Summary
This narrative review examines Azolla as a multifunctional feed ingredient for broiler production, synthesising evidence on its nutritional composition, performance outcomes, and economic viability. The evidence indicates that Azolla inclusion at 2.5–5% of diet improves growth performance and feed conversion whilst lowering feed costs and enhancing immunity, without compromising carcass quality. The review also contextualises Azolla within sustainable and circular farming systems, noting its nitrogen-fixing properties and potential role in climate-smart agriculture, whilst acknowledging processing limitations related to fibre and moisture content.
Regional applicability
Azolla's applicability to UK poultry systems would depend on local cultivation capacity and integration with existing feed supply chains; climatic conditions and glasshouse requirements for Azolla cultivation may limit practical adoption in UK intensive poultry production. However, findings on cost-effective protein supplementation and sustainability align with UK policy objectives on reducing feed imports and improving farm circularity.
Key measures
Growth performance; feed conversion efficiency; immune response; carcass traits; feed costs; dietary inclusion rates (2.5–5%); protein and essential amino acid content; carotenoids and mineral composition
Outcomes reported
The review synthesised evidence on the effects of dietary Azolla inclusion (2.5–5%) on broiler growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, immune response, carcass quality, and production costs. Economic viability and environmental sustainability benefits through biological nitrogen fixation were also examined.
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