Potential Application of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as an Antioxidant Agent for Broiler Chickens – A Brief Overview

Broiler chicken strains and the intensive production system are typically attributed to the stress conditions in broiler production. The use of synthetic antioxidants is commonly practiced by the farmers to alleviate the adverse effects of stress on broiler chickens. Yet, excessive use of synthetic antioxidants can leave residues in broiler meats, which can be harmful to consumer health. As a probiotic, yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been widely used as a feed additive by broiler producers. Beyond its probiotic properties, S. cerevisiae has also been demonstrated to have antioxidant properties and may therefore be exploited as an antioxidant agent for broiler chickens. However, the in-depth understanding about the potential use of S. cerevisiae as an antioxidant agent for broiler chickens is still limited. Hence, the overview regarding the application of S. cerevisiae as an alternative antioxidant agent for broiler chickens is of importance. The current review article elucidates the antioxidant potential of S. cerevisiae, the use of S. cerevisiae to increase the antioxidant activity of fermentation products, as well as the application of S. cerevisiae and its derivative products as an antioxidant agent in broiler production. Moreover, the potential application of S. cerevisiae as an anti-inflammatory agent for broiler chickens is also briefly discussed in this current review.