Importance of Nano-Sized Feed Additives in Animal Nutrition

Abstract

"Nano", which derives from the Latin word nanus and means dwarf, refers to a very small unit of measurement equal to one billionth of a meter. Nanotechnology, which deals with the manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular level, has an application area in animal husbandry as well as in many fields. Nano-sized feed additives, which have come to the forefront in the livestock sector in recent years, have become an innovative application used to increase the nutritional value of feeds and optimize animal health and performance. Since these additives are nano-sized particles with increased specific surface area, they can have a positive effect on a number of factors such as digestibility, nutrient absorption, immune system, growth and development. Minerals in the form of nanoparticles used as feed additives can increase bioavailability by passing through the intestinal wall to body cells faster compared to larger particles. The nano level of the substance not only increases the productivity of animals, but also brings the potential to improve the functionality of feed molecules. Nano feed additives increase the digestion and absorption of feed, allowing animals to benefit from feed more effectively. However, there are several challenges associated with this approach. These include the potential for endotoxin production, reduced nutrient absorption due to interaction with natural nutrients, the possibility of nanoparticle accumulation in the animal body, health risks, ethical considerations, environmental concerns and some negative effects such as interference with natural nutrients that can be avoided by encapsulation. This article discusses recent studies on nano-sized feed additives that offer potential benefits in animal nutrition.