This study explored a natural way to improve chicken growth without using antibiotics. Researchers used bacteriophages viruses that attack specific bacteria to remove Enterococcus bacteria from the gut. These bacteria break down bile acids, which are important for digesting fats. By reducing Enterococcus, chickens digested fat more effectively and showed better growth, similar to what is seen with antibiotic use. However, the removal of these bacteria also allowed some harmful gram-negative bacteria to increase. This raises concerns about possible side effects on gut health. The findings suggest that bacteriophages could be a promising alternative to antibiotics in poultry farming; however, more research is needed to better understand the risks and benefits of this approach.

Read the full article in the Journal of Animal Science.