Efficacy of Microbial Metabolites in Poultry for Better Health and Immunity

Abstract

Sajjad Ur Rahman, Dur E Nayyab, Farwa Farooq* and Muhammad Mukarrarm Bashir

Poultry farming remains a crucial part of the global food supply, offering affordable, nutrient-rich protein. In intensive broiler farming, enteric infections are serious. Several types of these diseases can kill chickens, slow weight gain, raise medical costs, and lower feed conversion ratios. From 2015 to 2021, broiler meat production increased by 35%, global egg production rose by 10%, the laying hen population expanded by 30%, and breeder stock grew by approximately 25%, early chick mortality rates (up to 1.8%) and enteric infections such as necrotic enteritis, which impacts 40% of flocks and has a clinical mortality rate ranging from 10% to 50%, pose significant challenges. The frequent use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) has raised concerns, mainly due to the prevalence of disease outbreaks and the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In response, microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bacteriocins, organic acids, and other bioactive compounds, are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives. These substances postbiotics help to maintain gut health, strengthen immune defenses, and inhibit harmful pathogens. As butyrate supports gut lining repair and regulates immune signaling, while bacteriocins directly target disease-causing bacteria. Microbial metabolites in poultry feed improve efficiency, growth performance, and survival rates, while decreasing pathogen shedding and dependency on antibiotics. YCM, a metabolite-rich postbiotic supplement, illustrates the potential of such innovations in improving poultry health. The study emphasizes the effective use of microbial metabolites as bioactive compounds that enhance avian immune systems and promote safe production against global antibiotic limitations.

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