Probiotics and prebiotics, a strategy for poultry health, performance and food safety in the era of antimicrobial resistance

Chicken meat is a crucial, protein-rich food source globally, with demand rising alongside population growth. A major challenge to its safety and production efficiency is contamination by infectious diseases. This article examines how synbiotic compounds—combinations of prebiotics and probiotics—can help prevent poultry infections and improve feed efficiency. The analysis is based on a review of relevant scientific literature.Poultry are often infected by pathogens like Salmonella, Clostridium, Campylobacter, and E. coli. These diseases reduce growth, increase mortality, and cause significant economic loss. While antibiotics were traditionally used for control, their overuse has accelerated antibiotic resistance, threatening both animal and human health. This has led to strict restrictions on antibiotics in many countries and spurred the search for alternatives. Prebiotics and probiotics offer a promising solution. They support gut health, boost immunity, and inhibit harmful bacteria. Incorporating synbiotics into poultry feed can lower infection rates, enhance flock health, and promote sustainable production—providing an effective strategy without relying on conventional antibiotics.

کلیدواژه ها:

Chicken ، prebiotics ، poultry ، health