Mycotoxins, such as Ochratoxin A (OTA), originating from fungi like Aspergillus and Penicillium, represent serious health hazards to poultry. The use of mycotoxin-adsorbing feed additives can reduce these risks. Opoka, a porous transitional rock, shows promise as one of these additives. This study is the first to examine the effect of Opoka administered with OTA on zootechnical parameters and the immune response of chickens. A 42-day investigation examined the impact of 1% of Opoka supplementation in feed on OTA-challenged broiler chickens. Seventy-two chickens were allocated into three groups of twenty-four individuals each: a control group, an OTA-exposed (2 mg/kg feed) group, and an OTA (2 mg/kg feed) plus 1% of Opoka group. Growth and blood parameters were monitored at predetermined intervals, and comprehensive biochemical, hematological, and cytometric analyses were conducted. The study showed that OTA exposure had a negative impact on chicken weight gain. However, adding Opoka to the diet improved weight gain, indicating its potential as a protective agent. Chickens fed with Opoka also had an increased white blood cell count, which suggests an improved immune response and elevated glucose and cholesterol concentrations. These findings indicate that Opoka may be useful in mitigating health complications caused by OTA exposure in broilers.
Keywords: OTA; Ochratoxin A; Opoka; chicken; mycotoxins; silica–calcite sedimentary rock.