Using Probiotic Consortium to Poultry Feed as a Substitute for Antibiotic Growth Promoters

ABSTRACT Antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), once integral to poultry feed formulations for their growth‐enhancing properties, are increasingly associated with the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant strains, posing a significant threat to animal and human health. In response to this critical challenge, this research article explores the transformative potential of probiotic‐enriched feed as a sustainable alternative to AGPs in promoting growth in poultry. Three potential probiotic strains ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae IFST062013, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus BDIFST24010, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum BDIFST24009) were included in this study and their probiotic attributes were determined. Probiotic‐enriched feed was formulated, and the field trial was conducted on broiler chicken. The isolates showed a good tolerance to acidic pH, bile salts, gastric juice, and showed good antimicrobial activities against pathogens. The isolates were more heat stable to make starter fed and sufficient cell counts was observed after 10 months of storage at 4°C. No significant difference was found between antibiotic and probiotics supplementation, but fat deposition in abdominal area was found in an antibiotic group compared to the probiotic group. In conclusion, the probiotic supplement developed is quite promising, but further field studies are required to more conclusive results before replacing antibiotic growth promoters aligning with contemporary imperatives for responsible agriculture and global health.