Nutritional interventions to alleviate the impact of aflatoxin B 1 and ochratoxin A in poultry: a review of natural and biotechnological strategies

SUMMARYMycotoxins such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) are widespread contaminants in poultry feed that severely impact poultry health and performance. These toxic metabolites contribute to various adverse effects, including liver and kidney damage, immune system suppression, and reduced growth efficiency. Given the limitations of traditional decontamination methods, nutritional strategies have gained attention as sustainable alternatives for mitigating mycotoxin toxicity in poultry. This review examines a variety of nutritional approaches, focusing on antioxidants, mycotoxin-binding agents, plant-derived compounds, probiotics, and nanotechnological innovations. Antioxidants like vitamins E and C, along with compounds such as silymarin and curcumin, help reduce oxidative damage and protect organ function. Mycotoxin binders, including zeolites, yeast derivatives, and clay minerals, bind to toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing their absorption and systemic spread. Probiotics and functional microalgae promote gut health and enhance immune responses, while nanotechnology-based solutions, such as nano-curcumin, increase the bioavailability of beneficial phytochemicals. Phytogenic additives, including essential oils and plant polyphenols, provide multifaceted protective effects by reducing inflammation, improving gut integrity, and boosting immunity. These interventions represent an integrated, practical approach to counteracting mycotoxin contamination, ultimately improving poultry health, production efficiency, and food safety. Employing such nutritional strategies offers a promising route for enhancing poultry resilience to mycotoxin exposure, benefiting both animal welfare and public health.