We are pleased to announce the publication of our latest research in Poultry Science, titled “Effects of β-glucan on the performance and gut integrity of broilers under acute heat stress conditions.” This important study was led by Dr. Mohannad Abuajamieh and conducted in collaboration with faculty members from the Department of Animal Production at the University of Jordan.
As global temperatures continue to rise, heat stress has become one of the most pressing challenges affecting poultry production worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the potential of dietary β-glucan—an emerging prebiotic known for its gut health and immunomodulatory benefits—as a nutritional strategy to alleviate the negative effects of acute heat stress on broiler chickens.
Improved Feed Intake and Growth: Broilers supplemented with 3 g/kg of β-glucan (BG3) exhibited a 23% increase in feed intake and significant gains in average daily weight gain under heat stress compared to non-supplemented controls.
Thermal Stress Reduction: The same group also experienced a notable decrease in rectal temperature, indicating enhanced thermoregulation capacity.
Enhanced Gut Integrity: β-glucan supplementation led to measurable improvements in intestinal morphology, including villus height and surface area—key indicators of nutrient absorption efficiency.
Potential for Sustainable Production: These findings underscore the role of β-glucan as a functional feed additive to safeguard broiler productivity and welfare in hot climates, especially for small-scale and open-housing systems in developing countries.
This research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of natural feed additives as a sustainable approach to improve poultry resilience in the face of climate change.