Spirulina-based poultry feed: opportunities, challenges and future prospects

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.