The paper “Does the use of whey protein in broiler chicken diets have a positive effect? Model-based meta-analysis“, published in The Journal of Agricultural Science, has been chosen as the latest Editorial Highlight and is freely available to download for one month.

Could an overlooked dairy by-product hold the key to more efficient poultry production? Our recent study, selected as Paper of the Month by The Journal of Agricultural Science, explored this very question using a model-based meta-analytic approach.

Whey protein, commonly known as a supplement for athletes, is a by-product of cheese production. In many parts of the world, it is underutilised or even discarded. Yet, it contains valuable amino acids and bioactive peptides that could benefit livestock. In broiler chickens, optimising growth performance while maintaining sustainability has become increasingly critical. This is where whey protein could play a surprising role.

Our research combined data from various studies to assess the effects of dietary whey protein on broiler growth, feed efficiency, and carcass characteristics. Rather than relying on a simple comparison, we employed a model-based meta-analysis – a quantitative technique that synthesises results while accounting for variability across studies.

The findings? Whey protein showed a consistently positive effect on body weight gain and feed conversion ratio in broilers, particularly when included at moderate levels. However, the impact was not purely linear – suggesting that excessive inclusion might not provide additional benefits and could even be counterproductive. This nuanced insight would not have been visible through traditional analysis alone.

Why does this matter? First, it highlights a valuable use for an agricultural by-product that might otherwise go to waste. Second, it offers poultry producers an evidence-based alternative protein source that can potentially reduce feed costs and reliance on more expensive ingredients. And third, it demonstrates the power of advanced statistical modelling in drawing practical conclusions from existing literature.

This study is just the beginning. As feed costs rise and sustainable practices become a priority, incorporating functional ingredients like whey protein may support more resilient poultry production systems.

The Journal of Agricultural Science Editorial Highlights are selected by the Editor-in-Chief and are freely available for one month. View the recent selections here.