Chitosan and chitosan‑based composites as beneficial compounds for animal health: Impact on gastrointestinal functions and biocarrier application

Abstract

Chitosan and chitosan-based composites are increasingly gaining attention as feed additives in animal production. However, few studies have summarized their multifunctional roles and applications in animals. This review presents an extensive overview of chitosan and chitosan-based composites in animal nutrition, with emphasis on their roles in gastrointestinal function and substance delivery. It is surmised that the supplementation of chitosan and its derivatives to animals improves the growth performance, productivity, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, gut health, immunity, and health status of animals. Additionally, the encapsulation of chitosan-based composites as bioactive agents for nutrient, drug, and vaccine delivery enhances the nutritional qualities of animal feeds and boosts animal health. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the potentials of chitosan and chitosan-based composites as feed additives, their actions on gastrointestinal health and bio-delivery, and the challenges underlying their applications would promote their effective and efficient utilization for animal production and foster research progress in this field.