In the poultry industry, broilers are among the most widely raised birds due to their rapid growth, efficient feed conversion, and overall productivity. However, the intense breeding programs that prioritize fast growth and high feed efficiency often bring unintended challenges, particularly concerning the quality of the bird’s skin and footpads. These skin issues not only affect the aesthetic quality of the carcass but can also lead to significant economic losses when a large number of broilers are condemned or downgraded due to skin defects. One promising solution to improve broiler skin quality is the use of bis-chelated trace minerals, specifically zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn), which play critical roles in the structural integrity of the skin.
While trace minerals are required in minute amounts, they are critical cofactors in many enzyme activities that affect diverse physiological functions. Among these roles is the creation of proteins that are essential to the health and durability of the skin. Proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin rely on trace minerals to operate properly. Collagen provides structural support and strength to the skin, elastin adds elasticity, and keratin creates the protective outer layer. A lack of any of these important minerals can interfere with protein synthesis, resulting in weaker skin that is more susceptible to lesions, infections, and other difficulties.
The addition of bis-chelated trace minerals, specifically those chelated with the hydroxy analogue of methionine, has been demonstrated to considerably increase their bioavailability. In compared to inorganic trace mineral sources, bis-chelated forms are more easily absorbed by the bird’s body, ensuring that the minerals are used efficiently in metabolism. This improved absorption not only benefits the bird’s overall health, but it also enhances the condition of its skin and footpads, lowering the risk of lesions, ulcers, and other skin abnormalities.
In a large-scale field trial conducted by Novus in France, the effects of bis-chelated trace minerals on broiler skin quality were evaluated under practical field conditions. The trial was carried out in Brittany, within a broiler production facility that targets birds weighing 1.85 kg at 35–36 days of age with a feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 1.75. The facility was divided into two groups of 10 houses each: one group received feed supplemented with Mintrex bis-chelated trace minerals, while the other group received a similar feed containing inorganic trace minerals. The results were promising, with the group receiving Mintrex bis-chelated trace minerals demonstrating significant improvements in both homogeneity and carcass quality compared to the inorganic trace mineral group.
Skin quality is a complex issue in broiler production, influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, farm management, feed formulation, and the processing conditions at the abattoir. However, nutrition plays a pivotal role in mitigating skin defects. A multifactorial approach is often required to address these issues effectively. The trial conducted by Novus was a clear example of how an integrated strategy—combining genetics, management practices, and optimal nutrition—can lead to improvements in both the health of the birds and the quality of their carcasses.
The results of this study support the idea that substituting inorganic Zn, Cu, and Mn with bis-chelated trace minerals can improve not only the overall health of the broilers but also their skin quality, leading to fewer carcasses being condemned or downgraded due to skin defects. By improving the gut barrier function and supporting the production of key structural proteins, bis-chelated trace minerals help ensure the integrity of the skin, resulting in healthier birds and more profitable production outcomes.
Improving broiler skin quality is an important goal for the poultry business, particularly in high-intensity production systems. The usage of bis-chelated trace minerals, such as Mintrex, provides a potential option for skin and footpad health concerns. These chelated forms of trace minerals help to the structural integrity of the skin by increasing the absorption and use of important trace elements such as zinc, copper, and manganese, improving overall carcass quality, and lowering the economic losses associated with skin defects. Poultry producers who add bis-chelated trace minerals into their nutrition regimens may improve both the health of their birds and the profitability of their businesses.
