Functional and Glyconutritional Properties of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract: Food Quality, and Nutritional Security

Abstract

Moringa oleifera leaf extract has gained increasing attention as a functional feed additive due to its rich nutritional composition and bioactive compounds, including glyconutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and essential amino acids. This study explores the functional and glyconutritional properties of Moringa oleifera leaf extract and evaluates its impact on broiler productivity, meat quality, and broader implications for nutritional security. The extract demonstrates significant potential in enhancing growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, immune response, and gut health in broiler chickens. Additionally, its incorporation into poultry diets improves meat quality by increasing protein content, reducing lipid oxidation, and enhancing shelf life. From a glyconutritional perspective, the presence of bioactive polysaccharides supports cellular communication and metabolic functions, contributing to improved physiological health in poultry. The integration of Moringa oleifera into animal nutrition systems offers a sustainable, cost-effective strategy to improve food production while addressing global challenges related to malnutrition and food security. This paper highlights the multifaceted benefits of Moringa oleifera leaf extract and underscores its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic growth promoters in poultry production systems.