This study evaluated the potential of palm kernel cake (PKC) and decanter cake (DC) as sustainable feed ingredients for broiler chickens. A total of 1,200 one-day-old male chicks were reared for a 35-day experimental period. The birds were randomly allocated into 15 dietary treatment groups, with each group consisting of 8 replicates and 10 birds per replicate. Treatment 1 is considered the control diet, without inclusion of PKC or DC. Treatments 2 to 8 contained 2

This study evaluated the nutritional composition, nutrient digestibility, and effects on small intestinal morphology of feather meal (100% feather meal) and a mixed meal consisting of 90% feather meal and 10% offal meal. A total of 300 twenty-two-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated into two dietary treatment groups (93% feather meal- or mixed meal-based diets). Each treatment had six replicates of 25 birds in each replication, and the experiment lasted 7 days using a direct feeding approach for nutrient digestibility evaluation. Data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) of the Statistical Analysis System (SAS), and treatment means were compared using a two-sample t-test (5%). Results showed that feather meal had higher crude protein and gross energy, while mixed meal contained greater ash, crude fiber, and unsaturated fatty acids. Feather meal was rich in methionine and lysine, whereas mixed meal had higher levels of valine, leucine, and serine. Standardized ileal digestibility was higher for fiber and most amino acids in the mixed meal, while protein digestibility and metabolizable energy were similar (p > 0.05) between treatments. Additionally, birds fed the mixed meal exhibited improved intestinal morphology, with greater jejunum and ileum villus height. In summary, the mixed meal showed better digestibility and gut morphology, indicating greater potential as a sustainable protein source.

Background and Aim:Microbial phytase is extensively used in poultry nutrition to improve phosphorus utilization and reduce the anti-nutritional effects of phytic acid. Beyond nutrient digestibility, phytase may influence intestinal microbiota, immune responses, and growth-related molecular pathways in broiler chickens. However, limited information is available regarding the integrated effects of locally produced microbial phytase on caecal microbial populations, hepatic growth-related gene expression, carcass characteristics, and humoral immunity under the same experimental conditions. Therefore, this study evaluated the dose-dependent effects of dietary microbial phytase supplementation on caecal microbiota, hepatic expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone receptor (GHR), plasma immunoglobulin concentrations, and carcass characteristics in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods:A total of 576 day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments under a completely randomized design. T1 received a basal diet without phytase supplementation, whereas T2-T6 received basal diets supplemented with microbial phytase at 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 FTU/kg, respectively. Each treatment consisted of eight replicates with 12 birds per replicate. The experiment lasted for 35 days, covering starter, grower, and finisher phases. Caecal microbial populations were determined using selective culture techniques. Plasma immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin G concentrations were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Hepatic IGF-1 and GHR mRNA expression levels were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction and quantified using the 2-ΔΔCt method with Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (GAPDH) as the reference gene. Carcass characteristics were evaluated at the end of the feeding trial. Data were analyzed using the general linear model procedure at p < 0.05. Results:Dietary microbial phytase supplementation significantly increased beneficial caecal bacteria, including Lactobacillus spp. and Streptococcus spp., while reducing Escherichia coli populations compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Birds receiving 600 FTU/kg phytase exhibited the greatest beneficial microbial populations and the lowest E. coli counts. Plasma immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin G concentrations increased significantly in phytase-supplemented birds, particularly during the finisher phase (p < 0.05). Hepatic IGF-1 and GHR mRNA expression levels were significantly upregulated in a dose-dependent manner. Carcass weight and carcass yield also improved significantly following phytase supplementation, with superior responses observed at 600 FTU/kg phytase supplementation. Significant linear responses were detected for most microbial, immunological, molecular, and carcass-related parameters. Discussion:Locally produced microbial phytase demonstrated multifunctional physiological benefits beyond phosphorus release by improving gut microbial balance, humoral immunity, hepatic growth-related gene expression, and carcass performance in broiler chickens. Supplementation at 600 FTU/kg yielded the greatest overall biological responses and may represent an effective nutritional strategy to improve poultry productivity and intestinal health under tropical production conditions.

This study assessed the impact of varying inclusion levels and combinations of palm kernel cake (PKC) and decanter cake (DC) on broiler chicken performance. A total of 1,260 one-day-old male broilers were randomly assigned to 18 groups, including a control, 5% PKC, 5% DC, and PKC–DC combinations at different ratios (30:70, 50:50, 70:30) and inclusion levels (2–10%). Data were analysed using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedure in Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software. Treatment differences were determined by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Duncan's Multiple Range Test was used for post hoc mean comparisons at p < 0.05. Inclusion of PKC and DC combinations at 6–10% levels reduced (p < 0.05) body weight (BW) and body weight gain (BWG), and increased (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR). Carcass weight and breast relative weight were reduced (p < 0.05) at 8% and 10% inclusion levels. However, hepatic growth-related and intestinal nutrient transporter gene expression were unaffected (p > 0.05). Breast meat composition was unaffected except for ether extract (EE), which increased (p < 0.05) at higher inclusion levels. Overall, PKC and DC combinations can be included up to 4% without adverse effects, while levels ≥ 6% may reduce growth performance.

Phytases are commonly used in broiler feed to break down phytic acid and release nutrients. This study evaluated the effects of microbial phytase on nutrient digestibility, growth performance, bone characteristics, and calcium/phosphate homeostasis in broilers. Six treatment groups of 576 Cobb 500 chicks were fed a control diet (T1) and diets supplemented with 200-600 FTU/kg of phytase (T2-T6). Diet phases included starter, grower, and finisher diets over five weeks. Results showed no significant growth differences in the starter phase, but birds receiving phytase showed improved feed intake, body weight, and feed conversion in the finisher phase (P < 0.001). Nutrient digestibility, including protein, calcium, and phosphorus, significantly improved (P < 0.001) with increased phytase levels. Tibia bone weight, length, and strength increased (P < 0.01), while medullary canal diameter was larger in control birds (P < 0.001). Gene expression related to calcium/phosphate homeostasis did not differ in starters, but FGF23 and VDR genes significantly varied in finishers (P < 0.05). Tibia mineral composition was significantly enhanced in phytase-supplemented groups (P < 0.001). Among treatments, 400 FTU/kg provided optimal performance and cost-effectiveness. In conclusion, microbial phytase enhances nutrient availability, improves bone mineralization, and may reduce environmental phosphorus excretion.

The envisioned research aims to investigate the functional characteristics of pearl millet's dietary fiber to meet the growing demand for nutraceutical dietary fibers. Our results demonstrate that fiber extracted using various chemical-intensive and enzymatic methods possesses an impressive prebiotic index, cholesterol-absorbing capacity, and remarkable oil and water-holding capabilities (WHC), making it a valuable asset for the food processing industry. The fiber extracted through the alkali-mediated (alkSDF) approach demonstrated the highest WHC (9.22 g/g) compared to the lowest values (1.01 g/g) observed through enzymatic treatment. Likewise, the highest free radical scavenging activity (92%) using ABTS assay was noted for alkSDF, whereas the enzymatic approach exhibited the lowest antioxidant characteristics (11%). A comprehensive morphological analysis indicated smooth surface with acid extracted fiber as compared to rough surface and higher crystallinity obtained by alkali treatment. Specifically, dietary fiber obtained through amylase-assisted ultrasonication exhibits improved thermal properties and superior abilities to absorb glucose (7.53 mM/g) and cholesterol (1.43 mg/g). Moreover, in-silico analysis has revealed the crucial active site amino acids involved in amylose binding and substrate catalysis, facilitating the release of reducing sugars into the medium. The structural and functional properties of pearl millet fiber establish it as a highly effective and accessible food supplement for various biomedical applications.

Xylanase is an essential industrial enzyme for degrading plant biomass, pulp and paper, textiles, bio-scouring, food, animal feed, biorefinery, chemicals, and pharmaceutical industries. Despite its significant industrial importance, the extensive application of xylanase is hampered by high production costs and concerns regarding the safety of xylanase-producing microorganisms. The utilisation of renewable polymers for enzyme production is becoming a cost-effective alternative. Among the prospective candidates, non-pathogenic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are promising for safe and eco-friendly applications. Our investigation revealed that Pediococcus pentosaceus G4, isolated from plant sources, is a notable producer of extracellular xylanase. Improving the production of extracellular xylanase is crucial for viable industrial applications. Therefore, the current study investigated the impact of various medium components and optimised the selected medium composition for extracellular xylanase production of P. pentosaceus G4 using Plackett-Burman Design (PBD) and Central Composite Design (CCD) statistical approaches. According to BPD analysis, 8 out of the 19 investigated factors (glucose, almond shell, peanut shell, walnut shell, malt extract, xylan, urea, and magnesium sulphate) demonstrated significant positive effects on extracellular xylanase production of P. pentosaceus G4. Among them, glucose, almond shells, peanut shells, urea, and magnesium sulphate were identified as the main medium components that significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the production of extracellular xylanase of P. pentosaceus G4. The optimal concentrations of glucose, almond shells, peanut shells, urea, and magnesium sulphate, as determined via CCD, were 26.87 g/L, 16 g/L, 30 g/L, 2.85 g/L, and 0.10 g/L, respectively. The optimised concentrations resulted in extracellular xylanase activity of 2.765 U/mg, which was similar to the predicted extracellular xylanase activity of 2.737 U/mg. The CCD-optimised medium yielded a 3.13-fold enhancement in specific extracellular xylanase activity and a 7.99-fold decrease in production costs compared to the commercial de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe medium, implying that the CCD-optimised medium is a cost-effective medium for extracellular xylanase production of P. pentosaceus G4. Moreover, this study demonstrated a positive correlation between extracellular xylanase production, growth, lactic acid production and the amount of sugar utilised, implying the multifaceted interactions of the physiological variables affecting extracellular xylanase production in P. pentosaceus G4. In conclusion, statistical methods are effective in rapidly assessing and optimising the medium composition to enhance extracellular xylanase production of P. pentosaceus G4. Furthermore, the findings of this study highlighted the potential of using LAB as a cost-effective producer of extracellular xylanase enzymes using optimised renewable polymers, offering insights into the future use of LAB in producing hemicellulolytic enzymes.

Background and Aim:Antibiotic resistance has spurred interest in alternative feed additives for poultry. Wood vinegar (WV), a by-product of plant pyrolysis, contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of WV supplementation through drinking water on the cecal microbial population, volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations, antioxidant enzyme activity, and apparent ileal nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods:A total of 432 1-day-old male Cobb 500 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 72 per group; 6 replicates of 12 birds each). Treatments included a negative control (T1), a positive control with 0.02% oxytetracycline (T2), and WV-supplemented groups at dilution ratios of 1:100 (T3), 1:200 (T4), 1:500 (T5), and 1:1000 (T6) in drinking water. The experiment lasted 35 days. Plasma antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], total antioxidant capacity [T-AOC]), VFA profiles, ileal digestibility (crude protein [CP], ash, ether extract [EE]), and cecal microbial populations were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using the General Linear Model and Duncan's multiple range tests (p < 0.05). Results:WV supplementation enhanced antioxidant status, with significant increases in GPx (T5 and T6) and T-AOC (T6), while CAT and SOD remained unaffected. T5 significantly elevated acetic, butyric, and total VFA levels. WV-treated birds (T3-T6) showed reduced Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Enterobacteria counts and increased bifidobacteria and total bacteria compared with controls. T4 showed the highest digestibility of CP, while T5 significantly improved ash and EE digestibility. Conclusion:WV supplementation, particularly at a 1:200 dilution (T4), effectively improved gut microbial balance, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, and promoted nutrient digestibility. These results support WV as a viable natural alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production.

Feed costs constitute the largest expense in poultry production, prompting the exploration of locally available, low-cost alternatives, such as palm oil by-products, to reduce production costs [...]

Xylanases play a crucial role in bio-transforming sustainable agricultural polymers into xylose-based oligosaccharides, which have great potential in various biotechnology applications. Nevertheless, the application of bacterial xylanase is hindered by the high cost of developing recombinant bacteria to overcome the low activity and narrow pH stability. Considerable efforts have been made to discover and explore new wild bacterial strains that produce highly effective and environmentally sustainable extracellular xylanase enzymes for various targeted biotechnological and industrial applications. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have recently been proven to be versatile producers of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and characterise extracellular xylanase-producing LAB (EXLAB) from plant sources. The specific extracellular xylanase activity was determined across a wide pH range, from acidic to alkaline. Subsequently, the expression of xylanase genes of EXLAB grown under acidic and alkaline conditions was determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. A total of 45 putative LAB were isolated from radish, gundelia and rhubarb plants. They were identified by phenotypic and genotypic approaches. However, only 15 LAB isolates were confirmed as EXLAB. Weissella confusa and Pediococcus pentosaceus were the most common species among the identified EXLAB. The XylW (~196 bp) and XylP (189 bp) xylanase genes were then amplified from W. confusa and P. pentosaceus, respectively. P. pentosaceus G4 demonstrated the most versatile extracellular xylanase production that was active from pH 5 to pH 8. However, a significant increase in extracellular xylanase gene expression (13.45-fold) at pH 5 was noted as compared to pH 8. Similarly, P. pentosaceus G4 also exhibited the highest extracellular xylanase activity (0.88 U/mg) at pH 5. This study reveals the potential of P. pentosaceus G4 as an eco-friendly and novel extracellular xylanase producer possessing broad pH stability. The robust gene expression and activity of extracellular xylanase imply P. pentosaceus G4 is a promising candidate for sustainable enzymatic processes essential for the environmentally friendly enzymatic reactions and applications.

Background and Aim: Seaweeds, particularly brown seaweed (BS) and green seaweed (GS), are rich in bioactive compounds that may enhance poultry health and productivity. This study evaluates the effects of dietary BS and GS on blood plasma immunoglobulin concentrations, mucosal immunity, small intestine histomorphology, cecal microbial populations, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) profiles in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: A total of 504 one-day-old male broilers were randomly assigned to 12 dietary treatments: A negative control (basal diet), a positive control (basal diet + 100 mg/kg Vitamin E), and diets supplemented with BS and GS at 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, and 1.25%. The study followed a completely randomized design, with data analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance and Duncan’s multiple range test (p < 0.05). Results: Broilers fed 0.75%, 1.00%, and 1.25% GS exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) blood plasma immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations. Dietary BS and GS inclusion upregulated messenger RNA expression of interleukin-6, interleukin-10, and interferon-gamma, indicating immunomodulatory effects. Jejunal villus height was significantly increased in birds fed 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1.25% BS during the starter period. Birds receiving 0.50% BS, 0.25% GS, and 0.50% GS exhibited higher cecal Lactobacillus counts, whereas 0.75% BS and GS significantly reduced Escherichia coli populations. Furthermore, higher total VFA and propionic acid concentrations were observed in birds supplemented with 1.00% and 1.25% GS, as well as 1.25% BS. Conclusion: The inclusion of GS (0.75%, 1.00%, and 1.25%) in broiler diets enhances immune response by increasing IgA and IgG levels. Both BS and GS positively modulate cytokine expression, intestinal morphology, and microbial balance, leading to improved gut health. The results suggest that BS and GS supplementation may serve as sustainable feed additives to enhance broiler performance while reducing reliance on synthetic supplements. Future studies should focus on identifying the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects and their broader implications for poultry production.

This study is aimed to utilize the lyophilized Limosilactobacillus reuteri 29B (L29B) strain with a high percentage of viable cells and essential probiotic properties in the development and evaluation of the probiotic vaginal pessary. Skim milk was identified as the optimal cryoprotectant for L29B giving 80.18

Oils derived from plants have unique and distinct properties based on the compounds present. Prominent chemical compositions in different oils include fatty acids, tocopherols, tocotrienols and carotenoids. Different compounds can affect the regulation of gut immune response and barrier function. Feeds containing either crude palm oil (CPO), red palm oil (RPO), refined palm oil (RBD), palm kernel oil (PKO) and soybean oil (SBO) were fed to 150 laying hens. The feeding trial lasted for 16 weeks. Jejunum mucosa was collected at the end of week 16 to measure the proteins associated with barrier function using ELISA and genes related to immunity and barrier integrity by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In terms of barrier function proteins, various oils did not affect the concentration of intestinal trefoil factor (ITF) and diamine oxidase (DAO). However, the concentration of IgA was higher in CPO and RPO in contrast to SBO and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration was higher in RPO and PKO. In terms of gene expression, the downregulation of genes related to immunity and barrier function genes was seen in CPO, RBD, RPO and PKO. Similar trends of lower regulation were observed in CPO and RPO than in other oils. Suppression of genes associated with immunity and barrier function would suggest reducing pathogens' load and exposure to antigens in the gut. In conclusion, different sources of oil affect the regulation of intestinal mucosal immunity and barrier function.

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a remarkable biopolymer synthesised by bacterium, exhibiting exceptional properties. However, conventional Hestrin-Schramm (HS) medium, particularly the carbon source, poses challenges of high costs and low productivity. This study explores BNC biosynthesis on a modified HS medium, employing agricultural wastes (sugarcane molasses, banana peel, and pineapple peel) as carbon sources, and compares the overall yield of BNC produced. Sugarcane molasses proved to be the most effective, yielding the highest BNC concentration (8.19 g/L) after 7 days, followed by pineapple peel (2.16 g/L) and banana peel (2.11 g/L). Extensive research was conducted to enhance properties of BNC by an environmentally friendly approach, incorporating silver nanoparticles (AgNP) utilising Momordica charantia fruit extract, resulting in a BNC-Ag nanocomposite. The synthesis involved mixing 1 mM silver nitrate (AgNO3) with 15 mL of M. charantia fruit extract to reduce Ag ions to AgNP, which was confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy with an absorbance peak between 400 and 410 nm. Characterisation using FESEM and TEM on the synthesized BNC showed minimal impact on BNC fiber diameter from waste-derived carbon sources. XRD indicated slight variations in crystallinity index, with the highest (85%) in TSM-derived BNC. FTIR analysis revealed similar chemical profiles across all BNC, indicating cellulose formation. The BNC-Ag nanocomposite exhibited potent antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) through disc diffusion method with inhibition zones up to 16.8 mm. Overall, the findings from this study contribute to the development of environmentally sustainable for the production of functional BNC materials with enhanced properties for diverse applications.

Seaweed provides macro-, micro-nutrients, and biological bioactive components that may improve broiler production. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of various levels of brown seaweed (BS) and green seaweed (GS) on growth performance, carcass characteristics, apparent ileal digestibility (AID), and hepatic growth and nutrient transporter gene expressions. The study followed a completely randomized design (CRD) (twelve treatments, six replicates, and seven birds per replicate). The dietary treatments contained: basal diet [negative control (NC)], basal diet + vitamin E (100 mg/kg feed) [positive control (PC)], basal diet + 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.0%, and 1.25% BS and GS, respectively. The data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) of the statistical analysis system (SAS 9.4) by one-way ANOVA. Duncan’s Multiple Range Test was used to assess the significant differences between treatment groups at p<0.05. Various levels of BS and GS (p<0.05) improved body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), and feed intake (FI) at the starter phase. No significant effects were observed in the carcass characteristics. The AID of crude protein (CP), organic matter (OM), and dry matter (DM) during the starter phase were significantly improved. The hepatic growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene had increased expression in birds fed 0.50% and 0.75% of GS-contained diets. Similarly, birds fed 0.50% of BS and 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75% of GS had higher (p<0.05) expression of the hepatic Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) gene. Furthermore, there were no significant effects on the intestinal nutrient transporters genes, including aminopeptidase (APN), glucose transporter (SGLT5), and oligopeptide transporter (PepT1) at the jejunum tissue. It was therefore concluded that different levels of BS and GS in the broiler chickens’ diet improved the starter period growth performance and nutrient digestibility.

The present study aimed to determine microbial community, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and volatilome of Bulang pickled tea during fermentation. Sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS revealed that Bualng pickled tea was dominated by Lactobacillus plantarum, unclassified Enterobacteriaceae, unclassified Debaryomyces, Candida metapsilosis, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, and unclassified Aspergillus. The overall contents of SCFAs increased, with acetic acid showing the highest content. A total of 398 differential volatile metabolites were detected using differential metabolomics analysis. Out of these different volatile compounds, ten key volatile compounds including (Z)-4-heptenal, 1-(2-thienyl)-ethanone, 5-methyl-(E)-2-hepten-4-one, 2-ethoxy-3-methylpyrazine, p-cresol, 2-methoxy-phenol, ethy-4-methylvalerate, 3-ethyl-phenol, p-menthene-8-thiol, and 2-s-butyl-3-methoxypyrazinewere were screened based on odor activity value (OAV). The Spearman correlation analysis showed a high correlation of SCFAs and volatile compounds with microorganisms, especially L. plantarum and C. sphaerospermum. This study provided a theoretical basis for elucidating the flavor quality formation mechanism of Bulang pickled tea.

Postbiotic metabolites produced by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains isolated from Malaysian food have been extensively reported for their positive effects on health. Understanding the effects of different combinations of carbon and nitrogen sources on the growth and corresponding characteristics of postbiotic metabolites produced by different strains of L. plantarum is important for various applications. Hence, the effects of different combinations of carbon (glucose, lactose, sucrose and dextrose) and nitrogen (X-SEED Kat, X-SEED Peptone, X-SEED Nucleo Advanced, Nucel875 MG, FM888 and FM902) sources on the growth of six strains of L. plantarum (RG11, RG14, RI11, RS5, TL1 and UL4) and the functional characteristics (bacteriocin inhibitory activity, antioxidant activity and lactic acid concentration) of their respective postbiotic metabolites were investigated in this study. UL4 produced the highest viable cell population with sucrose and Nucel875 nitrogen source. The UL4 strain also produced the strongest bacteriocin inhibitory activity with dextrose and FM888 nitrogen source. In comparison, the RI11 strain produced the highest lactic acid concentration with dextrose and Nucel875 nitrogen source and the highest reducing power of RS5 and TL1 postbiotic metabolites was achieved with MRS medium. In the combination of sucrose and X-Seed KAT nitrogen source, RG14 produce the highest hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. The effects of different combinations of carbon and nitrogen sources on the viable cell population of L. plantarum strains and the respective functional characteristics of postbiotic metabolites were strain dependent. The current study also revealed that fermentation media were an important factor that greatly impacted the functionalities of postbiotic metabolites due to the presence of various bioactive compounds that contributed to high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The results of this study will facilitate the subsequent medium design and optimisation for the development and production of specific postbiotic metabolites produced by the respective L. plantarum strain for their applications in various industries.

Palm-based oils (palm oil and kernel oil) and soybean oil have unique fatty acid and antioxidant profiles based on the compounds present in them. Hence, this study elucidated the antioxidant properties of crude palm oil (CPO), red palm oil (RPO), refined palm oil (RBD), palm kernel oil (PKO) and soybean oil (SBO) and the influence of dietary oils on blood lipid profiles, tissue fatty acid deposition and the expression of hepatic lipid and lipoprotein metabolism genes in laying hens. The oils were analyzed for color, beta-carotene, free fatty acid and acid value, phenolic content and lipid peroxidation. In an in vivo trial, 150 laying hens were allotted into five groups and supplemented with either CPO, RPO, RBD, PKO or SBO for 16 weeks. High antioxidant compounds present in palm oils help reduce the oxidation of oils. Dietary supplementation with palm oils, particularly CPO and RPO, contributed to the lower liver, serum and jejunal mucosal antioxidant enzyme activities. The antioxidant enzyme genes in the jejunal mucosa were downregulated in palm oils and PKO, but there was no difference between oils in antioxidant enzyme genes in the liver. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with oils with high antioxidant content contributed to protection against oxidation and was associated with a lower requirement for producing antioxidant enzymes.

The palm oil, palm kernel oil and soybean oil have unique and distinctive fatty acid chain length and saturation profiles, and how they affect lipid peroxidation, fatty acid intake and metabolism is worth exploring in poultry. This study elucidated the influence the dietary oils on lipid peroxidation, blood lipid profiles, fatty acid deposition of liver, serum and yolk and the expression of liver genes related to lipid and lipoprotein metabolism in laying hens. About 150 Hisex brown laying hens were fed diets containing crude palm oil (CPO), red palm oil (RPO), refined palm oil (RBD), palm kernel oil (PKO) or soybean oil (SBO) for 16 weeks. Serum, liver and yolk lipid peroxidation were not different between dietary oils. The PKO increased liver, serum and yolk medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA). There was no difference in liver saturated fatty acids (SFA). The CPO and RPO reduced serum SFA, but the PKO increased yolk SFA. The SBO increased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in liver serum and yolk. No difference in liver elaidic acid (C18:1-trans), but SBO lowered elaidic acid (C18:1-trans) in serum. Higher very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL) in CPO than RPO and SBO and greater serum lipase in CPO, RBD and PKO than SBO. There was no difference in sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-II) between oils. Apolipoprotein VLDL-II (APOVLDL2) was upregulated in palm oils and apolipoprotein B-100 (APOB) in RBD. Downregulation in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) was observed in palm oils and PKO. In conclusion, different dietary oils greatly influence several aspects of fatty acid metabolism, deposition and lipoprotein profiles but have no influence on reducing lipid peroxidation.