Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.46419/cvj.57.1.10
Effect of condensed (quebracho) and hydrolysable (sweet chestnut) tannins on growth performance and contact dermatitis in broilers
Slavko Žužul
; Sandoz d.o.o., Zagreb, Croatia
Ivana Sabolek
; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Gordana Gregurić Gračner
; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Josipa Petrlić
; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Tomislav Mašek
; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Kristina Starčević
; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with condensed (quebracho) and hydrolysable (sweet chestnut) tannins on growth performance and the severity of contact dermatitis in broiler chickens. A total of 150 Ross 308 broilers were divided into three groups: a control group (no tannins), a group receiving hydrolysable tannins, and a group receiving condensed tannins, each at a dose of 0.75 g/kg of feed over a 42-day fattening period under commercial conditions. Body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, litter moisture, and the severity of footpad dermatitis and hock burn dermatitis were recorded. The group supplemented with hydrolysable tannins had a significantly higher final body weight and average daily gain, compared to the control. Both tannin-supplemented groups showed significantly lower litter moisture and a reduced severity of contact dermatitis lesions throughout the study. In conclusion, this study suggests that tannins, particularly hydrolysable tannins, may improve broiler growth and reduce the severity of contact dermatitis, highlighting their potential as functional feed additives. However, further research is required to determine optimal inclusion levels and elucidate their mechanisms of action.
Keywords
condensed tannins; hydrolysable tannins; growth performance; contact dermatitis; broilers
Hrčak ID:
337629
URI
Publication date:
15.1.2026.
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