Summary
This systematic review of 96 studies (2000–2025) evaluates the potential of phytochemically rich food-system by-products in ruminant diets within a circular bioeconomy framework. The authors synthesise evidence that polyphenol and tannin-enriched by-products can improve rumen fermentation efficiency, animal health and immune function, and modify the nutritional composition of milk and meat products—particularly fatty acid and antioxidant profiles—with potential implications for human health. The review highlights that effective application requires careful calibration of inclusion rates, matching to ration composition, and appropriate processing to optimise bioavailability and avoid negative effects on intake and digestibility.
Regional applicability
The findings are relevant to UK intensive and mixed livestock systems seeking to improve feed efficiency, reduce reliance on conventional protein sources, and enhance product quality; however, application would require validation under UK climate, forage, and regulatory conditions. The circular bioeconomy approach aligns with UK policy priorities for waste valorisation and sustainable intensification.
Key measures
Rumen fermentation parameters, nitrogen use efficiency, oxidative and inflammatory stress markers, antimicrobial and anthelmintic effects, fatty acid profiles in milk and meat, antioxidant capacity of animal products, abundance and diversity of bioactive metabolites, inclusion levels and processing effects (drying, ensiling, fermentation)
Outcomes reported
This systematic review synthesized 96 peer-reviewed studies on phytochemically rich food-system by-products (FSBP) in ruminant diets, measuring rumen fermentation, animal health and performance, product quality (milk and meat composition), and environmental outcomes. The review assessed how FSBP incorporation modulates nutrient use, bioactive compound profiles, and potential downstream health effects in animal products.
Topic tags
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