 5877 Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]






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EGG PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chairperson: Dr Andrew Turner Andrew Turner Consulting Pty Ltd Glen Lee 25 Garton Street PRINCES HILL VIC 3054 Ph: (03) 9380 1652 Fax: (03) 9388 8742 Email: [email protected]

Research Manager: Dr Irene Gorman RIRDC Egg Program PO Box 569 HURSTVILLE NSW 2220 Ph: (02) 9570 9222 Fax: (02) 9570 9763 Email: [email protected]

Committee Members: Dr Clive Jackson Biological Technology Transfer Pty Ltd 2 Victory Avenue CAMDEN NSW 2570 Ph: (02) 4655 4007 Fax: (02) 4655 4008 Email: [email protected]

Mr Noel Kratzmann DA Hall & Co PO Box 49 MILLMERRAN QLD 4357 Ph: (07) 4695 1717 Fax: (07) 4695 1717 Email [email protected]

Mr Geoff Munzberg Munzberg & Co. Pty Ltd PO Box 166 TANUNDA SA 5352 Ph: (08) 8563 2625 Fax: (08) 8563 2027 Email: [email protected]

Ms Judith O’Keeffe Ridley Agriproducts PO Box 18 PAKENHAM VIC 3810 Ph: (03) 5941 0944 Fax: (03) 5941 3459 Email: [email protected]

Dr Peter Scott Scolexia Pty Ltd 16 Learmonth Street MOONEE PONDS VIC 3039 Ph: (03) 9326 0106 Fax: (03) 9372 7576 Email: [email protected]

Mr Philip Szepe Kinross Farm Pty Ltd 2110 Yea Road KINGLAKE WEST VIC 3757 Ph: (03) 5780 1242 Fax: (03) 5780 1238 Email: [email protected]

Dr Jeff Davis RIRDC, PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Ph: (02) 6272 4152 Fax: (02) 6272 5877 Email: [email protected]






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INDEX TO PROJECT SUMMARIES

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM - COMPLETED PROJECTS

Flock Health UMU-23J* Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens.....................................................1 US-72J* Enhanced mucosal immunity in chickens by novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination

techniques .........................................................................................................................3 DAN-158A/ DAN-171A Infectious proventriculitis and stunting syndrome of broiler chickens ...............................5 CSA-1J* Detection of virulent strains of Newcastle disease virus in chickens previously infected

with Australian strains of the virus.....................................................................................6 Bird Nutrition and Feed Supply

GRD-2J* Inclusion of data for additional livestock species in the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database................................................................................................7

US-80A Improving the utilisation of dietary amino acids in meat chickens ....................................9 SAR-13A Physiological limitations in energy metabolism in chickens ............................................11

Consumer and Community Perceptions NMR-1A Chicken meat usage study ..............................................................................................13

Animal Welfare DAV-185A Implementation of the RIRDC broiler audit to industry....................................................15

Environmental Management MS990-52 Odour bag trials - broiler shed samples ..........................................................................17 EGC-1A Replicate bag trials – odour samples from broiler sheds ................................................19 PAE-1A Environmental database for the intensive meat chicken industry ...................................21 FSE-1A National environmental management system for the meat chicken industry..................23 JSC-1A Sustainability improvements in the Victorian meat chicken industry (Phase 1)..............25

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM - RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

Flock Health DAQ-259J* Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines ...........................27 UTS-4J* Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis .........28 UM-45J* Determination of the genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum .........................29 UQ-100J* Typing of Pasteurella multocida ......................................................................................30 CSA-16A Evaluation of fowlpox (FPV) strains free of reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) as

vaccines for use in Australian poultry flocks ...................................................................31 UM-49A Avian leukosis-J (ALV-J) in Australia: laboratory technologies and research needs......32 CSA-11J* Molecular epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus in Australia....................................33 CSA-13J* Postgraduate scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants

of Newcastle disease virus..............................................................................................34 CSA-18J* The effect of Newcastle disease vaccination with strain V4 on the course of

infections with the Peats Ridge strain of Newcastle disease virus .................................35 CSA-15J* Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian

strains ..............................................................................................................................36 UMU-29J* Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens...................................................37 DAQ-273A Investigations into the development of a sustainable management strategy for the

darkling beetle, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) in broilers ............................................38 CSA-12A Biological control of necrotic enteritis in meat chickens..................................................39 UNE-75A Effects of organic acids, prebiotics and enzymes on control of necrotic enteritis and

performance of broiler chickens ......................................................................................40

* Indicates a joint Chicken Meat and Egg Program project. These projects will appear in both sections of the report.

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CSA-10J* Postgraduate scholarship – Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines

in poultry ..........................................................................................................................41 RMI-11A The development of vaccination strategies to control necrotic enteritis in poultry..........42

Bird Nutrition and Feed Supply DAQ-264J* Characterisation of canola meal and cottonseed meal at practical inclusion levels for

use in broiler and layer diets ...........................................................................................43 DAQ-277A Estimating lysine availability by slope-ratio chick assay .................................................45 US-104A Use of dietary fatty acids to increase protein accretion in broilers..................................46 GRD-3J* Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2) .............................................................47

Food Safety DAQ-282A On-farm reduction strategies for Campylobacter spp. ....................................................48 UG-4A Isolation of genes responsible for Campylobacter jejuni colonisation of the chicken

intestinal tract ..................................................................................................................49 UG-3A Development of campylobacter bio-replacement program and establishment of

campylobacter reference centre......................................................................................50 RMI-14A Development and validation of Campylobacter microarrays for virulence detection

and strain differentiation in poultry products ...................................................................52 IMV-3A Salmonella typing and colonisation of chickens by characterised S. Sofia.....................53

Environmental Management SAR-33J* Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds...................................54


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EGG PROGRAM - COMPLETED PROJECTS

Implications of the Changing Economic Environment for the Australian Egg Industry

ANU-41A The economic impact of changing Australian egg production systems ..........................55 New and Existing Markets

DAQ-275A An evaluation of the higher value-added opportunities from the chicken egg ................57 Public Health

AUV-1A Risk assessment and cost/benefit analysis of Salmonella enteritidis monitoring and control programs for the Australian egg industry ............................................................59

Flock Health and Disease Management AEI-10A Trialing emergency animal disease arrangements in the Australian egg industry..........60 CSA-1J* Detection of virulent strains of Newcastle disease virus in chickens previously

infected with Australian strains of the virus .....................................................................62 DAV-170A Studies of cloacal haemorrhage, egg peritonitis, vent trauma and beak trimming in

the laying hen ..................................................................................................................63 UM-51A Investigating sanitation of surface water for poultry using chlorine-IBDV models ..........65 UMU-23J* Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens...................................................67 US-72J* Enhanced mucosal immunity in chickens by novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination

techniques .......................................................................................................................68 Feed Availability and Nutrition

GRD-2J* Inclusion of data for additional livestock species in the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database............................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

UNC-12A Hind gut function in laying hens ......................................................................................72 UWA-61A Evaluation of Lathyrus cicera as a feed ingredient for layers .........................................74

Husbandry and Welfare SAR-34A Claw abrasives in layer cages.........................................................................................76 SAR-35A Beak trimming accreditation ............................................................................................77 UQ-97A Pilot study on the use of time-lapse video to study the behaviour of laying hens in

conventional and modified cages....................................................................................78 Training, Information and Technology Transfer

DAN-138A National Egg Industry Newsletter ....................................................................................79 SAR-36A Vaccination training manual ............................................................................................81

EGG PROGRAM - RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

Implications of the Changing Economic Environment for the Australian Egg Industry

AEI-11A Options for enhancing industry competitiveness and R&D and marketing efficiency.....82 ROW-1A National industry databases ............................................................................................84

Public Health AEI-12A To raise awareness of eggs, cholesterol and health issues ...........................................85 CIF-1A Rapid detection of virulent Salmonella in egg and poultry products ...............................87 CNR-1A Eggs with increased arachidonic acid for infant formulas ...............................................88 CNR-2A Is total egg avoidance really necessary for egg allergy treatment? ................................89 UA-56A Enriching the iron content of eggs to fulfil niche markets................................................90 UNE-71A Egg and egg shell quality control in the Australian egg industry.....................................91


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Flock Health and Disease Management CSA-10J* Postgraduate scholarship – Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines

in poultry ..........................................................................................................................92 CSA-11J* Molecular epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus in Australia....................................93 CSA-13J* Postgraduate scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants

of Newcastle disease virus..............................................................................................94 CSA-15J* Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian

strains ..............................................................................................................................95 CSA-18J* The effect of Newcastle disease vaccination with strain V4 on the course of

infections with the Peats Ridge strain of Newcastle disease virus .................................96 DAQ-259J* Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines ...........................97 DAV-188A Studies of cloacal haemorrhage and beak trimming in the laying hen (II) ......................98 UJC-7A Molecular diagnostic tools for wild type and vaccine strains of Marek's disease virus...99 UM-45J* Determination of the genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum ...................... 100 UM-54A Improving mycoplasma vaccines - targets for defined attenuation .............................. 101 UM-55A Further development of a live attenuated vaccine for chicken anaemia virus ............. 102 UMU-29J* Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens................................................ 103 UNE-72A Effects of diet composition, gut microbial status and feed forms on cannibalism in

layers ............................................................................................................................ 104 UNE-76A Optimising infectious bronchitis vaccination of laying hens for maximum egg shell

quality ........................................................................................................................... 105 UQ-100J* Typing of Pasteurella multocida ................................................................................... 106 UTS-4J* Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis ...... 107

Feed Availability and Nutrition DAQ-264J* Characterisation of canola meal and cottonseed meal at practical inclusion levels

for use in broiler and layer diets ................................................................................... 108 DAQ-280A Energy requirements of imported layer strains ............................................................ 110 GRD-3J* Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2) .......................................................... 111 GRD-4A Effect of sorghum ergot on the egg chicken industry ................................................... 112 UNC-14A Inflammatory response to diet in the hindgut of layers................................................. 113 UNE-77A Effects of commercial feed enzymes in wheat-based diets on egg and egg shell

quality in imported strains of laying hen ....................................................................... 114 Husbandry and Welfare

ABR-2A Development of Egg Magic version 2 .......................................................................... 115 DAQ-279A Modifying egg production systems to meet changing consumer needs ...................... 116 DAQ-283A Layer strains for alternative systems............................................................................ 117 UQ-93A The assessment and development of best management practice techniques for

Australian laying hens housed in conventional and alternative laying systems........... 118 US-107A Non-invasive stress assessment of commercial egg industry practices ...................... 119

Environmentally Sustainable Management SAR-33J* Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds................................ 120

Training, Information and Technology Transfer ALL-1A Extension and uptake of the egg quality and production assurance program ............. 121 DAN-189A Video series - Workplace training for layer farm staff .................................................. 122 DAN-194A National egg industry newsletter .................................................................................. 123

SCHOLARSHIPS ....................................................................................................124

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT................................................................................124

TRAVEL/CONFERENCE/WORKSHOPS ...............................................................125 * Indicates a joint Chicken Meat and Egg Program project. These projects will appear in both sections of the report.

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM – COMPLETED PROJECTS

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CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM

COMPLETED PROJECTS

Flock Health Project Title

Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens

RIRDC Project No.:

UMU-23J

Researcher: Prof. David Hampson and Ms. Carol Stephens Organisation: Murdoch University

Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Science MURDOCH WA 6150

Phone: (08) 9360 2287 Fax: (08) 9310 4144 Email: [email protected] and [email protected] Objectives

• To identify new and appropriate means to control infections by the intestinal

spirochaetes Brachyspira intermedia and B. pilosicoli – recently recognised and common pathogens causing significant economic loss in Australian layer and broiler breeder flocks.

Background An earlier RIRDC project (UMU-21A) demonstrated that infections with intestinal

spirochaetes are widespread in layer and broiler breeder flocks in Australia, and are causing loss of production. Unfortunately, means to control the infections have not been developed.

Research This study had several components. These included provision of specialist diagnostic services to the two poultry industries, and the development of new molecular techniques to identify and type the micro-organisms involved. The susceptibility of the bacteria to seven antimicrobial drugs was tested. Antimicrobials and a xylanase enzyme were then evaluated for efficacy in experimentally infected layers and broiler breeders.

Outcomes New molecular tests for identification and typing of B. intermedia were developed, and were shown to work well. These were used to support diagnostic investigations of the infections. Generally, the Australian isolates were shown to be susceptible to most of the antimicrobials tested, although there were some differences in susceptibility amongst the different spirochaete species. In experimental infections the growth promoter zinc bacitracin increased the susceptibility of birds to B. pilosicoli, but reduced it to B. intermedia. Both tiamulin and lincomycin were able to clear infections with both species of intestinal spirochaete, but birds became recolonised in the absence of prolonged treatment. Addition of a xylanase enzyme to the diet reduced colonisation with B. intermedia.

Implications

This project has improved the Australian capacity to rapidly identify and type intestinal spirochaetes from chickens. It has demonstrated that strains of the various spirochaete species vary in their susceptibility to antimicrobials, but in general there is little antimicrobial resistance present. Care should be taken with the use of zinc bacitracin, as it may predispose chickens to infections with B. pilosicoli. Both tiamulin and lincomycin are effective in treating intestinal spirochaete infections, but


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addition of dietary enzyme with xylanase activity also can reduce colonisation with B. intermedia.

Publications

Stephens, C.P. and Hampson, D.J. (2000) Effects of intestinal spirochaete infection

on egg production in meat breeders. Proceedings of the 12th Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 182-185.

Hampson, D.J., Oxberry, S.L. and Stephens, C.P. (2001) Influence of tiamulin and zinc bacitracin on avian intestinal spirochaete infections. Proceedings of the 13th Australian Poultry Science Symposium 13: 144-147.


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Project Title

Enhanced mucosal immunity in chickens by novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination techniques

RIRDC Project No.:

US-72J

Researcher: Prof. Alan Husband and Dr. Wendy Muir Organisation: University of Sydney

Faculty of Veterinary Science UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY NSW 2006


• To induce long-term immunoenhancement in chickens following early priming of

the avian immune system via novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination techniques.

Background Diseases of the mucosal surfaces are detrimental to the chicken and egg industries in that they can result in production losses and loss of consumer confidence due to the possibility of human contamination. Techniques which can enhance IgA antibody production at these sites will strengthen the first line of IgA-based immune defence. An earlier RIRDC project had highlighted the potential for in-ovo delivery of antigen and an immunomodulator to increase the mucosal immune status of newly hatched chicks. Identification of in-ovo and postnatal immunisation techniques, which will enhance IgA antibody production at the intestinal surface, will potentially result in reduced usage of antibiotic medication for control of intestinal disease.

Research The effects of known mammalian immunomodulators and cytokines (molecules which regulate the immune system in vivo), following their in-ovo and postnatal delivery, were evaluated.

Outcomes Broiler birds fed a basal diet (containing 50 mg/kg vitamin E) supplemented with a further 250 mg/kg vitamin E for the complete growout period demonstrated a significant increase in anti-antigen IgA antibody production at the intestinal site. Further, feeding the vitamin E supplemented diet for the three weeks prior to the first immunisation with a model antigen generated similar increases. However, feeding the vitamin E supplemented diet only from the time of first immunisation reduced IgA antibody production. Continual feeding of diets supplemented with VE, at levels above those required for nutritional maintenance, was therefore shown to enhance total and antigen-specific IgA antibody production following immunisation. A strong immunoregulatory relationship was identified between the time of feeding the VE supplemented diet and the time of vaccination. Repeated oral delivery of IL-6 immediately after vaccination significantly increased IgA antibody production. This was observed in birds immunised with both tetanus toxoid and whole killed S. typhimurium.. Birds vaccinated with killed S. typhimurium in the presence of IL-6 and then challenged with the live pathogen, were more able to resist the challenge. This coincided with enhanced IgA antibody production in the first week after challenge.

Implications Studies undertaken within this project identified the potential for some doses of in-ovo and postnatally delivered vitamin E to increase the immune response to an antigen, although not all of these results were significant. The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) was also shown to enhance IgA antibody production to an antigen when both were delivered in-ovo and/or early in life (again, not all of these results were statistically significant). IL-6 demonstrated the greatest potential to enhance IgA antibody production when administered immediately after vaccination. This project has therefore demonstrated the enhanced production of protective IgA antibody at the intestinal site by vitamin E and IL-6.


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Further studies are needed to allow these findings to be developed into practical strategies that can be implemented with benefit by industry. Further studies are required to clarify whether it is possible to decrease the interval of feeding a vitamin E supplemented diet, without compromising the immune response. A significant effect of IL-6 on increasing IgA antibody production has been established during this project. To benefit the industry IL-6 must be delivered at day of hatch in conjunction with current immunisation strategies. This requires delineation through further research.

Publications Muir, W.I., Bryden, W.L. and Husband, A.J. (2000) Immunity, vaccination and the avian intestinal tract. Developmental and Comparative Immunology 24: 325-342.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2002) Dietary supplementation with vitamin E modulates avian intestinal immunity. British Journal of Nutrition 87: 579-585.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) The impact of dietary vitamin E on immunity. Proceedings of the 6th Avian Immunology Research Group pp. 45-49.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2001) Dietary vitamin E modulates intestinal immunity. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 11: 236.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2001) Dietary vitamin E modulates immune responses to Salmonella typhimurium in chickens. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 10: S61.


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Project Title

Infectious proventriculitis and stunting syndrome of broiler chickens

RIRDC Project No:

DAN-158A and DAN-171A

Researcher: Dr. Rod Reece Organisation: NSW Agriculture

Regional Veterinary Laboratory Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute Private Mail Bag 8 CAMDEN NSW 2570

Phone: (02) 4640 6309 Fax: (02) 4640 6400 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To understand the cause of infectious proventriculitis and stunting syndrome of

broiler chickens. • To develop relevant control strategies for this syndrome.

Background The profitability of commercial meat chicken operations in Australia has on occasions been reduced by the resurgence in recent years of a transmissible stunting syndrome associated with proventriculitis. Severely affected flocks can have poor feed conversion, reduced growth rate and excessive variation in live-weight at processing. This research sought to better define this disease syndrome, to develop an improved understanding of how widespread it is and its significance and to isolate and characterise the causative agent so that diagnostic and control measures for the disease can be developed.

Research

Field studies revealed histological evidence of infectious proventriculitis in broiler chickens from all states and many companies. The incidence and prevalence varied enormously both across states and companies and with time. The association of the presence of histological lesions with poor performance in terms of feed conversion and growth rate was, at times, unclear. Transmission of disease to young chickens was readily accomplished, confirming an infectious aetiology, and infectivity was not reduced by treating inoculum with chloroform thus implicating a non-enveloped virus. The putative aetiological agent was observed in affected proventriculi from field cases but was not able to be isolated or characterised further. As the aetiological agent was not definitely established, it was not possible to develop diagnostic tests, and methods of control of the disease in the field were not studied.

Outcomes

Infectious proventriculitis was demonstrated to be present in multiple states and various companies. Under experimental conditions, infectious proventriculitis significantly reduced the growth rate of inoculated chickens. This disease has a deleterious effect on the economic performance of Australian broiler chickens.

Implications

Infectious proventriculitis was widespread throughout Australia and continues to pose a threat as a significant cause of poor growth of broiler chickens. Isolation and identification of the putative aetiological agent is essential for further understanding of this disease.

Publications

Reece, R.L. (2001) Infectious stunting syndrome and related diseases. In: Poultry

Diseases 5th Edition: pp 374-383 (Eds: F.T.W. Jordan, M. Pattison, D. Alexander and T. Faragher; published by W.B. Saunders Co, London).


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Project Title

Detection of virulent strains of Newcastle disease virus in chickens previously infected with Australian strains of the virus

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-1J

Researcher: Dr. Harvey Westbury Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries

PO Bag 24 GEELONG VIC 3220


• To develop diagnostic tests able to be used to more easily detect virulent strains

of Newcastle disease virus in chickens that have been immunised against the disease.

Background Benign Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains that naturally circulate in poultry in

Australia can confer short-term immunity against virulent strains of the virus able to cause disease. This is good and bad. It is bad because it masks the presence of virulent viruses in a flock. This can be a problem for disease control agencies because flocks infected in this way actually multiply the virulent virus, allowing it to persist in the poultry population and providing a source from which it can potentially spread to other flocks. More efficient ways of detecting these covertly infected flocks need to be developed.

Research The research project was aimed a developing a relatively simple method of detecting the presence of virulent virus in flocks already immune to the development of overt disease. Research concentrated on the development and assessment of an ELISA test, as this type of approach has worked well with other animal diseases. The performance of this ELISA was assessed against the gold standard method of detecting infection (virus isolation) and a more recent technology – the PCR test.

Outcomes An ELISA test able to specifically detect NDV in the tissues of chickens immune and not immune to virulent strains of the virus was successfully developed. The bone marrow and spleen of the infected chickens were the best target tissues for detection of the virus. However the test was found to be significantly less sensitive than both virus isolation and a PCR test in detecting virus in these tissues.

Implications The lack of sensitivity of the test reduced the usefulness of the test for both diagnosis and for surveillance purposes, as some infected chickens would not be detected. The test also failed to provide very important information about the virus detected. Disease control authorities now require information about the disease-causing potential of a NDV, not just that a virus is present in a bird or flock. This is because Australia currently has a very complex picture with regard to the virus. There a benign NDVs as well as NDVs able to cause less severe and more severe disease naturally present and circulating in the Australian poultry industry. Authorities only act when virulent strains are detected, hence the need to differentiate these severe strains from all the others. Likewise the authorities need to know where the other, not necessarily virulent, strains are, as some of these have the potential to mutate and cause severe Newcastle disease. The ELISA test that was developed in the course of this project cannot provide this information. Its role in diagnosis and virus surveillance these days is therefore very limited. Other technologies must be used to provide this information.


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Bird Nutrition and Feed Supply

Project Title

Inclusion of data for additional livestock species in the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database

RIRDC Project No.:

GRD-2J

Researcher: Dr. Robert van Barneveld Organisation: Grains Research and Development Corporation

Contact address: South Australian Research and Development Institute Pig and Poultry Production Institute Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371

Phone: (07) 5547 8611 Fax: (07) 5547 8624 Email: [email protected] Objective

• To improve knowledge of the nutritional value of feed grains and the efficiency of use of these grains by the egg and chicken meat industries through development of a commercial version of the Australian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database containing data for pigs, poultry (layers and broilers) and aquaculture species.

Background Feed grains for use in livestock diets represent the greatest single production cost,

especially for intensively housed livestock. Based on current estimates, the supply of domestic feed grains will be insufficient to meet these grain demands by the livestock sectors. Unless domestic feed grain supplies can be improved through an increase in availability and/or an improvement in the efficiency of use, livestock producers face the prospect of importing grains to meet their needs. To improve the nutrient utilisation efficiency of livestock, the animal producers, stockfeed manufacturers and grains producers need a large amount of information on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of feed grains. To meet these requirements, development of an interactive, computer-based database on chemical composition and nutritional quality of feed ingredients is essential. There are a number of databases available in Australia and overseas on the nutritional quality of feed ingredients. However, these databases are not interactive, are hard to access, lack consistency in the information supplied and the format of supply. There is a large variation in the data within existing databases due to lack of information on source and range of the raw ingredients, methods used for obtaining the data, and the storage and processing methods of the ingredients.

Research To overcome the disadvantages of the existing databases and to deliver information on the nutritional quality of feed ingredients to the grains and livestock industries, the Pig Research and Development Corporation and the Grains Research and Development Corporation funded the development of an interactive, computer-based database on nutritional quality of grains for livestock, the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. This database supplies detailed information on the growing environment of the ingredients, how the ingredients are stored and processed, physical features of the ingredients and the methodology employed for chemical analysis and nutritional evaluation, chemical composition (proximate, amino acid profile, starch, non-starch polysaccharides, fatty acids, soluble and insoluble sugars, vitamins, minerals, anti-nutritional factors and toxins) and nutritive



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value (nutrient digestibility and availability) of feed ingredients. The ALFI database offers the facilities for users to compare species or varieties within a location or between locations, to search data for a particular region, to retrieve data collected from a particular laboratory or contributed by a particular researcher, and to communicate with researchers. All these features ensure that users will get information relevant to their livestock feeding situation, which will result in an improvement in feeding efficiency and reduced livestock feed costs. This project expanded the ALFI database to include data on the nutritional quality of feed grains for other livestock species (broilers, layers and aquaculture species) and enhanced existing data for pigs.

Outcomes Data for pigs, poultry and aquaculture species has been entered into the ALFI database, which now contains more than 22807 sample entires. The ALFI database also incorporates all information contained within the GRDC GRAILE database. The initial beta version has also been reprogrammed so that it is now more user friendly, and run time versions have been prepared for distribution via CD-ROM. A web site (www.alfidbase.com) has also been established and a domain name registered to facilitate email submissions for ALFI information, and to promote the benefits of the database. Promotional brochures and presentation formats for the software have been suggested.

Implications A preliminary business plan was prepared outlining some potential paths for the commercialisation of the ALFI database. However, subsequent meetings with stakeholders indicated that the commercialisation process falls outside of the scope of this project and will be developed further via GRDC in consultation with the other stakeholders.

Publications Ru, Y.J., Bray, H.J. and van Barneveld, R.J. (1999) Development of the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Proceedings of South Australian Pig and Poultry Fair.

van Barneveld, R.J., Miao, Z.H. and Ru, Y.J. (2000) Development of the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Proceedings of South Australian Pig and Poultry Fair.

van Barneveld, R.J., Ru, Y.J. and Zhihong, M. (2001) Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Grains Research and Development Corporation: Canberra.

van Barneveld, R.J., Ru, Y.J. and Zhihong, M. (2001) Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database Users Manual. Grains Research and Development Corporation: Canberra.

http://www.alfidbase.com/


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Project Title

Improving the utilisation of dietary amino acids in meat chickens

RIRDC Project No.:

US-80A

Researcher: A/Prof. Wayne Bryden Organisation: Contact Details:

The University of Sydney C/- School of Animal Studies The University of Queensland GATTON QLD 4343


• To improve the efficiency of amino acid utilisation in meat chickens by (i)

adjusting the amino acid intake to meet the bird’s requirement, and (ii) identifying factors that contribute to the observed variability in amino acid digestibility.

Background The supply of protein and amino acids in poultry diets is a significant cost of

production. The cost can be reduced by estimating the amino acid availability of feedstuffs through the conduct of digestibility studies. Therefore, in the future, feed formulation is likely to be based on digestible rather than total amino acid values. However, for industry to adopt the digestible amino acid approach to feed formulation it must have confidence in the reliability of digestible amino acid values.

Research Studies were conducted to determine the effect of age, feed enzymes and processing on ileal digestibility of amino acids in broiler chickens. Formulation of diets on a digestible amino acid basis was evaluated over the entire growing cycle in terms of both bird performance and carcass yield.

Outcomes

Broilers fed diets formulated on a digestible amino acid basis had significantly improved performance and breast meat yield compared to birds fed diets formulated on a total amino acid basis. Meat yield was further increased by additional dietary methionine supplementation. Age of bird, feed enzymes and feed ingredient processing were all shown to influence the ileal amino acid digestibility of feedstuffs.

Implications Industry interest in accessing the data generated by this research was strong, with information provided by the project being very rapidly taken up and implemented in industry feed formulation practices. Formulation of broiler diets on a digestible amino acid basis will improve bird performance and increase carcass yield, permit higher dietary inclusion of cheaper, alternative protein sources and decrease nitrogen excretion by the birds. Optimum bird performance and profitability depend largely on adequate and consistent amino acid content of diets. To achieve this goal, ongoing research is required on amino acid digestion and utilisation.

Publications

Balnave, D. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Advances in the amino acid nutrition of

broilers. Asian-Aust. J. Anim, Sci. (Supplement C) 13: 73-78. Bryden, W.L., Hew, L.I. and Ravindran, V. (2000) Digestible amino acid values:

variation and application. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 51-58.

Huang, K., Li, X., Ravindran, V. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Ileal protein digestibility of selected feedstuffs determined with adult cockerels, layers and broilers. Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. (Supplement A) 13: 137.

Huang, K., Ravindran, V., Hew, L.I. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Ileal protein digestibility of eight feed ingredients determined with broilers and layers. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 198.


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Huang, K., Ravindran, V., Hew, L.I. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Influence of age on ileal protein digestibility of feedstuffs in broiler chickens. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 196.

Li, X., Dove, H. and Bryden, W.L. (2001) Comparison of protein digestibility determined with either C36 N-alkane or acid insoluble ash as indigestible markers. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 13: 242.

Li, X., Kurko, K.V., Huang, K. and Bryden, W.L. (2002) Performance of broilers fed diets formulated using total or digestible amino acid values. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 14: 179.

Ravindran, V. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Diet formulation based on digestible amino acids. Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. (Supplement C) 13: 76-77.

Ravindran, V., Hew, L.I. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) Comparison of methodologies to estimate endogenous amino acid losses in poultry. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 197.

Selle, P.H., Ravindran, V. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) The role of dietary enzymes in improving amino acid digestibility. Asian-Aust. J. Anim. Sci. (Supplement C) 13: 75.


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Project Title

Physiological limitations in energy metabolism in chickens

RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-13A

Researcher: Dr. Robert Hughes Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

GPO Box 397 ADELAIDE SA 5001


• To develop non-invasive methods for measuring gut function in chickens. • To define the role of gut structure and function in limiting energy metabolism. • To identify the mechanism(s) by which physical and chemical properties of feed

promote sub-optimal digestion of energy. • To develop a clearer understanding of the physiological limitations of digestion

which will under-pin opportunities for development of specific strategies to reduce the cost of production of lean chicken meat.

Background A diet for broiler chickens that provides the nutrients essential for maintenance and

growth of the flock as a whole may also have other chemical and physical properties that are detrimental to the processes of ingestion, digestion, absorption, transport and utilisation of nutrients. The digestive capacity of the chicken can be modelled according to interactions between feed- and bird-related factors known to affect energy metabolism.

Research This project examined the general hypothesis that feed-related and bird-related factors interact to produce a variable effect on the digestion of energy by individual chickens within the flock. A total of 12 experiments were conducted during this study. Breath tests were developed as non-invasive indicators of digestive function and gut microbial activity and were used in conjunction with conventional methods for measuring energy digestion in commercial breeds of chickens.

Outcomes The results indicated that gut function and bacterial colonisation of the gut are important determinants of digestive function, and that both are partially dependent on the sex of the chicken. One third of the variation in apparent metabolisable energy (AME) was associated with physical features of the lining of the small intestine. The breed and sex of chicken significantly affected villus length in the jejunum and ileum respectively. The structure of the lining of the small intestine differed between male chickens, depending on breed, but there were no breed differences observed in female chickens. Hence there is good reason to believe that gut morphology could be a limiting feature of digestive function, but that other aspects are collectively more important given that two thirds of the variation in AME remained unexplained. The influence of gut microflora on the site of digestion of carbohydrate differed between male and female chickens, and according to type of grain used in the diet. Ileal digestible energy (DE) values for wheat and barley were unaffected by sex, whereas AME values were lower in male chickens compared with females.

Implications The influence of gut microflora on the digestive function of the chicken was partially dependent on the composition of the diet. Inherent characteristics of grains induced different responses in energy metabolism in male and female chickens. The likelihood that requirements for nutrients other than energy are also sex-dependent warrants investigation. It may be economically worthwhile to feed and manage commercial broilers in single sex flocks rather than jointly as is the current practice.


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Publications Carter, R.R. and Hughes, R.J. (2002) Age dependent responses of chickens to

enzymes in wheat and barley diets. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 14: 101.

Hughes, R.J. (2000) Nutritional management of broilers - what awaits us? Proceedings of the 2002 New Zealand Poultry Industry Conference, Palmerston North pp.103-115.

Hughes, R.J. (2001) Variation in the digestive capacity of the broiler chicken. Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia 13: 153-161.

Hughes, R.J. and Choct, M. (1999) Chemical and physical characteristics of grains that are related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in poultry. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 50: 689-701.

Hughes, R.J. and Choct, M. (2000) Factors influencing the energy content of cereal grains in broiler diets. Proceedings of the 2000 New Zealand Poultry Industry Conference, Palmerston North pp.134-145.

Hughes, R.J., Choct, M. and van Barneveld, R.J. (2001) Factors influencing the energy values of Australian cereal grains fed to broilers. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 13: 30-38.

Hughes, R.J., Symonds, E.L., Tivey, D.R. and Butler, R.N. (2000) 13CO2 breath tests for evaluating gastro-intestinal function in broiler chickens. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 170-173.

Hughes, R.J., Tivey, D.R. and Butler, R.N. (2001) Hydrogen and methane breath tests for assessing metabolic activity of gut flora in broiler chickens. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 13: 168-171.

Hughes, R.J., Tivey, D.R. and Butler, R.N. (2002) Breath tests for estimating digesta transit time in chickens. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 14: 108-111.

Hughes, R.J., Tivey, D.R. and Choct, M. (2000) Gastro-intestinal tract structure and energy metabolism in broilers. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 166-169.


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Consumer and Community Perceptions Project Title

Chicken meat usage study

RIRDC Project No.:

NMR-1A

Researcher: Mr. Van Valdez Organisation: Newspoll Market Research

407 Elizabeth Street SURRY HILLS NSW 2010

Phone: (02) 9281 8100 Fax: (02) 9212 5880 Objectives

• To update baseline data on usage of chicken meat and other meats and to gauge

trends in usage patterns since 1998. • To provide guidance to the Chicken Meat Advisory Committee with respect to

whether more detailed data on recent trends in consumer usage of and attitude to chicken meat needs to be collected.

Background Although chicken meat consumption continues to grow, in order for the industry to

sustain this growth, it needs to understand what consumer perceptions are driving demand and to identify trends in usage of the product and consumer attitudes towards it. Accordingly, in 1998/99 the Chicken Meat Program of RIRDC commissioned a detailed chicken meat usage and attitude study to establish baseline data against which future trends in consumer usage habits and attitudes to the industry and its products can be gauged. As a prelude to this comprehensive quantitative study, a population incidence survey was conducted nationally. As three years had passed since this work was done, it was felt timely that a survey be undertaken to establish whether any significant changes had occurred in consumer usage patterns that would suggest that a more detailed analysis of consumer purchasing habits and attitudes to chicken meat was warranted.

Research A survey was undertaken of 1,200 adults aged 18 and over throughout Australia to establish their levels of usage of chicken meat, other meats, fish and meals without any meat. The survey included questions designed to evaluate the consumption of a range of foods and whether the incidence of consumption of these foods had changed. The results of this survey were then compared with those obtained in an identical survey undertaken in 1998.

Outcomes The survey demonstrated that the incidence of chicken consumption had changed little between November 1998 and September 2001, with the vast majority of adults (93%) claiming to have eaten it within the last month and most of these (81%) within the last week. Chicken consumption was found to be uniform across the community with little variation found across a wide range of demographic groups. Despite the steady ratings for the frequency of eating chicken, more than twice as many people claimed to be eating more chicken now compared to twelve months ago (29%), than less (13%). This was also similar to the findings in the 1998 survey. The picture for the other meats was also very similar to that seen in 1998, with respondents more likely to report a decrease in consumption of beef, lamb, pork and seafood other than fish.

Implications The survey indicated that the incidence patterns for consumption of chicken meat had not altered significantly between 1998 and 2001, and that more consumers generally felt they were eating more chicken than they had tended to do previously, than felt they were eating it less. On this basis, the Chicken Meat Advisory Committee felt


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that an update of the full, quantitative chicken meat usage and attitude study was not warranted at this time.

Publications As this survey was undertaken for the Chicken Meat Advisory Committee of RIRDC to help it to determine what, if any, further updating of information on the usage and attitudes to chicken meat was needed, the survey report is for internal use only.


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Animal Welfare Project Title

Implementation of the RIRDC broiler audit to industry

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-185A

Researcher: Dr. John Barnett Organisation: Animal Welfare Centre

Department of Natural Resources and Environment (Vic) Private Bag 7, Sneydes Road WERRIBEE VIC 3030


• To achieve the adoption of welfare audit procedures by four out of six companies

in Victoria and two out of three companies in SA. • To achieve participation in these audit procedures by 20% of growers and

transporters and 40% of breeder farms, rearing farms, hatcheries and processing plants in Victoria and SA - participation either to be on the basis of these operations incorporating the welfare audit into their own quality assurance programs or by its independent use.

Background A major threat to intensive animal production is the unwanted and often-unwarranted

attention focussed on apparent lack of care of individual animals within a large farm. Previous projects in this program have provided comprehensive welfare audit documentation for the chicken meat industry. Having developed the ‘Welfare Audit for the Chicken Meat Industry’, the challenge was to see it implemented on commercial farms. This project was established to encourage implementation of the welfare audit procedures developed in early projects and to document some of the barriers to adoption. These projects were undertaken to help fulfil both industry’s and the community’s expectations of high levels of quality assurance associated with chicken meat production.

Research There were two elements to this project. The first was to work with several major chicken meat companies that had agreed to implement the audit documentation, at least at some of their farms and across a number of the industry sectors, to encourage and facilitate its implementation. The second element was to maintain awareness of the project on an industry-wide basis. This was done by firstly producing a CD about the project that was sent out to all chicken meat companies and industry organisations and secondly by staging an official ‘launch’ of the project accompanied by media releases and an article for industry journals.

Outcomes Two national companies (representing a very large proportion of the meat chickens produced in Australia) indicated that they saw few barriers that would prevent them adopting the audit nationally. At the time that this project was undertaken, two predominantly State based companies indicated they would also adopt the audit. Another State based company also indicated its intention to incorporate the welfare audit into its own QA program. However, subsequent rationalisation within the industry has seen some the latter three companies taken over/amalgamated, which has precluded further progress being made. It is recommended that a workshop be organised to examine some of the barriers to national adoption of the ‘Welfare Audit for the Chicken Meat Industry’ and to provide the forum for agreement on an industry approach to its adoption nationally.


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Implications The short term benefits from this work are those to be gained from advertising industry’s proactive position on animal welfare with welfare groups, the public, the retail sector and relevant state and federal government bodies. The long term benefits will only be achieved by more widespread implementation of the audit process. These benefits will include an ability by industry to demonstrate compliance with the Code of Practice and welfare targets, improvements in compliance levels with targets over time, an ability to identify and solve problems on individual farms and, where necessary, to initiate industry education on specific issues. In these ways, industry will be in a position to provide reassurance to the public that appropriate welfare standards are being met within the chicken meat industry.

Publications

Barnett, J.L., Glatz, P.C. and Almond, A. (2000) A welfare audit for the broiler

industry. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 213. Barnett, J.L., Glatz, P.C. and Almond, A. (2000) A welfare audit for the broiler

industry: A project in progress. Proceedings of the 2000 Poultry Information Exchange pp. 195-196.

Barnett, J.L. (2001) Welfare audit for the chicken meat industry. Poultry Digest 17(2): 6 and 44-45.


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Environmental Management

Project Title

Odour bag trials - broiler shed samples

RIRDC Project No.:

MS990-52

Researcher: Mr. Tim Pollock Organisation: Egis Consulting Australia

390 St Kilda Rd MELBOURNE VIC 3004


• To determine the chemical reactivity of poultry odour within the collection

sample bag during the elapsed time between sampling and presentation of the sample to an odour panel for odour strength measurement

• To determine the permeability of the sample bag material (‘Nalaphan’) to water vapour.

• To determine the influence of pre-dilution and type of pre-diluent (dry air or nitrogen) on measured odour levels.

Background There is insufficient information available on the effects of batch age and shed

ventilation rate on broiler shed odour emission rate (OER) from broiler sheds. However, before research in this area can be initiated, it is important to establish whether poultry odour degradation is significant over the normal range of time lapse between sampling at the broiler shed and presentation of odour samples to an odour panel. For example, the degree of degradation of odour may determine whether air or road transport should be used to move samples from the broiler shed under study to the odour laboratory in which it is to be tested. Furthermore, other possible sources of additional odour degradation during the freighting of poultry odour samples from collection point to testing laboratory need to be investigated and, if significant, measures taken to reduce their impact. Pre-dilution of samples is one strategy that could be employed in this respect. Pre-dilution would potentially have the effect of lowering the relative humidity in the sample bag and thereby reducing the possibility of condensation of water on the bag wall. The type of material from which the sample bags are constructed could also influence the level of humidity in the sample and hence may also influence odour degradation.

Research Odour samples were collected from the shed exhaust of a tunnel ventilated broiler shed and subsequently presented to an odour panel at (as close as possible to) 4, 8, 12, 24 and 30 hours post sample collection. Three sets of samples were taken for subsequent determination, one sample set being collected into bags pre-diluted 1:1 with nitrogen, the second set being pre-diluted 1:1 with medical grade air, and the third set being collected into bags with no pre-dilution. ‘Nalophan’ bags were used for sample collection. The odour levels of the samples were determined by dynamic olfactometry according to the CEN protocol. Samples of exhaust air were also collected in ‘Tedlar’ bags, without pre-dilution, and were analysed for their concentrations of 22 odorous chemical compounds.

Outcomes All three sample sets showed a marked increase in measured odour levels in the 2nd and 3rd presentations post-collection (approximately 7 and 11 hours time lapse), over that measured in the first (4 hours post-collection) session. By the 4th and 5th presentations (26 and 28 hours post-collection) odour levels on all samples had decreased down to the initial values measured at the first presentation. The results


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from chemical analyses undertaken on the concentrations of 22 odorous constituents of samples also showed some evidence of chemical reactivity in the first 12 hours after sampling. The results of these trials clearly showed that ‘Nalophan’ is close to transparent to water vapour in the absence of odorant, with almost complete equilibration to the ambient humidity within 1.5 hours. If this transparency were retained in the presence of odorant, then there would be no justification for the device of pre-dilution (to lower sample humidity so as to reduce the possibility of condensation on the inner bag wall when temperatures lower).

Implications The odour results have substantial ramifications for all (past and future) poultry farm odour sampling and measurement. It would therefore be prudent to conduct a repeat trial, but with duplicate samples sent to two CEN laboratories for successive presentations, to confirm this finding. If the effect seen is confirmed in other odour laboratories, then the protocol used for sampling poultry odour in future work will have to be revised considerably. It may require olfactometry to be undertaken on-site at the broiler farm in order to obtain results that are representative of odour emitting from broiler sheds. On-site olfactometry may well be a necessary step to further elucidate the enhancement process acting in the sampled odour, but cost considerations are unlikely to make it viable as a routine measure. These bag trials also suggest that pre-dilution of samples be abandoned from the protocol used in future studies on odour emissions from broiler sheds, as the supposed risk of condensation that it was designed to avoid is not borne out due to bag wall transparency to water vapour.


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Project Title:

Replicate bag trials – odour samples from broiler sheds

RIRDC Project No.:

EGC-1A

Researcher: Mr. Tim Pollock Organisation: Egis Consulting Australia

390 St Kilda Rd MELBOURNE VIC 3004


• To confirm the effects of collection bag material and time lapse between sampling

and presentation of the sample to an odour panel on samples of poultry shed odour from a tunnel ventilated broiler shed.

• To evaluate the effects of air transport on sample temperatures, condensation within sample bags and hence subsequent odour measurements.

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic nose (Z nose) in tracking the change in odour level of odour samples with elapsed time.

Background Earlier trials commissioned by RIRDC (project MS990-52) showed an apparent

substantial increase in measured odour level 8 and 12 hours post sample collection as compared to that measured 4 hours post sampling. As the ramifications of such an effect are considerable in terms of the validity of past odour measurements taken on samples of broiler farm odour, and the protocols that should be used in future studies, this research was commissioned to confirm or refute these earlier results.

Research Odour samples were collected into both ‘Nalathan’ and ‘Tedlar’ collection bags from the shed exhaust of a tunnel ventilated broiler shed and subsequently presented to an odour panel at (as close as possible to) 2.5, 4.5, 8.5, 12, 26 and 36 hours post sample collection. Replicate samples were submitted for odour determination to two different odour laboratories, both of which operated to the CEN protocol for dynamic olfactometry as modified by the requirements of the then Draft Australian Olfactometry standard EV/07. Duplicate samples collected in ‘Tedlar’ bags were also submitted to Food Science Australia for Z nose analysis at different time periods post sample collection.

Outcomes The results from neither laboratory showed the time-variation behaviour observed in the original trials, suggesting that the original results were not typical of tunnel shed odour levels, and that the previously observed odour increase with elapsed time was also not representative. The second main finding was a clear disparity between the two olfactometry laboratories in terms of the variation in odour level observed across time. While both laboratories showed equivalent odour levels from about 12-13 hours post sample collection, prior to this time odour levels and trends across time were quite different for each laboratory. No explanation for this could be arrived. The results from both laboratories showed an increase in the measured odour level in ‘Nalophan’ as compared to ‘Tedlar’ bags. One plausible explanation for this difference is that ‘Nalophan’ bags have a residual odour that leads to higher measured odour levels. Results obtained on temperatures and humidity within samples during transportation suggested that pre-dilution to reduce sample relative humidity may be required if exposure of the sample to low ambient temperature is likely during transport to the olfactometry laboratory. The results generated by the Z nose clearly showed that the devise had sufficient sensitivity to poultry odour leading to a likely detection level of 3 odour units, but that the peaks identified by the Z nose did not clearly correlate with the trends in odour levels determined by olfactometry, possibly because the Z nose dominant peak may well have corresponded to a chemical compound of low odour potential.


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Implications In relation to future shed odour emission rate measurements, a number of refinements of the sampling protocol are suggested by the findings of this project. These include the use of ‘Tedlar’ bags for poultry shed emissions, to minimise the effect of residual odour contributed by the material from which the bags are made, that pre-dilution of samples is not necessary, and air transport of samples should be permitted, provided temperatures are logged to track the time history of temperature that the samples are exposed to during transport. There are some disturbing implications for the perceived reliability of CEN protocol laboratories and reproducibility of odour measurements until the discrepancies between results from different laboratories found in these trials are explained. This emphasises the need to develop a more objective method for odour measurement, such as electronic nose technology, but the results from these studies suggest that such the current Z nose technology will require extensive calibration to poultry odour, using olfactometry, before it can become a genuinely useful tool.


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Project Title

Environmental database for the intensive meat chicken industry

RIRDC Project No.:

PAE-1A

Researcher: Mr. Chaim Kolominskas1, Mr. Kelsey Bawden1, Mr. Robin Ormerod1 and Mr Eugene McGahan2

Organisation: Pacific Air and Environment Pty Ltd1

PO Box 3306 SOUTH BRISBANE QLD 4101 FSA Environmental2

PO Box 2175 TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350

Phone: (07) 3004 64001 (07) 4632 82302

Fax: (07) 3844 58581 (07) 4632 80572

Email: [email protected]

[email protected] Objectives

• To identify and collect all the relevant documentation related to the

environmental performance of the meat chicken and meat breeder industry. • To create a user-friendly database as the repository of this information. • To undertake a review of odour control strategies available to the meat chicken

industry and include an objective cost/benefit analysis of the available strategies. • To make recommendations with respect to the most suitable strategies for

controlling odour from the meat chicken industry. • To make recommendations on the research and development that may need to be

undertaken to either (a) more adequately assess the potential of available (or prospective) odour control strategies, (b) further develop or refine the most promising currently available odour control strategies for meat chicken farms, or (c) develop new strategies for odour control.

Background Currently, there are many sources of information relating to environmental impacts

and odour control technologies relevant to the meat chicken industry. To date, there has not been a critical evaluation of all available data in terms of its relevance and value to both environmental management systems and the regulatory process. The chicken meat industry recognises this situation and is seeking to provide its members with a concise database that has taken all of the relevant sources of information into consideration.

Research A database was developed as a repository of all current information relevant to environmental impact of meat chicken farms. “Best bet” information was identified. Existing and promising odour control strategies were reviewed.

Outcomes The six most promising good practice design and management strategies available to control odour emissions from intensive meat chicken facilities identified by the analysis were (in order of preference): insulation, ventilation, waste management, dietary manipulation, bedding, and floor design. The six most promising odour control technologies identified by the analysis were (in order of preference): short chimney stacks, vegetative screening, active oxygen, ozone treatment, biofilters, and odour neutralising agents. In this analysis, odour neutralising agents were rated very poorly, but due to the diversity of strategies in this category, agents should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Assessment of the suitability of windbreak walls and dietary manipulations for reducing odour emissions from farms could be greatly enhanced with further research.

Implications

This project has provided the current ‘state of play’ with respect to information


22

relating to environmental impacts of intensive meat chicken farms. The study has found that most existing odour control technologies are not viable for the industry due to cost. This project has provided direction for future research into more cost-effective odour control strategies, in particular, windbreak walls and dietary manipulation.


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Project Title

National environmental management system for the meat chicken industry

RIRDC Project No.:

FSE-1A

Researcher: Mr. Eugene McGahan Organisation: FSA Environmental

PO Box 2175 TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350


• To review all existing Codes of Practice and Environmental Management Plans

(EMPs) relevant to Australian meat chicken farms. • To develop a generic environmental management system (EMS) for the

Australian meat chicken industry. • To develop and assess strategies for implementation of this EMS. • To develop and made recommendations for the implementation of this EMS into

whole-farm quality assurance (QA) systems. • To develop and made recommendations for the implementation of this EMS into

whole-farm QA systems.

Background The Australian meat chicken industry has expanded significantly over the past 30 years. At the same time, community interest in environmental issues has heightened. To ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry and of individual farms, it is important that environmental concerns are carefully managed.

Research To enable a co-ordinated approach to environmental standards within the industry, the RIRDC Chicken Meat Program has funded the development of a National EMS for the Meat Chicken Industry. To oversee the development of the EMS and to provide feedback on document development, an industry-based steering committee was assigned to the project.

Outcomes The developed National EMS for the Meat Chicken industry consists of: • a Manual of Good Environmental Practice; • an example Environmental Management Plan and Explanatory Notes; • a Generic Environmental Management Plan; • an Environmental Risk Assessment Workbook so individuals can self assess their

individual enterprises and identify any environmental improvement or monitoring that is require;

• management tools farmers can use to develop their own farm-specific plans, including Meat Chicken Environmental Technical Notes, Mass Balance Excel Spreadsheet for Meat Chicken Farms, Example Environmental Management Plans and Generic Environmental Management Plan; and

• recommendations for training industry participants in environmental awareness and environmental management.

Implications With the development of the National EMS package the industry has the opportunity

to promote the benefits of the package to growers to ensure its implementation. Implementation could be through whole-farm QA systems. If farmers develop a QA Manual, the Environmental Management Plan should be included in the body of this Manual to ensure that environmental management is identified as an integral part of the whole-farm QA system. Specific documentation relevant to each State will need to be developed prior to implementation of this Meat Chicken EMS.

Publications McGahan, E.J., Kolominskas, C., Bawden, K. and Ormerod, R. (2002) Strategies to


24

reduce odour emissions from meat chicken farms. Proceedings of the 2002 Poultry Information Exchange, April 2002, Gold Coast: 27-39.


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Project Title

Sustainability improvements in the Victorian meat chicken industry (Phase 1)

RIRDC Project No:

JSC-1A

Researcher: Mr. James Smith Organisation: James Smith Consulting Pty Ltd

55 Sims Street SANDRINGHAM VIC 3191


• To identify and provide chicken meat growers with tools for best practice

environmental operations and skills for community liaison. • To establish an ongoing process for addressing broad community concerns. • To define areas of research where implementation of current best practice will not

fully meet community expectations.

Background Victoria’s chicken meat production of 100 million birds is valued at $650 million per year and growing at 4% pa. Residential encroachment into rural zones requires higher operating standards. Approximately 10% of current farms are the subject of neighbour complaints relating to loss of amenity. Additional equipment and approvals expensed for all new farms costs the industry an extra $3 million annually in Victoria and an estimated $10 million Australia-wide. Therefore, the Victorian industry embarked on an initiative (‘Chicken Care’) in 2000 that focused on the adoption by industry participants of best practice performance criteria and on cooperation with neighbours in order to better understand their needs and maintain their amenity.

Research

A key element of the project involved obtaining community inputs through broad discussions with the community and by establishing an independent Community Advisory Panel. Training materials and best practice guidelines were prepared for growers and delivered at grower workshops. Surveys were prepared, carried out and analysed on key environmental and other performance indicators and on the level of implementation of the best practice model in 2000. A series of guidance notes on identified topics of special importance were researched and prepared, and a major workshop of interested parties was held to define priority areas of future research or farm trials.

Outcomes

Effective processes for dialogue with and between growers, processors and external stakeholders allowed all planned project outcomes to be met. An ongoing Community Advisory Panel to the Victorian industry was established and its major recommendations for change were either fully implemented (60%) during the course of the project or in train for implementation in 2002/03 (40%). A survey indicated that 58% of the best practice environmental requirements are in place at participating farms and therefore that scope exists for further improvement. A set of 19 key performance indicators was developed and survey results from 22 farms provided an initial characterisation of the environmental activities on a typical farm. Nine guidance notes were researched and published (75%) or drafted (25%) in the course of the project, on topics including dead birds, contingency actions, legal obligations, major mortalities, key performance indicators, skill needs, complaints handling, litter stockpiles and chicken feed information. Priority areas for future research were also identified and covered waste litter management, feed impacts, odour control trials, odour testing and the important causes of odour generation.

Implications The processes researched and established in this project have defined best practices, have begun to identify gaps in current performance, have given the community an


26

influence on the industry’s environmental management practices and have led to several cooperative programs. Continuation of the dialogue, training and survey processes established in 2001 are required. Increased grower participation in the ‘Chicken Care’ initiative in Victoria, and possibly in other States, and in surveys would increase the benefits of the Program to industry generally. Coordination, rigorous design and shared funding of research and farm trials in the identified priority areas are also recommended.

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS 27

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM

RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

Flock Health

Project Title

Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-259J

Start Date: 01/11/99 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr. Wayne Jorgensen Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Animal Research Institute Locked Mail Bag No 4 MOOROOKA QLD 4105


• To develop attenuated lines of E. mitis, E. brunetti and E. praecox for

incorporation in an efficacious live vaccine protective against all seven species of Eimeria in Australian chickens.

• To develop a trial technique to evaluate coccidiostat resistance.

Current Progress All vaccine development and characterisation work has been completed for the precocious line of the Jorgensen strain of Eimeria mitis. The line has been transferred to Eimeria Pty Ltd for field trials and registration. Two strains of Eimeria brunetti (Monarto and Bowden) underwent selection for precocious development by passage. Both, however, exhibited rapid falls in prepatent period that reduced reproductive potential but failed to reduce pathogenicity sufficiently. As an alternative, a mild line selected from the Bowden parent strain underwent characterisation to determine its suitability for use as a vaccine strain. Results from the characterisation trials showed that it had appropriately low pathogenicity and was protective against heterologous challenge. The line has been transferred to Eimeria Pty Ltd. The sensitivity of two strains of Eimeria praecox (Kelly and Jorgensen) to the coccidiostats Toltrazuril, Amprolium and Sulphaquinoxaline was evaluated in trials. The Kelly strain exhibited some resistance to all three coccidiostats and work on that strain was discontinued. The Jorgensen strain was sensitive to the three coccidiostats. Characterisation trials were subsequently performed to assess its suitability for use as a vaccine strain. Pathogenicity and heterologous challenge trials have been completed and the results are awaiting statistical analysis.


Project Title

Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis

RIRDC Project No:

UTS-4J

Start Date: 01/05/02 Finish Date: 30/04/04 Researcher: A/Prof. Nicholas Smith Organisation: University of Technology, Sydney

Institute for the Biotechnology of Infectious Diseases Westbourne Street GORE HILL NSW 2065


• To test the efficacy of recombinant versions of Eimeria maxima gametocyte

antigens as a subunit, maternally-delivered vaccine against coccidiosis.

Current Progress Funding for this project commenced in May, 2002, whereupon a position was advertised to assist in the conduct of the immunogenicity and efficacy trials that will be conducted over the next two years. Currently, sufficient quantities of recombinant proteins are being produced for injection into chickens for the first of the planned immunogenicity trials, which is expected to run for the next 12-16 weeks. This first trial will determine the effect of different doses of recombinant 56 kDa gametocyte antigens and recombinant 82 kDa gametocyte antigens on immunogenicity. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays and western blots using serum from injected birds will be used to assess the antibody response to vaccination, and to identify the optimal dose of antigen.


Project Title

Determination of the genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum

RIRDC Project No:

UM-45J

Start Date: 01/06/99 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr. Glenn Browning Organisation: The University of Melbourne

Faculty of Veterinary Science, Pre-Clinical Centre PARKVILLE VIC 3010


• To determine the complete genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum. • To facilitate identification of genes which are likely to play a role in

virulence. • To lay a foundation for subsequent studies to improve the performance of

mycoplasma vaccines and to improve diagnosis of mycoplasmosis.

Current Progress The complete genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum has been determined. Some confirmatory sequencing is being performed to check some regions, but analysis of the sequence has commenced. The complete genome is 997,414 base pairs in length and contains 758 genes. Preliminary analysis indicates that there are 31 genes encoding the major immunogen, pMGA. The analysis of the genome sequence is being performed concurrently with proteomic and transcriptional analysis in another RIRDC funded project.


Project Title

Typing of Pasteurella multocida

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-100J

Start Date: 01/01/02 Finish Date: 31/12/03 Researcher: Dr. Linda Blackall Organisation: The University of Queensland

Department of Microbiology & Parasitology ST LUCIA QLD 4072


• To establish Multi-locus Sequence Typing (MLST) of Pasteurella

multocida. • To develop a system for the rapid and accurate typing of P. multocida

isolates that will allow any isolate to be directly compared with any previous isolate already typed and which will allow an understanding of the epidemiology of fowl cholera outbreaks.

• To facilitate improved prevention and control programs for fowl cholera.

Current Progress This project has the aim of establishing Multi-locus Sequence Typing (MLST) of Pasteurella multocida. MLST is now recognised as the cutting edge typing technology. The completion of this project will allow the rapid, accurate typing of P. multocida isolates. In addition, MLST typing allows any isolate to be directly compared with any previous isolate already typed, even if the typing has been done in different laboratories. The project has been designed to be performed by a post-graduate student. Unfortunately, the selected student resigned from the project after two months of work. In the two month period, a collection of P. multocida isolates were assembled and work began on DNA extraction from those isolates. Possible replacement students are currently being interviewed and work on the project will resume as soon as possible.


Project Title

Evaluation of fowlpox (FPV) strains free of reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) as vaccines for use in Australian poultry flocks

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-16A

Start Date: 01/04/00 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr David Boyle Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries

Private Bag 24 GEELONG VIC 3220


• To undertake vaccine efficacy, safety and adventitious agent testing on

reticuloendotheliosis (REV) free fowlpox virus (FPV) strains derived from S (Standard vaccine) strain and two field strains, FPV 59vac and FPV 62vac.

Current Progress

Master and working seeds and three pilot vaccine lots from the selected fowlpox strain were prepared under Good Manufacturing Practice in late 2001 by the commercial partner in this project (Intervet Pty Ltd). Potency, Safety and Chick Inoculation Tests, in accordance with the “European Pharmacopoeia – Fourth Edition September 2001” requirements, were conducted at CSIRO AAHL during March to April 2002 as a prelude to application for a National Registration Authority and Office of Gene Technology Regulator permit to conduct a field trial. The chicken inoculation component has been completed and the laboratory based serological testing for the Chick Inoculation Tests has commenced. It is anticipated that this will be completed in six to eight weeks. Provided the vaccine strain meets all test requirements, CSIRO AAHL and Intervet will develop the necessary documentation to allow the conduct of a field trial as soon as the appropriate approvals can be completed.


Project Title

Avian leukosis-J (ALV-J) in Australia: laboratory technologies and research needs

RIRDC Project No:

UM-49A

Start Date: 01/10/00 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Trevor Bagust Organisation: The University of Melbourne

Faculty of Veterinary Science, Pre-Clinical Centre Cnr Park Drive and Flemington Road PARKVILLE VIC 3052


• To develop the most appropriate laboratory technologies and reagents for

detection of avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) and its associated disease effects for Australia's chicken meat industry.

Current Progress Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques for the detection of ALV-J have

now been established fully in these laboratories. These are being routinely utilised, in combination with virus isolation and ELISA, to screen substantial numbers of birds from commercial broiler flocks. This is part of an ongoing comprehensive survey of ALV-J status across a number of sites in Australia. This survey has confirmed both the presence and, just as importantly, the absence of ALV-J in some of Australia’s breeding flocks. Virus isolation investigations on 280 whole blood samples have now been completed and, from these, 26 individual viral isolates of ALV-J have been obtained, all of which have been confirmed by PCR. As part of these investigations, some 340 serum samples from 11 separate, grandparent and parent flocks have been examined serologically, with seven flocks being confirmed positive for ALV-J infection and four confirmed to be negative. Confirmed ALV-J isolates spanning several years and numerous locations in Australia are currently being sequenced. The envelope region from several of these isolates has already been cloned, and this sequence data will enable molecular comparisons of Australian isolates with foreign isolates that have been published previously. Any differences will have the potential to be exploited for the development of specific diagnostic procedures to efficiently detect Australian strains. A comprehensive phylogenetic analysis will also shed light on the source and distribution of Australian strains.


Project Title

Molecular epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

CSA-11J

Start Date: 01/06/99 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr. Allan Gould Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To characterise Australian Newcastle disease viruses (NDVs) at the gene

sequence level in order to understand the types of viruses present and their potential to cause a virulent Newcastle disease outbreak.

• To develop a better understanding of the epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus within Australia.

Current Progress The complete gene sequence of ten Newcastle disease virus (NDV) isolates

associated with the 1998-2000 outbreaks of ND in NSW have been determined. This has enabled the genetic drift of the virus to be accurately determined and the confirmation that there is an association of the putative ‘progenitor’ virus with virulent NDV outbreaks. Over the past year, the gene sequence of the progenitor virus for the virulent NDV, which re-emerged in NSW in 2001, has been determined. This has enabled an analysis of the genetic drift of this virus. Surprisingly, the gene sequence of this virus has evolved little since from the 1998 sequence, varying by only 0.3%. This suggests that the virus is not genetically unstable, but evolves slowly from an established consensus sequence. Gene sequence analysis of NDV isolates held in collections other than those held at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, has identified the presence of an ancestral virus from which the progenitor virus itself may have evolved. This isolate was present in the Peats Ridge area of NSW in 1991. Such collections are important for the epidemiological analysis of NDV strains and in predicting the likelihood of emergence of the disease in Australia in the future.


Project Title

Postgraduate scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants of Newcastle disease virus

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-13J

Start Date: 01/01/00 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr. Allan Gould and Ms. Jacqueline Kattenbelt Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To develop a viable DNA construct containing Newcastle disease virus

(NDV) genome and separate clones of NDV nucleocapsid, protein (N), phosphoprotein (P) and polymerase (L).

• To establish a reverse genetics system to allow recovery of recombinant NDV.

• To recover NDV mutants with substitutions in precise sites within the matrix protein to give strictly defined molecular mutants.

• To map structure-function relationships of viral proteins within infected cells and to study viral morphogenesis, virulence factor and tissue trophism determinants essential for NDV replication and infection using electron microscopy.

Current Progress The complete genome of Newcastle disease virus (isolate 98-1154) has been

cloned into pUC vectors as two separate overlapping fragments. Attempts are presently underway to join these fragments together into the transcription vector p delta X8 for transfection into constitutive BHK cells expressing T7 RNA polymerase. Similarly the polymerase (L), nucleocapsid (NC) and phosphoprotein (P) genes have been cloned into T7 transcription vectors for co-infection with the full-length genome to assess the viability of the reverse genetics constructs. The latter constructs have been sequenced to determine their suitability for transcription and translation in the mammalian expression system. The gene sequences flanking the matrix gene have been manipulated to contain a unique restriction enzyme modification site for the insertion of modified matrix gene constructs. Several matrix gene variants have been produced which contain (1) a modified nuclear transport signal, and (2) a chimeric matrix gene containing Herts and 98-1154 sequences. These constructs have been sequenced and verified. The complete nucleotide sequence of the progenitor virus isolated in NSW in 2001 has been determined and comparisons made to complete genome sequences determined for the 1998 and 1999 progenitor viruses.


Project Title

The effect of Newcastle disease vaccination with strain V4 on the course of infections with the Peats Ridge strain of Newcastle disease virus

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-18J

Start Date: 01/10/01 Finish Date: 31/07/02 Researcher: Dr. Peter Daniels Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To determine whether prior vaccination with V4 Newcastle disease vaccine

can reduce subsequent colonisation with Peats Ridge strain Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and/or reduce the amount (and duration) of shedding of Peats Ridge strain NDV.

• To determine whether V4 vaccination during a Peats Ridge infection can modify the course of the Peats Ridge infection.

• To evaluate the serological response to the Peats Ridge alone, and to the Peats Ridge strain following prior 'priming' with V4 vaccine.

Current Progress Research at AAHL with the Peats Ridge strain of NDV has shown that it is one

of a group of closely related NDV that all have a nine amino acid ‘extension’ of the HN protein, and an amino acid sequence at the cleavage site of the fusion protein that is only two base changes from a sequence classified as virulent. Isolates of the Peats Ridge strain have frequently been found in association with the virulent strain in recent Australian cases of Newcastle disease. Molecular analyses have allowed the design of primers that differentiate Peats Ridge NDV from V4 in real time PCR tests. These tests will be used in the experiments undertaken as part of this project. In the first of these experiments, currently under way, a group of 20 specific pathogen free chickens are being vaccinated at one week of age, once, by eyedrop, with the current batch of V4 being supplied to the industry. These birds are being challenged three weeks post vaccination with a substantial challenge of the Peats Ridge strain of NDV. A control group of 20 chickens of the same age are being challenged at the same time with the Peats Ridge virus. Both groups of chickens are being housed on litter in separate isolation rooms. The serological responses and patterns of excretion of the challenge virus are being compared between vaccinated and control groups. Should the vaccinated birds excrete Peats Ridge NDV, a second experiment will investigate the effect of two or more doses of vaccine.


Project Title

Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian strains

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-15J

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Jagoda Ignjatovic Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries

Private Bag No 24 GEELONG VIC 3220


• To introduce and evaluate two methods, ELISA and RFLP, for the rapid

detection of very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV) strains. • To demonstrate that changes in local IBDV field isolates remain unique for

Australia. • To confirm Australia’s current status as free from vvIBDV viruses.

Current Progress The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method, developed and used in the USA for discrimination of IBDV strains, was evaluated for its usefulness to differentiate Australian strains of IBDV. By this method, 24 Australian IBDV strains gave 12 different molecular patterns that were unique and distinct from overseas IBDV strains. There were no other biological features that could be associated with IBDV strains within these 12 molecular groups. Genetically similar strains belong to different molecular groups. The existence of such a large number of molecular groups, and lack of their biological significance, thus precludes effective use of this test for differentiation of Australian IBDV strains. A specific SspI site that is used to predict a very virulent IBDV phenotype was not present in any Australian IBDV strains, contrary to a previous finding published in the USA. Eight new IBDV isolates, two of which came from cases with elevated mortalities in broiler flocks in Victoria and South Australia, were analyzed antigenically and at the genetic level. Their comparison with other Australian IBDV strains showed that these strains were also similar to other Australian strains. Small genetic differences were however detected, particularly in strains isolated in Victoria, indicating that Australian IBDV strains continue to change.


Project Title


RIRDC Project No:

UMU-29J

Start Date: 01/09/01 Finish Date: 30/08/03 Researcher: Prof. David Hampson Organisation: Murdoch University

Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences MURDOCH WA 6150


• To develop improved methods to control infection by Brachyspira

intermedia and Brachyspira pilosicoli - bacterial pathogens causing significant economic loss in Australian layer and broiler breeder flocks.

Current Progress Studies are underway on a broiler breeder farm in Queensland and a layer farm

in Western Australia to determine the source and dynamics of infection with intestinal spirochaete species in birds on these farms. Cross-sectional surveys over the farms have been completed, and cohorts of birds in uninfected replacement flocks on both sites are now being sampled at fortnightly intervals to determine the timing and potential source of infection in these new flocks. Individual spirochaete isolates are being identified and typed to see whether they are strains that are present in birds in other flocks on the sites, or are being introduced from some other exogenous sources. Environmental samples are also being examined as potential reservoirs of the organisms. An experimental infection trial has been completed in which layers were fed diets based on one or other of two Western Australian wheat varieties, then infected with the intestinal spirochaete Brachyspira intermedia. Significant differences in colonisation with the spirochaete were detected in the two groups of birds, but, contrary to the original hypothesis, this was not related to the viscosity of the ileal contents. The experiment is being repeated, using another pathogenic intestinal spirochaete species Brachyspira pilosicoli to infect the birds.


Project Title

Investigations into the development of a sustainable management strategy for the darkling beetle, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) in broilers

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-273A

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Mr. Trevor Lambkin Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Entomology Building, Indooroopilly Research Centre 80 Meiers Road INDOOROOPILLY QLD 4068


• To investigate sustainable management practices for the darkling beetle,

Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer), in broiler systems which will aim at reducing pest numbers, identifying current inefficiencies in insecticide applications, sustainedly managing currently registered insecticides, developing novel control strategies and understanding better beetle population dynamics.

Current Progress The pyrethroid cyfluthrin was found to have limited effect in controlling

subterranean beetle populations in the brooder section of six south east Queensland (SEQ) clay floor broiler sheds after total broiler shed or brooder area only clean-outs. Approximately ten live adult beetles per litre of clay were recorded in clay floors under drinkers and feeders after insecticide application. Spatial distribution studies of A. diaperinus in two cyfluthrin treated, clay floor tunnel-ventilated broiler sheds in SEQ indicated that at the end of three consecutive batches most A. diaperinus occurred in litter and floor clay under feeder pans and drinker lines, to a floor clay depth of approximately 350mm, and there were roughly equal numbers of the pest in the brooder and grow-out areas. The average number of all stages of live A. diaperinus in litter under feeder pans from the two sheds was 430 insects per litre. These results were further evidence to indicate that cyfluthrin had limited efficacy in preventing re-infestation of fresh litter by A. diaperinus.


Project Title

Biological control of necrotic enteritis in meat chickens

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-12A

Start Date: 01/10/99 Finish Date: 30/09/02 Researcher: Dr. Robert Moore Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To control necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens using a cost effective, user-

friendly, environmentally sustainable biological control strategy.

Current Progress Bacteriocins are small, natural proteins that certain bacteria make to kill other bacteria. Bacteria use them to compete in particular ecological niches. The bacteriocins work by punching holes in the surface of affected bacteria. This research project is investigating the possible use of bacteriocins for controlling Clostridium perfringens, the bacteria responsible for necrotic enteritis in chickens. Two purified bacteriocin preparations have been used in the Hens Egg Test of toxicity and proved to be non-toxic. This data adds to that previously generated in mice to demonstrate the safety of these peptides. Expression constructs encoding genes for bacteriocin expression have been modified to give continuous, constitutive expression in the vectors being used in this project. One of the bacteriocin expressing vectors has been used in both mice and chickens to treat an experimental Listeria monocytogenes infection. L. monocytogenes numbers were reduced by such treatment but it is not yet clear if this was due to the bacteriocin or simply due to environmental competition between the vector and L. monocytogenes or induction of an innate immune response. Further experiments are being undertaken to define the role of the expressed bacteriocin. These experiments are a prelude to testing the bacteriocin expressing vector strains against Clostridium perfringens within birds. Efforts are continuing to develop a necrotic enteritis disease model and some more C. perfringens strains from field cases of the disease have recently been isolated. Expression constructs for a number of additional antibacterial peptides have been constructed and recombinant protein production and activity is currently being assessed.


Project Title

Effects of organic acids, prebiotics and enzymes on control of necrotic enteritis and performance of broiler chickens

RIRDC Project No:

UNE-75A

Start Date: 01/10/00 Finish Date: 30/09/03 Researchers: A/Prof. Mingan Choct

Dr. Andreas Kocher Organisation: University of New England

School of Rural Science and Agriculture ARMIDALE NSW 2351

Phone: (02) 6773 5121 and (02) 6773 2778 Fax: (02) 6773 3275 Email: [email protected] and [email protected] Objectives

• To establish a model in which necrotic enteritis can successfully be induced

in two to four week old broiler chickens. • To test the efficacy of various feed supplements, including enzymes, organic

acids and prebiotics, in controlling the occurrence of necrotic enteritis, in maintaining and improving bird performance and as replacements for currently used antibiotic growth promotants.

Current Progress The initial stages of this project concentrated on the development of a

successful and repeatable a repeatable challenge model for the experimental induction of clostridial enteritis. In a series of experiments, the model described here was established. Day-old male broiler chickens were raised in multi-brooders to five days of age and fed commercial turkey starter crumbles. From day five to the end of the experiment, the birds received a wheat-based experimental diet without antibiotic growth promotants and coccidiostats. On days 11, 12 and 13, birds allocated to the challenge groups were inoculated with 1mL Clostridium perfringens (~108-9CFU) using a commercially available crop needle. Feed intake and weight gain were measured over the entire experimental period. On days 20 and 27 birds were killed and the occurrence of Clostridium perfringens (CP) in the upper intestines determined. Birds challenged with CP showed a marked deterioration in food conversion ratio and an increased number of CP in the upper intestine. The proposed challenge did not result in death or severe gross lesions in the intestine of birds. This experimental model is highly repeatable in producing a subclinical clostridial enteritis in broiler chickens. Currently, several trials are planned to test the efficacy of two enzyme products, two organic acids, a prebiotic (fruit extract) and a probiotic on maintaining and improving growth performance of broiler chickens challenged with Clostridium perfringens.


Project Title

Postgraduate scholarship – Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines in poultry

RIRDC Project No.:

CSA-10J

Start Date: 06/06/99 Finish Date: 05/06/02 Researcher: Dr. John Lowenthal Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries


Phone: 03 5227 5759 Fax: 03 5227 5531 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To enhance disease resistance and vaccine efficacy in poultry by

administration of cytokine therapy.

Current Progress

The Australian poultry industries have become less reliant on the use of in-feed antibiotics and chemicals to control disease, therefore safe natural alternatives are being developed. This pro-active approach will provide the consumer with a higher quality and safer product, thereby further enhancing the image of chicken meat and eggs as preferred protein sources. Cytokines are proteins that are normally produced by the body’s immune system following infection. Cytokines protect against disease by controlling the immune response to infection or vaccination and therefore represent excellent, naturally occurring therapeutics.

This project has focused on assessing the potential of chicken interleukin-2 (ChIL-2) as a therapeutic. Biologically active recombinant ChIL-2 was produced and its effects on the chicken immune system has been assessed. Treatment of birds with ChIL-2 protein resulted in both the activation (measured by expression of cell surface IL-2 receptors) and proliferation (as measured by DNA synthesis) of T cells within 48h. These results suggest that ChIL-2 is effective in modulating the immune response and, more particularly, a cell mediated (TH1) type response, and may thereby enhance immunity and protection against a variety of viral and parasitic diseases. An initial trial showed that treatment of broilers with ChIL-2 during the first week post-hatch resulted in enhanced weight gain over a six week period of growth under commercial conditions. Additional trials will study the ability of ChIL-2 to enhance vaccine efficacy in providing protection against coccidiosis and infectious bronchitis virus.


Project Title

The development of vaccination strategies to control necrotic enteritis in poultry

RIRDC Project No:

RMI-11A

Start Date: 01/01/00 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Prof. Peter Coloe Organisation: RMIT University

Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology Bundoora West Campus Plenty Road BUNDOORA VIC 3083


• To develop an effective vaccine against necrotic enteritis that is orally

deliverable, cost effective to manufacture and deliverable within established farming practices.

• To evaluate the vaccine against a challenge model of the disease.

Current Progress

The approach that has been taken to experimentally induce a high incidence of acute necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens has been to manipulate the parameters of a challenge protocol, namely, strain differences, challenge dose, age at infection and co-infection with Eimeria spp. Reviewing the outcome of these trials, it is clear that an incidence no greater than 8%, or two birds per group of 25, showing any signs of an acute form of necrotic enteritis will be achieved no matter what parameters are altered. The difficulty in reproducing a high incidence of disease could be due to Clostridium perfringens (CP) not reaching a high enough number in the gut (greater than 106 CFU/mL) to produce enough alpha toxin to cause lesions. Also, other factors such as gut microflora may influence the amount of toxin released, even if numbers of CP are high. The highly multifactorial nature of the disease makes it difficult to clearly define those factors that influence the outcome of a challenge, hence its deserved reputation for being a difficult disease to reproduce experimentally. However, to overcome these obstacles, the strategy that will be adopted is to bypass or over ride these undefined factors by placing birds on CP-infected feed throughout the experimental period and to maximise the opportunity for necrotic enteritis to occur.


Bird Nutrition and Feed Supply

Project Title

Characterisation of canola meal and cottonseed meal at practical inclusion levels for use in broiler and layer diets

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-264J

Start Date: 01/07/99 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr. Rider Perez-Maldonado Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Queensland Poultry Research and Development Centre PO Box 327 CLEVELAND QLD 4163


• To determine the variability of glucosinolates, sinapines, condensed tannins

(CT), total phenolics (TP), sulphur and phytic acid levels in canola meal (CM) and CT, TP and free and bound gossypol levels in cottonseed meal (CSM).

• To determine pesticide residue levels in CSM. • To determine AME, amino acid and proximate composition of CM and

CSM in samples from major processing sites, three times a year. • To evaluate the ratio of iron to free gossypol in CSM to overcome gossypol

effect on production in both broilers and layers. • To determine the upper limits of inclusion of both CM and CSM, separately

and in combination, • To make recommendations to the poultry industries on the nutritional value

of both CM and CSM when included in least-cost poultry diets at levels close to their upper limit.

Current Progress

In a broiler trial chicks were fed four CM sources at 20, 30 and 40 % levels in diets formulated on a digestible amino acid basis from 4-25 days of age (starter period) and from 25-42 days of age (finisher period). In the starter period, the overall feed intake (FI) was reduced but this effect was largely due to one CM source. Except for two sources at the 40% CM level, liveweight gain (LWG) was similar to the control diet and the overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) was not adversely affected by inclusion of CM in the diet. During the finisher period the overall reduced (P<0.05) FI with CM did not detrimentally affect the overall LWG and FCR for all CM sources and inclusion levels. Inclusion of CM reduced (P<0.05) birds abdominal fat proportion. In a second trial, high protein cottonseed meal (CSM), low protein CSM and extruded CSM were fed at 10, 20, 30 and 40 % levels in diets formulated on a digestible amino acid basis. During the starter period, the overall FI was reduced (P<0.05), but this effect was largely due to the extruded CSM. LWG was reduced (P<0.05) particularly at 30 and 40% for all CSM sources. However, FCR was only negatively affected at 30 and 40 % levels in the case of low protein CSM source. During the finisher period, the overall FI was not affected and only reduced (P<0.05) at 30 and 40% levels of the extruded CSM. Except for the extruded CSM at 40% level, LWG was not different (P>0.05) from the control diet for all inclusion levels and CSM sources, resulting in a


satisfactory FCR mean value for all CSM. Inclusion of CSM did not change fat pad proportion. A commercial broiler study, using CSM from Narrabri and Numurkah, CM at 20% (starter period) and at 30 % (finisher period) levels and a control diet formulated on a digestible amino acid basis, was conducted. During the starter period (1-21 d), FI, LWG and FCR from CM and CSM treatments were not different (P>0.05) from the control. During the finisher period (21-43 d), FI was reduced (P<0.05) but only in CM. However, LWG and FCR in both CM and CSM treatments were not different (P>0.05) from the control diet. In the layer experiments, good performance was obtained from feeding different sources of CSM and CM at 12 and 20% inclusion levels in brown and white egg layers. However, observations made to evaluate fresh and stored eggs derived from the above trials indicated that an abnormal mottling effect appeared in stored eggs from brown and white hens when they were fed 20% CSM in the diet. An abnormal odour (fishy taint) was also detected in raw eggs derived from brown, and in some cases, in white layers for all CM diets. Due to the importance of this observation, an independent evaluation was carried out by the Centre for Food Technology, the results of which will be included in the final report on this project.


Project Title

Estimating lysine availability by slope-ratio chick assay

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-277A


Queensland Poultry Research & Development Centre PO Box 327 CLEVELAND QLD 4163


• To establish and validate a slop-ratio chick assay to determine the

availability of lysine in selected samples of canola meal and cottonseed meal.

• To compare lysine availability values with ileal apparent digestibility values determined in the same samples of canola meal and cottonseed meal.

Current Progress Samples of canola meal from four processors (Newcastle, Victoria, Numurkah,

and Boree) and from cottonseed meal from two processors (Narrabri and Gunnedah) were obtained during 2001. Every sample was chemically analysed. AME and digestible amino acid (AA) values were determined using broilers 16-21days of age and 35-42 days of age respectively. During May 2002, an Animal Ethics Application was submitted detailing all the animal experimentation activities for this project. The first trial will be initiated during June-July 2002. Since this type of study (slope-ratio chick assay) has not previously been performed at the Queensland Poultry Research and Development Centre, it was considered appropriate to first perform an unreplicated pilot experiment to determine the response to increasing dose levels of standard lysine. This pilot study will establish the lower, middle and upper doses necessary to ensure that future trails that are conducted remain in the linear part of the response to standard lysine and test proteins. These evaluations are necessary to estimate the availability of lysine from the test proteins. The obtained values will then be used in subsequent second and third experiments to fully evaluate the responses to test proteins (canola and cottonseed meals).


Project Title

Use of dietary fatty acids to increase protein accretion in broilers

RIRDC Project No.:

US-104A

Start Date: 01/02/01 Finish Date: 30/04/04 Researcher: Prof. Wayne Bryden Organisation: The University of Sydney

Contact details: School of Animal Studies The University of Queensland, GATTON QLD 4343


• To develop a simple feed technology to reduce fat deposition and increase

muscle protein accretion in broilers by manipulating dietary fatty acid intake so as to alter tissue sensitivity to the metabolic hormones involved in lipid and protein metabolism.

Current Progress

With previous funding from the RIRDC, studies have been undertaken which have shown that diets containing 80 g/kg of either fish oil (n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) or sunflower oil (n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids) alter energy metabolism in broilers compared to feeding tallow. Recent research has evaluated the dose response effects of adding these same oils at 25, 50 75 g/kg to broiler diets over a six week period. Diets containing either 50 or 75 g/kg fish oil altered carcass composition while feeding sunflower oil at these levels improved growth performance. The most recent studies have evaluated the effects of using other sources of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in broiler diets. Feeding conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) to broilers had no positive effects on growth performance or carcass composition. In a further study, feeding flaxseed oil (equal portions of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids) altered body composition compared to fish oil, while canola oil (high in n-6 fatty acids) improved bird performance similarly to sunflower oil. Together, these studies suggest that there is a differential effect of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids on carcass composition and bird performance. Current research is focused on establishing the dietary ratio of n-3 to n-6 needed to optimise carcass composition and broiler performance.


Project Title

Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.:

GRD-3J

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 30/06/03 Researcher: Dr. John Black Organisation: John L Black Consulting

Locked Bag 21 WARRIMOO NSW 2774


• To develop rapid and objective analytical tests for assessing the quality of

feed grains. • To enhance grain nutritional value through breeding and processing. • To develop a model(s) to predict feed grain quality for certain livestock

species. • To provide an integrated and coordinated framework in which the above

objectives can be achieved.

Current Progress To further evaluate hypotheses developed in previous years of the project about grain characteristics that determine energy availability for poultry, another 25 cereal grains have been fed to broiler chickens and laying hens. The grains, which varied widely in specific characteristics believed to affect energy availability for animals, were fed also to pigs, sheep and cattle. The experiment confirmed that sorghum grain has a substantially higher available energy content for poultry than for pigs, sheep (1-1.5 MJ/kg) or cattle (6 MJ/kg). The experiment showed that grains such as a sample of the naked, low-amylose cultivar, Merlin, of barley had an available energy content 2.7 MJ/kg less for poultry than for pigs or sheep. Alternatively, a sample of the wheat cultivar, Oxley, was found to have an AME content almost 2 MJ/kg higher than a sample of the same cultivar obtained in the previous year. Examination of the chemical, physical and morphological characteristics of the grains is continuing to identify the reasons for the observed wide variation in available energy content of cereal grains for poultry. Preliminary analyses of results collected over the project suggest that the prediction of AME for poultry using near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) should be feasible.


Food Safety

Project Title

On-farm reduction strategies for Campylobacter spp.

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-282A

Start Date: 01/01/02 Finish Date: 31/12/04 Researcher: Ms. Jeanette Miflin Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• To develop targeted control strategies, based on knowledge of sources of the

organism, to prevent the entry of Campylobacter spp. into broiler flocks.

Current Progress Food-borne illness caused by Campylobacter spp. is the most frequently reported notifiable disease in humans in Australia. Epidemiological evidence gathered world-wide continues to implicate poultry meat as an important vehicle for infection. A previous RIRDC-funded project demonstrated that there are multiple potential sources of Campylobacter spp. in the environment outside the poultry shed. However, a better understanding of the routes of entry of Campylobacter spp. into the flock is essential to enable specific intervention strategies to be developed and implemented. A cross-sectional study is being performed, where flocks are sampled immediately prior to partial depopulation. One of the aims of this work is to identify additional on-farm reservoirs of Campylobacter spp. On-farm sources being examined include water supply, re-used litter, darkling beetles and their larvae, warm-blooded animals, wild birds and flies. At completion of the study, multivariate analysis will be performed to identify risk factors associated with Campylobacter colonisation. In results obtained to date, more than 60% of flocks sampled have been Campylobacter-free at partial depopulation. This confirms earlier findings, which indicated that good biosecurity may assist in reducing entry of Campylobacter into sheds until partial depopulation.


Project Title

Isolation of genes responsible for Campylobacter jejuni colonisation of the chicken intestinal tract

RIRDC Project No:

UG-4A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 30/06/03 Researcher: Dr. Victoria Korolik Organisation: Griffith University

School of Health Sciences Gold Coast Campus PMB 50 GOLD COAST MAIL CENTRE QLD 9726


• To develop a strain-specific C. jejuni probe for molecular identification of

strains in culture and field samples. • To isolate and analyse specific genes which are involved in colonisation of

the chicken intestinal tract by C. jejuni.

Current Progress Campylobacter jejuni is the leading cause of gastroenteritis in humans. Occurrence of gastroenteritis in humans is often linked to consumption of undercooked contaminated poultry. Ability to colonise is important in order for bacteria to maintain themselves and to propagate in the host. C. jejuni strain 331 was previously shown to be highly colonising in chickens and non-invasive in human tissue culture cells. Understanding of persistent colonisation of chickens with C. jejuni may lead to effective procedures aimed at reduction of transmission of virulent strains from chickens to humans. Genomic subtractive hybridisation methods are powerful techniques for identifying minor genetic differences in closely related organisms. In this part of the study, genes specifically involved in the colonisation of the chicken intestinal tract by C. jejuni bacteria were isolated. Genomic DNA of non-colonising C. jejuni strain (C. jejuni strain 886) was subtracted from genomic DNA of a colonising C. jejuni strain (C. jejuni strain 331). The subtractive hybridisation library should theoretically have isolated genes specific for C. jejuni strain 331 only, as well as genes involved in colonisation of the chicken intestinal tract for C. jejuni as species. To identify strain 331 specific sequences (putatively related to colonisation mechanisms), 128 clones from the subtractive hybridisation library were screened. Four clones were found which do not show homology to a pool of total genomic DNA from eight colonising C. jejuni strains. These genes are currently being analysed. In addition, sequences unique for C. jejuni strain 331 were identified. These C. jejuni 331 specific sequences will allow the development of a detection system for easy identification of C. jejuni strain 331 among other Campylobacter strains. The subtractive hybridisation library has so far been only partially screened, more screening is necessary to identify the genes putatively involve in colonisation of the chicken gastro-intestinal tract.


Project Title

Development of campylobacter bio-replacement program and establishment of campylobacter reference centre

RIRDC Project No:

UG-3A

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Victoria Korolik Organisation: Griffith University

School of Health Sciences Gold Coast Campus PMB 50 GOLD COAST MAIL CENTRE QLD 9726


• To evaluate and refine the model system that has been developed for

colonisation of chickens with selected Campylobacter strains. • To determine the ability of selected strains to ‘displace’ a selection of

known campylobacter isolates that are colonising chickens and to evaluate the long-term ability of the strains to maintain a stable colonisation within a flock.

• To develop and utilise molecular methods to determine the ‘virulence potential’ of the known colonising strains; those isolates that are shown to be negative to all identified virulence factors will be further evaluated as potential bio-replacement strains for application in the chicken industry.

• To provide a Campylobacter reference laboratory based on molecular technology for identification of virulent and non-virulent campylobacters, which can be used for epidemiological tracing of specific strains and for monitoring potential bio-replacement strains.

Current Progress Campylobacter spp are the most common cause of human enteritis worldwide

and it is well established that chicken meat is a significant source of human infection. It is also known that not all strains of other enteric bacteria, such as E. coli or Salmonella spp, are pathogenic. Preliminary work undertaken as part of this project shows that, with regard to toxin production and invasion characteristics, the same applies to C. jejuni. In this work an alternative, ‘bio-replacement’, approach to control of campylobacter colonisation in chickens is being investigated. The approach involves the use of an avirulent strain of C. jejuni, which had been fully characterised, to establish continuing colonisation in chickens to the exclusion of all other strains. This strain would be a strong coloniser, or ‘supercoloniser’, of the chicken intestinal tract with a capacity to displace other Campylobacter spp that could constitute a food poisoning risk. One such candidate strain has been identified and has been shown to establish an immediate and sustained colonisation in chickens, to be able to displace other C. jejuni strains from chickens and to establish itself as a dominant strain in the experimental chicken flocks. It also could not be displaced from the chicken gastro-intestinal tract by other, highly colonising strains. This strain was non-invasive in human tissue culture and did not produce obvious cytotoxin. Although this strain of C. jejuni is a good candidate for a ‘bio-replacement’ strategy, and is currently being tested for virulence in animal models, it is a single strain and it would be useful to have more then a single candidate to fulfil the requirements of ‘supercolonisation’ in chickens and non-virulence in humans. To this end, other


C .jejuni strains were tested for “super-colonising” phenotype using a two-day-old chicken colonisation model. Chickens were placed into small experimental flocks of groups of 10 chickens each chicken was inoculated with a different C. jejuni strains and the chickens were allowed to co-habitate for 3 weeks. Campylobacter content of their GI tract was monitored at 3, 7 14 and 21 days post inoculation, post-mortem caeca samples were taken at day 21. Each chicken was therefore sampled 4 times and from each sample 5 isolated campylobacter colonies were individually examined for the identity of the colonising strain using Fla PCR typing. Each group yielded one or two C. jejuni strains that were able to displace other strains and establish themselves as dominant. Of 40 randomly chosen strains tested to date, 8 strains could be selected for further testing for “super-colonising” phenotype. This methodology allows screening of large number of strains and selection of strains with desired traits. Further testing of C .jejuni strains as described above will be performed aimed at a selection of ~12 potentially “super-colonising” strains which will then be all tested in a single experimental chicken flock to identify one or two strongest colonisers. These will then be compared with the candidate C. jejuni strain.


Project Title

Development and validation of Campylobacter microarrays for virulence detection and strain differentiation in poultry products

RIRDC Project No.:

RMI-14A

Start Date: 01/06/02 Finish Date: 31/05/05 Researcher: Prof. Peter Coloe Organisation: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology PO Box 71 BUNDOORA VIC 3083


• To utilise existing knowledge on Campylobacter spp. to select the most

appropriate virulence factors for use in the development of a Campylobacter microarray. The development will involve the design and selection of appropriate oligonucleotides through the use of bacterial genomic techniques and alignment of gene sequences from known virulence factors to the Campylobacter genome.

• To also look into the design of microchips for the immobilisation of oligonucleotides and hybridsation conditions for simultaneous detection of a variety of selected virulence factors.

Current Progress Project commenced at the end of the year. No progress to report.


Project Title

Salmonella typing and colonisation of chickens by characterised S. Sofia

RIRDC Project No:

IMV-3A

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 01/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Michael Heuzenroeder Organisation: Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science

Infectious Diseases Laboratories PO Box 14 Rundle Mall ADELAIDE SA 5000


• To continue to provide industry with a conventional and, where appropriate,

molecular based, typing service which will generate valuable data on the distribution of Salmonella serovars in chickens that will contribute to food safety and public health.

• To test the feasibility of AFLP typing as an epidemiological tool to replace PFGE as the preferred molecular typing method.

• To characterise by DNA sequence analysis the temperate (lysogenic) phage found in S. Typhimurium phage type 64, which is one of the most common phage types, found in chickens and humans.

• To investigate S. Sofia MH76 colonisation of chickens using different methods of inoculation and S. Typhimurium challenge.

Current Progress There have been no other major changes in serovar distribution or frequency in

the last twelve months. In South Australia, a significant outbreak due to Salmonella Typhimurium DT126 occurred. Cases within the human population were traced to raw poultry from one supplier. While commercially cooked products were not implicated, the outbreak has once again drawn attention to raw chicken as a potential source of Salmonella in the human food chain. There has been a considerable time since the last outbreak identified from this source. Further colonisation of chickens using S. Sofia has confirmed that this organism is not acting as a natural competitive exclusion agent. However, certain strains are capable of extended co-colonisation with virulent S. Typhimurium DT64. AFLP typing of S. Sofia isolates isolated in the 1970s to the present time have confirmed that AFLP types cannot be correlated with time or place of isolation, suggesting that the clonal structure of the S. Sofia population has not significantly altered over time. Preliminary studies have begun on the use of the complete sequence data of bacteriophages ST64T and ST64B for molecular typing purposes.


Environmental Management

Project Title

Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds

RIRDC Project No:

SAR-33J

Start Date: 01/01/01 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Mr. Thomas Banhazi Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

Pig & Poultry Production Institute Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To determine the major risk factors associated with increased concentrations

of dust within, and dust emissions from, naturally and mechanically ventilated poultry houses.

• To develop strategies that will reduce both interior dust levels and dust emissions from buildings, resulting in more sustainable housing systems for egg and broiler production in semi-urban and more densely settled areas and reduced OH&S risks for staff.

Current Progress Nine naturally ventilated layer sheds, eleven mechanically ventilated broiler

sheds and five tunnel ventilated broiler buildings were surveyed extensively. Both inhalable and respirable dust, as well as airborne bacteria, ammonia and carbon dioxide gas, were measured in the study sheds. In addition, temperature and humidity levels were also recorded for 24 hours both inside and outside the surveyed sheds, simultaneously with air quality parameters. An extensive questionnaire on the engineering and management aspects of each shed has been completed by the industry participants. Using a validated methodology and the measured carbon dioxide levels, the actual ventilation levels at the time of the dust measurement is also being calculated for each shed. That will allow the research team to accurately predict dust emission levels from the study sheds. After all the data has been compiled, ANOVA analysis will be used to identify the risk factors that contribute to elevated dust concentrations in poultry facilities. In the meantime, an on-farm experiment is in progress at a commercial poultry operation to evaluate the practicality and the potential benefits of impregnating the bedding material with a small amount of canola oil to reduce dust generation within the sheds and therefore reduce dust emission from sheds. A related experiment is aimed at designing a low-cost dust filter to capture and filter emitted dust plumes from poultry facilities.

EGG PROGRAM – COMPLETED PROJECTS 55

EGG PROGRAM

COMPLETED PROJECTS

Implications of the Changing Economic Environment for the

Australian Egg Industry

Project Title

The economic impact of changing Australian egg production systems

RIRDC Project No.:

ANU-41A

Researcher: Dr. Ray Trewin Organisation: Australian National University

C/O A-JRC Building 13 AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY ACT 0200


• To assess the socio-economic implications of banning conventional caged

systems on the Australian egg industry, consumers, and economic welfare.

Background The Australian egg industry is facing adjustment pressures in the market including from animal welfare developments. However, consideration has been given to banning conventional cage production without full appreciation of the economic costs and benefits of such a regulated change in production systems. There needs to be an assessment of the economic costs and benefits of changing Australian egg production systems.

Research The economic costs and benefits were assessed in a social cost-benefit analysis framework which gave consideration to the non-market values of animal welfare benefits from various forms of egg production. Both Australian and international measures were calculated. A related social welfare analysis framework applied by the Productivity Commission and ABARE in the past was also applied to estimate producer and consumer costs from the introduction of a ban on cage production. New information supplied by focus group of producers on their responsiveness to a large change such as a ban was incorporated into this analysis.

Outcomes The outcomes of the social cost-benefit analysis were that the market is working in supplying society’s animal welfare needs through the availability of eggs from non-cage production. The benefits of a ban on cage production do not outweigh the substantial costs such action would introduce. The focus group discussions showed that producers responsiveness to large change such as introduced by a ban would be much larger than current responsiveness measures suggest. Such responsiveness means producers would bear a substantial share of the significant costs to society that such a ban would introduce. Producer costs are much larger when the assumption that there is no trade in egg or egg products is removed.



Implications A number of implications flow from these outcomes such as a ban not being

necessary to meet society’s animal welfare needs that should be disseminated widely to industry and policy makers. Although the market is meeting society’s needs in respect of animal welfare, it could be improved in this regard through better information on the animal welfare aspects of various production systems. There would also be benefits from continuing to develop new systems that improve animal welfare aspects as well as productivity. Finally, industry would have a case for compensation if a ban was introduced given the large costs this would impose in terms of lost production opportunities and prematurely retired investment.

Publications Trewin, R. (2000), ‘Potential and costs of alternative egg production and labelling systems’, Issues paper prepared for RIRDC Project ANU-41A Management Committee workshop, ANU, 8 November.

Trewin, R. (2001), ‘The economics of regulated changes to the Australian egg industry’, contributed paper presented to the 44th Annual Conference of the Australian Agricultural and Resources Economics Society, Adelaide, 22-25 January.

Trewin, R. (2001), ‘Impact of bird welfare and the feeding of the Third World’, invited presentation to the AVPA Scientific Meeting, Christchurch, NZ, 6-7 September.


New and Existing Markets

Project Title

An evaluation of the higher value-added opportunities from the chicken egg

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-275A

Researcher: Dr. Craig Davis Organisation: Centre for Food Technology

19 Hercules Street HAMILTON QLD 4007


• To conduct a comprehensive desktop investigation to determine the current and

potential uses of extracts and by-products produced during egg processing.

Background Eggs were one of the first multifunctional ingredients. They are well known for their whipping, gelling and emulsification properties. Eggs have excellent nutritional value. They contain protein which is needed for building and repairing the cells in muscles and other body tissues. Eggs also provide an inexpensive and low calorie source of high quality protein and several important nutrients including folic acid, choline, iron, selenium and Vitamins A, B, D, E and K. Eggs are also a good source of the antioxidant carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin. This review provides a comprehensive biochemical profile of the constituents of chicken egg. This desktop investigation determined the current and potential uses of extracts and by-products produced during egg processing and identified all of the potential extracts from the various discrete parts of the egg (ie the shell, the egg white and the egg yolk). The most appropriate extraction methodologies were summarised and evaluated for further discussion and consideration by the egg industry.

Research: This review documents the opportunities to value add to the chicken egg. The easiest and least expensive way to improve the value of the chicken egg is to improve the composition of the whole egg through feed supplementation. Such "designer eggs" have been produced with enhanced levels of various beneficial agents including omega fatty acids, folic acid, Vitamin E and selenium. As with free-range and organic eggs, "designer eggs" command premium prices when the consumer can identify with the product. Many Australian companies use whole egg (white and yolk) and a few undertake some basic fractionation of the egg into its yolk and white, both with a resultant waste stream of eggshell. The extraction of pure components from the white or yolk (or shell) has not been undertaken in Australia to date. The opportunity exists to use the egg white as a source of several valuable proteins, the yolk as a source of proteins and lipids, and the shell as a source of calcium and collagen.

Outcomes: The target beneficiary is the Australian egg industry. An increased knowledge of the chemistry and biochemistry of the egg and its constituents will be of use at all levels of the industry from farmer to consumer. This investigation will give the industry direction on ways to better promote and identify opportunities for value-added products. The shell of the egg is a significant waste stream of the egg processing industry and it has a number of potential uses (shell and egg membrane). The most abundant protein in the egg white, ovalbumin (> 50% of the total protein in egg white), is used as a stabiliser, binding protein, transport protein and growth media supplement. A less abundant protein in egg white, ovotransferrin (about 13% of the



total protein in egg white) has therapeutic use as an additive to milk to reduce the risk of infection. Egg white also contains small quantities of avidin and lysozyme (0.3% of the total protein in egg white) which has significant antimicrobial applications for food processing.


Public Health

Project Title

Risk assessment and cost/benefit analysis of Salmonella enteritidis monitoring and control programs for the Australian egg industry

RIRDC Project No.:

AUV-1A

Researcher: Dr. Chris Baldock x Organisation: AusVet Animal Health Services

19 Brereton Street PO Box 3180 SOUTH BRISBANE QLD 4101

Phone: (07) 3255 1712 Fax: (07) 3511 6032x Email: [email protected] Internet: www.ausvet.com.au Objectives

• To undertake a risk assessment and cost/benefit analysis of the various

monitoring and control options available, in order to assist the Australian industry to make an informed choice of the level of monitoring and control to be undertaken, both in the current situation and the situation resulting should SE infect Australian egg laying flocks.

Background The Australian egg industry is currently considered to be free of Salmonella

enteritidis (SE), a significant cause of human food poisoning in many countries. However, the potential cost to the community and to the egg industry, should it become established in Australia, is very high. This project was undertaken to assist the egg industry to develop a national policy on SE, including options for surveillance to ensure early detection and recommendations on the appropriate response to contain and eradicate infections should they occur.

Research A proposed standard for SE surveillance in Australia was developed and a cost-effective surveillance program proposed that would provide a high level of confidence of early detection of infected flocks. Options for containment and eradication in infected flocks were also considered, and the development of a national response plan based on these options was proposed.

Outcomes The Net Present Value to Australia of keeping the Australian egg industry free from SE was estimated to be a total of $965 million or an average of $48m over 20 years, including a direct industry benefit of up to $32m per year to the egg industry. There is therefore a strong incentive for the Australian egg industry and Governments to implement an effective national surveillance and response program for SE.

Implications Full implementation of the recommendations in this report will depend on extensive consultation between the AEIA, layer-breeder companies, egg producer representatives, Animal Health Australia and Governments to develop a truly national approach to SE preparedness and response in Australia.



Flock Health and Disease Management

Project Title

Trialing emergency animal disease arrangements in the Australian egg industry (EIDF)

RIRDC Project No.:

AEI-10A

Researcher: Mr. Malcolm Peacock Organisation: Australian Egg Industry Association (AEIA)

PO Box 569 HURSTVILLE NSW 1481


• To complete a trial of new emergency animal disease arrangements. • To evaluate the role and effectiveness of AEIA in the management and

operation of an emergency animal disease response. • To facilitate an earlier return of Australia’s poultry health status to one

which is recognised internationally as being free of virulent Newcastle disease virus.

Background At the time the project commenced, virulent Newcastle disease virus had been

found on five commercial layer farms in NSW since the eradication programs undertaken on Mangrove Mountain and in Sydney in 1999. One farm was located in Tamworth and four in western Sydney. Government cost sharing arrangements used to fund eradication in 1999 were not activated in 2000 and consequently these farms remained infected. New cost sharing arrangements involving industry and the Commonwealth, State and Territories Governments were under negotiation. The project was designed to use the current situation to trial the proposed new cost sharing arrangements and to evaluate the roles of industry and government under these arrangements. One additional infected farm was found during the project and a suspect farm and a farm in close proximity to an infected farm where also included in the exercise.

Research The approach taken in this trial reflected the future financial arrangements under the new cost-sharing agreement but did not necessarily reflect the operational management that would be undertaken with future outbreaks. There were five main components of the response: • Gazettal of the designated risk areas by NSW Agriculture to provide

necessary legal underpinning • Voluntary depopulation and clean up of known infected premises, which

was organised by industry • Adoption of agreed quarantine, movement controls and surveillance

measures by implementing standard operating procedures • Third party audit of the implementation of the standard operating

procedures • Financial management The response was followed by an evaluation and reporting exercise undertaken by an independent consultant.

Outcomes Depopulation and clean-up of the infected properties was completed rapidly and effectively. Strengths identified from industry involvement with management of the event included:


• The sense of leadership, authority and purpose this involvement gave to the eradication campaign

• The opportunity it provided for a staged response that allowed options to evolve to minimise the economic impact on the affected farmers

• Novel approaches such as valuations supported by statutory declarations and producer-managed operations such as cleaning and disinfection under an audit program were trialed and found to be practical and cost-effective

The major weakness identified was that it was likely that the campaign would have benefited from stronger, pre-determined links between the coordination/management team and the technical experts employed within responsible government agencies.

Implications The experience from this case study suggests that it should be used for developing a detailed procedures manual based on the standard operating procedures that have already been developed. This manual would address the problems that were identified during the case study and would be available, if required, to assist the management of future events.

Publications RIRDC Short Report 02/114


Project Title

Detection of virulent strains of Newcastle disease virus in chickens previously infected with Australian strains of the virus

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-1J

Researcher: Dr. Harvey Westbury Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To develop diagnostic tests able to be used to more easily detect virulent

strains of Newcastle disease virus in chickens that have been immunised against the disease.

Background Benign Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains that naturally circulate in poultry

in Australia can confer short-term immunity against virulent strains of the virus able to cause disease. This is good and bad. It is bad because it masks the presence of virulent viruses in a flock. This can be a problem for disease control agencies because flocks infected in this way actually multiply the virulent virus, allowing it to persist in the poultry population and providing a source from which it can potentially spread to other flocks. More efficient ways of detecting these covertly infected flocks need to be developed.

Research The research project was aimed a developing a relatively simple method of detecting the presence of virulent virus in flocks already immune to the development of overt disease. Research concentrated on the development and assessment of an ELISA test, as this type of approach has worked well with other animal diseases. The performance of this ELISA was assessed against the gold standard method of detecting infection (virus isolation) and a more recent technology – the PCR test.

Outcomes An ELISA test able to specifically detect NDV in the tissues of chickens immune and not immune to virulent strains of the virus was successfully developed. The bone marrow and spleen of the infected chickens were the best target tissues for detection of the virus. However the test was found to be significantly less sensitive than both virus isolation and a PCR test in detecting virus in these tissues.

Implications The lack of sensitivity of the test reduced the usefulness of the test for both diagnosis and for surveillance purposes, as some infected chickens would not be detected. The test also failed to provide very important information about the virus detected. Disease control authorities now require information about the disease-causing potential of a NDV, not just that a virus is present in a bird or flock. This is because Australia currently has a very complex picture with regard to the virus. There a benign NDVs as well as NDVs able to cause less severe and more severe disease naturally present and circulating in the Australian poultry industry. Authorities only act when virulent strains are detected, hence the need to differentiate these severe strains from all the others. Likewise the authorities need to know where the other, not necessarily virulent, strains are, as some of these have the potential to mutate and cause severe Newcastle disease. The ELISA test that was developed in the course of this project cannot provide this information. Its role in diagnosis and virus surveillance these days is therefore very limited. Other technologies must be used to provide this information.


Project Title

Studies of cloacal haemorrhage, egg peritonitis, vent trauma and beak trimming in the laying hen

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-170A

Researcher: Dr. Greg Parkinson Organisation: Victorian Institute of Animal Science Phone: (03) 9217 4200 Fax: (03) 9217 4299 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To develop management strategies that ameliorates the incidence of prolapse

and picking behaviours (vent trauma and cannibalism) in the laying hen. • To reduce flock mortalities from approximately 10% to 7% by strategic

control of prolapse and vent trauma (vent picking). • To stimulate the adoption of improved beak trimming practice.

Background Experimentation undertaken at the Victorian Institute of Animal Science (VIAS), Attwood, indicated that cloacal prolapse and vent trauma/picking can be significant causes of mortality in the commercial laying hen. Combining these studies with additional epidemiological evidence, it is conceivable that national flock mortalities of 2-5% could be attributed to prolapse, oviduct infection, and vent trauma, despite the widespread use of beak trimming. The severe nature of these traumatic injuries created by prolapse or vent trauma is very controversial and is the source of considerable scientific and public debate. Clearly these prolapse and picking problems have a low heritability and there must be large environmental/management factors which exacerbate the problems in commercial flocks. A research program was therefore designed to study management practices in relationship to cloacal haemorrhage/prolapse incidence and imprinting of eversion behaviours in both pullets and layers.

Research This research program has several approaches; firstly to undertake research on commercial farms to clarify some of the patterns of blood stained eggs and loss through egg peritonitis and picking and secondly, to undertake research in small experimental flocks that examines the association between body weight, production and the incidence of picking and cloacal haemorrhage. Studies of barn egg production flocks were also undertaken to evaluate both productivity and mortality patterns, and this information was able to be bench marked against cage production systems. The final phase of this project was to use the knowledge accumulated in these studies to develop practical managerial approaches that will reduce the incidence of cloacal haemorrhage and cannibalism in both commercial cage and barn flocks.

Outcomes 1. Three strategies have been identified to moderate the incidence of cloacal haemorrhage, prolapse and picking behaviours in the laying hen. These are, i. better understanding of the importance of body weight management in early lay, ii. the use of low light intensity rearing to moderate bird behaviour, and iii. the ability to achieve a more moderate and uniform light intensity in poultry houses.

2. Producers achieving appropriate growth rates of flocks in early egg production have recorded reductions in annual flock mortalities of 2-3%.

3. Producers are now experimenting with more moderate beak trimming practice.


Implications Farms with elite pullets, high egg production performance and light controlled

sheds should be encouraged to test the use of intact beaks in controlled studies against beak trimmed flocks. More controlled research may be required to study management interactions in the farming of flocks with intact beaks in controlled environment sheds to determine clear causal relationships. Barn egg production farms with appropriate body weights and moderate egg production should be studied for beak trimming practice and mortality. During the course of this research it became clear that significant mortality in layers was also occurring as a result of oviduct infection (egg peritonitis/salpingitis). A high incidence of egg peritonitis/salpingitis has been recorded in under weight flocks and there may be an association with cloacal haemorrhage. Studies should be established using single bird-cages and pullets of lower quality in attempts to reproduce severe cloacal haemorrhage and prolapse, and to investigate any relationships that can be found with egg peritonitis/salpingitis

Publications Studies of cloacal haemorrhage, vent trauma and beak trimming in the laying hen, RIRDC Publication No 02/012


Project Title

Investigating sanitation of surface water for poultry using chlorine-IBDV models

RIRDC Project No.:

UM-51A

Researcher: Dr. Trevor Bagust Organisation: Faculty of Veterinary Science

Pre-Clinical Centre, Cnr Park Drive and Flemington Rd Parkville, Victoria 3010


• To develop a laboratory-based assay to enable quantification of inactivation

(“killing”) of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) by chlorine treatment of drinking-quality water and apply this assay to assessing the likely effectiveness of treatments using 1 – 10ppm (parts per million).

Background Some half of the commercial poultry production sites in Australia draw on

surface waters (dams, creeks, rivers) as their major source of drinking water. In some cases this is used untreated save for settling procedures and crude filtration, and in the majority of others, simple addition of chlorine is the only treatment. While a relatively economical treatment process, no data (worldwide) is available as to the likely efficiency of chlorine for the removal of infectivity (= inactivation or “killing”) of poultry viruses. At the request of the RIRDC Egg Program, sighter studies utilising IBDV, a viral pathogen (cause of disease) of major concern, was tested for sensitivity to inactivation by simple chlorine treatment of water.

Research IBDV strain GT 101 propagated in freshly prepared chicken embryo fibroblast cell cultures was used to produce virus stocks of sufficiently high virus concentration. Dilutions of this virus in distilled water and in untreated surface waters (dam source) were tested against 1, 3, 5 & 10ppm of free chlorine. Chlorine dioxide, a more complex compound, was also tested. The inactivation of Newcastle Disease virus was also tested.

Outcomes IBDV is susceptible to the inactivating effects of simple chlorine treatment, and it appears that levels of free chlorine in the order of 3 ppm if maintained in clean water for at least 1 hour, can achieve a > 90% reduction in infectivity. Higher Cl concentrations reduce infectivity further. It is extremely unlikely that reliable levels of chlorine treatment of water can be achieved however other than with systems for automatic monitoring and re-injection. (These systems are available commercially, To ensure effective treatment will also require that water be held and treated in batches, rather than being continually run off into sheds as is sometimes the case at present. Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) proved considerably more effective at inactivating IBDV than using simple chlorine treatments. In this investigation, 0.7 ppm of ClO2 in a clean water substrate was sufficient to inactivate IBDV to below the threshold detection levels of this test system i.e. > 97%. NDV was much more susceptible to inactivation in clean water than IBDV. Untreated dam-source water proved highly unsuitable as a substrate for chlorine inactivation of avian viruses. Industry interest in the project is high with many requests for information and



two contract research projects are currently under negotiation.

Implications While IBDV and NDV each appear sensitive to inactivation by simple chlorine treatments at 5 ppm in clean water, a minimum requirement is for pre-treatment by adequate (e.g. sand) filtration of surface water supplies. It will therefore likely also prove necessary to be able to specify the maximum limits for pH, protein content and total suspended solids (TSS) required to be produced before treating surface water using simple chlorine treatment.

Publications T.J. Bagust, 2000. Assuring effective water sanitation. Proceedings, Poultry Information Exchange. Surfers Paradise, 9-11 April 2000 pp23-35


Project Title


RIRDC Project No.:

UMU-23J

Researcher: Prof. David Hampson and Ms. Carol Stephens Organisation: Murdoch University

Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Science MURDOCH WA 6150


• To identify new and appropriate means to control infections by the intestinal

spirochaetes Brachyspira intermedia and B. pilosicoli – recently recognised and common pathogens causing significant economic loss in Australian layer and broiler breeder flocks.

Background An earlier RIRDC project (UMU-21A) demonstrated that infections with

intestinal spirochaetes are widespread in layer and broiler breeder flocks in Australia, and are causing loss of production. Unfortunately, means to control the infections have not been developed.

Research This study had several components. These included provision of specialist diagnostic services to the two poultry industries, and the development of new molecular techniques to identify and type the micro-organisms involved. The susceptibility of the bacteria to seven antimicrobial drugs was tested. Antimicrobials and a xylanase enzyme were then evaluated for efficacy in experimentally infected layers and broiler breeders.

Outcomes New molecular tests for identification and typing of B. intermedia were developed, and were shown to work well. These were used to support diagnostic investigations of the infections. Generally, the Australian isolates were shown to be susceptible to most of the antimicrobials tested, although there were some differences in susceptibility amongst the different spirochaete species. In experimental infections the growth promoter zinc bacitracin increased the susceptibility of birds to B. pilosicoli, but reduced it to B. intermedia. Both tiamulin and lincomycin were able to clear infections with both species of intestinal spirochaete, but birds became recolonised in the absence of prolonged treatment. Addition of a xylanase enzyme to the diet reduced colonisation with B. intermedia.

Implications

This project has improved the Australian capacity to rapidly identify and type intestinal spirochaetes from chickens. It has demonstrated that strains of the various spirochaete species vary in their susceptibility to antimicrobials, but in general there is little antimicrobial resistance present. Care should be taken with the use of zinc bacitracin, as it may predispose chickens to infections with B. pilosicoli. Both tiamulin and lincomycin are effective in treating intestinal spirochaete infections, but addition of dietary enzyme with xylanase activity also can reduce colonisation with B. intermedia.

Publications

Stephens, C.P. and Hampson, D.J. (2000) Effects of intestinal spirochaete

infection on egg production in meat breeders. Proceedings of the 12th Australian Poultry Science Symposium 12: 182-185.

Hampson, D.J., Oxberry, S.L. and Stephens, C.P. (2001) Influence of tiamulin and zinc bacitracin on avian intestinal spirochaete infections. Proceedings of the 13th Australian Poultry Science Symposium 13: 144-147.


Project Title

Enhanced mucosal immunity in chickens by novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination techniques

RIRDC Project No.:

US-72J

Researcher: Prof. Alan Husband and Dr. Wendy Muir Organisation: University of Sydney

Faculty of Veterinary Science UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY NSW 2006


• To induce long-term immunoenhancement in chickens following early

priming of the avian immune system via novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination techniques.

Background Diseases of the mucosal surfaces are detrimental to the chicken and egg

industries in that they can result in production losses and loss of consumer confidence due to the possibility of human contamination. Techniques which can enhance IgA antibody production at these sites will strengthen the first line of IgA-based immune defence An earlier RIRDC project had highlighted the potential for in-ovo delivery of antigen and an immunomodulator to increase the mucosal immune status of newly hatched chicks. Identification of in-ovo and postnatal immunisation techniques, which will enhance IgA antibody production at the intestinal surface, will potentially result in reduced usage of antibiotic medication for control of intestinal disease.

Research The effects of known mammalian immunomodulators and cytokines (molecules which regulate the immune system in vivo), following their in-ovo and postnatal delivery, were evaluated.

Outcomes Broiler birds fed a basal diet (containing 50 mg/kg vitamin E) supplemented with a further 250 mg/kg vitamin E for the complete growout period demonstrated a significant increase in anti-antigen IgA antibody production at the intestinal site. Further, feeding the vitamin E supplemented diet for the three weeks prior to the first immunisation with a model antigen generated similar increases. However, feeding the vitamin E supplemented diet only from the time of first immunisation reduced IgA antibody production. Continual feeding of diets supplemented with VE, at levels above those required for nutritional maintenance, was therefore shown to enhance total and antigen-specific IgA antibody production following immunisation. A strong immunoregulatory relationship was identified between the time of feeding the VE supplemented diet and the time of vaccination. Repeated oral delivery of IL-6 immediately after vaccination significantly increased IgA antibody production. This was observed in birds immunised with both tetanus toxoid and whole killed S. typhimurium.. Birds vaccinated with killed S. typhimurium in the presence of IL-6 and then challenged with the live pathogen, were more able to resist the challenge. This coincided with enhanced IgA antibody production in the first week after challenge.

Implications Studies undertaken within this project identified the potential for some doses of in-ovo and postnatally delivered vitamin E to increase the immune response to an antigen, although not all of these results were significant. The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) was also shown to enhance IgA antibody production to an antigen when both were delivered in-ovo and/or early in life (again, not all of these results were statistically significant). IL-6 demonstrated the greatest


potential to enhance IgA antibody production when administered immediately after vaccination. This project has therefore demonstrated the enhanced production of protective IgA antibody at the intestinal site by vitamin E and IL-6. Further studies are needed to allow these findings to be developed into practical strategies that can be implemented with benefit by industry. Further studies are required to clarify whether it is possible to decrease the interval of feeding a vitamin E supplemented diet, without compromising the immune response. A significant effect of IL-6 on increasing IgA antibody production has been established during this project. To benefit the industry IL-6 must be delivered at day of hatch in conjunction with current immunisation strategies. This requires delineation through further research.

Publications Muir, W.I., Bryden, W.L. and Husband, A.J. (2000) Immunity, vaccination and the avian intestinal tract. Developmental and Comparative Immunology 24: 325-342.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2002) Dietary supplementation with vitamin E modulates avian intestinal immunity. British Journal of Nutrition 87: 579-585.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2000) The impact of dietary vitamin E on immunity. Proceedings of the 6th Avian Immunology Research Group pp. 45-49.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2001) Dietary vitamin E modulates intestinal immunity. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium 11: 236.

Muir, W.I., Husband, A.J. and Bryden, W.L. (2001) Dietary vitamin E modulates immune responses to Salmonella typhimurium in chickens. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 10: S61.


Feed Availability and Nutrition

Project Title

Inclusion of data for additional livestock species in the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database

RIRDC Project No.:

GRD-2J

Researcher: Dr. Robert van Barneveld Organisation: Grains Research and Development Corporation

Contact address: South Australian Research and Development Institute Pig and Poultry Production Institute Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371

Phone: (07) 5547 8611 Fax: (07) 5547 8624 Email: [email protected] Objective

• To improve knowledge of the nutritional value of feed grains and the

efficiency of use of these grains by the egg and chicken meat industries through development of a commercial version of the Australian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) database containing data for pigs, poultry (layers and broilers) and aquaculture species.

Background Feed grains for use in livestock diets represent the greatest single

production cost, especially for intensively housed livestock. Based on current estimates, the supply of domestic feed grains will be insufficient to meet these grain demands by the livestock sectors. Unless domestic feed grain supplies can be improved through an increase in availability and/or an improvement in the efficiency of use, livestock producers face the prospect of importing grains to meet their needs. To improve the nutrient utilisation efficiency of livestock, the animal producers, stockfeed manufacturers and grains producers need a large amount of information on the chemical composition and nutritional quality of feed grains. To meet these requirements, development of an interactive, computer-based database on chemical composition and nutritional quality of feed ingredients is essential. There are a number of databases available in Australia and overseas on the nutritional quality of feed ingredients. However, these databases are not interactive, are hard to access, lack consistency in the information supplied and the format of supply. There is a large variation in the data within existing databases due to lack of information on source and range of the raw ingredients, methods used for obtaining the data, and the storage and processing methods of the ingredients.

Research To overcome the disadvantages of the existing databases and to deliver information on the nutritional quality of feed ingredients to the grains and livestock industries, the Pig Research and Development Corporation and the Grains Research and Development Corporation funded the development of an interactive, computer-based database on nutritional quality of grains for livestock, the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. This database supplies detailed information on the growing environment of



the ingredients, how the ingredients are stored and processed, physical features of the ingredients and the methodology employed for chemical analysis and nutritional evaluation, chemical composition (proximate, amino acid profile, starch, non-starch polysaccharides, fatty acids, soluble and insoluble sugars, vitamins, minerals, anti-nutritional factors and toxins) and nutritive value (nutrient digestibility and availability) of feed ingredients. The ALFI database offers the facilities for users to compare species or varieties within a location or between locations, to search data for a particular region, to retrieve data collected from a particular laboratory or contributed by a particular researcher, and to communicate with researchers. All these features ensure that users will get information relevant to their livestock feeding situation, which will result in an improvement in feeding efficiency and reduced livestock feed costs. This project expanded the ALFI database to include data on the nutritional quality of feed grains for other livestock species (broilers, layers and aquaculture species) and enhanced existing data for pigs.

Outcomes Data for pigs, poultry and aquaculture species has been entered into the ALFI database, which now contains more than 22807 sample entires. The ALFI database also incorporates all information contained within the GRDC GRAILE database. The initial beta version has also been reprogrammed so that it is now more user friendly, and run time versions have been prepared for distribution via CD-ROM. A web site (www.alfidbase.com) has also been established and a domain name registered to facilitate email submissions for ALFI information, and to promote the benefits of the database. Promotional brochures and presentation formats for the software have been suggested.

Implications A preliminary business plan was prepared outlining some potential paths for the commercialisation of the ALFI database. However, subsequent meetings with stakeholders indicated that the commercialisation process falls outside of the scope of this project and will be developed further via GRDC in consultation with the other stakeholders.

Publications Ru, Y.J., Bray, H.J. and van Barneveld, R.J. (1999) Development of the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Proceedings of South Australian Pig and Poultry Fair.

van Barneveld, R.J., Miao, Z.H. and Ru, Y.J. (2000) Development of the Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Proceedings of South Australian Pig and Poultry Fair.

van Barneveld, R.J., Ru, Y.J. and Zhihong, M. (2001) Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database. Grains Research and Development Corporation: Canberra.

van Barneveld, R.J., Ru, Y.J. and Zhihong, M. (2001) Australasian Livestock Feed Ingredient (ALFI) Database Users Manual. Grains Research and Development Corporation: Canberra.

http://www.alfidbase.com/


Project Title

Hind gut function in laying hens

RIRDC Project No.:

UNC-12A

Researcher: Dr. Robert Taylor Organisation: University of Newcastle

Callaghan NSW 2308 Phone: 02 4921 5638 Fax: 02 4921 6984 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To provide evidence of hindgut acidosis in laying birds and to determine

strategies to reduce or eliminate this condition.

Background Acidosis due to fermentation of carbohydrate in the hindgut of many species causes many acute and chronic conditions which lead to disease in the animal, with subsequent reduction of productivity, and environmental effects from water, gas and nutrient loss. Little research has been devoted to assessing whether any such condition could be caused in poultry. Given the contribution of cereal to standard diets, the substrates that provide for a potential fermentation problem could lead to similar difficulties in birds.

Research Layer birds at different phases of the rearing and laying cycle were fed commercially practical diets but with inclusion of single cereals at maximal levels. Grain processing and alternative feeding methods were investigated as was feed enzyme inclusion. Responses of the digestive process were monitored to determine fermentation conditions and changes in digesta and blood pH. Additional broiler trials were undertaken to support this work and to provide any evidence of fermentation effects caused by alternative methods of grain processing.

Outcomes Evidence was presented to show that fermentation can lead to accumulation of lactic acid in the digesta when birds are suddenly presented with different cereals. There was little evidence that, in the short term, a metabolic acidosis is incurred with such changes. A different wheat used in a second group of birds produced substantial increases in both SCFA and lactic acid accumulation in the ileal and caecal digesta of birds. Although the method of presenting the feed had little influence on acid conditions, application of an exogenous enzyme ameliorated the effects of lactic acid accumulation. In general, plasma pH consistently decreased over the 48 h trial periods which may suggest that the buffering capacity of the blood was being steadily reduced with an acid load. The broiler trials indicated that inclusion of some whole grain in pelleted diets may obviate the need for at least some feed enzyme inclusion. More importantly, the number of birds displaying proventricular dilatation was greatly reduced and the risk of death due to ascites was lower with whole grain inclusion in the feed.

Implications The effects of sudden cereal change should be considered to have the potential to cause chronic effects of an acidosis in poultry. These effects may be very different to those that are addressed by feed enzyme application and may require further consideration of the need for growth promoters including available antibiotics. The processing of feed ingredients can have direct production effects that may involve fermentative and acidotic responses that require consideration at the time of feed formulation.



Publications Taylor, R.D. and Jones, G.P.D. (2000). Production and physiological responses of broilers to the inclusion of whole grain into pelleted diets. Proc. Nutrition Society of Aust. Vol. 24. pp. 82-85.

Taylor, R.D. and Jones, G.P.D. (2001). The effect of whole wheat, ground wheat and dietary enzymes on performance and gastro-intestinal morphology of broilers. Proc. Aust. Poult. Sci. Sym. Vol. 13. pp. 187-190.

Jones, G.P.D. and Taylor, R.D. (2001). The incorporation of whole grain into pelleted broiler chicken diets. I. Production and physiological responses. British Poultry Science. 42: 477-783.


Project Title

Evaluation of Lathyrus cicera as a feed ingredient for layers

RIRDC Project No.:

UWA-61A

Researcher: Dr. Colin Hanbury and Mr. Bob Hughes Organisation: University of Western Australia

Centre for Legumes in Mediterranean Agriculture 35 Stirling Hwy CRAWLEY WA 6009

Phone: (08) 9380 1982 Fax: (08) 9380 1140 Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Objectives

• To establish Lathyrus cicera cv Chalus as a low cost grain legume of

sufficient quality to be included in layer hen rations. To be achieved by evaluation of layer performance, visual observations, egg quality and incidence of soiled eggs at inclusion rates up to 30% Chalus.

Background Lathyrus species are new crop legumes to Australia. They are seen as a low

cost, low maintenance crop for dry areas. In order to establish them in farming systems animal feed markets are being developed, such as the egg industry. Historically Lathyrus spp have had problems with a neurotoxin known as ODAP. New cultivars have been developed such as L. cicera cv Chalus which have low ODAP levels. The safety and effectiveness of these cultivars for animal feed have not been adequately demonstrated. Quality in vitro seems very good but the experimental results are needed to verify this. Chalus is the first cultivar released by CLIMA, but better agronomically suited cultivars are expected in the near future.

Research There are two possible problems with ODAP for laying hens, that neurotoxicity will affect the hens or that consumers of the eggs or hens will be affected by ODAP. This possibility was investigated in a 32 week feeding study with up to 30% Chalus. Eggs, breast meat, liver and brain were examined for ODAP. An 8 week intense egg production study was carried out to see if Chalus was capable of supporting industry expected production levels and egg quality characteristics.

Outcomes Production of eggs and quality were equal or marginally better using Chalus in comparison to field peas. Yolk colour was significantly improved by using Chalus. Feed conversion efficiency was marginally better for Chalus in comparison to field pea. ODAP showed only traces as a residue in egg yolk, breast meat, liver and brains after 32 weeks of feeding Chalus at up to 30% of the diet. No neurotoxicity was observed in hens. The traces of ODAP were extremely low and would not present any problems for consumers (human or other animal) of eggs or bird tissue.

Implications The safety and efficacy of Chalus was demonstrated. Industry should now find that there is access to a safe, effective and cheap plant protein source. The quality of Chalus is as good as field peas but with slightly higher protein levels and anticipated much lower price. This should enable egg producers to lower production costs without compromising production or quality of produce. New cultivars that improve on Chalus in farming systems should be readily acceptable for feed for the egg industry as they will have ODAP levels as low, or lower, than Chalus. These new cultivars should lower costs for grain growers and hence lower prices for feed for egg producers.

Publications R.J. Hughes and C.D. Hanbury (2002). Nutritive value of dwarf chickling



Lathyrus cicera cv Chalus for laying hens. Proc. Aust. Poult. Sci. Symp. 2002, 14.


Husbandry and Welfare

Project Title

Claw abrasives in layer cages

RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-34A

Researcher: Dr. Phil Glatz Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

Davies Building Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To establish if claw abrasives are responsible for the increase in prolapse

and mortality. • To provide recommendations on use of claw abrasives in cages in Australia.

Background Caged bird’s claws grow to 3-4 cm’s while for floor housed birds the claw length is kept shorter (about 1.5 cm) by the birds scratching their claws in the litter. A low-cost, non-invasive method by which the claws of caged layers could be kept short and blunt can be achieved by fitting 8-mm strips of abrasive tape on the egg guard. Bird’s claws scrape against this tape while they are feeding. This reduces the effectiveness of the claws in causing injury and feather loss and reduces the risk of birds trapping their claws in the cage. Tauson (1996) suggested that a mixture of paint and sand might also be an effective abrasive when coated onto the egg guard. If egg producers in Australia are to follow the European directive and install claw abrasives in cages then information on effectiveness of claw abrasives under Australian housing conditions are required. Overseas research suggests abrasives reduce claw length of hens, improves feather cover, lowers mortality and reduces the incidence of scratches and entrapment injuries.

Research To resolve whether egg farmers in Australia should use abrasive strips or apply abrasive paint to layer cages, two trials were conducted. Both trials demonstrated abrasive paint was more effective and more durable as a claw shortener than abrasive strips. Hen mortality from prolapse and cannibalism was higher in cages fitted with abrasives in one trial but was not a problem in the other trial. Nevertheless producers need to be wary of the potential for problems with cannibalism if claw abrasives are used in cages.

Outcomes The trials clearly showed that abrasive paint was more effective as a claw shortener and easier to apply than abrasive strips.

Implications If producers in Australia intend to install claw shorteners in layer cages they need to be wary that there is potential for cannibalism and prolapse problems to occur.

Publications Glatz, P.C. (2001). Effect of claw abrasives on mortality in caged layers under Australian housing conditions. Proceedings of the 6th European Symposium on Poultry Welfare, Zollikofen, pp 263-265.


Project Title

Beak trimming accreditation

RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-35A

Researcher: Dr. Phil Glatz Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute Phone: (08) 8303 7786 Fax: (08) 8303 7689 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To develop a beak trimming training manual. • To develop a trainer’s guidelines for beak trimming.

Background In March 2000, ARMCANZ passed a resolution that required the egg industry to develop a national accreditation program for beak trimming. Beak trimming at the required standard is a component of the national generic quality assurance program being developed by RIRDC. The national generic quality assurance program helps to ensure that standards are achieved in bird welfare and egg quality. This program requires commercial birds to be beak trimmed by an accredited beak trimmer or a trainee working under the direct supervision of an accredited trimmer. Correct beak trimming minimises risks to welfare caused by aggressive pecking. Beak trimmers, therefore, have a vital role to play in the welfare and production outcomes achieved by the egg industry.

Research A beak trimming management committee was formed comprised of researchers, RIRDC, beak trimmers, egg producers and welfare groups who were invited to join the committee either as sitting members or as corresponding members. Terms of reference for the committee were distributed at the time of issuing the invitation. The approach used was for the researchers to initially prepare HACCP documentation on the beak trimming process and circulate to all members of the committee. Two workshops were held to discuss the documentation, in particular the required accuracy standards and approaches needed to train beak trimmers. Two manuals were prepared as a result of recommendations from the committee. One was the beak trim training manual; the other the trainer’s guidelines.

Outcomes This project met its objective of providing documentation for workplace training and accrediting of beak trimmers. However, for the outcomes to be realised, it requires industry to develop the necessary infrastructure to ensure that only currently accredited beak trimmers are allowed to practice in industry.

Implications Use of the training manual and trainer’s guidelines for accrediting beak trimmers is likely to lead to improved standards of beak trimming and bird welfare in the Australian egg industry. The accreditation process will ensure that minimum standards are achieved and best practice is promoted.

Publications Glatz, P.C., Bourke, M., Barnett, J.L. and Critchley, K.L. (2001). Developing an accreditation system for beak trimming in Australia. Proceedings of the 6th European Symposium on Poultry Welfare, Zollikofen, pp 232-237

Glatz, P.C., Bourke, M.J., Barnett, J.L. and K.L. Critchley (2002). Accrediting beak trimmers. Proceedings of the Australian Poultry Science Symposium (Ed. R.A.E. Pym) 14; 102.

Glatz, P.C., Bourke, M.J., Barnett, J.L. and K.L. Critchley (2002). Standards and training guidelines for accrediting beak trimmers in Australia. Proceeding of the 2002 Poultry Information Exhange, Gold Coast, Queensland. Poster Paper Section, pp. 11-16


Project Title

Pilot study on the use of time-lapse video to study the behaviour of laying hens in conventional and modified cages

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-97A

Researcher: Dr. Clare Rudkin and Mr. Geoff Stewart Organisation: University of Queensland

School of Animal Studies GATTON QLD 4343

Phone: (07) 3294 7180, (07) 5460 1417 Fax: (07) 5460 1444 Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Objectives

• To develop techniques for assessing relative behavioural welfare in

conventional and modified cages by using behavioural data from time-lapse videos.

Background Conventional cages are regarded as having poor welfare because hens cannot

perform many behaviours. Modified cages have been developed to allow the performance of a greater repertoire of behaviours by hens by adding a litter box for scratching and dust bathing, a nest for laying, and a perch.

Research The behaviours of hens in modified Edinburgh cages and in conventional Harrison cages were viewed from time-lapse videos and compared. Use of cage facilities and how they altered behaviour was measured. Behaviours such as the amount of movement, effects on individual hens, comfort movements, and aggression were measured to assess the impact of cage size and design in both cage types. Behaviours such as feeding, standing, feather pecking and stereotypies were measured to assess the impact of the enrichment.

Outcomes Hens showed much less restlessness or aggression before laying in Edinburgh cages than in Harrison cages. They did not use the litter box a great deal, and their use of the perch over much of the day could be regarded as inappropriate. Hens were more aggressive in the Edinburgh cages. Behaviours that may differ because of increased space per bird did not appear to change, and behaviours that might be expected to differ because of the greater repertoire of behaviours able to be performed in Edinburgh cages did not differ.

Implications If changes to housing design are based on emotive perceptions of welfare, rather than on any real welfare status, the industry could be put to great expense for very little change in the welfare status of the birds in their care. This may be beneficial for improved public perceptions, but little benefit to the hens or the farmer. The Poultry Industry could be put to great expense for very little benefits for the hens. Studies such as this could save the industry from a great deal of unnecessary expense.

Publications Rudkin, C., and Stewart, G., 2002. Behaviours of hens in furnished and conventional cage systems. Australian Poultry Science Symposium, 14: 158-161.


Training, Information and Technology Transfer

Project Title

National Egg Industry Newsletter

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-138A

Researcher: Mr. Gerry Bolla Organisation: NSW Agriculture

Locked Bag 26 GOSFORD NSW 2250.


• To maintain production of the national egg industry newsletter “In An

Eggshell” by producing two issues per year over a five-year period. The newsletter focussed on the dissemination of latest research findings from around Australia with a special emphasis on improving the standard of layer housing and environmental management, bird welfare and the adoption of world’s best practice in these and other areas.

Background A need had earlier been identified for a newsletter to disseminate technical

information and research results to the egg industry, particularly egg producers. State egg boards and departments of agriculture had previously conducted this function. The deregulation of state egg industries and consolidation of state departments of agriculture has seen a drastic reduction in industry-based publications and technology transfer traditionally carried out by those organisations.

Research This project required the production and circulation of ten issues of a national egg industry newsletter over the five-year duration of the project. The biannual newsletter called “In An Eggshell” was aimed at providing technical information including the latest research results to the egg industry, focussing particularly on RIRDC-funded research. The purpose of the newsletter was to facilitate the transfer of technical information for adoption by the egg industry.

Outcomes A total of ten issues of the newsletter was successfully produced and circulated biannually to 1,400 egg producers and personnel directly or indirectly involved in egg production. Information presented was predominantly derived from RIRDC research progress reports and final reports in consultation with the Egg Program Manager. A producer survey was conducted by the Egg Program Manager in 1998 in order to evaluate the current content and format of the newsletter. This resulted in certain improvements in the presentation and format of the newsletter along with the inclusion of an index of previously published articles.

Implications Feedback from industry indicates that the newsletter is widely read by industry and seen as a respected, concise and relatively easy-to-read reference. It also provides a cost-effective means of transferring the latest research results and technology to industry, particularly to producers who are at the forefront of the egg production process. There is a perceived need for the continuation of such a newsletter to fulfil the needs of the industry.

mailto:gerry.bolla@agric


Publications A total of twelve “In An Eggshell” newsletters have been produced up to December, 2001 including the ten issues (Nos. 3-12) produced during the course of this project. Backcopies are available from the researcher upon request.


Project Title

Vaccination training manual

RIRDC Project No.:

SAR-36A

Researcher: Dr. Phil Glatz Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

Davies Building Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To develop a vaccination training manual.

Background In March 2000, ARMCANZ passed a resolution that required the egg industry to develop a national QA system. The QA program will assist the industry to achieve standards in bird welfare, food safety, biosecurity and product labelling. The QA program provides templates for farmers to develop their own QA procedures and also training materials to support on-farm training of new staff. Development of a training manual for vaccination was seen as an important component of the QA program. Vaccination is an animal health preventative practice commonly carried out to introduce a vaccine into an animal, to minimise infectious diseases. This is essential on a poultry farm where infectious diseases can spread rapidly due to the large number of birds close to one another. Correct vaccination therefore has a vital role to play in the health welfare and production outcomes achieved by the egg industry.

Research A vaccination corresponding committee was formed comprised of researchers, RIRDC, vaccinators and egg producers. A training manual was prepared by the researchers using the approach used for the beak trim training manual. Industry expressed the need for a training manual, which was easy to read, provided basic operational procedures for each of the vaccination techniques, but kept technical information to a minimum. The recommendations were to present the vaccination manual in small-sized (A5) booklet with background information on each task on the left-hand side of the page and key tasks presented as brief dot points in large type on the right side of the page.

Outcomes This project met its objective of providing documentation for workplace training of vaccinators. However, for the outcomes to be realised, it requires industry to develop the necessary infrastructure to ensure that only trained vaccinators are allowed to vaccinate poultry.

Implications Use of the manual for training vaccinators is likely to lead to improved standards of vaccination and bird health, welfare and production in the Australian egg industry. The training process will ensure that minimum standards are achieved and best practice is promoted.

Publications Glatz, P.C., Bourke, M., Barnett, J.L. and Critchley, K.L. (2002). Vaccination training manual. Proceedings of the SA Pig and Poultry Fair Seminar, Murray Bridge, SA p. 62


EGG PROGRAM – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS 82

EGG PROGRAM

RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

Implications of the Changing Economic Environment for the

Australian Egg Industry

Project Title

Options for enhancing industry competitiveness and R&D and marketing efficiency

RIRDC Project No.:

AEI-11A

Start Date: 06/04/01 Finish Date: 30/11/02 Researcher: Mr. Alan Newton Organisation: Australian Egg Industry Association

120 La Perouse Street GRIFFITH ACT 2603


• To enhance the Australian egg industry’s international competitiveness and

capacity to relate effectively with government. • To develop appropriate innovation, marketing, and policy capabilities to

equip the industry to meet the above. Specific deliverables are: • Reports to industry on analysis of options for enhancing industry

competitiveness and for delivering more efficient egg innovation, marketing, communication and policy outcomes.

• Subject to industry decisions on the above, the preparation of appropriate proposal(s) for submission to government.

• A comprehensive process of industry consultation and reporting to progress the above.

• Assistance in the full development and implementation of any formulation agreed by industry and government.

Current Progress Work under the project is now substantively complete. It has entailed:

• Preparation and presentation of a report on policy options for consideration

by the AEIA Committee of Management. • A detailed submission to Government on the strategic outlook for the

industry, the preferred option for change and seeking Government agreement to the creation of a National Egg Promotion Levy and the establishment of an Australian Egg Corporation Limited.

• An extensive process of national consultation with egg producers and others in the industry, as required by Government, on the need for a change, the AEIA preferred option and to enable other options to be presented and discussed.



• An additional process of consultation with hatcheries in response to a requirement from Government.

• A comprehensive report on the outcomes from the above national consultation processes.

• Receipt of a letter of support from the Minister and advising of consideration by the ‘Government as a whole’.

• Further work within the egg industry and with AFFA on the steps for implementation including the necessary legislative and administrative process requirements.


Project Title

National industry databases

RIRDC Project No.:

ROW-1A

Start Date: 01/12/01 Finish Date: 31/12/04 Researcher: Mr. Rowland Horn Organisation: Rowly Horn Services

8 Ann Place BLIGH PARK NSW 2756


• To improve industry statistics by improving the timeliness of collection of

data related to the egg industry. • To survey the industry three times per year to discover producers' intentions

to place pullets, moult and dispose of flocks using prediction models to estimate future production from these intentions.

• To improve interpretation of the market outlook for the industry on the basis of more comprehensive data and therefore the opportunity to provide the industry with more relevant information to allow modification to future planning.

Current Progress Timeliness and accuracy of chick placement data from AFFA has been

historically poor. To overcome this problem chick hatchings are now being received direct from the four (4) major hatcheries supplying 80 to 90 % of the egg industry. This now allows comparisons to be made between AFFA chick hatchings data and that provided direct from the major hatcheries. Previously, incorrect market signals were being used by industry and this affected producer’s production decisions. The provision of data direct from the hatcheries has allowed realistic adjustments to be made to the AFFA data allowing this revised chick hatching data to be applied to a computer model developed to estimate future production. This computer model is also used to analyse data from the first survey of producer’s intentions to place birds, moult and dispose of flocks. Egg producers farming approximately eight (8) million birds have been surveyed with producers holding approximately 50% of these birds responding. Further strategies are being applied to increase the response rate. Participants have been provided analysis of their production plans featuring future production estimates for their individual farms. A summary of their pullet replacement programme was also provided including analysis of moult, housing, disposal ages etc. Returning this data is allowing producers to further analyse their production plans to meet market demand. The overall production forecast developed from the survey of intentions will be feedback to participating producers and the industry at large. Producers will be resurveyed for their revised intentions resulting from reactions to the current survey and the market outlook developed from data collected.



Public Health

Project Title

To raise awareness of eggs, cholesterol and health issues

RIRDC Project No.:

AEI-12A

Start Date: 01/09/01 Finish Date: 30/09/02 Researcher: Ms. Nola Komis Organisation: Australian Egg Industry Association

PO Box 569 HURSTVILLE NSW 1481


• To raise awareness of eggs, cholesterol and health issues. • To increase egg consumption. • To survey consumers on their attitudes to buying eggs.

Current Progress For a long time, nutrition professionals were advising that people with high serum cholesterol should severely restrict their dietary cholesterol intake. Eggs have been perceived as having very high cholesterol levels. Scientific studies, including work funded by RIRDC in Australia, have now shown that total fat, especially saturated fat intake is far more important in determining blood cholesterol levels than intake of dietary cholesterol. Of the 5 grams of fat in an egg yolk, only 1.5 grams is saturated fat. Monounsaturated fats total 1.9 grams and polyunsaturated fats total 0.68 grams. While the results of RIRDC funded research and development had been promoted to nutrition professionals through RIRDC publications and presentations at scientific conferences an opportunity arose for effective dissemination of this information through another medium to nutrition professionals and the broader community. An approach was made to AEIA by Good Health Publications, which publish the “Heartwise Journal”, in order that the good qualities of eggs can be conveyed to consumers Australia wide. At the time that Good Health Publications approached AEIA, Harvard University study results had been published showing that eggs were low in fat. The American Heart Association, the Canadian Heart Association and the New Zealand Heart Association were all now permitting an egg a day and Nutrition Australia and the Dietitians Association of Australia also wanted information on the goodness of eggs. AEIA’s aim was to target health conscious people who are concerned about healthy nutrition, along with young families and children. Full two page colour advertorial themes were developed on the known health benefits of eggs. These advertorials also included generic information regarding the range of eggs available. 25,000 run on leaflets were also produced and distributed to medical practitioners, dietitians and nutritionists. Response to these leaflets, as well as to the advertorials, has been remarkable. Many telephone calls have been received within the AEIA office from medical practitioners and nutritionists Australia wide wanting further information.



The “Heartwise Journal” is published every Spring, Summer Autumn and Winter. AEIA has placed advertorials in each edition since Spring 2001. The final advertorial will appear in Winter 2002 edition.


Project Title

Rapid detection of virulent Salmonella in egg and poultry products

RIRDC Project No.:

CIF-1A

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 30/11/03 Researcher: Dr. Jason Wan Organisation: CRC for International Food Manufacture and Packaging Science

Private Bag 16 WERRIBEE VIC 3030

Phone: (03) 9731 3320 Fax: (03) 9731 3250 Email: [email protected]

Objectives

• To develop multiple PCR systems to target a spectrum of multiple (at least

6) gene sequences for rapid characterisation and differentiation of Salmonella spp. of economic and public health significance in egg and poultry products and environmental samples, and correlation of the genetic information with sero-typing and phage-typing data.

• To develop simple sample preparation techniques for the isolation and concentration of Salmonella spp. from egg products for use in combination with the multiple PCR systems.

• To apply the developed detection and identification systems for differentiation of non-pathogenic S. sofia and pathogenic non-S. sofia isolates and S. Enteriditis (SE) PT4 (a major poultry pathogen in Europe & USA) and other Salmonella spp. of industry importance.

• To develop user-friendly systems such as "BioChips" (DNA micro-array systems) and colorimetric detection systems for the detection of multiple PCR products.

Current Progress A collection of 90 reference strains and poultry isolates of Salmonella

consisting of 23 strains of S. Sofia, 18 strains of S. Typhimurium, 12 strains of S. Enteritidis, 10 strains of S. Virchow and strains of other major serovars have been compiled and characterised for sero-type, phage type if applicable, and other biochemical tests. Multiple PCR systems have been established and PCR conditions optimised for the detection of a spectrum of 6 genes (himA, iagA, agfA, lpfA, sefA and sefD) associated with virulence and colonization determinants of Salmonella spp. In addition, a multiplex PCR system was also established for the differentiation of Salmonella to major serogroups (A/D, B, C1 and C2-3). These PCR systems have been tested on each culture of the Salmonella culture collection and the results were compared with the serological typing results. These results suggest that it is possible to differentiate S. Sofia from other important pathogenic Salmonella serovars including Enteritidis, Dublin, Virchow, Typhi and Paratyphi using a suite of the multiple PCR systems.



Project Title

Eggs with increased arachidonic acid for infant formulas

RIRDC Project No.:

CNR-1A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Robert Gibson Organisation: Child Health Research Institute

Child Nutrition Research Centre Level 4, Flinders Medical Centre Flinders Drive BEDFORD PARK SA 5042


• To develop a basic feed that will optimise arachidonic acid (AA) levels in

eggs. • To test the effect of the feed on egg lipid and total egg production.

Current Progress The aim of the studies is to maximise arachidonic acid (AA) content of eggs. All standard dietary components of the basic feeds were analysed for fatty acid composition to ensure that the calculated blends resulted in diets of known fatty acid composition. Two dietary feeding experiments have been completed and a third experiment is currently underway. The first experiment examined the effect of varying the level of linoleic acid (LA) in ten different diets. Eggs were sampled after three and six weeks of dietary treatment to also determine the time required for fatty acid changes to equilibrate. The diets resulted in a 110% increase in LA and a 30% increase in AA content of the eggs. The changes in egg fatty acid composition had stabilised by three weeks and all further experiments were thus conducted until three weeks. The second series of experiments again tested 10 different diets but the diets incorporated a specialty vegetable oil. This resulted in a 70% increase in LA and an 80% increase in the AA content of the eggs. Because of the success of this specialty oil, we are currently looking at another formulation of the specialty oil in experiment three.



Project Title

Is total egg avoidance really necessary for egg allergy treatment?

RIRDC Project No.:

CNR-2A

Start Date: 02/07/01 Finish Date: 31/07/04 Researcher: Dr. Maria Makrides Organisation: Child Health Research Institute

Child Nutrition Research Centre 72 King William Road NORTH ADELAIDE SA 5006


• To enable increased consumption of egg containing food products by

breastfeeding mothers with a family history of allergy or who have an infant with an egg allergy. An egg allergy is report to effect 3.2% of Australian children and an even greater percentage of "at-risk" children, improving the variety of food choice for affected families is an important outcome.

Current Progress Study A - How much dietary avoidance of egg protein is needed in the mother’s

diet? The breastfeeding mothers of babies with an egg allergy or at high risk of developing food allergies are often advised to go on a completely egg-free diet. This advice is largely based on previous studies where breastfeeding mothers given raw eggs had ovalbumin detected in their breast milk. To our knowledge no studies have assessed breast milk samples after cooked egg has been eaten by breastfeeding mothers. We have commenced a randomised, controlled crossover, intervention trial to investigate whether under standardised dietary conditions the concentration of ovalbumin in breast milk is directly related to the dose and type of egg (raw vs cooked) consumed by breastfeeding mothers. The participating mothers are given 4 breakfasts (containing different amounts of egg) for 4 consecutive weeks at 11, 12, 13 and 14 weeks of lactation. Breast milk samples are collected prior to the ingestion of the breakfast and at 2 hourly intervals after eating the breakfast for 8 hours. An ELISA technique has been developed to detect the concentration of ovalbumin in the breast milk samples. A Western Immunoblot technique will be used to determine the ovalbumin molecular weight in the breast milk samples. To date 24 mothers have successfully completed the trial, with the aim of 50 women completing the trial by November 2002.



Project Title

Enriching the iron content of eggs to fulfil niche markets

RIRDC Project No.:

UA-56A

Start Date: 01/01/02 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr. Dean Revell Organisation: The University of Adelaide

Department of Animal Science Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To assist in the nutritional value and marketability of eggs by enriching the

iron content of eggs through manipulation of layer hen nutrition. • To improve our understanding of the metabolic processes that regulate the

incorporation of iron (and other minerals) into egg yolk to assist in the development of new approaches to alter the nutritional value of eggs.

Current Progress The current project is designed to evaluate a range of nutritional manipulations

on the iron content of eggs, with the view of increasing the iron content of egg yolks to target niche markets. A series of experiments will be undertaken over a 12-month period, with two experiments currently in progress. The first will quantify the variability (within and between birds) in the concentration of iron and other minerals in egg yolk that is associated with the laying cycle of hens. The second is testing the relationship between different forms of organic iron and inorganic iron supplements in the diet of laying hens on the iron (and other) mineral content of eggs and egg quality. Subsequent experiments will test different nutritional treatments that have been identified based on our understanding of the physiological factors that may regulate the delivery of iron to egg yolks.



Project Title

Egg and egg shell quality control in the Australian egg industry

RIRDC Project No.:

UNE-71A

Start Date: 01/07/99 Finish Date: 31/07/02 Researcher: A/Prof. Juliet Roberts Organisation: University of New England

Dept of Animal Physiology School of Rural Science and Agriculture ARMIDALE NSW 2351


• To provide a data base and bench marks for egg and egg shell quality in the

Australian egg industry. The relationship between laboratory measurements and the commercial situation (proportion of eggs lost or downgraded before and during grading) will be established by compiling data obtained from grading floors and egg marketing organisations along with data obtained from the field and the laboratory. The results will be summarised in a "user-friendly" booklet which will provide graphs of egg and egg shell quality values for different strains of birds at different ages, under different conditions. The booklet will be marketed through RIRDC.

Current Progress All analyses have been completed and a draft of the booklet has been reviewed

by the RIRDC Egg Program Manager and Committee members. In all, 25,000 eggs were analysed to provide the information which will be presented in the booklet. Data are available on three strains (Isa Brown, HyLine Brown and HiSex Brown), aged from 20 to 100 weeks of age, for all measures of egg and egg shell quality. Egg weight increases to 40 weeks of age and then remains relatively constant. Shell weight and shell thickness increase to 30 weeks of age and remain relatively constant. Shell breaking strength, shell deformation (elasticity), shell colour, percentage shell, albumen height and Haugh units decline as birds grow older. Most producers (80%) use mash diets and approximately half of the producers use feed enzymes. The main finding from the limited data available on different production systems is that free range birds had lighter coloured shells than caged birds. Data are included to show the loss of weight and deterioration in Haugh units as eggs age, at different temperatures. The completed booklet will be available later in the year.


Flock Health and Disease Management

Project Title

Postgraduate scholarship – Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines in poultry

RIRDC Project No.:

CSA-10J

Start Date: 06/06/99 Finish Date: 05/06/02 Researcher: Dr. John Lowenthal Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries


Phone: 03 5227 5759 Fax: 03 5227 5531 Email: [email protected] Objectives

• To enhance disease resistance and vaccine efficacy in poultry by

administration of cytokine therapy.

Current Progress

The Australian poultry industries have become less reliant on the use of in-feed antibiotics and chemicals to control disease, therefore safe natural alternatives are being developed. This pro-active approach will provide the consumer with a higher quality and safer product, thereby further enhancing the image of chicken meat and eggs as preferred protein sources. Cytokines are proteins that are normally produced by the body’s immune system following infection. Cytokines protect against disease by controlling the immune response to infection or vaccination and therefore represent excellent, naturally occurring therapeutics.

This project has focused on assessing the potential of chicken interleukin-2 (ChIL-2) as a therapeutic. Biologically active recombinant ChIL-2 was produced and its effects on the chicken immune system has been assessed. Treatment of birds with ChIL-2 protein resulted in both the activation (measured by expression of cell surface IL-2 receptors) and proliferation (as measured by DNA synthesis) of T cells within 48h. These results suggest that ChIL-2 is effective in modulating the immune response and, more particularly, a cell mediated (TH1) type response, and may thereby enhance immunity and protection against a variety of viral and parasitic diseases. An initial trial showed that treatment of broilers with ChIL-2 during the first week post-hatch resulted in enhanced weight gain over a six week period of growth under commercial conditions. Additional trials will study the ability of ChIL-2 to enhance vaccine efficacy in providing protection against coccidiosis and infectious bronchitis virus.


Project Title

Molecular epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus in Australia

RIRDC Project No.:

CSA-11J

Start Date: 01/06/99 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr. Allan Gould Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To characterise Australian Newcastle disease viruses (NDVs) at the gene

sequence level in order to understand the types of viruses present and their potential to cause a virulent Newcastle disease outbreak.

• To develop a better understanding of the epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus within Australia.

Current Progress The complete gene sequence of ten Newcastle disease virus (NDV) isolates

associated with the 1998-2000 outbreaks of ND in NSW have been determined. This has enabled the genetic drift of the virus to be accurately determined and the confirmation that there is an association of the putative ‘progenitor’ virus with virulent NDV outbreaks. Over the past year, the gene sequence of the progenitor virus for the virulent NDV, which re-emerged in NSW in 2001, has been determined. This has enabled an analysis of the genetic drift of this virus. Surprisingly, the gene sequence of this virus has evolved little since from the 1998 sequence, varying by only 0.3%. This suggests that the virus is not genetically unstable, but evolves slowly from an established consensus sequence. Gene sequence analysis of NDV isolates held in collections other than those held at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Geelong, has identified the presence of an ancestral virus from which the progenitor virus itself may have evolved. This isolate was present in the Peats Ridge area of NSW in 1991. Such collections are important for the epidemiological analysis of NDV strains and in predicting the likelihood of emergence of the disease in Australia in the future.


Project Title

Postgraduate scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants of Newcastle disease virus

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-13J

Start Date: 01/01/00 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr. Allan Gould and Ms. Jacqueline Kattenbelt Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To develop a viable DNA construct containing Newcastle disease virus

(NDV) genome and separate clones of NDV nucleocapsid, protein (N), phosphoprotein (P) and polymerase (L).

• To establish a reverse genetics system to allow recovery of recombinant NDV.

• To recover NDV mutants with substitutions in precise sites within the matrix protein to give strictly defined molecular mutants.

• To map structure-function relationships of viral proteins within infected cells and to study viral morphogenesis, virulence factor and tissue trophism determinants essential for NDV replication and infection using electron microscopy.

Current Progress The complete genome of Newcastle disease virus (isolate 98-1154) has been

cloned into pUC vectors as two separate overlapping fragments. Attempts are presently underway to join these fragments together into the transcription vector p delta X8 for transfection into constitutive BHK cells expressing T7 RNA polymerase. Similarly the polymerase (L), nucleocapsid (NC) and phosphoprotein (P) genes have been cloned into T7 transcription vectors for co-infection with the full-length genome to assess the viability of the reverse genetics constructs. The latter constructs have been sequenced to determine their suitability for transcription and translation in the mammalian expression system. The gene sequences flanking the matrix gene have been manipulated to contain a unique restriction enzyme modification site for the insertion of modified matrix gene constructs. Several matrix gene variants have been produced which contain (1) a modified nuclear transport signal, and (2) a chimeric matrix gene containing Herts and 98-1154 sequences. These constructs have been sequenced and verified. The complete nucleotide sequence of the progenitor virus isolated in NSW in 2001 has been determined and comparisons made to complete genome sequences determined for the 1998 and 1999 progenitor viruses.


Project Title

Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian strains

RIRDC Project No:

CSA-15J

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Jagoda Ignjatovic Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries

Private Bag No 24 GEELONG VIC 3220


• To introduce and evaluate two methods, ELISA and RFLP, for the rapid

detection of very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV) strains. • To demonstrate that changes in local IBDV field isolates remain unique for

Australia. • To confirm Australia’s current status as free from vvIBDV viruses.

Current Progress The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method, developed and used in the USA for discrimination of IBDV strains, was evaluated for its usefulness to differentiate Australian strains of IBDV. By this method, 24 Australian IBDV strains gave 12 different molecular patterns that were unique and distinct from overseas IBDV strains. There were no other biological features that could be associated with IBDV strains within these 12 molecular groups. Genetically similar strains belong to different molecular groups. The existence of such a large number of molecular groups, and lack of their biological significance, thus precludes effective use of this test for differentiation of Australian IBDV strains. A specific SspI site that is used to predict a very virulent IBDV phenotype was not present in any Australian IBDV strains, contrary to a previous finding published in the USA. Eight new IBDV isolates, two of which came from cases with elevated mortalities in broiler flocks in Victoria and South Australia, were analyzed antigenically and at the genetic level. Their comparison with other Australian IBDV strains showed that these strains were also similar to other Australian strains. Small genetic differences were however detected, particularly in strains isolated in Victoria, indicating that Australian IBDV strains continue to change.


Project Title


RIRDC Project No:

CSA-18J

Start Date: 01/10/01 Finish Date: 31/07/02 Researcher: Dr. Peter Daniels Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries



• To determine whether prior vaccination with V4 Newcastle disease vaccine

can reduce subsequent colonisation with Peats Ridge strain Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and/or reduce the amount (and duration) of shedding of Peats Ridge strain NDV.

• To determine whether V4 vaccination during a Peats Ridge infection can modify the course of the Peats Ridge infection.

• To evaluate the serological response to the Peats Ridge alone, and to the Peats Ridge strain following prior 'priming' with V4 vaccine.

Current Progress Research at AAHL with the Peats Ridge strain of NDV has shown that it is one

of a group of closely related NDV that all have a nine amino acid ‘extension’ of the HN protein, and an amino acid sequence at the cleavage site of the fusion protein that is only two base changes from a sequence classified as virulent. Isolates of the Peats Ridge strain have frequently been found in association with the virulent strain in recent Australian cases of Newcastle disease. Molecular analyses have allowed the design of primers that differentiate Peats Ridge NDV from V4 in real time PCR tests. These tests will be used in the experiments undertaken as part of this project. In the first of these experiments, currently under way, a group of 20 specific pathogen free chickens are being vaccinated at one week of age, once, by eyedrop, with the current batch of V4 being supplied to the industry. These birds are being challenged three weeks post vaccination with a substantial challenge of the Peats Ridge strain of NDV. A control group of 20 chickens of the same age are being challenged at the same time with the Peats Ridge virus. Both groups of chickens are being housed on litter in separate isolation rooms. The serological responses and patterns of excretion of the challenge virus are being compared between vaccinated and control groups. Should the vaccinated birds excrete Peats Ridge NDV, a second experiment will investigate the effect of two or more doses of vaccine.


Project Title

Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-259J

Start Date: 01/11/99 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Dr. Wayne Jorgensen Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• To develop attenuated lines of E. mitis, E. brunetti and E. praecox for

incorporation in an efficacious live vaccine protective against all seven species of Eimeria in Australian chickens.

• To develop a trial technique to evaluate coccidiostat resistance.

Current Progress All vaccine development and characterisation work has been completed for the precocious line of the Jorgensen strain of Eimeria mitis. The line has been transferred to Eimeria Pty Ltd for field trials and registration. Two strains of Eimeria brunetti (Monarto and Bowden) underwent selection for precocious development by passage. Both, however, exhibited rapid falls in prepatent period that reduced reproductive potential but failed to reduce pathogenicity sufficiently. As an alternative, a mild line selected from the Bowden parent strain underwent characterisation to determine its suitability for use as a vaccine strain. Results from the characterisation trials showed that it had appropriately low pathogenicity and was protective against heterologous challenge. The line has been transferred to Eimeria Pty Ltd. The sensitivity of two strains of Eimeria praecox (Kelly and Jorgensen) to the coccidiostats Toltrazuril, Amprolium and Sulphaquinoxaline was evaluated in trials. The Kelly strain exhibited some resistance to all three coccidiostats and work on that strain was discontinued. The Jorgensen strain was sensitive to the three coccidiostats. Characterisation trials were subsequently performed to assess its suitability for use as a vaccine strain. Pathogenicity and heterologous challenge trials have been completed and the results are awaiting statistical analysis.


Project Title

Studies of cloacal haemorrhage and beak trimming in the laying hen (II)

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-188A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 31/07/03 Researcher: Dr. Greg Parkinson Organisation: Department of Natural Resources & Environment (Vic)

Victorian Institute of Animal Science 475-485 Mickleham Road ATTWOOD VIC 3049


• To develop rearing strategies to reduce the need for beak trimming in

pullets and layers housed in controlled environment cages. • To provide the egg industry with accurate figures regarding the level of

mortality caused by egg peritonitis/salpingitis and prolapse. • To initiate research assessing the apparent high incidence of egg peritonitis

in pullets and layers housed in litter based systems. • To reduce the incidence of cloacal haemorrhage, and the subsequent loss

through prolapse and egg peritonitis/salpingitis, especially in early lay. • To lower national flock mortalities by 2-3% to worlds best practice.

Current Progress Many egg laying flocks have average body weights significantly below breed standards, with significant proportions of severely under weight birds. Associated with the low body weights, the flocks frequently experience high levels of blood stained eggs (4-6%), low production, and mortalities due to salpingitis/egg peritonitis and cannibalism. Clear experimental evidence using single bird cages, indicates that low body weights predispose flocks to a higher incidence of blood stained eggs and cloacal haemorrhage. The significance of the cloacal haemorrhage in the induction of cannibalism and salpingitis/egg peritonitis is the subject of ongoing research. At this stage, the studies using single bird cages have been unable to reproduce prolapse, and salpingitis, despite the presence of a moderate incidence of cloacal haemorrhage in underweight birds. There is a strong probability, however, that even slight oviduct haemorrhage can trigger picking behaviours, resulting in prolapse, egg peritonitis/salpingitis and overt cannibalism in multiple bird cages or floor housing such as barn and free range. Important future research needs to partition the relative significance of the control of spontaneous oviduct haemorrhage, from strategies directed at behavioural modification to produce resistance to cannibalism. Clearly the long-term control of cannibalism is likely to be multi-factorial, but current research suggests that superior management of flock body weight variation, combined with more uniform control of shed light intensities should result in lower mortalities.



Project Title

Molecular diagnostic tools for wild type and vaccine strains of Marek's disease virus

RIRDC Project No.:

UJC-7A

Start Date: 01/09/99 Finish Date: 30/09/02 Researcher: Dr. Graham Burgess Organisation: James Cook University

Department of Microbiology TOWNSVILLE QLD 4811


• To develop improved procedures, which can detect genome of Type 1

Marek's diseases virus (MDV) in the blood of infected or vaccinated birds. Develop sensitive specific PCR procedures for detecting types 2 and 3 Marek's disease viruses.

• To identify sequences that can be used to differentiate wild type and vaccine strains of Type 1 Marek's disease virus.

• To develop and evaluate simplified sample collection techniques and indicator systems that match the requirements and capabilities of the Australian poultry industry and transfer these to relevant Australian laboratories.

Current Progress The primer sets for the serotype specific PCR’s have been finalised and each of

the reactions have been optimised. All three assays are in a nested format with the types 1 and 3 sets as semi-nested and type 2 fully nested. We are now able to differentiate between the CVI 988 and Australian strains of type 1 using a PCR specific for the meq gene. An area of the tegument gene is under investigation as a means of differentiation between Australian type 1 isolates. Treated filter paper has been successful as a collection system for monitoring of postvaccinal viraemia for HVT and CVI 988. The detection of field strains in broilers is now possible using feather pulp as a sampling method. We have been able to detect type 1 virus in birds showing clinical signs and subclinical infections. We now have two options for product detection following PCR. Agarose electrophoresis has been used to date and a high throughput 96 well format is being assessed. PCR/ELISA is working successfully for serotype 1 and probe sets for types 2 and 3 are ready for evaluation. In situ PCR amplification is working on tissues and the product detection system is being optimised.



Project Title

Determination of the genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum

RIRDC Project No:

UM-45J


Faculty of Veterinary Science, Pre-Clinical Centre PARKVILLE VIC 3010


• To determine the complete genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum. • To facilitate identification of genes which are likely to play a role in

virulence. • To lay a foundation for subsequent studies to improve the performance of

mycoplasma vaccines and to improve diagnosis of mycoplasmosis.

Current Progress The complete genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum has been determined. Some confirmatory sequencing is being performed to check some regions, but analysis of the sequence has commenced. The complete genome is 997,414 base pairs in length and contains 758 genes. Preliminary analysis indicates that there are 31 genes encoding the major immunogen, pMGA. The analysis of the genome sequence is being performed concurrently with proteomic and transcriptional analysis in another RIRDC funded project.


Project Title

Improving mycoplasma vaccines - targets for defined attenuation

RIRDC Project No.:

UM-54A

Start Date: 01/09/01 Finish Date: 31/08/04 Researcher: Dr. Phillip Markham Organisation: The University of Melbourne

Department of Veterinary Science Cnr Park Drive and Flemington Road PARKVILLE VIC 3010


• To improve the efficacy and functionality of mycoplasma vaccines by

identifying novel targets for attenuation of pathogenic mycoplasmas, with the strategic potential to apply this to developing new vaccines capable of providing protection against varient strains that may not be controlled b the current generation of vaccines.

• To improve control of mycoplasmosis and other respiratory diseases of chickens, with the potential to respond rapidly to alterations in the efficacy of current control measures.

• To develop techniques that will be able to be readily adapted for the rapid development of vaccines against other emerging bacterial diseases in chickens.

Current Progress Progress has been made over the past 9 months in developing techniques to aid

identification of novel targets for attenuation in avian mycoplasmas. The techniques that have been developed use as models the vaccine VAXSAFE® (ts-11) and the parent organism 80083. The ts-11 vaccine is used in the control of chronic respiratory disease caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum. One technique in use is two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, where cellular proteins are separated by molecular charge in the first dimension and separated according to molecular size in the second dimension. Using this technique protein maps of strains ts-11 and 80083 have been constructed. Comparison of the proteomic maps reveal several differences, with some proteins being absent or expressed at differing levels between strains. In addition, antigenic differences between the two strains were observed by Western blot. These differences may allow the development of novel diagnostic tests to distinguish between vaccinated birds and those infected with wild type and to define genes responsible for the vaccine phenotype. To identify these protein differences mass peptide fingerprinting will be used. This technique has already proven successful with recent identification of the ts-11 surface protein p47. It is expected that these techniques will allow identification of genetic differences between the ts-11 and 80083 strains and wild type strains. There has been progress made in development of the Representational Display Analysis technique with successful isolation of Mycoplasma RNA. This technique still requires further experimentation and refinement.



Project Title

Further development of a live attenuated vaccine for chicken anaemia virus

RIRDC Project No.:

UM-55A


Veterinary Preclinical Centre PARKVILLE VIC 3052


• To improve control of Chicken Anaemia Virus related disease in chickens. • To extend studies on directed mutagenesis on the genome of chicken

anaemia virus (CAV) conducted in a previous RIRDC funded project (UM-37A) to develop and assess attenuated mutants of CAV for their suitability as live vaccines for administration to layer breeder flocks and layer pullets. This application would be extendable to other poultry.

• To assess the suitability of DNA vaccination with the genome of these attenuated mutants to control CAV related disease.

Current Progress Three mutant Chicken Anaemia Viruses have been shown to be safe when

inoculated subcutaneously into day old chicks. One of these provided good protection against subcutaneous challenge with virulent CAV, while the other two provided less complete protection. An experiment examining safety and efficacy after oral administration and challenge yielded inconclusive results. Current work is examining the safety and efficacy of three other mutant viruses and also assessing use of DNA inoculation for both vaccine production and for vaccination.



Project Title


RIRDC Project No:

UMU-29J

Start Date: 01/09/01 Finish Date: 30/08/03 Researcher: Prof. David Hampson Organisation: Murdoch University

Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences MURDOCH WA 6150


• To develop improved methods to control infection by Brachyspira

intermedia and Brachyspira pilosicoli - bacterial pathogens causing significant economic loss in Australian layer and broiler breeder flocks.

Current Progress Studies are underway on a broiler breeder farm in Queensland and a layer farm

in Western Australia to determine the source and dynamics of infection with intestinal spirochaete species in birds on these farms. Cross-sectional surveys over the farms have been completed, and cohorts of birds in uninfected replacement flocks on both sites are now being sampled at fortnightly intervals to determine the timing and potential source of infection in these new flocks. Individual spirochaete isolates are being identified and typed to see whether they are strains that are present in birds in other flocks on the sites, or are being introduced from some other exogenous sources. Environmental samples are also being examined as potential reservoirs of the organisms. An experimental infection trial has been completed in which layers were fed diets based on one or other of two Western Australian wheat varieties, then infected with the intestinal spirochaete Brachyspira intermedia. Significant differences in colonisation with the spirochaete were detected in the two groups of birds, but, contrary to the original hypothesis, this was not related to the viscosity of the ileal contents. The experiment is being repeated, using another pathogenic intestinal spirochaete species Brachyspira pilosicoli to infect the birds.


Project Title

Effects of diet composition, gut microbial status and feed forms on cannibalism in layers

RIRDC Project No.:

UNE-72A

Start Date: 01/07/99 Finish Date: 01/11/02 Researcher: Dr. Mingan Choct Organisation: University of New England

School of Rural Science and Agriculture ARMIDALE NSW 2351


• To examine the interaction between diet composition (non-starch

polysaccharides, trace minerals, ie. inorganic and organic chelates of selenium and chronium) and the incidence of cannibalism.

• To investigate the effect of the gut microbial status on cannibalism in layers. Dietary strategies will be developed for minimising cannibalism in laying hens, which will, in turn, reduce morbidity and mortality of the flock and enhance the economic position of the egg farmers.

Current Progress Our previous research found that a high-insoluble fibre diet was effective in

reducing cannibalism. Moreover, we found that mash diets were more preventative than pellets, in particular, when the diet has a low fibre content. To observe whether these findings are repeatable, an experiment with three different sources of dietary fibre was conducted using mash diets. These diets were: a commercial layer diet (C), a high soluble fibre (C+2% guar gum) and a high insoluble fibre (C+4% lucerne meal). Diets were offered in a mash form. A total of 822 ISA Brown hens at 37 weeks were randomly allocated to 2 to 5 birds/cage. Feed and water were given ad libitum. Diet influenced feed intake, egg production and body weight (P<0.0001) with high soluble fibre diets having the lowest value. The mortalities for birds fed high insoluble fibre, control and high soluble fibre diets were 7.2%, 9.6% and 12.9%, respectively, but these were not statistically different. In this experiment, diets were offered in mash form, which had been found previously to reduce the effect of diet composition on cannibalism mortality, and this may explain the lack of significance in relation to diet composition in this experiment. However, the lowest mortality found in birds fed high-insoluble-fibre diets still shows the effectiveness of high insoluble fibre in reducing cannibalism mortality.



Project Title

Optimising infectious bronchitis vaccination of laying hens for maximum egg shell quality

RIRDC Project No.:

UNE-76A




• To provide, to the Australian egg industry, recommendations concerning

best practice in infectious bronchitis vaccination protocols.

Current Progress Trial 1 is now completed except for some analyses and kidney histology. The birds in Trial 2, consisting of 4 strains (Isa Brown, HyLine Brown, HiSex Brown, HyLine Grey) are now 30 weeks of age. In Trial 1, Isa Brown birds were vaccinated for Infectious Bronchitis (IB) virus using two vaccine strains and three routes of vaccine administration. Half of the birds received no IB vaccination after 14 weeks of age whereas the other half were revaccinated every 8 weeks. Regular revaccination during lay had negative effects on egg shell quality. At the end of the normal production period, all birds were moulted. Some were revaccinated prior to moult whereas others were revaccinated following moult. Finally, all birds were exposed to T-strain IB virus. Production and egg external appearance were monitored and blood and samples of tissue from kidneys, trachea and oviduct were taken. In addition, excreta moisture was measured 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks following T-strain IBV. Analyses are continuing and data are still being analysed. However, results to date indicate that the response to exposure to T-strain IBV was not different between the birds that had been regularly revaccinated and those which had not.



Project Title

Typing of Pasteurella multocida

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-100J

Start Date: 01/01/02 Finish Date: 31/12/03 Researcher: Dr. Linda Blackall Organisation: The University of Queensland

Department of Microbiology & Parasitology ST LUCIA QLD 4072


• To establish Multi-locus Sequence Typing (MLST) of Pasteurella

multocida. • To develop a system for the rapid and accurate typing of P. multocida

isolates that will allow any isolate to be directly compared with any previous isolate already typed and which will allow an understanding of the epidemiology of fowl cholera outbreaks.

• To facilitate improved prevention and control programs for fowl cholera.

Current Progress This project has the aim of establishing Multi-locus Sequence Typing (MLST) of Pasteurella multocida. MLST is now recognised as the cutting edge typing technology. The completion of this project will allow the rapid, accurate typing of P. multocida isolates. In addition, MLST typing allows any isolate to be directly compared with any previous isolate already typed, even if the typing has been done in different laboratories. The project has been designed to be performed by a post-graduate student. Unfortunately, the selected student resigned from the project after two months of work. In the two month period, a collection of P. multocida isolates were assembled and work began on DNA extraction from those isolates. Possible replacement students are currently being interviewed and work on the project will resume as soon as possible.


Project Title

Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis

RIRDC Project No:

UTS-4J

Start Date: 01/05/02 Finish Date: 30/04/04 Researcher: A/Prof. Nicholas Smith Organisation: University of Technology, Sydney

Institute for the Biotechnology of Infectious Diseases Westbourne Street GORE HILL NSW 2065


• To test the efficacy of recombinant versions of Eimeria maxima gametocyte

antigens as a subunit, maternally-delivered vaccine against coccidiosis.

Current Progress Funding for this project commenced in May, 2002, whereupon a position was advertised to assist in the conduct of the immunogenicity and efficacy trials that will be conducted over the next two years. Currently, sufficient quantities of recombinant proteins are being produced for injection into chickens for the first of the planned immunogenicity trials, which is expected to run for the next 12-16 weeks. This first trial will determine the effect of different doses of recombinant 56 kDa gametocyte antigens and recombinant 82 kDa gametocyte antigens on immunogenicity. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays and western blots using serum from injected birds will be used to assess the antibody response to vaccination, and to identify the optimal dose of antigen.


Feed Availability and Nutrition

Project Title

Characterisation of canola meal and cottonseed meal at practical inclusion levels for use in broiler and layer diets

RIRDC Project No:

DAQ-264J


Queensland Poultry Research and Development Centre PO Box 327 CLEVELAND QLD 4163


• To determine the variability of glucosinolates, sinapines, condensed tannins

(CT), total phenolics (TP), sulphur and phytic acid levels in canola meal (CM) and CT, TP and free and bound gossypol levels in cottonseed meal (CSM).

• To determine pesticide residue levels in CSM. • To determine AME, amino acid and proximate composition of CM and

CSM in samples from major processing sites, three times a year. • To evaluate the ratio of iron to free gossypol in CSM to overcome gossypol

effect on production in both broilers and layers. • To determine the upper limits of inclusion of both CM and CSM, separately

and in combination, • To make recommendations to the poultry industries on the nutritional value

of both CM and CSM when included in least-cost poultry diets at levels close to their upper limit.

Current Progress

In a broiler trial chicks were fed four CM sources at 20, 30 and 40 % levels in diets formulated on a digestible amino acid basis from 4-25 days of age (starter period) and from 25-42 days of age (finisher period). In the starter period, the overall feed intake (FI) was reduced but this effect was largely due to one CM source. Except for two sources at the 40% CM level, liveweight gain (LWG) was similar to the control diet and the overall feed conversion ratio (FCR) was not adversely affected by inclusion of CM in the diet. During the finisher period the overall reduced (P<0.05) FI with CM did not detrimentally affect the overall LWG and FCR for all CM sources and inclusion levels. Inclusion of CM reduced (P<0.05) birds abdominal fat proportion. In a second trial, high protein cottonseed meal (CSM), low protein CSM and extruded CSM were fed at 10, 20, 30 and 40 % levels in diets formulated on a digestible amino acid basis. During the starter period, the overall FI was reduced (P<0.05), but this effect was largely due to the extruded CSM. LWG was reduced (P<0.05) particularly at 30 and 40% for all CSM sources. However, FCR was only negatively affected at 30 and 40 % levels in the case of low protein CSM source. During the finisher period, the overall FI was not affected and only reduced (P<0.05) at 30 and 40% levels of the extruded CSM. Except for the extruded CSM at 40% level, LWG was not different (P>0.05) from the control diet for all inclusion levels and CSM sources, resulting in a


satisfactory FCR mean value for all CSM. Inclusion of CSM did not change fat pad proportion. A commercial broiler study, using CSM from Narrabri and Numurkah, CM at 20% (starter period) and at 30 % (finisher period) levels and a control diet formulated on a digestible amino acid basis, was conducted. During the starter period (1-21 d), FI, LWG and FCR from CM and CSM treatments were not different (P>0.05) from the control. During the finisher period (21-43 d), FI was reduced (P<0.05) but only in CM. However, LWG and FCR in both CM and CSM treatments were not different (P>0.05) from the control diet. In the layer experiments, good performance was obtained from feeding different sources of CSM and CM at 12 and 20% inclusion levels in brown and white egg layers. However, observations made to evaluate fresh and stored eggs derived from the above trials indicated that an abnormal mottling effect appeared in stored eggs from brown and white hens when they were fed 20% CSM in the diet. An abnormal odour (fishy taint) was also detected in raw eggs derived from brown, and in some cases, in white layers for all CM diets. Due to the importance of this observation, an independent evaluation was carried out by the Centre for Food Technology, the results of which will be included in the final report on this project.


Project Title

Energy requirements of imported layer strains

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-280A

Start Date: 01/08/01 Finish Date: 30/11/02 Researcher: Mr. Danny Singh Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• To precisely characterise the energy intake and requirement of IsaBrown

and Hyline Brown layer strains in terms of dietary energy concentration, feed intake, egg output, body weight and body fat content. This will enable formulation of diets containing the most cost effective energy levels in different circumstances. Methods of utilising the results in LCF programs/databases will be demonstrated.

Current Progress The energy requirements for two commercial layer strains, IsaBrown and

Hyline Brown, are being investigated. AME assays were carried out on all energy-containing ingredients and diets were formulated based on the AME assays. These diets were used for the main experiment. The diets were formulated to contain 11.0, 11.3, 11.6, 11.9 and 12.2 MJ/kg and either with variable or constant density. Data collection commenced at 19 weeks of age. The first 20 weeks of data seem to indicate that there are strain differences in terms of egg weight, feed intake and feed efficiency. Birds on the lowest energy diet performed the worst indicating that dietary ME of 11.0MJ/kg was not adequate for both strains. Body weights of birds on 11.0MJ diet were the lowest for both strains and both densities. Feed intake decreased significantly as the dietary energy increased in both the constant and the variable density diets. Abdominal fat taken at 42 weeks of age seem to show that there is a strain difference with Hyline Brown birds being heavier and with heavier fat pads. The abdominal fat tended to increase with increases in dietary energy. The extra energy in the diets seems to be used in fat rather than in egg production.



Project Title

Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.:

GRD-3J

Start Date: 01/07/00 Finish Date: 30/06/03 Researcher: Dr. John Black Organisation: John L Black Consulting

Locked Bag 21 WARRIMOO NSW 2774


• To develop rapid and objective analytical tests for assessing the quality of

feed grains. • To enhance grain nutritional value through breeding and processing. • To develop a model(s) to predict feed grain quality for certain livestock

species. • To provide an integrated and coordinated framework in which the above

objectives can be achieved.

Current Progress To further evaluate hypotheses developed in previous years of the project about grain characteristics that determine energy availability for poultry, another 25 cereal grains have been fed to broiler chickens and laying hens. The grains, which varied widely in specific characteristics believed to affect energy availability for animals, were fed also to pigs, sheep and cattle. The experiment confirmed that sorghum grain has a substantially higher available energy content for poultry than for pigs, sheep (1-1.5 MJ/kg) or cattle (6 MJ/kg). The experiment showed that grains such as a sample of the naked, low-amylose cultivar, Merlin, of barley had an available energy content 2.7 MJ/kg less for poultry than for pigs or sheep. Alternatively, a sample of the wheat cultivar, Oxley, was found to have an AME content almost 2 MJ/kg higher than a sample of the same cultivar obtained in the previous year. Examination of the chemical, physical and morphological characteristics of the grains is continuing to identify the reasons for the observed wide variation in available energy content of cereal grains for poultry. Preliminary analyses of results collected over the project suggest that the prediction of AME for poultry using near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) should be feasible.


Project Title

Effect of sorghum ergot on the egg chicken industry

RIRDC Project No.:

GRD-4A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 30/06/02 Researcher: Dr. John Dingle Organisation: The University of Queensland



• To develop a method of isolating and measuring residues of

dihydroergosine in eggs. • To measure the quantity of dihydroergosine residues secreted in eggs after

ingestion of sorghum ergot.

Current Progress Sorghum ergot produces alkaloids (mainly dihydroergosine, DHES) that have poisoned cattle and pigs. However, broiler chickens are comparatively resistant, suggesting that the egg industry could safely utilize cheaper contaminated grain. Such an opportunity would be negated if alkaloids were to accumulate as residues in eggs at undesirable levels. Naturally-contaminated sorghum has been incorporated into layer diets to achieve either 0, 6, 12 or 24 mg DHES/kg - much higher than present in most infected batches of grain - and eggs have been collected over several weeks for assay of DHES content. Immunoassay (ELISA) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) can assay DHES in grain. These methods are being adapted to measure DHES in eggs. A very few eggs have so far been assayed. The HPLC procedure appeared to detect traces of DHES in a couple of eggs from the high-alkaloid hens, but ELISA has not confirmed this. This difference between methods must be reconciled, and a large number of eggs must be assayed to clarify the picture. The possibility that residues resist extraction because of binding to egg proteins also needs to be eliminated.



Project Title

Inflammatory response to diet in the hindgut of layers

RIRDC Project No.:

UNC-14A

Start Date: 22/09/01 Finish Date: 21/09/03 Researcher: Dr. Robert Taylor Organisation: The University of Newcastle

Nutrition & Dietetics Level 3 Medical Sciences Building CALLAGHAN NSW 2308


• To characterise inflammation of the hindgut due to diet changes to laying

birds and to determine the efficacy of methods to reduce or eliminate this condition.

Current Progress Previous work (UNC-12A) indicated that pH changes and organic acid

accumulation in the hindgut of layers was influenced by changes in dietary cereal types. Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative colitis found in humans, pigs, rats and a mouse model were also found in layers and broilers. Diarrhoea and immune function disturbance were suggested as being symptomatic of an acidosis incurred with changes to the cereal base of the diet. Whilst such symptoms are gross inflammatory responses, damage to the intestinal mucosa can continue long after such symptoms resolve. Initial work indicates no involvement of coccidiosis or enteritis. Commercial products to improve feed utilisation and/or minimise negative responses to dietary alteration and other feed methods or products are being actively promoted but a lack of data detailing this inflammatory response requires to be addressed. Experiments have used a binary logistic approach to characterise the extent of the inflammatory response in birds given diets based on the major cereals wheat, barley and sorghum with or without exogenous feed enzymes and different methods of grain processing. Broiler trials have investigated feed additive use. Alterations in responses to feed type and additives have been found and, importantly, have been shown to continue for periods of several months in layer birds fed grain processed in different ways. Trials with SPF birds have controlled the additions of “novel” micro-organisms to the gut through the feed. Short chain fatty acid and lactic acid have been measured and concentrations are altered in birds fed different cereals and with different cereal processing. A simple “probiotic” has been applied to layers to determine if any amelioration of gut inflammation can accrue without resort to commercial products.



Project Title

Effects of commercial feed enzymes in wheat-based diets on egg and egg shell quality in imported strains of laying hen

RIRDC Project No.:

UNE-77A




• To provide, to the Australian Egg Industry, recommendations concerning

the advantages and disadvantages of the use of commercial enzyme preparations in layer feed.

Current Progress Trial 1 was conducted on Isa Brown birds from 25 to 50 weeks of age. Diets

were based on “normal” or “pinched” wheat and contained either no enzyme (control) or one of Biofeed Wheat, Avizyme 1302, Roxazyme G2 granular or Kemzyme W dry. Eggs were collected for analysis at 27, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 weeks. Apparent Metabolisable Energy (AME), feed intake, manure moisture and body weight were measured at 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 weeks. Analysis of the two wheats showed that they were similar for soluble, insoluble and total non-starch polysaccharide although the “pinched” wheat had a higher protein level. AME was similar for the two wheat types. Excreta moisture was not affected by enzymes. Egg and egg shell quality were better for the “normal” wheat. Shell breaking strength was not improved by enzymes. However, Kemzyme increased percentage shell and shell thickness. Production and excreta moisture were not affected by enzymes. Trial 2 was conducted from 51-73 weeks of age. Pinched wheat was used for all diets but was replaced with 20% cereal rye in the birds which previously received “normal” wheat. The rye diet improved egg internal and egg shell quality. Enzymes had little effect.



Husbandry and Welfare

Project Title

Development of Egg Magic version 2

RIRDC Project No.:

ABR-2A

Start Date: 05/10/01 Finish Date: 06/09/02 Researcher: Mr. Bryce Little Organisation: Agricultural Business Research Institute

Softbush Software University of New England ARMIDALE NSW 2351


• To develop a second version of the Egg Magic flock management software

package and a new compatible financial module.

Current Progress Egg Magic version 2 has been designed to improve on Egg Magic version 1 in both user interface and the extent of data that can be monitored and the associated analysis reports. To this end we have investigated alternative technologies for both the programming tool and the data base. The existing technology used by Egg Magic version 1, Magic and Btrieve, is being replaced in version 2. The chosen technologies are Microsoft's Visual Basic.Net and the Access 2000 data base. The reporting tool, Crystal, will remain. As at May 31st 2002, we are currently nearing the completion of the first stage of the project. That is replacing Egg Magic version 1 with a functionally equivalent version using the new technologies.



Project Title

Modifying egg production systems to meet changing consumer needs

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-279A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 31/07/02 Researcher: Mr. Geofrey Runge Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Pig & Poultry Branch PO Box 264 CABOOLTURE QLD 4510


• To provide the egg industry with information quantifying curent type and

number of cages for planning and estimating impact of the recent ARMCANZ decision on the industry, a scoring system for evaluating cages, a decision making package to assist farmers to choose between modifying cages or new cages and provide farmers with an information package and workshops on cage modification and scoring.

Current Progress A survey of Australian egg farmers is being conducted to determine the impact

of the August 2000 ARMCANZ decisions on the housing facilities currently in use by the egg industry. Survey forms were sent to over 600 egg farmers in Australia. To date 81 percent have been returned. Returned survey forms received so far represent 77.3 percent of the estimated layer hens in Australia. Analysis of the data received indicates the following: • New cage, barn or free range facilities that meet the new requirements are

needed to replace 76 percent (7.70 million hens) of the hens housed in cages that will not comply at January 2008.

• Farmers indicated that they would change their future intentions if financial assistance were available from government.

• Farmers are unsure about whether to retire or to invest in new facilities because of low prices and uncertainty about the future prospects in the industry.

• Over half the cages surveyed were considered to be in good condition. • At least half the hens in cages are housed in naturally ventilated sheds.



Project Title

Layer strains for alternative systems

RIRDC Project No.:

DAQ-283A

Start Date: 01/10/01 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Mr. Danny Singh Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)



• To provide information on the suitability of current commercial layer strains

for alternative (non-cage) management systems. Two concurrent 12-month trials to compare the strengths and weaknesses of three popular brown-egg strains when housed in barn and free range conditions will be conducted. Performance, husbandry requirements, welfare aspects and economics of the strains will be compared. Projected costs and benefits of barn and free range systems to the industry and consumers will be calculated.

Current Progress The three strains selected were Isa Brown, Hyline Brown and Hisex Brown.

Sixteen week old pullets were placed in the barn in November 2001. Birds were not placed in the free-range shelters till February 2002. This delay was due to shortage of labour. The mortality rate increased dramatically in the first month of the trial for the barn birds. The main course of death was cannibalism. Birds for both systems were lightly beak trimmed in January 2002. Mortality rate decreased to almost zero in the barn system after beak trimming. Mortality started to increase in both systems in March 2002 and post mortem examination indicated coccidiosis as the possible cause of death. Subsequent faecal analysis showed the existence of Eimeria brunetti. Birds were vaccinated with E. brunetti. The diets for the trial were formulated according to breeders recommendations with the exception of crude fibre which was increased to 5%. This was achieved by the inclusion of lucerne flakes in the diets. Feather condition deteriorated over time in both systems mainly due to feather picking and despite the light beak trimming that the birds received at 26 weeks of age. Litter condition in the barn shed ranged from dusty to good.



Project Title

The assessment and development of best management practice techniques for Australian laying hens housed in conventional and alternative laying systems

RIRDC Project No.:

UQ-93A

Start Date: 01/04/00 Finish Date: 30/06/04 Researcher: Prof. Wayne Bryden Organisation: The University of Queensland



• To compare existing housing systems via a national survey of commercial

flocks and development of best management practices through quantitative research for free range, barn and cage production systems in relation to welfare, production, economics, air quality, egg quality, food safety, health and parasite control.

• To publish manuals for best practice in free range, barn and cage production systems in Australia.

• To provide written draft material to educate producers to enable them to achieve best practice.*

• To prepare extensive reviews on hen welfare, production, egg quality, air quality, OH & S, food safety, parasitology and economics for free range, barn and cage production systems.

• To provide material for use in educational campaigns to inform the community on the relative advantages and disadvantages of various egg production systems.*

*Note: the extension and educational components are not part of the scope of the proposed project but need to be developed as part of the outcomes for this project.

Current Progress PART 1 - NATIONAL LAYER SURVEY Flock production data from current laying flocks in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia is being confidentially recorded from layers housed in all major husbandry systems (free range, barn, conventional cage and controlled environment cage systems). Information is supplied monthly for entering into a national data base. Data is being recorded for the complete laying cycle. A composite report showing means and range for each system will be prepared after the laying cycle is complete in April 2003. PART 2 - THE ASSESSMENT OF PRODUCTION AND WELFARE IN ALTERNATIVE LAYER HOUSING SYSTEMS Quotes for the building of facilities to house flocks in each of the four major husbandry systems at the UQ Gatton Poultry Unit are complete and approval has been sought from RIRDC to begin building so that each system can be tested before October 2002. The first flocks to be housed will be the Isa Brown strain and pullets have been tentatively ordered for supply in October 2002. The started pullets for each system will all be reared on the one farm and will be grown in facilities compatible with the layer housing into which they will be ultimately placed.



Project Title

Non-invasive stress assessment of commercial egg industry practices

RIRDC Project No.:

US-107A

Start Date: 01/07/01 Finish Date: 31/07/04 Researcher: Dr. Jeff Downing Organisation: The University of Sydney

Faculty of Veterinary Science CAMDEN NSW 2570


• To confirm the relationship between plasma and egg albumen

corticosterone concentrations. • To determine the effects of commercial husbandy practices on stress using

the egg as a non-invasive means of measuring stress. • To determine the most appropriate husbandry practices to minimise stress

and improve hen welfare.

Current Progress Under a previous RIRDC project (US-71A) a non-invasive measure of stress in hens was established. This involved the measurement of corticosterone in egg albumen. The level of egg albumen corticosterone increased when hens were subjected to known stressors such as handling, high ambient temperatures and group housing. During this early work the relationship between plasma and egg albumen corticosterone levels was not clearly evaluated because a suitable experimental model was not established. In the present project, studies were undertaken to develop such a model and this has been used to determine the relationship between plasma and egg albumen corticosterone. There is a significant linear relationship between the two measures. As plasma corticosterone increases the levels in egg albumen also increase. This has been an important process in validating the procedure as a measure of stress. Studies in the project have now advanced to assessing commercial industry practices and their effects on stress in laying hens. Presently the effects of space allocation in conventional cages on stress are being undertaken but at this stage the analyses are not complete. Different housing systems are being established on the one site at the University of Queensland and when operational these facilities will be used to determine the effects of housing system on stress in hens using the egg as a non-invasive sampling procedure.



Environmentally Sustainable Management

Project Title

Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds

RIRDC Project No:

SAR-33J

Start Date: 01/01/01 Finish Date: 31/12/02 Researcher: Mr. Thomas Banhazi Organisation: South Australian Research and Development Institute

Pig & Poultry Production Institute Roseworthy Campus ROSEWORTHY SA 5371


• To determine the major risk factors associated with increased concentrations

of dust within, and dust emissions from, naturally and mechanically ventilated poultry houses.

• To develop strategies that will reduce both interior dust levels and dust emissions from buildings, resulting in more sustainable housing systems for egg and broiler production in semi-urban and more densely settled areas and reduced OH&S risks for staff.

Current Progress Nine naturally ventilated layer sheds, eleven mechanically ventilated broiler

sheds and five tunnel ventilated broiler buildings were surveyed extensively. Both inhalable and respirable dust, as well as airborne bacteria, ammonia and carbon dioxide gas, were measured in the study sheds. In addition, temperature and humidity levels were also recorded for 24 hours both inside and outside the surveyed sheds, simultaneously with air quality parameters. An extensive questionnaire on the engineering and management aspects of each shed has been completed by the industry participants. Using a validated methodology and the measured carbon dioxide levels, the actual ventilation levels at the time of the dust measurement is also being calculated for each shed. That will allow the research team to accurately predict dust emission levels from the study sheds. After all the data has been compiled, ANOVA analysis will be used to identify the risk factors that contribute to elevated dust concentrations in poultry facilities. In the meantime, an on-farm experiment is in progress at a commercial poultry operation to evaluate the practicality and the potential benefits of impregnating the bedding material with a small amount of canola oil to reduce dust generation within the sheds and therefore reduce dust emission from sheds. A related experiment is aimed at designing a low-cost dust filter to capture and filter emitted dust plumes from poultry facilities.


Training, Information and Technology Transfer

Project Title

Extension and uptake of the egg quality and production assurance program

RIRDC Project No.:

ALL-1A

Start Date: 08/08/01 Finish Date: 23/09/02 Researcher: Ms. Vicki Noy Organisation: Alliance Consulting & Management

PO Box 1764 MILTON QLD 4064


• To ensure the Egg Quality and Production Assurance Program (EQPAP) is

implemented by August 2002 by providing a range of extension and communication products, namely: * a series of fact sheets on the why and how of implementing EQPAP; * a cost of quality study designed to highlight the commercial benefits of adopting EQPAP (if the program is not mandatory); * design and development of a self-paced learning program; and * implementation of an awareness campaign including industry workshops.

Current Progress Much of the training and communication development work has been complete

to date, including: An initial review of the EQPAP program was undertaken in lieu of

developing the cost of quality model. The technical accuracy and structure of the program were reviewed and a report provided to RIRDC.

A review of the procedure and expected outcomes of FarmBis funding in each State was undertaken. This review determined if the program qualified for support from FarmBis and the requirements of various States for development of the training package itself. All States are supportive of providing FarmBis funding to the EQPAP training program, but at different levels.

Fact sheets on the why and how of implementing EQPAP have been developed and are awaiting feedback (particularly on the administrative components of the program) before sending to producers.

Training materials have been developed for self-paced trainees and for trainees who attend a FarmBis subsidised delivered course. The materials developed include participant notes (three modules), activity/exercise workbooks, facilitator notes, Powerpoint presentation, checklists and other supporting materials. These materials are currently waiting on further feedback from RIRDC.

The next step in the project is to await feedback before progressing the implementation steps in the program.



Project Title

Video series - Workplace training for layer farm staff

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-189A

Start Date: 01/11/00 Finish Date: 31/08/02 Researcher: Mr. Michael Bourke Organisation: NSW Department of Agriculture

Locked Bag 21 ORANGE NSW 2800


• To develop video scripts that are aligned with National Agriculture

Training Package competencies and Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture's distance education materials on Layer Management.

• To produce a series of video training materials for the egg industry.

Current Progress Script development for the video series ‘Working on an Egg Farm’ has progressed during 2001 – 2002. The four videos are: 1. Quality Egg Production (an introduction to QA on egg farms) 2. Routine Checking (stockmanship involved with observation) 3. Handling Birds (stockmanship involved with animal husbandry practices) 4. Farm Practices (other activities carried out by employees) The main themes highlighted in the video series are Bird Welfare - linked to health, management, productivity, economics and food safety; Quality Assurance - standards to reach, food safety; Biosecurity – linked to health and QA; and Food Labelling – the need to label eggs correctly. The script for the first video has benefited from input through industry, government agency, training consultant and RIRDC representatives. This process ensures that the script aligns to the forthcoming Egg Quality and Production Assurance Program (EQPAP) and describes current industry practice. The script is currently being finalised so that production can commence. Organisation to produce the first video has included selecting a production company (in conjunction with RIRDC) and organising local producer support for filming to take place. Video production is expected to commence in the next few months. Draft scripts for the remaining three videos have been produced and are currently undergoing a similar process to that of the first video.



Project Title

National egg industry newsletter

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-194A

Start Date: 01/01/02 Finish Date: 31/12/03 Researcher: Mr. Gerry Bolla Organisation: NSW Department of Agriculture

Gosford Horticultural Research & Advisory Station Locked Bag 26 GOSFORD NSW 2250


• To maintain production of the national egg industry newsletter "In An

Eggshell" by producing two issues per year over two years - with the newsletter concentrating on the dissemination of latest research findings from around Australia. There will be special focus on improving the standard of layer housing and environmental management, bird welfare, nutrition and the adoption of world's best practice in these areas.

Current Progress This project commenced 1st January, 2002 and work on the current issue of the

newsletter, No. 13 Winter 2002, is in progress. It is proposed that the newsletter, which contains articles on nutrition, husbandry and biosecurity issues will be published before 30th June, 2002. The newsletter will incorporate suggestions made by the RIRDC Egg Program Advisory Committee regarding presentation and layout and the standard of articles and level of presentation achieved in more recent issue will be maintained.


OTHER SUPPORTED ACTIVITIES

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SCHOLARSHIPS

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM CSA-20A Postgraduate scholarship - Scott Sheedy: Live vectoring of therapeutic and prophylactic proteins and

pathogenesis in necrotic enteritis CHICKEN MEAT AND EGG PROGRAMS CSA-10J Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines in poultry CSA-13J Postgraduate scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants of Newcastle

disease virus CSA-21J Postgraduate scholarship - Manija Asif: Cytokines and innate molecules for enhanced mucosal

immunity in the chicken MS001-57 Masters in avian health - Dr Rubite EGG PROGRAM UM-46A Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Michelle Peters - Molecular biology of chicken anaemia virus UNE-80A Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Megan Jolly - Infectious bronchitis vaccination of laying hens

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM MS001-55 Environmental Management Sub-Program Steering Committee


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TRAVEL/CONFERENCE/WORKSHOPS CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM WS001-09 Chicken Litter Workshop, July 2001 CHICKEN MEAT AND EGG PROGRAMS TA012-33 5th International Symposium on Avian Influenza, University of Georgia, USA, April 2002 - Mr Paul

Selleck TA012-01 Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition Conference, Armidale, July 2001 - Mr Bob Hughes MS012-24 Ian Farran - travel to and participation in Environmental Managements System Conference, Ballina, 5-8

Nov 2001 TA012-23 7th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, France and 11th European Poultry

Conference, Germany, August 2002 - Dr Robert Pym TA012-27 2002 Australian Poultry Science Symposium, Sydney, February 2002 - funding for two invited speakers TA012-53 Poultry Information Exchange (PIX) 2002, Gold Coast, April 2002 - various speakers WS001-07 Support for the 12th Australian Poultry and Feed Convention/7th WPSA Asian Pacific Federation

Conference, Gold Coast, October 2002 EGG PROGRAM TA012-07 International Egg Commission Conference, Norway, August 2001 - Mr Malcolm Peacock TA012-08 IXth European Symposium on the Quality of Eggs and Egg Products, Turkey, September 2001 -

A/Prof Juliet Roberts MS012-26 Presentation by Dr Gibson at World Egg Day TA012-54 International Union of Microbiological Societies Conferences, France, July 2002 - Dr Jason Wan TA012-64 International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids meeting, Canada, May 2002 - Dr Robert

Gibson WS012-03 Enhanced welfare cage workshop TA012-24 2002 Australian Poultry Science Symposium, Sydney, February 2002 - Dr Phil Glatz MS012-19 Costs for guest speakers to attend WPSA State meetings

RESEARCH TO BE SUPPORTED IN 2002/2003

126


CHICKEN MEAT PROGRAM Flock Health Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Biological control of necrotic enteritis in meat chickens CSA-12A Dr Robert Moore CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5760 Postgradute Scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants of Newcastle disease virus

CSA-13J Dr Allan Gould CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5119

Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian strains CSA-15J Dr Jagoda Ignjatovic CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5769 Evaluation of fowlpox (FPV) strains free of reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) as vaccines for use in Australian poultry flocks

CSA-16A Dr David Boyle CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5018


CSA-18J Dr Peter Daniels CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5272

Postgraduate scholarship - Scott Sheedy: Live vectoring of therapeutic and prophylactic proteins and pathogenesis in necrotic enteritis

CSA-20A Dr Robert Moore CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5760

Postgraduate scholarship - Manija Asif: Cytokines and innate molecules for enhanced mucosal immunity in the chicken

CSA-21J Dr Andrew Bean CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5792

Rapid identification and pathotyping of virulent IBDV, NDV and AI isolates CSA-24J Dr Hans Heine CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5278 Postgraduate scholarship - Kristie Jenkins: Improved therapeutics for Marek's disease virus infection

CSA-25J Dr Andrew Bean CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5792

Use of cytokines to enhance vaccine efficacy in poultry CSA-26J Dr Andrew Bean CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5792 Isolation and characterisation of infectious bronchitis viruses from broilers CSA-27A Dr Jagoda Ignjatovic CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5769 Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines DAQ-259J Dr Wayne Jorgensen Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3362 9455 Investigations into the development of a sustainable management strategy for the darkling beetle, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) in broilers

DAQ-273A Dr Trevor Lambkin Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3896 9434

Masters in avian health - Dr Reza Fadavi Firooz MS023-03 Dr. Trevor Bagust The University of Melbourne (03) 8344 9676 The development of vaccination strategies to control necrotic enteritis in poultry RMI-11A Prof Peter Coloe Royal Melbourne Institute of

Technology (03) 9925 2481

Molecular evaluation of responses to vaccination and challenge by Marek's disease virus RMI-12J Prof Greg Tannock Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

(03) 9925 3088

Marek's disease research in Australia - a review RMI-15J Prof Greg Tannock Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

(03) 9925 3088

Molecular techniques for monitoring Marek's viraemias in broilers and layers UJC-10J Dr Graham Burgess James Cook University (07) 4781 5472 Avian Leukosis-J (ALV-J) in Australia: laboratory technologies and research needs UM-49A DrTrevor Bagust University of Melbourne (03) 9344 9676 Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens UMU-29J Prof David Hampson Murdoch University (08) 9360 2287 Effects of organic acids, prebiotics, and enzymes on control of necrotic enteritis and UNE-75A Dr Mingan Choct University of New England (02) 6773 5121


127

performance of broiler chickens Systematic pathotyping of Australian Marek's disease (MDV) isolates UNE-83J A/Prof Stephen Walkden-

Brown University of New England (02) 6773 5152

Typing of Pasteurella multocida UQ-100J A/Prof Linda Blackall University of Queensland (07) 3365 4645 Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis UTS-4J A/Prof Nicholas Smith University of Technology, Sydney (02) 9514 4013 Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Kelly Mai: The molecular basis for oocyst wall formation in the apicomplexan parasite, Eimeria maxima

UTS-6A A/Prof Nicholas Smith University of Technology, Sydney (02) 9514 4013

Bird Nutrition and Feed Supply Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Estimating lysine availability by slope-ratio chick assay DAQ-277A Dr Rider Perez-Maldonado Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3824 3081 Evaluation of new millet varieties as a poultry feed ingredient DAQ-302A Mr Danny Singh Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3824 3081 Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2) GRD-3J Dr John Black Grains Research & Development

Corporation (02) 4753 6231

The net energy values of the Australian feed ingredients for poultry UNE-82J A/Prof Mingan Choct University of New England (02) 6773 5121 Postgraduate scholarship - Mr Nicholas Rodgers: Relationships between grain quality, intestinal integrity, and performance of broiler chickens

UNE-86A A/Prof Mingan Choct University of New England (02) 6773 5121

Digestible amino acids and improved broiler performance UQ-107A Prof Wayne Bryden The University of Queensland (07) 5460 1253 Use of dietary fatty acids to increase protein accretion in broilers US-104A Prof Wayne Bryden University of Sydney (02) 4655 0658 Mechanical and enzymatic improvements of dehulled lupins for broiler and layer diets UWA-76J Dr Ian Williams University of Western Australia (08) 9380 3780 Food Safety Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No On-farm reduction strategies for Campylobacter spp. DAQ-282A Ms Jillian Templeton Department of Primary Industries

(Qld) (07) 3362 9520

Salmonella typing and colonisation of chickens by characterised S. Sofia IMV-3A Dr Michael Heuzenroeder Institute of Medical & Veterinary Science

(08) 8222 3275

Development and validation of Campylobacter microarrays for virulence detection and strain differentiation in poultry products

RMI-14A Prof Peter J Coloe Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

(03) 9925 7104

Tannins to control microbial pathogen colonisation of broiler chickens UA-61A A/Prof John Brooker The University of Adelaide (08) 8303 7638 Development of campylobacter bio-replacement program and establishment of campylobacter reference centre

UG-3A Dr Victoria Korolik Griffith University (07) 5552 8321

Isolation of genes responsible for Campylobacter jejuni colonisation of the chicken intestinal tract

UG-4A Dr Victoria Korolik Griffith University (07) 5552 8321

Environmental Management Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Meat chicken EMS: transfer to industry FSE-2A Mr Eugene McGahan FSA Environmental (07) 4632 8230 Sustainability improvements in the Victorian chicken meat industry (Phase 2) JSC-2A Mr Jim Smith James Smith Consulting (03) 9598 8717 Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds SAR-33J Mr Themes Banhazi South Australian Research and

Development Institute (08) 8303 7781


128

RESEARCH TO BE SUPPORTED IN 2002/2003 EGG PROGRAM

Implications of the Changing Economic Environment for the Australian Egg Industry Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Options for enhancing industry competitiveness and R&D and marketing efficiency AEI-11A Mr Alan Newton Australian Egg Industry Association (02) 6295 7251

New and Existing Markets Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No An evaluation of the higher value-added opportunities from the chicken egg DAQ-275A Dr Craig Davis Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3406 8611

Public Health Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No To raise awareness of eggs, cholesterol and health issues AEI-12A Ms Nola Komis Australian Egg Industry Association (02) 9570 9222 Rapid detection of virulent Salmonella in egg and poultry products CIF-1A Dr Jason Wan CRC for International Food

Manufacture and Packaging Science (03) 9742 0320

Eggs with increased arachidonic acid for infant formulas CNR-1A Dr Robert Gibson Child Health Research Institute (08) 8204 5469 Is total egg avoidance really necessary for egg allergy treatment? CNR-2A Dr Maria Makrides Child Health Research Institute (08) 8204 6067 Enriching the iron content of eggs to fulfil niche markets UA-56A Dr Dean Revell University of Adelaide (08) 8303 7911 Egg and egg shell quality control in the Australian egg industry UNE-71A A/Prof Juliet Roberts University of New England (02) 6773 2506 Flock Health and Disease Management Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Trialing emergency animal disease arrangements in the Australian egg industry AEI-10A Mr Malcolm Peacock Australian Egg Industry Association (02) 9570 9222 Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Louise Hilton: Therapeutic applications of cytokines in poultry CSA-10J Dr John Lowenthal CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5759 Molecular epidemiology of Newcastle disease virus in Australia CSA-11J Dr Allan Gould CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5119 Postgradute Scholarship - Jacqueline Kattenbelt: Analysis of virulence determinants of Newcastle disease virus

CSA-13J Dr Allan Gould CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5119

Diagnostic tools for differentiation of vvIBDV and characterisation of Australian strains CSA-15J Dr Jagoda Ignjatovic CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5769 The effect of Newcastle disease vaccination with strain V4 on the course of infections with the Peats Ridge strain of Newcastle disease virus

CSA-18J Dr Peter Daniels CSIRO Livestock Industries (03) 5227 5272

Efficacy trials of a maternally-delivered recombinant vaccine against coccidiosis CME01-05J Dr Nicholas Smith University of Technology, Sydney (02) 9514 4013 Attenuation and characterisation of chicken Eimeria for live vaccines DAQ-259J Dr Wayne Jorgensen Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3362 9455 Studies of cloacal haemorrhage, egg peritonitis, vent trauma and beak trimming in the laying hen

DAV-170A Dr Greg Parkinson Dept of Natural Resources & Environment (Vic)

(03) 9217 4200


129

Studies of cloacal haemorrhage and beak trimming in the laying hen (II) DAV-188A Dr Greg Parkinson Dept of Natural Resources & Environment (Vic)

(03) 9217 4200

Masters in avian health - Dr Rubite MS001-57 Dr Trevor Bagust University of Melbourne (03) 9344 9676 Molecular evaluation of responses to vaccination and challenge by Marek's disease virus RMI-12J Prof Greg Tannock Royal Melbourne Institute of

Technology (03) 9925 3088

Molecular diagnostic tools for wild type and vaccine strains of Marek's disease virus UJC-7A Dr Graham Burgess James Cook University (07) 4781 5472 Determination of the genomic sequence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum UM-45J Dr Glenn Browning University of Melbourne (03) 8344 7342 Postgraduate scholarship - Ms Michelle Peters - Molecular biology of chicken anaemia virus UM-46A Dr Glenn Browning University of Melbourne (03) 8344 7342 Investigating sanitation of surface water for poultry using chlorine - IBDV models UM-51A Dr Trevor Bagust University of Melbourne (03) 9344 9676 Improving mycoplasma vaccines - targets for defined attenuation UM-54A Dr Phillip Markham University of Melbourne (03) 8344 7363 Further development of a live attenuated vaccine for chicken anaemia virus UM-55A Dr Glenn Browning University of Melbourne (03) 8344 7342 Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens UMU-23J A/Prof David Hampson Murdoch University (08) 9360 2287 Control of intestinal spirochaete infections in chickens UMU-29J Prof David Hampson Murdoch University (08) 9360 2287 Effects of diet composition, gut microbial status and feed forms on cannibalism in layers UNE-72A A/Prof Mingan Choct University of New England (02) 6773 5121 Optimising infectious bronchitis vaccination of laying hens for maximum egg shell quality UNE-76A A/Prof Juliet Roberts University of New England (02) 6773 2506 Typing of Pasteurella multocida UQ-100J A/Prof Linda Blackall University of Queensland (07) 3365 4645 Enhancing mucosal immunity in chickens by novel in-ovo and postnatal vaccination techniques

US-72J Prof Alan Husband University of Sydney (02) 9351 3127

Feed Availability and Nutrition Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Characterisation of canola meal and cottonseed meal at practical inclusion levels for use in broiler and layer diets

DAQ-264J Dr Rider Perez-Maldonado Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3824 3081

Energy requirements of imported layer strains DAQ-280A Mr David Robinson Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3824 3081 Effect of sorghum ergot on the egg chicken industry EGG01-32J Dr John Dingle University of Queensland (07) 5460 1250 Premium grains for livestock program (stage 2) GRD-3J Dr John Black Grains Research & Development

Corporation (02) 4753 6231

Hind gut function in laying hens UNC-12A Dr Robert Taylor University of Newcastle (02) 9872 7203 Inflammatory response to diet in the hindgut of layers UNC-14A Dr Robert Taylor University of Newcastle (02) 9872 7203 Effects of commercial feed enzymes in wheat-based diets on egg and egg shell quality in imported strains of laying hen

UNE-77A A/Prof Juliet Roberts University of New England (02) 6773 2506

Evaluation of Lathyrus cicera as a feed ingredient for layers UWA-61A Dr Colin Hanbury University of Western Australia (08) 9638 3744 Husbandry and Welfare Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Modifying egg production systems to meet changing consumer needs DAQ-279A Mr Geofrey Runge Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 5495 1511 Layer strains for alternative systems DAQ-283A Mr David Robinson Dept of Primary Industries (Qld) (07) 3824 3081 Welfare of laying hens in furnished cages EGG01-21 Dr John Barnett Dept of Natural Resources &

Environment (Vic) (03) 9742 0433

Should claw abrasives be used in cages in Australia? SAR-34A Dr Phil Glatz South Australian Research and Development Institute

(08) 8303 7786


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Beak trimming accreditation SAR-35A Dr Phil Glatz South Australian Research and Development Institute

(08) 8303 7786

The assessment and development of best management practice techniques for Australian laying hens housed in conventional and alternative laying systems

UQ-93A Prof J Ternouth University of Queensland (07) 5460 1267

Pilot study on the use of time lapse video to study the behaviour of laying hens housed in conventional and modified cages

UQ-97A Mr Geoff Stewart University of Queensland (07) 5460 1417

Non-invasive stress assessment of commercial egg industry practices US-107A Dr Jeff Downing University of Sydney (02) 9351 1600 Husbandry and Welfare Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Reduction of dust emissions from broiler and caged layer sheds SAR-33J Mr Themes Banhazi South Australian Research and


Training, Information and Technology Transfer Project Title Project No Principal Investigator Organisation Phone No Identifying communication mediums and issues for the egg industry ALL-1A Ms Vicki Noy Alliance Consulting & Management (07) 3367 1113 National egg industry newsletter DAN-138A Mr Gerry Bolla NSW Dept of Agriculture (02) 4348 1917 Video series - Workplace training for layer farm staff DAN-189A Mr Michael Bourke NSW Dept of Agriculture (02) 6391 3209 National egg industry newsletter DAN-194A Mr Gerry Bolla NSW Dept of Agriculture (02) 4348 1900 Vaccination training manual SAR-36A Dr Phil Glatz South Australian Research and


Chicken Meat and Egg Programs - Agrifutures Australia · iii Foreword This year RIRDC has produced...

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Transcript of Chicken Meat and Egg Programs - Agrifutures Australia · iii Foreword This year RIRDC has produced...