Vol. 10, Issue 9, Part C (2025)

The rising global demand for poultry products, coupled with the high cost and ecological burden of conventional feed ingredients like maize and soybean meal, has intensified interest in alternative feed sources. This chapter provides a critical evaluation of diverse sustainable options such as plant-based by-products, insect meals, agro-industrial residues, and food waste. These alternatives present valuable nutritional attributes, economic feasibility, and environmental advantages, aligning with circular economy principles while promoting poultry health and productivity. The discussion focuses on innovative feeding approaches, the nutrient composition and functional properties of non-traditional ingredients, and their influence on growth performance and product quality. Key challenges including variability in nutrient content, anti-nutritional compounds, digestibility issues, and palatability are explored, along with the importance of suitable processing methods and regulatory measures. Additionally, the chapter outlines the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable feeding systems and offers recommendations for future research, policy development, and industry uptake to ensure their practical implementation and scalability in poultry production.