Mushroom biotechnology offers breakthrough in broiler feed efficiency

SOUTH AFRICA – A study at North-West University (NWU) in South Africa has found that mushroom biotechnology could improve the use of alternative protein sources in broiler chicken feed. 

The research was conducted by Dr. Makiwa Simeon Mthana, who examined whether oyster mushroom spent substrate (OMSS) can enhance marula seed cake (MSC) and mucuna seed meal (MSM) as replacements for soyabean meal.

The broiler industry faces high feed costs, which account for between 65% and 75% of production expenses. These costs are largely driven by reliance on imported soyabean meal, a primary protein source in poultry diets. Identifying sustainable alternatives has therefore become a priority for researchers and producers.

For his doctoral research, Dr. Mthana tested “smart strategies” to improve the nutritional value of MSC and MSM. 

While both ingredients are rich in protein and energy, they also contain antinutritional factors such as tannins, L-DOPA, mycotoxins and high fibre levels. These compounds can impair digestibility, growth, and meat quality in broiler chickens.

To address these limitations, Dr. Mthana incorporated OMSS into diets containing MSC and MSM. OMSS is a by-product of mushroom cultivation and is rich in antioxidant compounds and biodegradative enzymes that may help neutralise harmful substances in feed ingredients.

Findings from chick trials

The research involved 308 broiler chicks randomly assigned to different diets, with and without OMSS supplementation. The results indicated that including OMSS at low levels, around 1.25%, helped reduce the negative effects of MSC and MSM in broiler feed.

“Broiler chicken production is strategically important as a protein-rich food to nourish the rapidly growing human population in South Africa and globally in a relatively environmentally friendlier way,” Dr. Mthana said.

Dr. Mthana was supervised by Dr. MN Mthiyane of NWU’s animal science group, who has published widely on MSC and MSM and serves as sub-editor of the Applied Sciences journal.

The findings highlight a possible role for agricultural by-products in addressing feed cost challenges while maintaining broiler productivity. 

Further research will be needed to assess the scalability and long-term effects of OMSS use in commercial poultry diets.

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