The benefits of betaine in broiler diets

Thermal stress

Thermal stress consists of exposing birds to temperatures that are higher than optimal. This causes numerous health problems, such as:

• Respiratory deficits
• Decreased feed intake
• Lower weight at marketing age.

Heat stress represents one of the most important factors with negative effects on poultry production. It also has negative effects on carcass properties, which results in lower meat quality.

The use of feed additives that have positive effects to help resist thermal stress represent the most significant solution for this problem

Betaine has other beneficial effects on mild heat stress. Most studies have shown slight positive effects; however, systematic results are scarce. Since betaine dosage and product possibilities are almost limitless, more research is still required on this subject.

Metabolism and functions

Betaine is absorbed in the jejunum of chickens in its purified form. Its absorption is faster than that of choline or methionine. The latter is associated with plasma lipoproteins, while