Research Abstract
Propolis has been considered a good candidate for health amelioration and disease prevention over a long period of time. Effect
of feed supplementation with Chinese ether extract propolis was evaluated for the antibacterial action on (Ross 308)
broiler chicks and their litter over 35 days. The addition of different levels of propolis (100, 250 and 750 mg/kg diet) on total
aerobic and coliform bacteria as well as Lactobacillus spp. and bifidobacteria were determined. Supplementation of propolis
significantly increased (p0.05) the desired stimulating effect of Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacteria in fecal samples of
all treatment groups compared to control group. However, propolis did not have an impact to reduce the total aerobic and
coliform bacteria compared to control group in both fecal and litter samples. In conclusion, Chinese propolis improved the
beneficial normal gut microflora and had a limited effect on the total aerobic and coliform bacteria in broiler chicks and litter
quality
