The poultry feed industry is experiencing several emerging trends aimed at enhancing sustainability, efficiency, and animal health. Key developments include:
1. Functional Complementary Feeds: These feeds incorporate special ingredients such as amino acids, enzymes, and medium-chain fatty acids to support intestinal function, metabolism, and the immune system, thereby promoting animal health and reducing the need for antibiotics.
2. Optimizing Nitrogen and Phosphorus Levels: Efforts are underway to balance these nutrients in poultry diets to minimize environmental pollution from manure. This involves precise formulation of rations to meet the animals’ actual requirements, reducing excess nutrient excretion.
3. Alternative Protein Sources: To address sustainability and non-GMO preferences, there’s a shift towards using alternative protein sources such as non-GMO rapeseed meal, field beans, peas, lupins, sunflower meal, and insect protein in poultry diets.
4. Insect Protein Research: Insect protein is being explored as a sustainable alternative, with the EU approving its use in animal feed. Feeding trials with monogastric animals, including poultry, are ongoing to assess its feasibility and safety.