Encapsulation of Zootechnical Additives for Poultry and Swine Feeding: A Systematic Review

The search for alternatives to certain antibiotics in animal nutrition has propelled the study of encapsulated essential oils and organic acids considering their potential to generate beneficial effects in animal organisms. The objective of this study was to compile and discuss scientific findings published between 2013 and July 2024 from two databases related to the usage of encapsulated essential oils and organic acids in the supplementation of poultry and swine feeds. A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology, covering the PubMed and Web of Science databases, which initially yielded 115 selected articles. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 relevant articles were selected for comprehensive analysis. The studies demonstrate that the encapsulation of essential oils and organic acids is an alternative to reduce the utilization of conventional antibiotics, as encapsulation has the potential to maintain the properties of these compounds while ensuring greater stability and controlled release within the animal organism. The selection of appropriate encapsulation technologies, encapsulating agents, and zootechnical additives is crucial to maximizing the effectiveness of these compounds in animal nutrition. Despite the identification of gaps in the analyzed studies regarding specific details of the techniques used and regulatory considerations, encapsulated essential oils and organic acids show potential to reduce the need for antibiotics in animal production along with other added benefits. This Review provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, aiming to guide and contribute to future research efforts.