Minimising broiler mortality

In tropical countries, heat is one of the main factors limiting broiler production, and is also responsible for inducing high mortality, especially in the finishing phase. Electrolyte balance (EE) and early heat conditioning (CTP) are two techniques that aim to alleviate the negative effects of heat stress. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible interactions and effects of electrolyte balance in the diet and the application of early heat conditioning on feed consumption (kg), live weight (kg), feed conversion (kg), mortality (%), bioeconomic energy conversion index (Mcal/kg), faecal moisture (%), carcass weight (kg), cavity fat (g) and breast colour (L*a*b*) in broilers under chronic heat stress conditions.