Improved animal welfare through reduced ammonia volatilization in poultry production

Ammonia is a gas that in high concentration damage the respiratory tract of both poultry and humans, resulting in impaired ability to withstand infections and reduced overall welfare. Therefore, ammonia levels in poultry facilities has a stipulated upper limit of 10 ppm. The problem with ammonia is mainly associated with floor housing.

The microbial degradation of nitrogen to ammonia is highest when the litter has high pH, optimal humidity, high temperature and high level of undigested protein.

Keeping ammonia concentrations under the stipulated level is one of the most challenging requirements for Swedish egg producers to fulfill, especially during fall and winter.

The objective of this project is therefore to evaluate alternative litter materials and feed compositions as two different strategies to reduce ammonia in poultry facilities. The project starts with a pre study evaluating different litter materials.

Thereafter follows two laying hen studies – the first one focusing on effects of peat, bio-char and addition of microorganisms to the litter, and the second on lowered crude protein content with addition of several synthetic amino acids, alternatively addition of fiber to the feed ratio.

In addition to ammonia volatilization, the use of litter area, feather cover, fear level, egg production and microbial composition in both the litter and digesta, will be evaluated. The project lasts for 4-years and is a collaboration between SLU, RISE and Vreta Kluster.