Alternativas alimentares para aves

Abstract

Poultry farming, as one of the world's main livestock activities, plays a fundamental role in food security and income generation at different scales of production. This work reviews alternative feeds that can replace or complement conventional inputs, such as corn and soybean meal, aiming to reduce costs and promote sustainability. Energy, protein, and mineral sources were evaluated, as well as the complementary use of suitable pastures. Although they are not the basis of the diet, they contribute to animal welfare and enrich the breeding environment. The study addresses the nutritional, economic, and environmental benefits of these alternatives, as well as their limitations, such as antinutritional compounds and management challenges. The results indicate that the balanced inclusion of these alternatives can increase the economic viability of poultry farming without compromising the zootechnical quality of the products. It is concluded that innovative feeding strategies, including the rational use of pastures, are essential to strengthen production systems aligned with contemporary sustainability demands.