Project Number: 6202-32000-032-60
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 01, 2011
End Date: Aug 31, 2014

Objective:
The research objectives of this proposal are to investigate the efficacy of combinations of organically based plant extracts, fatty acids, and lactose to: 1) reduce the incidence of foodborne pathogens Salmonella and Campylobacter in organic poultry production, and 2) test the efficacy of these natural compounds against enteric disease and foodborne pathogens in organic poultry production systems. The outreach/extension objectives of this proposal are to: 1) disseminate results of the project to the organic poultry community, through numerous delivery methods including conferences, electronic and printed materials, and training activities in a research and teaching oriented organic poultry facility; 2) conduct outreach to organic poultry producers, avian health professionals, extension specialists, and other interested stakeholders regarding the objectives and results of this project; and 3) measure the impact of outreach in reducing enteric pathogens and foodborne pathogens in organic poultry production.

Approach:
Caprylic acid (CA) is a natural, fatty acid present in bovine milk and coconut oil, and is an FDA-approved food-grade compound. Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC) is also a food-grade compound naturally present in cinnamon oil. Our preliminary research indicates that CA and TC are bactericidal on Salmonella and Campylobacter, highlighting the potential of CA and TC as new tools to control these pathogens in organic poultry. In addition, there is evidence that these compounds may reduce necrotic enteritis in birds, and a disease model will be used to assess this approach. Treating birds and the litter with natural products such as these essential oils, probiotics, and bacteriophage will also be assessed.