Optimizing amino acid balance in broiler diets

This Good Practice implements the Ideal Protein concept in broiler production, optimising digestible amino acid profiles to match physiological needs. It reduces dietary crude protein without compromising performance, improving nitrogen utilisation and lowering ammonia emissions, air pollution, and water eutrophication. Targeted supplementation with methionine, threonine, valine, arginine, and isoleucine enhances gut health, reduces dysbiosis, and improves litter quality, decreasing footpad dermatitis and enhancing animal welfare. Results show a 1% improvement in feed conversion ratio and 1% higher final body weight, with feed cost savings of €0.001 per kg live weight. This strategy boosts productivity, sustainability, and welfare in broiler systems.