Spray Dried Blood Plasma Supplementation in Poultry Diets
Spray-dried blood plasma (SDP) is a specialty ingredient in poultry nutrition. It’s not widely used due to cost, but there are specific applications where it delivers exceptional results. I’ve used it primarily in high-health-risk situations where its unique properties justify the expense.
What Is Spray Dried Blood Plasma
SDP is produced from animal blood collected at slaughter. The blood is separated (plasma from red cells), concentrated, and spray-dried to a fine powder. The final product contains approximately 70-75% protein with a well-balanced amino acid profile.
The key functional components of SDP are:
- Immunoglobulins. Antibodies that provide passive immune protection in the gut
- Albumin. A high-quality binding and transport protein
- Transferrin. An iron-binding protein with antimicrobial properties
- Bioactive peptides. Growth factors and immune-modulating compounds
- Growth factors. IGF-1, TGF-beta that support intestinal development
How It Works
The primary mechanism is not nutritional (amino acid supply) but functional. The immunoglobulins in SDP bind pathogens in the gut and prevent attachment to intestinal cells. This is particularly effective against:
- Salmonella species
- E. coli
- Rotavirus
- Coronavirus (IBV)
The growth factors in SDP also stimulate intestinal development, increasing villus height and absorptive capacity.
Typical Applications
SDP is used in three main situations:
1. Starter feeds for chicks at risk. In flocks with a history of high early mortality or poor start, SDP at 1-2% of the starter feed can reduce mortality by 30-50% in the first week. The passive immunity bridges the gap between maternal antibody decline and active immune development.
2. Post-disease recovery. After a disease outbreak, SDP supports gut repair and immune function. I use it at 1-2% for 7-10 days during recovery.
3. Antibiotic-free production. In high-challenge environments without antibiotics, SDP provides some of the disease protection that AGPs would have provided.
Research Data
A 2022 study with 1% SDP in broiler starter feed showed:
| Parameter | Control | 1% SDP | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 7 body weight (g) | 165 | 178 | +7.9% |
| Day 7 FCR | 1.15 | 1.08 | -7 points |
| Mortality (days 0-7, %) | 2.8 | 1.6 | -43% |
| Villus height (µm) | 450 | 510 | +13% |
| E. coli counts in ceca (log) | 6.8 | 5.2 | -24% |
The effects are most pronounced in the first 7-10 days. After the starter period, the benefits decline as the bird’s own immune system matures.
Cost Considerations
SDP is expensive: $3,000-6,000 per ton, depending on the source and processing method. At 1-2% inclusion in starter feed, the cost adds $30-120 per ton of starter feed. This is approximately $0.01-0.03 per bird, primarily in the starter phase.
The cost is justified when:
- Early mortality is above 3%
- The farm has persistent health challenges
- Antibiotic-free production with high disease pressure
- Valuable genetic stock (breeders, pedigree lines)
- Poor immune status in day-old chicks
Alternatives and Comparisons
SDP is not the only option for early gut health. Comparing options:
| Product | Cost/Ton | Early Growth | Mortality Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDP (1%) | $30-60 | +++ | +++ |
| Probiotic | $4-8 | ++ | + |
| Organic acids | $3-6 | + | ++ |
| Yeast products | $3-8 | ++ | ++ |
SDP is the most effective but also the most expensive. I use it as a strategic tool for high-risk situations rather than a routine additive.
Regulatory Status
SDP is approved for use in poultry feed in most countries, including the US and EU. There are no withdrawal period requirements. The product is made from USDA-inspected or equivalent sources, ensuring safety.
One concern that comes up is bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) risk. SDP from pigs (porcine plasma) does not carry BSE risk. Bovine plasma is less commonly used in poultry feed due to higher cost.
Practical Recommendations
For farms considering SDP:
- Use only in the starter period (first 7-14 days)
- Include at 1-2% of the starter feed
- Ensure the product has guaranteed immunoglobulin levels
- Store below 25°C and use within 6 months
- Do not pellet above 75°C (heat denatures immunoglobulins)
SDP is a specialized tool for challenging conditions. For most operations, probiotics and organic acids provide sufficient starter support at lower cost. But for those times when early mortality is high and you need a proven intervention, SDP delivers.