Effects of Gossypol on Reproductive Characteristics of Poultry

Cottonseed meal is one of the feed ingredients used as a protein source in poultry nutrition. It is particularly preferred because it is more economical than other protein sources. However, certain polyphenolic compounds contained in cottonseed meal, especially gossypol, exert adverse effects on several performance parameters, most notably the reproductive characteristics of poultry. Gossypol (GSP), a polyphenolic compound present in cottonseed, cottonseed meal (CSM), and crude cottonseed oil (CSO), exhibits antinutritional and toxic effects in poultry. GSP causes oxidative damage primarily through its chelating interactions with iron and proteins. Depending on the cottonseed processing technique (expeller or solvent extraction), the gossypol concentration in CSM may vary considerably. The level of gossypol present in CSM is a determining factor affecting hatchability and reproductive performance in poultry. In this review, the characteristics of gossypol, its mechanism of action, dosage, and its effects on hatchability and reproductive performance in poultry. The toxic effects of gossypol and practical strategies to minimize these effects. In addition, legal standards for controlling the maximum limits of gossypol in poultry feed are described.