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Physiological Function of Inulin and Its Application in Livestock Production
Hao Wang1, Yutao Chou1, YiYuan Xing1
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.
Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, enhances animal health and productivity by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that improve gut integrity and immunity. Effective inclusion levels vary by species, offering a promising natural feed additive for livestock and poultry.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Nutritional Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Inulin is a plant-derived soluble dietary fiber acting as a prebiotic.
- Gut microbiota ferment inulin into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
- SCFAs modulate host physiology via G protein-coupled receptors and histone deacetylase inhibition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physicochemical properties and physiological functions of inulin.
- To assess the potential uses of inulin in livestock and poultry production.
- To summarize evidence-based effective dietary inclusion levels of inulin for various animal species.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing evidence from studies on inulin's effects in livestock and poultry.
- Analysis of inulin's impact on intestinal health, immunity, growth, and production parameters.
- Compilation of reported effective dietary inclusion levels for laying hens, broiler chickens, swine, dairy cows, and beef cattle.
Main Results:
- Inulin supplementation is associated with enhanced intestinal barrier integrity, reduced inflammation, and improved immune homeostasis.
- Measurable animal outcomes include improved growth performance, feed conversion, milk yield, and egg quality.
- Reported effective inclusion levels range from 5 g/kg for weaned piglets to 20 g/kg for growing-finishing pigs and beef cattle, and 15 g/kg for laying hens, with 200 g/cow/day for dairy cows.
Conclusions:
- Inulin acts as a beneficial prebiotic feed additive, improving animal health and productivity.
- Specific inclusion levels are suggested for different livestock and poultry species, though optimal rates require further research.
- Inulin shows promise for enhancing animal husbandry practices through improved gut health and performance.
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