Publications by authors named "S Bergagna"

Background: The inclusion of sustainable protein sources in poultry feed has become essential for improving animal welfare in livestock production. Black soldier fly larvae are a promising solution due to their high protein content and sustainable production. However, most research has focused on fast-growing poultry breeds, while the effects on native breeds, such as the Bianca di Saluzzo, are less explored.

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The demand for sustainable and ethically farmed animal products is on the rise as consumers become more environmentally and animal welfare conscious. The need to diminish the consumption of soybean meal is urgent, and companies are looking for ways to respond to this necessity by looking for alternatives to soybean meal. This study assessed the impact of introducing whole dehydrated and live black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) into the diet of an indigenous chicken breed as environmental enrichment.

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The aquaculture sector plays a vital role in global food security, yet it grapples with significant challenges posed by infectious diseases. Piscine lactococcosis is one of the significant threats in rainbow trout aquaculture due to its potential to cause severe economic losses through mortalities, reduced growth rates, and increased susceptibility to other pathogens. It poses challenges in disease management strategies, impacting the sustainability and profitability of rainbow trout farming.

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Article Synopsis
  • Live black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have shown positive effects on the welfare of various poultry, but there is limited research on their impact on medium-growing chicken hybrids in organic/free-range settings.
  • This study involved feeding 240 Hubbard JA57 hybrid chickens with a 10% live BSFL diet and compared their behavior and health indicators against control groups over a period until 82 days of age.
  • Results indicated that BSFL-fed chickens exhibited increased activity and reduced fear responses, particularly in females, while no significant physical injuries were noted, suggesting that BSFL could enhance the welfare of these chickens.
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  • Optimizing antimicrobial usage (AMU) in livestock is essential to combat antimicrobial resistance, and a study analyzed AMU in over 1,000 cattle herds in Aosta Valley, Italy, from 2008 to 2018.
  • Dairy cows comprised more than 95% of the total AMU, with average annual herd-level AMU being low, but significant use of third and fourth generation cephalosporins and intramammary antimicrobials was noted.
  • The study found decreasing trends in total AMU over time and a positive association with herd size, suggesting the need for ongoing monitoring and prudent AMU practices even in small farms to ensure any potential issues are addressed.
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