Andrew D. Magnuson

This book features five peer-reviewed reviews on alternative sources of protein for poultry. The first chapter reviews effects of supplemental full- or de-fatted microalgal biomass in diets for broiler chickens, laying hens, and other types of poultry on their production performance, meat and egg qualities, nutrient metabolism, and molecular responses. The second chapter provides an overview of the effects of dietary inclusion levels of different types of black soldier fly larvae protein meal on the performance and health of broilers and laying hens. The third chapter considers the use of yellow mealworm as an alternative and sustainable protein source in poultry diets. The chapter reviews the nutritional and environmental benefits of its use, processing and storage requirements, as well as its effect on poultry productivity. The fourth chapter highlights the poultry sector’s over-reliance on a limited number of feed ingredients and explores the recent emergence of non-conventional protein sources, such as insect meal, earthworms, localised oilseeds and algae. The final chapter describes the application of corn fermented protein (CFP) in feed formulations for poultry. The chapter also discusses the use of distillers dried grains and solubles, as well as the challenges associated with the production of CFP.

This collection features five peer-reviewed reviews on dietary supplements in poultry nutrition. The first chapter reviews latest research on feed enzymes focussing on identifying the key challenges researchers face in terms of current trends in enzyme development, mechanism(s) of action and enzyme efficacy. The second chapter considers the role of probiotics in optimising gut function in poultry. It reviews the development of novel, cost-effective, feed-stable, direct-fed microbials with potential for widespread utilisation and improved production. The third chapter discusses the role of essential oils and botanicals in improving gut function in poultry, focussing on four major functions of phytobiotics that could potentially contribute to gut health: digestive conditioning, antimicrobial property, immunomodulation and gut microbiota modulation. The fourth chapter considers the development of alternative protein sources for poultry nutrition, including grain by-products, pulses and algae. It also reviews best practices for improving the nutritive value of these alternative protein sources. The final chapter reviews the effects of supplemental full- or de-fatted microalgal biomass in poultry diets on animal production and performance, meat and egg qualities, as well as nutrient metabolism and molecular responses.