Indian Veterinary Magazine (ISSN:3108-1398)

As global demand for animal-based protein rises, concerns about antibiotic overuse in livestock have prompted the search for safer, more sustainable alternatives. Synbiotics is combinations of probiotics (beneficial microbes) and prebiotics (non-digestible fibres that nourish them) offer a promising solution. By enhancing gut microbiota balance, synbiotics support digestion, immunity, and overall health in animals. Synbiotics outperform probiotics or prebiotics alone, improving nutrient absorption, enzyme activity, and resistance to pathogens. Benefits have been observed across various species: from reduced diarrhea and improved growth in calves and pigs, to enhanced immunity and enzyme function in fish and poultry. Synbiotics also influence blood and biochemical parameters, such as cholesterol and protein levels, particularly in broilers and aquaculture species. However, results vary by species, strain, and dietary context, with limited impact on performance or blood chemistry. Despite promising outcomes, scientific understanding of synbiotic mechanisms and optimal formulations remains incomplete. Ongoing research is essential to determine effective combinations and dosages tailored to specific livestock, paving the way for their broader adoption as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters.