A study is being conducted in Canada to examine the effectiveness of extracts from native plants in controlling bacteria in chickens. The research is based on a review that concludes phytobiotic supplementation in chicken feed can improve digestive function, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system. A microbiologist at Lethbridge Polytechnic is focusing on two plants found in southern Alberta, as part of a project funded by Egg Farmers of Canada, to test their ability to protect chickens from Avian Pathogenic E. coli bacteria. The project builds on previous research that has been ongoing since 2016, identifying antibiotic properties in native plants.