Comprehensive evaluation of treating drinking water for laying hens using slightly acidic electrolyzed water

Slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) is well-known for its highly potent antibacterial properties and safe residue-free nature. In this study, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted on 2 disinfection methods for waterline cleaning in poultry houses: (1) continuously add SAEW into the waterline and (2) the conventional waterline disinfection method, which includes regular use of high-concentration chemical disinfectant for soaking the waterline and flushing with water. The evaluation focused on the effects of these methods on bacteria levels in laying hens' drinking water, the fecal normal rate of laying hens, egg quality, as well as the economic costs and water footprint associated with each method. The results show that the inhibition rate of the control group was 52.45% to 80.36%, which used 1500 mg/L sodium dichloroisocyanurate (DCCNa) for soaking and then flushing with water. The bacterial levels in the waterline returned to pre-treatment levels 26 h after cleaning. However, the experimental group with an available chlorine concentration (ACC) of 0.3 mg/L SAEW showed a higher inhibition rate (99.90%) than the control group (P < 0.05) and exhibited a sustained antimicrobial effect. Regarding eggshell thickness, eggshell strength, and Haugh units of the egg, there were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups. However, the experimental group had higher egg weight and darker yolk color (P < 0.05) than those of the control group. Besides, the experimental group exhibited a higher fecal normal rate and a lower water footprint than those of the control group. Hence, SAEW represents a favorable choice for disinfecting drinking water in poultry houses due to its ease of preparation, lack of residue, energy efficiency, and efficient antibacterial properties. To ensure adequate sanitation, it is recommended to incorporate SAEW with an ACC of 0.3 mg/L into the daily management of the drinking water system for laying hens.