Review
Version 1
Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed
Microalgae as an Alternative Mineral Source in Poultry Nutrition
Version 1
: Received: 18 December 2023 / Approved: 18 December 2023 / Online: 18 December 2023 (12:54:24 CET)
A peer-reviewed article of this Preprint also exists.
Costa, M.M.; Spínola, M.P.; Prates, J.A.M. Microalgae as an Alternative Mineral Source in Poultry Nutrition. Vet. Sci. 2024, 11, 44. Costa, M.M.; Spínola, M.P.; Prates, J.A.M. Microalgae as an Alternative Mineral Source in Poultry Nutrition. Vet. Sci. 2024, 11, 44.
Abstract
This review explores the potential of microalgae as a sustainable and nutritionally rich alternative for mineral supplementation in poultry diets, addressing both the opportunities and challenges in this emerging field. Poultry nutrition, pivotal to the health and productivity of birds, traditionally relies on inorganic and organic mineral sources, which, while effective, raise environmental and economic concerns. Microalgae offer a promising solution with their high content of essential minerals, proteins, vitamins, and bioactive compounds. The review delves into the nutritional profile of various microalgae, highlighting their rich mineral content, crucial for physiological processes in poultry. It examines the bioavailability of these minerals and their impact on poultry health and productivity. Furthermore, it evaluates the environmental sustainability of microalgae cultivation and acknowledges the challenges in using microalgae in poultry diets, particularly in terms of the economic viability of large-scale production and the consistency of nutrient composition. It discusses the importance of rigorous safety assessments and regulatory compliance, given the potential risks of toxins and heavy metals. Overall, this analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the role microalgae could play in poultry nutrition and address sustainability challenges in animal agriculture, while also considering future perspectives and advancements needed in this field.
Keywords
Microalga; ash; mineral composition; poultry nutrition; feed
Subject
Biology and Life Sciences, Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Zoology
Copyright: This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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