Broiler Responses to a Phytogenic Nutritional Additive Under Different Dietary Nutrient Matrix Credit Strategies
Simple Summary Plant-based feed additives are increasingly used in commercial poultry farming as natural options to support bird health and productivity. However, farmers and feed producers need practical advice on how to best include these products in everyday feed recipes. This study tested a phytogenic nutritional additive (PNA) containing star anise essential oil, thyme essential oil, and Quillaja saponaria Molina stem and leaf powder in chicken diets under different feed formulation strategies. The goal was to investigate if these strategies could support chicken growth while also affecting meat quality, gut health, and nutrient loss. The results showed that growth performance was not affected by the PNA-containing formulation strategies. These strategies also influenced nutrient utilization and intestinal health, and the effects depended on the specific nutrient matrix strategy applied. Interestingly, early signs pointed to a temporary adjustment in the gut lining, which was followed by signs of stronger connections between gut cells by day 22. These findings offer useful information for feed manufacturers on how to use plant-based additives more effectively, helping to balance bird performance, meat yields, and digestive health in modern poultry nutrition.