Review Paper:
Spirulina-based
poultry feed: opportunities, challenges and future prospects
Khalil Faten and Kumar Vinod
International Journal of Agricultural Sciences and
Veterinary Medicine;
Vol. 11(4); 17-27;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/1104ijasvm017027; (2023)
Abstract
There is a concerted effort to find newer sources of feed additives that are not
only economically viable but superior in nutritional composition and less dependent
on agricultural crop sources that are primarily intended for human use. Furthermore,
as a commercial enterprise, it is essential for the development of the poultry sector
to maximize earnings in a sustainable manner. Meat and egg prices are highly volatile,
being determined mostly by market forces at the expense of feed. Many problems in
the poultry business could be addressed by exploring the potential of microalgae
as an animal feed ingredient.
Typically, the protein content of the substituted feed component should be high,
have a well-balanced amino acid profile, be easily digested and not pose any nutritional
risks to the bird. Green technology is introduced into the poultry sector value
chain through the use of microalgae-based feed supplements which provide sustainability
and carbon-capturing potential during the algae production phase. Microalgae such
as Spirulina (Arthrospira sp.) can be used as a feed resource for chickens because
of their high nutritional value. Animals fed with a diet consisting of spirulina
showed improved growth and development, resistance to diseases, improved fertility
and enhanced aesthetic and nutritional quality of their products. However, there
is a significant gap in our understanding of how animals respond to Spirulina in
the diet. Thus, this study examines the history and present state of knowledge concerning
the use of Spirulina as a poultry feed additive, as well as the industry's current
and future opportunities, challenges and prospects.
