In Ovo Nutrition: A Novel Strategy to Combat the Effects of Delayed Post-Hatch Feeding in Poultr

AbstractIn ovo feeding is an emerging nutritional technology designed to improve poultry development and performance by delivering essential nutrients directly into the egg during incubation. Modern, fast-growing broiler chickens may experience a nutritional gap as embryonic reserves decline and access to feed is delayed after hatching. In ovo supplementation with carbohydrates, amino acids, vitamins and prebiotics offers a potential strategy to address this challenge. The effectiveness of the technique depends on the nutrient composition, injection site, timing and concentration, as inappropriate treatment conditions may negatively affect hatchability. Research indicates that suitable in ovo supplementation can support intestinal development, improve gut microbial composition, enhance antioxidant and immune functions, and promote early growth. Automated injection systems have further increased the potential for commercial application by enabling accurate and high-throughput delivery. Nevertheless, further research is needed to optimize nutrient combinations, assess long-term effects and develop affordable delivery systems for smaller poultry operations. With appropriate validation and management, in ovo feeding could contribute to improved chick quality, production efficiency and animal welfare.