Balancing science versus societal issues in poultry nutrition.

Abstract

Abstract Scientific rational exists for the formulation of poultry diets. However, this practice is now being impacted, and sometimes overshadowed, by societal issues that for the most part are consumer-driven emotional decisions lacking sound scientific rationale. Nevertheless, the adage that 'perception is reality' certainly applies to current poultry feeding practices and so nutritionists have had to modify feed formulations to accommodate not only science-based needs but also these societal concerns. The impact of societal issues is influencing decision-making from farm production through to retail distribution of poultry products. In fact, some of these social issues have been driven by retailers who see marketing opportunities that are now impacting the entire production chain. Perhaps the single largest factor to impact poultry production and poultry nutrition over the last 10 years has been the mandatory or voluntary removal of antibiotics from feeds. Consumers are becoming more concerned about the nutrient content of foods and how this impacts their health. Over the last few years there have been various strategies aimed at manipulating poultry products, and especially eggs, with a view to improving human health. For the animal and food industries, functional foods represent an opportunity for increased revenue while concomitantly providing the consumer with meaningful contributions of various nutrients that positively impact human health. Environmental issues are also impacting poultry feed formulation, as is the limited supply of energy-rich ingredients as a consequence of government policies to reduce dependence on imported oil by fermenting traditional ingredients such as corn.