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. 2025 Jul 16;29:100487. doi: 10.1016/j.vas.2025.100487

Quercetin as a bioactive feed additive: nutritional, antioxidant, and gut health implications in poultry and rabbits

Ayman Abd El-Aziz a, Mahmoud Abo Ghanima a, Mahmoud Kamal b, Ahmed K Aldhalmi c, Mohammad MH Khan d, Mohamed E Abd El-Hack e,⁎
PMCID: PMC12308014  PMID: 40740308

Abstract

Quercetin is a bioactive flavonoid widely distributed in vegetables, grains, and fruits, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties. Recently, it has attracted increasing attention as a sustainable and functional additive in animal nutrition. This review explores the existing understanding of the use of quercetin in poultry and rabbit diets, focusing on its impact on growth efficiency, intestinal health, antioxidant, immune function, and the quality of animal-derived foods. In rabbits, dietary supplementation with quercetin (25–100 mg/kg diet) has been associated with enhanced feed efficacy, meat composition, and gut microbial balance. In poultry, including broilers and laying hens, quercetin (up to 200 mg/kg) enhances growth under normal and heat stress conditions, improves meat and egg quality, and modulates oxidative stress markers and gut microbiota. These effects are connected to how quercetin helps control the activity of genes that deal with inflammation, antioxidant enzymes, and the immune system in the gut. Importantly, the review emphasizes the potential of quercetin to improve the nutritional and functional quality of meat and eggs, making it highly relevant for human health and food sustainability. Further studies are encouraged to define optimal dosages and explore synergistic effects with other natural additives. This review offers critical insights into how dietary quercetin can be utilized to support animal health, efficiency, and food product quality, aligning with the global shift toward natural, residue-free feed strategies.

Keywords: Quercetin, Functional feed additive, Poultry, Rabbits, Gut microbiota

1. Introduction

The study of flora and their bioactive derivatives is gaining interest due to customer demand for safer, healthier animal products and the industry's need to promote growth after the 2006 EU antibiotic ban (Abd El-Hack et al., 2025; Negm et al., 2025). Herbs have shown promise in this context because they can modulate feed intake, promote a balanced gastrointestinal microflora, and have various beneficial properties, such as antimicrobial, coccidiostatic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects in monogastric animals (Alagawany et al., 2018; Naiel et al., 2020; Saeed et al., 2017).

Poultry meat is specifically susceptible to oxidative degradation due to its elevated levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) relative to other meats with lower PUFA levels, as previously shown (Cai et al., 2024; Li et al., 2022, 2024; Saeed et al., 2025; Simopoulos, 2000; Wang et al., 2025; Wei et al., 2021; Zhang et al., 2023). Plants have antioxidative properties because they contain substances like vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, different flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds (El-Abbasy et al., 2025; Pennington & Fisher, 2009). Adding herbs that have antioxidative properties to the feed of broiler chickens has shown promise in extending the shelf life of their meat by slowing down the process of fat oxidation (Abd El-Aziz et al., 2024; Ogwuegbu & Mthiyane, 2024; Wenk, 2003).

Quercetin, a flavonoid molecule classified as a flavonol, is found in various edible fruits, particularly in apple peels, and in "vegetables such as red onions and capers" (Bhagwat et al., 2011; Rupasinghe et al., 2010). Quercetin improves meat/milk quality by reducing oxidation in livestock (poultry, dairy cows) and enhances stress resistance in animals (Khalaf et al., 2024). It is a strong substance that can help fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and improve heart health, and it is well-known for its possible benefits in managing long-term and age-related health issues (Bhaskar et al., 2013; Xie et al., 2025). Furthermore, it has been recorded to exhibit antioxidant activity in laboratory studies (Arts et al., 2004) and human subjects (Boots et al., 2011), in addition to demonstrating antibacterial properties (Nguyen & Bhattacharya, 2022). After giving quercetin to the chickens for 3 days, they found quercetin sulfate, glucuronide, glucoside glucuronide, and isorhamnetin glucoside in the liver, duodenum, breast, and thigh tissues, but the antioxidant capacity did not change (Rupasinghe et al., 2010). Fig. 1 demonstrates the main activities of quercetin.

Fig. 1.

Fig 1

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The main uses and activities of quercetin as a feed additive.

The study by Abdel-Latif et al. (2021) found that taking quercetin supplements greatly improved productivity, increasing the European Production Efficiency Factor and lowering total coliforms and Clostridium perfringens. However, it also led to a significant increase in Lactobacillus bacteria, attributed to the gut microbiota milieu. The microbiome significantly influences the health of the gut, the immune system, and the overall production of broilers, as emphasised by Clavijo and Flórez (2018). The intestinal well-being of these hens is directly influenced by the kind of feed they consume, highlighting the crucial link between intestinal health and their overall welfare (El-Sabrout et al., 2025; Khan et al., 2025). Recent years have witnessed substantial studies focused on enhancing the intestinal environment of broiler chickens by incorporating herbs, probiotics, and exogenous enzymes into their diets. The goal of these efforts is to improve the efficiency and productivity of the chickens (Abdel-Latif et al., 2018; Abd Ashour et al., 2025; El-Hack et al., 2023a; Kamal et al., 2023, b).

The worldwide prohibition of antibiotic growth enhancers has motivated researchers to actively pursue alternate options. Flavonols, which are a type of flavonoid, have shown potential in controlling feed intake, promoting a healthy gut microbiota (eubiosis), and demonstrating multiple beneficial properties, including antibacterial, immune-regulating, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities in monogastric animals (Abd El-Hack et al., 2023b). Quercetin (3,3′,4′,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone) is particularly notable among these flavonols. It is present in specific fruits such as apples, berries, and grapes, as well as in herbs and onions, and broccoli (Mlcek et al., 2016). Quercetin is recognised for its powerful and diverse capabilities, such as its ability to reduce inflammation, combat microbial infections, prevent obesity, lower cholesterol levels, act as an antioxidant, slow down the ageing process, and suppress the proliferation of neoplastic cells (David et al., 2016). This compound's primary biological function is as an antioxidant, making it widely used in treating metabolic and inflammatory illnesses (Lakhanpal & Rai, 2007). Quercetin can prolong meat shelf life in broiler diets by slowing lipid oxidation, improving animal health, and enhancing immunological responses in broiler chicks (Goliomytis et al., 2014; Saeed et al., 2017).

Currently, there is a paucity of published data about the effects of dietary quercetin supplementation in broiler chickens and rabbits, specifically in terms of their productivity and quality attributes. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to examine the impact of adding quercetin to the diet on the growth performance of broiler chickens and rabbits, as well as its impact on meat quality, oxidative stability, intestinal microbiota as well as gut health, immunity, and certain mRNAs in these animals.

2. Methodology

Electronic databases of published scientific literature were the main source for this review. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for the effect of adding quercetin as a feed additive on growth rate, antioxidants, and intestinal health in poultry and livestock. Additional articles of interest were obtained through cross-referencing of published literature. The primary key terms used were "Quercetin", "feed additive," "Gut microbiota," "antioxidants," and "poultry and animal," which resulted in 242 search hits.

3. The molecular composition of quercetin

Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, is present in numerous veggies and fruits, notably red onions, tea, apples, capers, broccoli, parsley, and red grapes, as investigated by Xiao et al. (2017). This compound is present in plants and exists in many glycosidic forms, which directly correlate with its bioactivity profile. The chemical structure of quercetin has a special group called catechol in ring B, a double bond in ring C between C-2 and C-3, and a 4-carbonyl group with hydroxyl groups at positions 3, 5, and 7 (Fig. 2), according to Kobori et al. (2016). Earlier foundational work by Kobori et al. (2016) showed that quercetin can influence various body functions and has many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, helping with diabetes, managing fats in the body, and acting as an antioxidant (Figs. 3, 4).

Fig. 2.

Fig 2

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Structure of quercetin and its derivatives.

Fig. 3.

Fig 3

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The influence of quercetin feed additives on growth performance and egg production.

Fig. 4.

Fig 4

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The pharmacological activity of quercetin.

4. Possible effects of including quercetin supplements in poultry and rabbits' diets

4.1. Growth performance indices

Goliomytis et al. (2014) examined the effects of adding quercetin to broiler chicken feed on growth performance, internal organ weights, meat quality, and oxidative stability. The study found that quercetin did not significantly impact body weight or feed intake, but higher amounts led to enhanced feed conversion ratios (FCR). Chickens with quercetin had greater heart weight and oxidative stability after refrigerated storage. The study suggests quercetin may extend meat shelf life and increase heart weight, potentially improving animal health.

Liu et al. (2014) found quercetin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and antibacterial properties, significantly improved the performance of laying hens. The study involved 240 Hessian laying hens, aged 28 weeks, and fed varying levels of quercetin for 8 weeks. The results showed a quadratic correlation between quercetin levels and laying rate, with a peak at 0.2 g/kg of feed. This demonstrates the potential of quercetin as a helpful additive in poultry production. Additionally, Kim et al. (2015) found that quercetin improves the growth and health of broilers and their blood characteristics by affecting antioxidant enzymes and changing the types of bacteria in the feed of laying hens. Furthermore, Simitzis et al. (2018) examined the impact of quercetin supplementation on laying hen performance and egg quality. The study involved 192 hens in four treatment groups. The experimental groups received different doses of quercetin, resulting in higher feed consumption and eggshell weight. However, the study found that cholesterol levels in egg yolks increased proportionally with greater quercetin intake, but not in blood serum. The findings provide insights into the benefits of quercetin in poultry husbandry.

Zhang and Kim (2020) examined the impact of quercetin supplementation on broiler chicken growth. In this study, 640 chickens were divided into four groups, each receiving different amounts of quercetin. Under heat stress, growth performance was monitored. Results showed a quadratic correlation between quercetin intake and body weight increase, with the most significant effects observed in 250 mg/kg chickens. Biswas et al. (2024) evaluated the impact of increasing quercetin dosages on growth performance in Ross 308 broilers. The study involved 576 male broilers divided into four dietary groups. Results showed a steady rise in body weight growth with larger doses of quercetin. Consumption of feed also increased with increased QS levels. The study also revealed enhanced digestibility of dry matter and energy. Liu et al. (2023) found that quercetin significantly improved egg production, decreased the feed weight to egg weight ratio, and improved antioxidant status in late-stage laying hens.

North et al. (2019a) conducted a study on the impact of quercetin dihydrate on rabbit growth parameters and serum hormone levels. The rabbits were given either 0 or 2 g/kg feed of quercetin dihydrate, and their growth and FCR were analyzed. The results showed positive results, with significant growth and elevated cortisol levels in females. The study also found that rabbits given quercetin supplements had a higher overall FCR compared to those not given any supplements. However, the study suggests quercetin may not be economically viable for improving rabbit performance.

4.2. Carcass attributes and meat quality

Goliomytis et al. (2014) observed that adding quercetin to broiler chicken diets improved growth performance, internal organ weights, meat quality, and oxidative activities during storage. The study found that quercetin increased the relative heart weight of hens, but did not affect internal organ weights or meat quality. The meat's resistance to oxidation increased significantly after refrigeration storage. This suggests quercetin can extend meat shelf life and improve animal well-being. Sohaib et al. (2016) studied broiler chickens and found that adding quercetin and alpha tocopherol to their food makes the meat nuggets better in terms of freshness, texture, color, and taste. This addition also reduces fat breakdown from oxidation, making the nuggets more appealing to customers. The study by Wang et al. (2022) examined the effects of quercetin on chicken meat quality in broilers. The study involved 480 AA broilers and four groups: a negative control group and 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6 g of quercetin per kg of feed. The results indicated that quercetin increased the pH45min and L* value of thigh muscles, reduced shear force, and reduced drip loss. Additionally, quercetin increased sensory scores of meat color, tenderness, and juiciness.

Furthermore, the investigation conducted by Zhang and Kim (2020) focused on examining the impact of quercetin supplementation on several characteristics of meat integrity in broiler chickens. The study examined various factors like oxidative stability, excreta gas emission, and markers of meat quality. The diets included quercetin at doses of 0, 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg. Significantly, when the intake of quercetin supplements rose, there was a direct correlation between the rise in T-SOD and T-AOC, along with a corresponding decrease in the content of MDA in the breast muscle. These outcomes indicate that a diet with increased concentrations of quercetin may enhance the stability of meat by strengthening antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative stress. Biswas et al. (2024) discovered that quercetin (QS) improves the body characteristics, increases the mineral content in the tibia, and enhances meat quality in Ross 308 broilers, making it a beneficial addition for raising hens.

North et al. (2018a) found that supplementing rabbit diets with quercetin dihydrate at a concentration of 2 g/kg for 5-12 weeks led to a significant increase in the ratio of meat to bone in the hindleg, mainly due to a decrease in hindleg bone weight. This raises questions about quercetin's effects on the skeletal system. The study's findings provide a better understanding of quercetin supplementation's effects on rabbit production and its physiological effects. Moreover, North et al. (2019b) involved 34 New Zealand White rabbits, divided into a control and supplemented group. The supplemented group received a diet enriched with quercetin dihydrate, starting with weaning and lasting until thirteen weeks. The rabbits were stored at a regulated temperature and assessed for color, pH, lipid oxidation, antioxidant capacity, volatile compounds, and microbial count. Results showed quercetin reduced alkane and hexanal concentrations but had moderate antioxidant effects. It did not improve the microbiological quality of the meat and did not extend its shelf life. This highlights the diverse impacts of quercetin supplementation on rabbit meat quality during refrigerated storage. Additionally, North et al. (2019b) investigated how dietary quercetin affected the types of fatty acids in rabbit tissues, such as caecotrophes, dissectible fat, Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL), and hind legs (HL). The study found that quercetin supplementation led to significant changes in fatty acid composition, suggesting a connection between quercetin and the body's natural lipid metabolism. However, quercetin did not significantly affect HL meat or caecotrophes, and the investigation offers helpful information about rabbit nutrition in a production context.

4.3. Hematological and biochemical parameters

Konrad et al. (2011) confirmed that quercetin helps improve immune system factors, such as the total white blood cell count and different proinflammatory cytokines (like IL-6, TNFα, GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-8, and IL-10), in human athletes who took quercetin supplements 15 minutes before running. Quercetin may protect the nervous system and regulate the immune system by allowing lipids to pass through the blood-brain barrier, as explained by Youdim et al. (2004). Furthermore, Kim et al. (2015) established that the incorporation of quercetin in broilers enhanced their performance and positively influenced blood indicators. Moreover, North et al. (2018b) noted that female rabbits exhibited elevated cortisol levels in their blood analysis, in contrast to their male counterparts. In addition, rabbits given quercetin supplementation tended to have elevated levels of fT3 (free triiodothyronine) relative to those on the control diet. The variations in hormone levels indicate possible hormonal and metabolic impacts of quercetin. Nevertheless, it was determined that providing quercetin may not be economically viable for enhancing the overall haematological performance of rabbits.

Liu et al. (2023) examined the antioxidative properties of quercetin and daidzein in mature laying hens. Supplementing with quercetin led to a considerable increase in the levels of SOD and GSH-Px activity, while reducing CAT activity and MDA content in both the serum and liver. In addition, quercetin increased the concentration of T-AOC in the liver. The results highlight the antioxidant properties of quercetin and its capacity to improve the general well-being of laying hens.

4.4. Immunity and antioxidant-related parameters

The study conducted by Rupasinghe et al. (2010) found that including quercetin in the diets of broiler chickens resulted in enhancements in their oxidative state and meat quality. Furthermore, investigations by Huang et al. (2010) have shown that quercetin has antiinflammatory effects in animals. Quercetin enhances immunoregulatory benefits by increasing IgY antibody generation, increasing lymphoid organ sizes, and enhancing natural killer cell activity, while the combined impacts of these factors contribute to improved productivity (Manach et al., 2004). A robust immune response is essential for maintaining broilers' health, especially in high-density settings with heightened exposure to pathogens, as noted by Korver (2012). The immune system comprises three primary components: T cell-mediated immunity (including delayed-type hypersensitivity mediated by cells), humoral immunity (containing antibody production mediated by B cells), and nonspecific cell-mediated immunity (involving the function of natural killer cells).

Plum fruit is a highly abundant source of quercetin, containing between 118 to 237 milligrams per 100 g (Bozhkova, 2014). It has been scientifically documented to enhance the immune system. Feeding broilers diets that contain plum powder has been found to have beneficial effects. These effects include lowering the shedding of oocytes in faeces, drastically raising the proliferation of spleen cells, and increasing the concentrations of mRNAs for IL-15 and interferon in broilers that were challenged with Eimeria acervulina (Lee et al., 2008). Previous research has demonstrated that flavones and isoflavones have the potential to enhance the antioxidant activity of broilers (Kamboh & Zhu, 2013). Additionally, these compounds can positively modify the indicators of heat stress by lowering the activity of free radicals produced because of heat stress. Quercetin exhibits antioxidant capabilities that are essential in modulating autoimmune diseases, such as ascites (pulmonary hypertension syndrome) in broilers (Iqbal et al., 2002). Additionally, Sohaib et al. (2016) revealed that the incorporation of quercetin and alpha tocopherol into their diets can improve the oxidative stability, texture, color, and sensory attributes of broiler meat nuggets. This addition also diminishes lipid degradation due to oxidation, enhancing the attraction of the nuggets to customers. Adding quercetin to the diets of laying hens improved their performance by affecting antioxidant enzymes, particularly increasing liver SOD activity, and changing the gut bacteria (Rupasinghe et al., 2010). Additionally, Hager-Theodorides et al. (2014) examined the impact of quercetin supplementation on broiler chickens' immune function and status. The study found no significant differences in cellular immune response or overall immunological state among different dietary therapy groups. However, as the amount of quercetin supplementation increased, the levels of IgY antibodies increased, suggesting quercetin supplementation did not negatively affect immunological markers but had a beneficial impact on poultry health and productivity by increasing IgY antibody production. According to Simitzis et al. (2018) found that quercetin supplementation significantly improved egg yolk oxidation stability, even as early as the fourth day. This beneficial effect remained even after 90 days of storage, suggesting quercetin could significantly enhance egg longevity without affecting chicken performance or other egg quality characteristics.

Zhang and Kim (2020) discovered that giving quercetin to broiler chickens helps keep their meat fresh by boosting their antioxidant defenses and lowering oxidative stress, which is directly linked to tumor necrosis factor-α levels. The outcomes suggested quercetin's potential benefits in meat stability and immunity. Liu et al. (2014) evaluated the impact of quercetin on the antioxidant status of laying hens. The study involved 240 Hessian laying hens, divided into four treatment groups. The results showed quercetin increased Cu-Zn-superoxide dismutase activity, suggesting that it can enhance laying hens' antioxidant capacity. This underscores quercetin's potential as a beneficial dietary supplement for enhancing the antioxidant defenses of birds. Abdel-Latif et al. (2021) discovered that quercetin supplementation boosted mRNA expression levels of antioxidant enzymes, especially in broiler chickens. Liu et al. (2023) discovered that quercetin boosted the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in adult laying hens, but it reduced catalase activity and the amount of malondialdehyde. Quercetin also increased total antioxidant capacity in the liver.

4.5. Intestinal microbiota and gut health

Abdel-Latif et al. (2021) found that quercetin can improve broiler chicken growth and gastrointestinal tract health by increasing villi dimensions. The Q200 dose showed the most positive results for the villi area, while Q800 had the most advantageous effect on crypt depth. Furthermore, the previous work demonstrated that the total count of bacteria in faecal samples produced noteworthy results. More precisely, the groups that received quercetin supplements (Q200, Q400, and Q800) showed a significant decrease in total coliform counts between days 21 and 35. Quercetin supplementation significantly reduced Clostridium perfringens numbers, especially at 35 days of age, while increasing Lactobacillus populations at both 21 and 35 days of life. The significant rise in Lactobacillus populations is attributed to the enhancement of the gut microbiota milieu due to the addition of quercetin. Additionally, feeding laying hens diets containing quercetin is likely to have beneficial impacts on their performance. This is because quercetin can modulate antioxidant enzymes, such as hepatic SOD activity, and regulate the composition of intestinal microbiota. This information is supported by studies conducted by Rupasinghe et al. (2010).

Liu et al. (2014) investigated the effects of quercetin, a flavonoid possessing antioxidant and antibacterial properties, on the cecum of laying hens. The study showed that adding quercetin reduced the number of total aerobe and coliform bacteria while increasing the number of Bifidobacteria. This suggests quercetin's potential as a dietary supplement for improving laying hens' cecal microbiota. Liu et al. (2023) found quercetin and daidzein impacting mature laying hens' cecum microorganisms. Quercetin reduced Bacteroidaceae and Bacteroides, increasing Lactobacillaceae and Lactobacillus. These changes could improve laying hens' digestive system health at the end of their egg-laying cycle.

4.6. Effects of quercetin supplementation on broiler gene expression

Wang et al. (2022) evaluated the impact of quercetin on chicken meat quality in broilers. The study involved 480 AA broilers, aged 1 day, and four groups: a negative control group, quercetin groups, and a control group. The results indicated that quercetin significantly decreased L-FABP expression, increased PKB and AMPKα1 expression, decreased SREBP1 and HMGR expression, and increased CPT1 and PPARγ expression. It also increased PI3K, LPL, and Apo A1 expression in broiler breast muscle while decreasing ACC and FATP1 expression. In addition, the study conducted by Abdel-Latif et al. (2021) revealed a significant increase in the mRNA expression levels of intestinal Cu/Zn-SOD1, GSH-Px, and important nutritional transporters such as glucose transporter 2, peptide transporter 1, and fatty acid synthase genes in groups that were given quercetin supplements.

Wang et al. (2022) have shown that dietary quercetin substantially modifies lipid metabolic pathways in broiler breast muscle, resulting in enhanced meat quality measures. Their findings show that quercetin helps break down fatty acids (by increasing CPT1 and PPARγ) and also lowers fat production (by decreasing SREBP1, HMGR, ACC, and FATP1). The combined activation of the PI3K/PKB pathway and AMPKα1 improves how cells respond to insulin and sense energy, which are key for controlling metabolism. Moreover, elevated expression of LPL and Apo A1 indicates enhanced plasma triglyceride clearance and lipid transport. This change in gene activity from making fat to using it helps explain why there is less fat in the belly and may also lead to better muscle quality, with less fat and different types of fatty acids, which is important for producing better lean meat in poultry. The effects on important control points like AMPK and PPARγ match the results of Hu et al. (2021), who highlighted PPARγ's key role in fat formation in chickens, and Nematbakhsh et al. (2021), who confirmed that activating AMPK is a beneficial way to reduce belly fat in broilers.

In addition to its systemic metabolic effects, quercetin provides notable advantages in the intestinal milieu, as demonstrated by Abdel-Latif et al. (2021). Their research showed that taking quercetin supplements significantly raised the levels of important antioxidant enzymes, especially intestinal Cu/Zn-SOD1 and GSH-Px. This better antioxidant defense system is crucial for lowering oxidative stress from too much production or dietary issues, which helps protect the gut's health and function. Importantly, quercetin also increased the levels of important nutrient transporters, such as glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) for taking in glucose, peptide transporter 1 (PepT1) for absorbing small proteins, and fatty acid synthase (FASN) that helps make new fats in gut cells. This upregulation indicates an increased ability for nutrient digestion and absorption, perhaps resulting in greater overall growth performance and feed efficiency. Yang et al. (2024) confirmed that quercetin's ability to fight oxidation is linked to better gut function, showing that it helps reduce oxidative stress and boosts digestive enzyme activity in poultry. At the same time, Ghasemi et al. (2023) highlighted how important dietary antioxidants like quercetin are for improving gut health and the way nutrients are absorbed, which affects the growth of broilers.

5. Conclusion and future perspectives

Quercetin has many biological effects, including reducing inflammation, fighting oxidation, promoting growth, battling viruses, protecting the liver, killing bacteria, reducing allergies, preventing cancer, stopping blood clots, and modifying immune responses in various animals and birds. Research studies have demonstrated the capacity of Quercetin to elevate meat quality in broilers and augment the growth performance of rabbits. Administering Quercetin to rabbits at doses of 25-100 mg/kg of diet improves growth efficiency, nutrient digestibility, meat quality, and gastrointestinal health. However, supplementing broiler chickens with quercetin up to a dosage of 200 mg/kg in their feed can potentially improve their growth, meat quality, and immunity, while also mitigating the effects of heat stress. Quercetin, when added to the feed of laying hens at a dosage of 200 mg/kg, possesses the capacity to augment egg production, improve egg quality, and boost antioxidant levels. Nevertheless, it is important to highlight the absence of universally accepted procedures for integrating quercetin and other polyphenolic supplements into chicken nutrition. The lack of standardisation is likely a contributing factor to the heterogeneity in outcomes observed in various nutritional experiments. Consequently, it is imperative to undertake more research to ascertain the optimal dosage and duration of quercetin supplementation, also, its potential combination with other additives in the nutrition of rabbits and poultry. This will help to achieve more consistent and dependable outcomes in the poultry industry (Table 1).

Table 1.

Summary of the effects of adding quercetin as a nutritional supplement to animal and poultry feeds on growth performance.

Type Dose Effect Notes References
Rabbits 2 g/kg feed No significant improvement in growth or FCR. Higher FCR tendency, possible hormonal effects, no commercial justification. North et al. (2018)
Laying hens 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6 g/kg No effect on egg quality. Enhances FCR and hen laying rate, with a quadratic correlation and peak at 0.2 g/kg feed dose. Liu et al. (2014)
Laying hens 200, 400, or 800 mg/kg Administration at a dose of 400 mg per kg of feed led to higher feed consumption and eggshell weight. The cholesterol levels in egg yolks increased with the higher quercetin content in the hens' diet (P < 0.05). Simitzis et al. (2018)
Broiler chickens 0.5–1 g/kg feed No effect on BW; poorer FCR at higher doses. Increased relative heart weight; improved meat oxidative stability. Goliomytis et al. (2014)
Broiler chickens 0, 250, 500, and 1,000 mg/kg Found a quadratic relationship between quercetin consumption and BWG. The use of quercetin in small amounts can significantly enhance BWG in chickens. Zhang and Kim (2020)
Broiler chickens 0.2–0.4 g/kg Enhanced growth performance and gut environment. Indicated the optimal range for growth improvement. Abdel-Latif et al. (2021)
Broiler chickens Variable (with oils in feed) Improved efficiency and antioxidant traits. Quercetin mixed with oils in starter, grower, and finisher diets. Sierżant et al. (2023)
Broiler chickens 0.5 mL/kg feed Highest BW, BWG, improved FCR. Best performance at 0.5 mL/kg inclusion level. Ugwuoke et al. (2024)
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BW, body weight; BWG, body weight gain; FI, feed intake; FCR, feed conversion ratio.

Ethical statement

This manuscript is a review and does not need any ethical statement. This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.

CRediT authorship contribution statement

Ayman Abd El-Aziz: Writing – review & editing, Conceptualization. Mahmoud Abo Ghanima: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft. Mahmoud Kamal: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Visualization. Ahmed K. Aldhalmi: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Software. Mohammad M.H. Khan: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Conceptualization. Mohamed E. Abd El-Hack: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft, Visualization, Validation, Software, Conceptualization.

Declaration of competing interest

The authors assert that they have no known financial or personal relationships that could have potentially influenced the work presented in this paper.

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