Probiotics in Poultry: Unlocking Productivity Through Microbiome Modulation and Gut Health

This review explores the role of probiotics in improving productivity and gut health in poultry through microbiome modulation, particularly during early life. Gut health is pivotal to poultry performance, influencing nutrient absorption, immune function, and disease resistance. Early-life interventions target the microbiome to shape long-term health and productivity. Probiotics, live microorganisms providing health benefits, improve gut health through the competitive exclusion of pathogens, immune modulation, antimicrobial compound production, and enhancing gut barrier integrity. Applying probiotics improves growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, body weight gain, and carcass quality by promoting lean muscle growth and reducing fat deposition. For laying hens, probiotics enhance egg production and quality. These benefits are linked to better nutrient utilization, a well-balanced microbiome, and reduced gastrointestinal disorders. However, the efficacy of probiotics depends on strain specificity, dosage, and administration methods. Factors like environmental conditions, storage stability, and interactions with other feed additives also influence their effectiveness. Despite these challenges, advancements in microbiome research and probiotic technologies, such as precision probiotics and synbiotics, provide promising solutions. Future research should focus on optimizing formulations, understanding host-microbiome interactions, and leveraging new technologies for targeted microbiome management.