Birds may still underperform, even when standard water analyses indicate acceptable quality. This may be due to interactions between water and feed, both before and after ingestion. To address this, Zinpro developed the Zinpro® H2O Water Analysis Program™, a step-by-step approach to help poultry producers achieve optimal water quality.
Water is the second most vital nutrient for poultry, behind oxygen. On average, poultry consume about one cup of water per day (over 200 milliliters), with intake rising significantly during periods of heat stress.
Adequate water intake supports essential functions such as:
- Digestion
- Metabolism
- Nutrient absorption
- Blood circulation
- Tissue hydration.
Variation of Minerals in Water Source
While we know the importance of clean, fresh and high quality poultry drinking water, the definition of good quality drinking water remains challenging. This is because water quality can vary depending on rainfall periods and the type of water source used by the farmer. Generally, deep wells tend to have better microbiological water quality but higher mineral content. On the other hand, superficial water sources typically have lower mineral content but are more susceptible to contamination. Rainfall can further impact these sources; it can dilute mineral content in deeper wells while increasing mineral and contaminant levels in superficial sources due to leaching.
Too much of certain minerals in the drinking water can be dangerous. For mercury and lead, toxicity thresholds have been established. For minerals like iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium, levels above recommended limits are not necessarily toxic but can alter the water’s taste and odor, may interact with other minerals or nutrients, reducing intake, mineral absorption, and ultimately affecting bird performance. Farm water analyses done by Zinpro show that iron and manganese frequently exceed acceptable levels.
Minerals Can Interact with Nutrients
An important thing to consider is that certain components (such as minerals) in the water may negatively interact with nutrients in the feed. Overlooking these interactions, or lacking the data and knowledge to respond, can significantly affect bird health, performance, and production efficiency.
A tangible example is phytase enzyme, a standard ingredient in commercial poultry diets to increase the digestibility of the feed. High mineral levels in water can impair phytase activity, reducing feed efficiency. Elevated iron is known to promote the growth of harmful gut bacteria such as Salmonella et E. coli, disrupting the microbiome and causing digestive issues. Additionally, certain water minerals may interfere with the function of mycotoxin binders in feed.
The Zinpro H2O Water Analysis Program
To maintain optimal flock health, it is recommended that a water management program be implemented on poultry operation. Poultry producers test their water supply twice per year: once in the spring so they know what upgrades need to be made, and then again in the fall so they can compare the results and identify further upgrade needs.
The Zinpro® H2O Water Analysis Program™ analyzes the results of your water test and compares them to established water quality standards to help nutritionists, producers and veterinarians identify areas of concern and review signs of potential water-related issues. Based on the results of your water test we provide you with a comprehensive analysis, with the ability to select from over 40 water components and 18 dietary minerals.
Having your water tested and the results analyzed by the Zinpro H2O Water Analysis Program can help reduce disease and infection and improve production performance on your livestock and poultry operation.
To learn more about the Programme d'analyse de l'eau Zinpro H2OContactez un représentant Zinpro dès aujourd'hui.
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