Effect of ascorbic acid and acetylsalicylic acid supplementation on performance of broiler chicks exposed to heat stress

A total number of 100 chicks were purchased from a local hatchery and divided into 5 groups (A, B, C, D A and E) having 20 birds each. Group A was kept as control. Group B was kept at (34-36 degree C) only during 3rd and 4th week. Group C was kept at 34-36 degree C) and Sb-Asper-C was also supplemented only during 3rd and 4th week. Group D was kept at (34-36 degree C) only during 5th and 6th week. Group E was kept at (34-36 degree C) and Sb-Asper-C was also supplemented only during 5th and 6th week. All the birds were vaccinated with Lasota NDV strain on day 1. and 14. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated at end of experiment. Serum samples were collected on day 1, 14, 28 and 42 of life for determination of geometric mean haemagglutination inhibition (GMHI) titer against NDV. Five birds from each group were slaughtered on day 28 and 42 for the pathological examination of bursa, thymus and spleen. Ratio of weight of bursa, thymus and spleen to body weight w ere also calculated on day 28 and 42. The data was analyzed statistically. Our results indicated that heat stress increased the FCR of the birds but decreased the immune response (GMHI) and ratio of bursa, thymus and spleen to body weight of the birds. On gross pathological examination, heat stress caused atrophy of bursa, spleen and thymus but no microscopic changes were observed. This study also indicated that Sb-Asper-C (containing ascorbic acid and acetylsalicylic acid) supplementation during heat stress had beneficial effects on FCR, serum antibody development and ratio of weight of bursa, thymus and spleen to body weight of birds. It is concluded from this experiment that the Sb-Asper-C (containing ascorbic acid and acetylsalicylic acid) has expressed itself as an anti-heat stressor and also shown to be an immunopotentiating agent under heat stress. So Sb-Asper-C is recommended in heat stressed birds.