2.3 “No Antibiotics Ever” Broiler Production Strategy
Pathogenic E. coli is present in both no antibiotics ever (NAE) broilers and their environment, which can increase the likelihood of colibacillosis outbreaks, particularly when birds are under stress. NAE programs can lower feed efficiency, slow growth, and negatively impact gut health, ultimately reducing overall poultry production. Research shows that raising broilers without antibiotics can lead to more pathogens, higher stress levels, and poorer growth. Additionally, stress makes birds more vulnerable to infections like colibacillosis, highlighting the challenges of NAE approaches.12,13For decades, antimicrobial growth promoters were the primary approach to managing APEC, but the move to NAE production has resulted in more cases of colibacillosis. The prevalence of APEC-like virulent strains tends to be high overall, but it varies with the seasons, reaching peak in spring and dropping during the hotter months. Key environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and housing conditions significantly influence APEC levels.12,13