Folia Veterinaria Feed

Selective Inhibitory Effect of Cannabidiol from Cannabis Sp. Plants on Tumour Cell Proliferation

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid with growing interest as a potential antitumour agent in veterinary medicine due to its modulatory effects on cell proliferation and survival. The aim of this preliminary in vitro study was to evaluate the impact of cannabidiol on non-tumourigenic MCF-10A and tumourigenic MCF-7 breast cell lines using colorimetric measurement of metabolic activity (MTS assays) and the real-time cell analyser xCELLigence system (RTCA). Cannabidiol stimulated the metabolic activity of MCF-10A cells at all tested concentrations and time points, with maximal effects at 24 and 48 hours, while enhanced adhesion was observed after 72 hours. In contrast, MCF-7 cells showed a decrease in metabolic activity at 20 μM after 24 and 48 hours, alongside a consistent decrease in adhesion across all conditions, most pronounced at 48 hours. The Pearson correlation test revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.7768) between the MTS assay and xCELLigence system results. These findings suggest the selective effects of cannabidiol on tumour cells and support its potential as a targeted bioactive agent. To fully understand its efficacy in the context of various tumour types, more robust research into its mechanisms and safety is needed.

Microscopic Examination of Foods Containing Insects

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Edible insects have traditionally been consumed in many regions of the world and are currently reconsidered as a sustainable alternative to conventional animal protein sources. In food products, insects are commonly used in powdered form, which complicates their identification in final products. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of microscopic methods for the detection of insect structures in foods and to compare the effectiveness of the histochemical staining methods PAS‑Calleja and Pasini. A total of 14 commercially available insect‑based food products were analysed using standard histological techniques. In all samples, the presence of insect structures, particularly fragments of cuticle and muscle tissue, was confirmed. In addition to their detection, the size of individual fragments was evaluated, providing supplementary information on the degree of technological processing and the preservation of insect structures in the final products. The PAS‑Calleja staining method provided a stronger contrast of chitinized structures compared to the Pasini method. The results indicate that microscopy, combined with appropriate histo-chemical staining and evaluation of fragment size, represents a suitable and practical method for the detection and assessment of insect components in foods.

Syneresis, Texture and Microbiological Quality of Yoghurt After the Addition of Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus)

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study evaluated the effect of blackberry pomace extract (Rubus fruticosus) on the microbiological quality, water holding capacity (WHC), and texture of set-type yoghurt. Four formulations were prepared: a control and three experimental groups supplemented with the extract at concentrations of 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% prior to fermentation. Streptococci and lactobacilli viability, WHC, and firmness were assessed one day after production and after 7 days of storage at 6 °C. All samples maintained viable counts above 7 log CFU.g−1 throughout storage, with values remaining stable at approximately 8 log CFU.g−1. No statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in WHC or firmness between control and enriched yoghurts. The results indicate that blackberry pomace extract can be incorporated into set-type yoghurt without adversely affecting microbiological stability or key texture-related properties.

Effect of Two Limosilactobacillus Strains and Salmonella Challenge on Immune Markers in a Poultry Caecal Model

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Probiotic microorganisms are increasingly investigated for their capacity to influence host physiology, particularly through interactions with the intestinal immune system. The present study aimed to assess the effects of selected probiotic strains, Limosilactobacillus reuteri CCM 9425 and Limosilactobacillus reuteri B2/6, applied simultaneously in an ex vivo model of poultry caecal explants, with a focus on their impact on immune-related gene expression. In addition to probiotic treatment, explants were challenged with Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 to evaluate immune responses under infectious conditions and following probiotic pre-treatment. The transcriptional profiles of selected cytokines (IL-15, IL-1β, IL-8, and IL-18) indicated that probiotic exposure did not trigger an exaggerated inflammatory response. Instead, a consistent and significant increase in IL-15 expression was observed in both the probiotic-treated group and the group receiving probiotic pre-treatment (p < 0.01). The upregulation of IL-15, a cytokine involved in early immune defense and activation of innate immune cells, may reflect enhanced immune readiness without accompanying tissue damage. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the investigated probiotic strains can modulate intestinal immune responses in a controlled manner, supporting gut homeostasis while avoiding harmful inflammation.

Effect of Skimmed Milk Powder Addition on Selected Quality Properties of Fresh Cheeses and Natural Yogurts

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Fermented dairy products, due to their nutritional properties, are suitable matrices for further enrichment. This work examined the effect of skimmed milk powder (SMP) addition (0, 3, 6, and 9%) on selected physicochemical, rheological, and organoleptic properties of fresh cheeses and natural yogurts. With increasing SMP content, protein content increased in both products, while fat content decreased. In cheeses, this trend was reflected in increased hardness. In yogurts, higher protein and total solids content led to a significant increase in viscosity (from 1.070 to 3.714 mPa·s). A strong correlation was observed between total solids and viscosity. SMP affected the acidity of both products and the colour of the cheeses, especially yellowness. Sensory evaluation showed that the addition of SMP significantly affected the organoleptic properties (consistency and taste) of both products. Optimal consumer acceptance was achieved at 3–6% in cheeses and 6–9% in yogurts. Further research could focus on the impact of SMP on shelf-life, specific textural characteristics, and consumer acceptance across a broader range of formulations.

Identification and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Screening of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Traditional Cheese Paški Sir, Croatia

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Paški sir, a hard sheep’s cheese, has been produced for decades in households on the island of Pag, Croatia, and is now manufactured under controlled conditions in local cheesemaking facilities. Extensive and ecological sheep breeding and cheese production result in low chemical input or hazards and final products with high safety properties. The aim of the study was to investigate the diversity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in this type of production and their phenotypic profiles of antimicrobial resistance. MALDI-TOF MS identification revealed a high diversity of indigenous LAB populations, including lactobacilli, enterococci, pediococci, and lactococci, in traditional Paški sir cheese. Most isolates representing identified species showed cut-off values below the critical limits required for selecting potential probiotic strains suitable for food production.

Evaluation of Changes in Milk Production and Quality in Dairy Cows with Mastitis Depending on Etiological Agents

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mastitis negatively impacts both milk production and milk quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in milk production and composition in dairy cows with mastitis (n = 111) compared to controls (n = 111) and to assess the effect of a specific mastitis pathogen on selected milk quality indicators. The most common pathogen was Streptococcus uberis. Most mastitis cases were detected in summer (35%), in dairy cows in their fourth and higher lactations (52%), at 101–200 days of lactation (37%). A statistically significant difference (p <0.001) was found between control and mastitis cows in milk yield (32.3 vs 28.4 kg), lactose content (5.01 vs 4.72%), somatic cell count (4.84 vs 5.96 log), and fat-to-lactose ratio (0.83 vs 0.91). The somatic cell count in mastitis caused by Escherichia coli (3,270,000/ml) was significantly higher than in mastitis caused by other pathogens (p <0.001). The lactose content was also lowest in Escherichia coli mastitis compared to other mastitis cases (4.45%; p <0.001). It was found that the influence of specific pathogens on selected milk parameters varies considerably. The results obtained may provide a basis for optimizing preventive and therapeutic strategies in dairy cattle breeding.

Phthalates in breast milk

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Breast milk collected from the 10th day through the 5th month after delivery was analyzed for DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) and DBP (di-butyl phthalate) content. Dibutyl phthalate concentrations ranged from 5.17 μg/L to 2.81 μg/L, and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate was not detected in breast milk. Statistical analysis showed that the time factor influenced phthalate levels in breast milk, with a gradual decrease observed. The expected trend of increasing phthalate levels with the duration of breastfee-ding was not statistically confirmed. In none of the monthly milk samples did phthalate intake exceed the tolerable daily intake (TDI) for infants. The estimated daily intake of dibutyl phthalate for infants ranged from 0.848 μg/kg to 0.355 μg/kg of body weight. The tolerable daily intake for DBP is set at 10 μg/kg of body weight per day and for DEHP at 50 μg/kg of body weight per day.

Analysis of Quality and Safety Aspects of Table Green Olives

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Table olives are pickled products obtained by partial or complete debittering followed by fermentation. This study evaluated the quality and safety of six commercial green table olive products (TaO1–TaO6) using microbiological, antioxidant, physicochemical, colorimetric, and sensory analyses. Microbiological assessment confirmed generally high hygienic quality. Total bacterial count (TBC) was below the detection limit in TaO1–TaO4 and detected only in TaO5 (2.90 log10 CFU/g) and TaO6 (2.76 log10 CFU/g). Yeasts and moulds were detected only in TaO5, while lactobacilli, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus spp. were not detected in any sample. Enterococci were isolated from TaO5 and TaO6. Antioxidant capacity differed significantly among samples (p = 0.001), with TaO4 showing the highest Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and TaO3 and TaO6 the lowest. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were also found in physicochemical properties, color parameters (L*, a*, b*), and sensory characteristics. TaO1 achieved the highest sensory scores for firmness and palatability, whereas TaO5 showed the poorest quality due to off-odors, soft texture, and poor appearance. Overall, the results demonstrate considerable product-specific variation, highlighting the importance of processing, formulation, and packaging for the quality and safety of commercial table olives.

The Effect of Heather Honey Addition on Physicochemical and Microbiological Properties of Stirred-Type Yoghurt

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the heather honey concentrations (2.5% and 5%) on the physicochemical and microbial properties of yoghurt samples made from cow milk. Honey, used as a natural fortifier, enhanced antioxidant activity and probiotic viability of experimental samples. Except for water activity (aW), each physicochemical variable (dry matter, titratable acidity, water-holding capacity and anti-oxidant activity) differed significantly (p < 0.001) between the control and both experimental yoghurt sample groups (2.50% and 5.00%). Throughout the study, the 5.00% heather honey-added yoghurt consistently exhibited the peak antioxidant activity on days 1, 15, and 22. Multiple factor analysis (MFA) revealed correlations among the variables and visualised the similarity of the analysed samples on the 15th and 22nd days. On the other hand, the results of MFA showed differences in control and both experimental yoghurt sample groups with heather honey addition. As the demand for fermented milk grows, the dairy industry is increasingly combining probiotics with functional foods—most notably through the development of probiotic functional yoghurts.

First Molecular Detection of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Apparently Healthy Dromedary Camels from Kebbi State, Nigeria

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a critical global health concern due to its extensive resistance to β-lactam antibiotics and zoonotic transmission potential. However, data on MRSA carriage among camels in Nigeria are scarce. This study investigated nasal colonization of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA among apparently healthy dromedary camels in Kebbi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two pastoral communities, where 120 nasal swabs were collected. Conventional culture and biochemical tests were used for preliminary identification, while PCR detection targeted the nuc and mecA genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Overall, 66.7% (80/120) of samples were positive for S. aureus, while 38.3% (46/120) were confirmed as MRSA. Prevalence was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in young (80%) and female (70%) camels compared to adults (53.3%) and males (63.3%). All MRSA isolates carried the mecA gene and showed multidrug resistance, with high resistance to penicillin, tetracycline, erythromycin, chloramphenicol, and gentamicin, whereas all isolates remained susceptible to vancomycin. This study provides the first molecular evidence of MRSA colonization in dromedary camels in Nigeria, highlighting the need for routine surveil-lance and prudent antimicrobial use within a One Health framework.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Bacterial Prevalences and Resistance Profiles in Selected Food-Producing Animals and Animal-Derived Products in Nigeria (2000–2025)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Bacterial pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. are widely reported in food-producing animals in Nigeria and contribute to animal disease, food contamination, and public health risk. However, evidence on their prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns remains fragmented. This study systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed studies published between January 2000 and March 2025 on bacterial prevalence and resistance profiles in food-producing animals and related products in Nigeria. Data on pathogen type, host species, sample source, and antimicrobial susceptibility were extracted. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis (REML), and heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q and I² statistics. Thirty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. E. coli and Salmonella spp. were the most frequently reported pathogens and exhibited substantial multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes), particularly to tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, sulphonamides, and β-lactams. The pooled prevalence of bacterial detection was 25% (95% CI: 14%–41%), with high heterogeneity (I² = 96.9%). Higher prevalence was observed in poultry systems, and meta-regression indicated that sample size significantly influenced prevalence estimates. These findings highlight a substantial burden of resistant bacteria in food-animal systems and underscore the need for strengthened antimicrobial stewardship, improved surveillance, and coordinated One Health interventions in Nigeria.

Metabolic and Digestive Functions of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 in Pigs

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone with multiple biological effects that plays a key role in glucose metabolism, digestion, and energy homeostasis. In pigs, GLP-1 serves as an important metabolic regulator with relevance for both production efficiency and translational research. This review summarizes current knowledge on GLP-1 physiology in pigs, including synthesis, secretion, metabolism, and biological actions. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of GLP-1 in insulin secretion, digestive function, including gastric mucosal protection and ulcer prevention, appetite regulation, and lipid metabolism. Understanding GLP-1 mechanisms in pigs has practical implications for optimizing feeding strategies in swine production and provides insights relevant to human metabolic disease research.

Microsporidial Granulomatous Conjunctivitis in a Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps): A Case Report

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

An eight-month-old female bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) was presented with chronic nodular conjunctivitis of the left lower eyelid that failed to respond to previous topical antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy. Histopathological examination of an excisional biopsy revealed marked granulomatous inflammation in the lamina propria and submucosa. Special stains (Gram, PAS) demonstrated numerous microsporidia within sporophorous vacuoles, while Ziehl–Neelsen staining for acid-fast bacteria was negative. Based on the histopathological findings and results of special stains, a diagnosis of microsporidial granulomatous conjunctivitis was established. Postoperatively, the patient was treated with tobramycin–dexamethasone eye drops in a tapering regimen for four weeks, resulting in local resolution of the lesion. However, the animal died two months after the initial ophthalmological examination. As post-mortem examination was not performed, systemic microsporidial infection, previously reported in bearded dragons, cannot be excluded. This case highlights microsporidia as a potential cause of chronic conjunctival lesions in bearded dragons and emphasizes histopathology with special stains as a key diagnostic tool.

Analysis of Factors Influencing Somatic Cell Count in Dairy Cow Milk

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of parity, days in milk (DIM), and season on somatic cell count (SCC) in milk of Holstein dairy cows. The study was conducted on a single dairy farm in eastern Slovakia on 600 cows with an average annual milk yield of 10,317 ± 653 kg, fed a total mixed ration. Cows were grouped according to parity, DIM, and season. Milk composition (protein, fat, lactose) was determined using near-infrared spectrophotometry (MilkoScan FT+), and SCC was measured using Fossomatic FC and Bentley FCM. Parity significantly affected SCC, with the lowest values observed in primiparous cows and a significant increase (P < 0.001) with advancing lactation number; the highest somatic cell count was recorded in the 4th and higher lactations. The effect of days in milk showed increased somatic cell count during early (0–30 days) and peak lactation (31–100 days), followed by the lowest values (P < 0.05). As lactation progressed and milk yield declined, somatic cell count increased, reaching maximum levels after 305 days. Seasonal variation was also significant, with the highest somatic cell count observed in summer (P < 0.001) and the lowest in winter months.

Expression Patterns of Copper/Zinc Superoxide Dismutase (SOD1) in Quail Embryonic Tissues Under in Ovo and Ex Ovo Conditions

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Temperature fluctuations can act as stressors affecting embryonic development and cellular homeostasis. This study examined the effects of preincubation at 22°C (P22) or 30°C (P30) on quail embryos under in ovo and ex ovo conditions, focusing on the expression of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD1) in selected tissues. Under in ovo incubation, SOD1 expression was significantly upregulated in both liver and heart at P22 and P30, with the highest expression observed in the liver at P30. In contrast, under ex ovo conditions, SOD1 expression was significantly reduced in the liver at P22 but partially restored at P30. In the heart, it was not significantly increased at P22 but slightly decreased at P30. These findings demonstrate tissue- and condition-specific regulation of SOD1 and suggest that in ovo preincubation supports robust antioxidant defence, whereas ex ovo culture imposes complex stress responses.

Prevalence and Species Composition of Endoparasites in Hobby and Meat Rabbits in Eastern Slovakia with Special Focus on Eimeria spp.

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Endoparasitosis in rabbits often represents a hidden problem and causes serious financial loss to breeders as it occurs without any evident clinical symptoms. The subject of the present investigation was to identify the rate of prevalence of endoparasites, with special attention being paid to coccidiosis. The investigation was carried out at selected rabbit farms in five villages in the Gelnica District in Eastern Slovakia in the period from September 2019 to August 2020. A total of 87 faecal samples were examined using the flotation method and the McMaster technique. Of these, 83 samples tested positive for intestinal parasites, representing a positivity rate of 95.4%. Coccidian oocysts of Eimeria spp. were present in all positive samples, and Passalurus ambiguus eggs were found in six cases (7.2%). The overall oocyst counts for Eimeria spp. ranged from 50 to 27,000 oo-cysts per gram (OPG), while the egg counts of P. ambiguus ranged from 50 to 250 eggs per gram (EPG). To determine the species composition of the genus Eimeria, molecular analysis of the first internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1) region of ribosomal DNA was performed on selected samples with the highest concentrations of oocysts. The analysis revealed the presence of five coccidian species: Eimeria magna, Eimeria flavescens, Eimeria piriformis, Eimeria irresidua, and one unidentified Eimeria sp.

Serological and Epizootic Dynamics of Swine Influenza a in Industrial Swine Farms of Ukraine (2021–2024)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Swine Influenza A virus (SIV-A) is a significant zoonotic pathogen with the potential to cause pandemics. In Ukraine, surveillance is crucial due to the risk of interspecies transmission between pigs and humans. SIV-A circulates within swine populations and undergoes frequent genetic changes, increasing its variability and pathogenicity. In this study, we monitored the presence of SIV-A on 92 pig farms in the Lviv and Kyiv regions during the period 2021–2024. Serological testing was performed using the IDEXX Influenza A Virus Ab Test Kit, revealing 24 seropositive farms, with a decreasing trend observed over the years. Additionally, 422 pigs from seropositive farms were tested for SIV-A using real-time RT-PCR, and the virus was detected in 59 individuals. These results suggest that while epizootic control measures were largely effective, the virus continues to circulate among susceptible animals. Continuous surveillance and timely intervention remain essential for detecting emerging subtypes and preventing potential outbreaks.

A Survey of Local Cheese Contamination With Streptococci in Kabul City Markets

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This study investigated the occurrence and distribution of potentially pathogenic streptococcal species in traditional cheese (semi-hard ripened cheese) sold in Kabul, a topic of significant relevance to veterinary science due to its implications for food safety, zoonotic transmission, and dairy hygiene management. To this end, cheese samples from nine regions of Kabul were analyzed for microbiological quality using Gram staining, catalase testing, hemolysis patterns, and disk sensitivity to optochin and bacitracin, supplemented by limited Analytical Profile Index (API) confirmation. Among 90 samples, 31 (34.4%) exhibited α-hemolysis with optochin sensitivity, suggesting Streptococcus pneumoniae, while 25 (27.8%) showed β-hemolysis with bacitracin sensitivity, consistent with Group A Streptococcus (GAS). Non-hemolytic isolates (37.8%) predominated overall; API identified Streptococcus infantarius in a subset. Results from the chi-square test of independence illustrated that regional differences were significant (p < 0.001): Company and Pole Sorkh had the highest optochin sensitivity, Kote Sangai had the highest bacitracin sensitivity, and three regions showed no target organisms. Standard plate counts were low (10²–10³ colony forming units (CFU·g⁻¹)) and well below international satisfactory limits (≤ 10⁵ CFU·g⁻¹), indicating generally good microbial quality. Despite low total counts, the detection of presumptive S. pneumoniae and GAS in specific areas highlights localized hygiene gaps.

In Vitro Investigation of the Potential of Ficus exasperata Extracts Against Bacterial Pathogens Isolated from Chickens

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Campylobacter species and Escherichia coli are leading causes of bacterial diarrhea in humans and livestock globally, often transmitted through food and water with poultry, pigs, and cattle, as reservoirs, are increasingly resistant to antibiotics, necessitating alternative therapeutic strategies. Building on previous reports of the antibacterial, cytotoxic, phytochemical, and antioxidant properties of Ficus exasperata leaf extracts as phytogenic feed additives for chickens, this study expands the scope by evaluating additional clinical E. coli isolates with their selectivity index, genotoxicity assays and profiling the methanol extract using standard bioassays and GC-MS. The methanol extract demonstrated broad and best efficacy across all tested bacteria, though the aqueous had the highest total antibacterial activity (2 308 mL/g). The reference strains (ATCC) were more resistant than clinical isolates. The methanol extract showed the lowest cytotoxicity (LC50: 0.99 mg/mL on Vero cells and 2.69 mg/mL on Caco-2 cells) and the highest selectivity indices (Vero: 6.33; Caco-2: 14.17). It was non-mutagenic to Salmonella typhimurium TA98 compared to acetone extract. The GC-MS analysis of methanol extract revealed 9-Octadecen-1-ol (24.52%) as the most abundant compound. The methanol extract showed promising potential for further in vivo testing as phytogenic feed additives and alternatives for managing campylobacteriosis and colibacillosis in chickens.