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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
07:22
Bacteriophage Effectiveness for Biocontrol of Foodborne Pathogens Evaluated via High-Throughput Settings
Published on: August 19, 2021
Bacteriophage therapy for controlling poultry production problems
W A Abd El-Ghany1, M M Hamoud1
1Poultry Diseases Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
Iranian Journal of Veterinary Research
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Bacteriophages offer a promising antibiotic alternative for poultry production, addressing antimicrobial resistance and the need for novel therapeutics. This review explores their mechanisms, applications, and challenges in safeguarding poultry health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary microbiology
- Bacteriophage therapy
- Poultry science
Background:
- Poultry production faces challenges with antibiotic restrictions and rising antimicrobial resistance.
- There is an urgent need for alternative therapeutics to maintain animal health and food safety.
- Bacteriophages are natural predators of bacteria, showing potential as a sustainable solution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted role of bacteriophages in poultry health and production.
- To elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms of bacteriophages against bacterial pathogens in poultry.
- To discuss the current applications, limitations, and future prospects of bacteriophage use in the poultry industry.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of scientific databases.
- Analysis of bacteriophage classification, mechanisms of action, and host specificity.
- Evaluation of regulatory approvals and global industry adoption of bacteriophages.
Main Results:
- Bacteriophages are viruses that specifically infect and lyse bacteria, offering targeted antimicrobial action.
- Approved bacteriophage preparations are utilized in poultry for disease management and processing.
- The review covers phage mechanisms, industrial applications, and associated challenges.
Conclusions:
- Bacteriophages represent a viable and sustainable alternative to antibiotics in poultry farming.
- Further research and development are needed to overcome limitations and maximize the benefits of phage therapy.
- Effective implementation of bacteriophages can enhance poultry health, production efficiency, and food safety.
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