Effect of deep stacking and ensiling broiler litter on chemical composition and pathogenic organisms

The feasibility of processing broiler litter by deep stacking and ensiling was evaluated prior to its use as feed ingredient. Fresh broiler litter was collected from the peri-urban area of Islamabad, Pakistan. Broiler litter was deep stacked at 15%, 25% and 35% moisture; ensiled at 40% moisture, alone or with 5% added sugarcane molasses; and ensiled with rumen contents at 60:40 and 50:50, wet basis. Deep stacking was done in 1.2×1.2×1.2 m bins and ensiling was done in 210 l metal drums double lined with polyethylene. Broiler litter deep stacked at 15% moisture showed a lower rise in temperature than litter deep stacked at 25% and 35% moisture. Maximum temperature was recorded at 40 cm depth for litter stacked with 25% moisture. Overall, deep stacking had no effect on the chemical composition of broiler litter. Deep stacked litter was devoid of lactic acid, but the processing was effective in the destruction of pathogens. Desirable fermentation was achieved in all the silages, with significant reductions (P<0.05) in pH and water-soluble carbohydrates, and increase (P<0.05) in lactic acid. The highest pH and lowest lactic acid concentration was recorded for silages containing broiler litter and rumen contents, 60:40, wet basis. No pathogenic microbes were observed in the ensiled mixtures.