- Steven C Ricke: Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI. Electronic address: sricke@wisc.edu.
Alternative poultry production systems continue to expand as markets for organic and naturally produced poultry meat and egg products increase. However, these production systems represent challenges associated with variable environmental conditions and exposure to foodborne pathogens. Consequently, there is a need to introduce feed additives that can support bird health and performance. There are several candidate feed additives with potential applications in alternative poultry production systems. Prebiotic compounds selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial gastrointestinal microorganisms leading to improved health of the host and limiting the establishment of foodborne pathogens. The shift in the gastrointestinal microbiota and modulation of fermentation can inhibit the establishment of foodborne pathogens such as Campylobacter and Salmonella. Both current and potential applications of prebiotics in alternative poultry production systems will be discussed in this review. Different sources and types of prebiotics that could be developed for alternative poultry production will also be explored.