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