Effects of biogenic amines on broiler performance

This study was designed to determine whether the biogenic amines phenylethy lamine, putrescine, cadaverine, and histamine, alone or in combination, if added at levels above those commonly found in complete mixed rations contai ning animal by-product meals, would cause lesions or reduce performance in broilers. The levels of biogenic amines used were double those that have be en previously reported to cause problems for broilers. Data collected to pe rformance, gross pathology, and histopathology at 3 and 6 wk indicated no s ignificant differences in production parameters among amine treatments. No significant gross lesions or histopathologic changes were evident. This stu dy suggests that the four studied biogenic amines are of little concern to the broiler industry when fed in the amounts utilized.