Review Article
Nano-enabled Phytogenic Feed Additives for Sustainable Poultry Production: A New Frontier in Meat Quality, Growth Efficiency, and Antibiotic Alternatives
Muhammad Mubeen Jamal Anwar*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2025
Pages:
39-55
Received:
30 May 2025
Accepted:
19 June 2025
Published:
10 July 2025
Abstract: This review focuses on nano-enabled phytogenic feed additives (nPFAs) as innovative tools to enhance poultry growth performance, meat quality while potentially replacing the use of antibiotics. The excessive use of antibiotics in poultry production has raised significant concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and drug residues, which have increased interest in natural additives. However, conventional substances face challenges such as poor bioavailability instability and limiting their effectiveness. Nanoformulation technologies address these limitations by improving the stability, targeted delivery and controlled release of phytochemicals. This can significantly enhance biological efficacy even at reduced dosages. This review also elaborates recent advances in nPFA formulations, mechanisms of action at cellular and systemic levels as well as provides examples of their applications in poultry production. It highlights that using nano-encapsulation to deliver antioxidants, shape the gut bacteria and support the immune system leads to higher growth and better meat quality. Additionally, the environmental advantages of minimising antibiotic usage are emphasised. Despite having tremendous potential but the challenges with safety evaluation, regulatory frameworks, well as industrial-scale production still exist. Emerging research directions such as precision nutrition and multifunctional nanocarriers approaches are discussed as pathways to optimize nPFA applications. Ultimately, it demonstrates that by using nano-enabled phytogenic additives, the industry can achieve sustainable, antibiotic-free poultry production while giving consumers high quality protein.
Abstract: This review focuses on nano-enabled phytogenic feed additives (nPFAs) as innovative tools to enhance poultry growth performance, meat quality while potentially replacing the use of antibiotics. The excessive use of antibiotics in poultry production has raised significant concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and drug residues, which have in...
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