Phytogenics: Their Roles and Safety over Antibiotics in Broiler Chicken Production-A Review

Abstract

Sequel to the residual effect of antibiotics on animal and man, the crave for the use of organic or natural feed additives have been highly prioritized in the livestock industry. Phytogenics which are compounds derived from plant parts and extracts have been used in the poultry industry especially in broiler production due to its immense contribution to the production performance of birds. They provide antioxidation, antimicrobial, palatability and digestive effect, thereby enhancing the physiology and health of the bird as well as ensuring the availability of hygienic and wholesome chicken meat for human consumption. Although, several issues of concerns have ensued on the standardization of the dosage of phytogenics and its preservation among many, these could be attributed to the variation in the planting and harvesting seasons, soil nutrients and climatic condition. Hence, the benefits of phytogenics in the improvement of the weight gain, feed conversion ratio and retardation of lipid oxidation as well as microbial growth in the gut and carcass of broiler chicken cannot be overlooked.