The impact of nano zinc on broiler productivity, tibia bone characteristics, and gut microbiota

This study aimed to investigate the impact of varying concentrations of nano zinc oxide compared to the conventional form affected the productivity, tibia bone characteristics, and cecal and intestinal microbiota in broilers from 1 to 35 days of age. The Arbor Acres 360-day-old male chicks were divided into six treatment groups (6 groups × 6 replicates × 10 chicks each). Except for zinc, which was given at three levels of 100% of the strain guide necessary level (110 mg), 50% (55 mg), and 25% (27.5 mg) of traditional or nano zinc oxide, six diets were formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of Arbor Acres chicks. The findings indicated that birds fed diets containing nano zinc oxide exhibited superior productive performance. There were no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) observed between the various levels of nano zinc oxide. Furthermore, the study documented the ideal characteristics of the tibia bone in birds that were provided with diets supplemented with nano zinc oxide. These characteristics encompassed tibia weight, length, width, and breaking strength. Moreover, the birds that were fed nano zinc oxide had the best levels of tibia bone ash, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc content. The bone mineral density and concentration of birds fed nano zinc oxide were assessed using X-ray and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) techniques, revealing the most optimal results. The addition of zinc oxide in nano form led to enhanced intestinal microbiota by enhanced beneficial bacteria and decreased harmful bacteria. From the current results, the addition of nano zinc oxide at 25% recorded the best productive inclusion of nano zinc oxide provided the best productive performance, bone quality and gut microbiota (Lactobacilli, Enterobacteriaceae, and Salmonella).