Although used in small amounts, feed additives can have a major impact on poultry feed performance and efficiency.

Feed additives have become one of the essential components in poultry production systems. Their use not only serves as a supplement to feed, but also as a strategy to improve production efficiency, maintain animal health, and optimize overall chicken growth performance. To explore this topic further, Poultry Indonesia had the opportunity to conduct a written interview with Aulia Rizaldi, Poultry Breeding Sales Specialist at PT Mitra Berlian Unggas, on Friday (24/4).

Definition and Types of Feed Additives

In his explanation, Aulia Rizaldi stated that although feed additives make up only a small proportion of feed formulations, their impact can be highly significant when used properly.

“Feed additives are substances added to animal feed in small quantities, and each ingredient added serves a specific purpose,” he explained.

Broadly speaking, Aulia categorized feed additives into several main groups based on their functions. Antioxidants help maintain feed quality by preventing damage caused by oxidation processes, particularly in fats and vitamins contained in feed formulas. Organic acids, such as citric acid, function to lower the pH of the digestive tract, thereby creating an environment that is less favorable for pathogenic bacterial growth. Meanwhile, probiotics and prebiotics actively improve the balance and diversity of intestinal microflora, supporting digestive functions and the immune system. In addition, there are enzymes, phytogenics (herbal-based additives), and natural growth promoters that are increasingly being developed as alternatives to synthetic substances.

“This classification continues to evolve alongside advancements in animal nutrition science and biotechnology. In fact, the line between feed additives and supplements is becoming increasingly blurred because many products now work multifunctionally,” he added.

The Purpose of Feed Additives

When asked about the reasons behind the use of feed additives, Aulia Rizaldi emphasized that there are three main objectives, all of which are interconnected: improving animal health, enhancing feed quality, and increasing digestive efficiency.

“These three objectives are closely related. Healthy livestock create good physiological conditions for growth. Feed quality ensures that nutrient content does not degrade before and during storage or feeding. Digestive efficiency guarantees that the nutrients available in feed can be absorbed optimally by the animal’s body.”

This article is an excerpt from the Management section of Poultry Indonesia magazine, May 2026 edition. Read the full article in Poultry Indonesia Magazine May 2026 Edition. For subscriptions or further information, contact: https://wa.me/+6287780120754 or sirkulasipoultry@gmail.com

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