Several parasites present a burden to optimal health and productivity of laying hens. Mites, such as red mites (Demanyssus gallinae), are periodic ectoparasites affecting the birds during the night. Red mites have severe consequences on layers as they represent a yearly loss of 130 million euro in the European Union. These parasites, with a short life cycle, are specifically difficult to control due to their high resistance to adverse ambiant conditions and the difficulty in treating the site of colonisation. Due to mites feeding behaviour with the blood of the host, they are causing a consequent anaemia with an approximate loss of 3% of the total blood volume and decreased immune response. The body weight of the infected birds is decreased despite an increased feed intake, the laying rate is reduced by 15-20% and around 6-8% mortality is observed. Moreover, red mites are typical vectors of other pathogenic agents such as Salmonella and E. coli. Some antiparasitic products exist but have been proven to leave residues in eggs, causing their ban in the EU (e.g. fipronil).
Five commercial trials have proven the benefits of Excential Alliin Plus in supporting health and performance of layers infected by red mites.
Overall, enhancement of egg production and reduction of dirty and broken eggs are typically observed, together with an increased profit.
Furthermore, roundworms (Ascaridia galli) are common endoparasites of free-range layers (global prevalence of 69.5%). These gastrointestinal nematodes have a specific infection cycle. Eggs are located in the field and are extremely resistant, making them able to survive long periods in the soil. When pecking the soil, laying hens ingest the eggs. The eggs are hatching and replicating in the intestinal mucosa. Then, adult worms are excreted to the intestinal lumen for further propagation. The main impact of roundworms on laying hens are a decreased digestibility and absorption of the nutrients. Therefore, main symptoms range from depressed body weight and egg production, ruffled feathers to increased mortality.
The effect of Excential Alliin Plus has been tested on intestinal worms in free range layers, in Brazil. Weekly necropsy of a few layers, on top of observation of the performance, have been performed in two distinctive periods: rainy season (limited challenge due to limited access to outside by the birds) and dry season (heavy challenge due to full access to outside). During both seasons, the dietary garlic and cinnamon combination has proven to be effective in two weeks by repelling the worms (Figure 1).