Effect of sodium hypochlorite (Javex) on the performance of broiler chickens.

Two separate experiments were carried out with 480 Shaver broiler chicks (240 of each sex) in each, to determine the effects on mortality and biological performance of administering sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) via the drinking water. The chicks were housed separately (by sex) in Petersime batteries and each experiment began when the chicks were 1 day old and ended when they were 28 days of age. Sodium hypochlorite was added to the drinking water to achieve the following treatment levels (ppm) of available chlorine: 0, 300, 600, and 1200 (experiment 1); 0, 37.5, 75.0, and 150 (experiment 2). Administration of 1,200 ppm available chlorine significantly increased mortality, lowered feed efficiency, reduced water consumption, and lowered heart, liver, kidney, and testes weights. Administration of 300 ppm or more resulted in significantly lower mean body weights. There was some indication of a growth stimulus and improved feed efficiency at the lower concentrations (37.5 to 150 ppm) of sodium hypochlorite administration, but none of the responses was statistically significant. Overall, a significant effect on biological performance or practical benefit was not achieved from administering sodium hypochlorite to broiler chicks.