1. Introduction:
Biochar, a carbon-rich solid material, is produced through the thermochemical conversion of biomass in an oxygen-limited environment, a process known as pyrolysis. This process yields a material characterized by its high carbon content, extensive porosity, and large surface area, properties that contribute to its diverse applications. While often grouped with charcoal and activated carbon due to similarities in production and properties, biochar is frequently distinguished by its intended use in agricultural and environmental contexts. The terminology surrounding these materials can be overlapping, with charcoal historically used for various purposes, activated carbon undergoing specific activation processes to enhance its adsorptive capacity, and biochar often defined by its application as a soil amendment or in other environmental management practices.
The interest in biochar has grown significantly in recent years, driven by the increasing focus on sustainable agricultural practices and animal health. Its potential benefits extend to improving soil health, sequestering carbon, and enhancing livestock management. Furthermore, biochar is being explored as a natural alternative to antibiotics and synthetic feed additives in livestock production, aligning with the growing consumer demand for more naturally produced food. Its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock and manure management also positions it as a valuable tool in mitigating the environmental impact of agriculture. The convergence of these potential benefits for both animal well-being and environmental sustainability underscores the synergistic approach that biochar offers in addressing multifaceted challenges within the agricultural sector.
This report aims to provide a comprehensive review of biochar’s application in animal husbandry, with a specific focus on poultry, in response to the user’s detailed inquiry. It will delve into the historical uses of charcoal and biochar in animal care, analyze the findings of scientific research on biochar supplementation in poultry, explore any relevant traditional knowledge, detail the current legal status of biochar as a feed additive in the United States, discuss potential dangers and risks associated with its use in animals, review the effects of biochar consumption on human health, and investigate the influence of different types of biochar on both animal and human health. By synthesizing this information, the report seeks to provide a thorough understanding of the multifaceted role of biochar in agriculture and its broader implications.
2. Historical Overview of Charcoal/Biochar Use in Animal Husbandry, with a Focus on Poultry:
The use of charcoal in animal care dates back millennia, with evidence suggesting a long-standing recognition of its beneficial properties. Ancient Egyptians, as early as 2500 years ago, utilized charcoal as an antidote to poison and as a preservative in the embalming process. Similarly, ancient Hindus employed it for purifying water, highlighting its adsorptive capabilities. The medicinal applications of charcoal were also documented by historical figures like Hippocrates (circa 400 BC) and Pliny (circa 50 AD), who recorded its use for treating a wide range of ailments, including intestinal issues and poisoning. This historical prevalence across different cultures indicates an early understanding of charcoal’s capacity for detoxification and promoting well-being.
Traditional farmers worldwide have also relied on charcoal for addressing internal disorders in their livestock. It was reportedly mixed with various substances like butter for cows, eggs for dogs, and meat for cats, suggesting its integration into common animal care practices. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, agricultural journals in the USA featured discussions on the benefits of “cow tonics,” which often contained charcoal to alleviate digestive disorders, increase appetite, and improve milk production. Furthermore, charcoal was considered a superior feed additive for enhancing the butterfat content of milk during this period, indicating its perceived value in optimizing animal productivity. The consistent application of charcoal for digestive problems and poisoning across diverse historical periods and geographical regions underscores an empirical understanding of its adsorptive properties, even before modern scientific explanations of its mechanisms were available.
While specific historical records detailing the use of charcoal or biochar in poultry farming before the 20th century are less prevalent compared to other livestock, some evidence suggests its application. A 1906 textbook on animal husbandry noted that swine exhibit a craving for and benefit from consuming substances like charcoal and wood ashes, implying a potential understanding of similar benefits for other confined animals like poultry. More directly, Totusek & Beeson (1953) documented that biochar products had been used in US-American poultry feed since around 1940. Additionally, Steinegger & Menzi (1955) reported that in Switzerland, it was common practice to add biochar to chick feed and the meal for laying hens to prevent digestive problems and regulate digestion. These accounts, though limited, indicate that the use of charcoal/biochar in poultry farming has been established for at least several decades, with a focus on promoting digestive health. The adoption of this practice in poultry likely stemmed from the observed benefits in other animal species and a practical understanding of its potential to address common poultry ailments.
The widespread use of charcoal in agriculture gradually declined with the advent of antibiotics in the 1950s, which offered seemingly more direct and rapid solutions to bacterial infections in livestock. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in more natural farming methods, driven by growing concerns regarding antibiotic resistance, the use of growth hormones, and a general desire for safer and more sustainable food production. This renewed focus has led to a re-evaluation of traditional practices, including the use of charcoal and biochar in animal husbandry. The historical trajectory of biochar use reflects a broader shift in agricultural practices, initially influenced by technological advancements that favored synthetic solutions, but now evolving to incorporate more holistic and environmentally conscious approaches. The current resurgence signifies a recognition of the potential benefits of biochar in addressing contemporary challenges in animal health and environmental sustainability.
3. Scientific Investigations into Biochar Supplementation in Poultry:
Scientific research in recent decades has begun to explore the effects of biochar supplementation on various aspects of poultry health and production. Studies have investigated its impact on growth performance, feed conversion ratio, disease resistance, gut health, and environmental emissions.
Regarding growth performance and feed conversion ratio, findings have been somewhat varied. Some studies have reported improvements in growth rates and feed efficiency in poultry when biochar is included in the feed at lower doses, such as 0.2-0.6%. For instance, research has shown significant weight increases in chickens with the addition of corncob charcoal at these levels. However, other research indicates no significant impact or even a decrease in body weight gain and an increase in the feed conversion ratio (the amount of feed required to produce a unit of body weight) at higher biochar concentrations. One study found that while broilers fed 4% and 6% corn stover biochar had similar and heavier final body weights compared to a control group, the feed conversion ratio was actually better in the control group. This suggests that the optimal level of biochar inclusion may be crucial for achieving growth benefits without compromising feed efficiency. The inconsistent results across studies underscore the importance of considering dosage and the specific type of biochar used, as these factors can significantly influence the outcomes. Further research is needed to establish clear guidelines on optimal inclusion levels for different poultry breeds and production systems.
The impact of biochar on disease resistance and gut health in poultry appears more consistently positive. Biochar supplementation has shown promise in reducing the presence of important poultry pathogens, such as Campylobacter and Gallibacterium anatis. A notable study demonstrated an 80% reduction in Campylobacter in free-range chickens when their feed was supplemented with biochar. The mechanism behind this pathogen reduction is likely multifaceted, involving the adsorption of bacteria and toxins, as well as the creation of a more favorable environment for beneficial gut microbes. Biochar’s porous structure and large surface area facilitate the binding of toxins, mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds), and other harmful substances in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption into the bird’s system. This detoxification can lead to improved gut health and overall vitality in poultry. Furthermore, biochar in poultry litter has been shown to help in reducing footpad disease, a common ailment in poultry farming, by improving litter quality through moisture control and the reduction of ammonia levels. By maintaining drier and less ammonia-rich litter, biochar helps to create a healthier living environment for the birds.
The effects of biochar on ammonia and odor emissions in poultry farming are also well-documented. Research consistently shows that incorporating biochar into poultry litter can significantly reduce ammonia emissions. This reduction is crucial for improving the air quality within poultry houses, which directly benefits the health and welfare of the birds and farmworkers. Ammonia is a pungent gas that can irritate the respiratory systems of both animals and humans. Biochar’s high adsorption capacity allows it to bind to nitrogen compounds in the litter, preventing their volatilization as ammonia. Additionally, biochar’s ability to regulate moisture content in the litter further contributes to reducing ammonia buildup, as excessive moisture can promote the microbial processes that release ammonia. The combined effect of ammonia reduction and moisture control creates a healthier and more comfortable environment for poultry, potentially leading to improved productivity and reduced disease incidence.
4. Traditional Knowledge:
Beyond scientific studies, traditional knowledge also offers insights into the use of charcoal and related materials in animal care. As mentioned earlier, traditional farmers across the globe have historically used charcoal for various livestock ailments, particularly those related to digestion. This widespread practice suggests an empirically derived understanding of its benefits.
The use of wood ash is another area of traditional knowledge relevant to animal husbandry. Wood ash, the residue from burning wood, contains various minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Traditionally, wood ash has been used as a mineral supplement for livestock, particularly in subsistence farming communities where access to commercial mineral supplements might be limited. The primary mineral in wood ash is calcium, making it a potential source of this essential nutrient for animals, especially when their diets are low in calcium, such as those based on cereal grains or cassava. However, the mineral composition of wood ash can vary widely depending on the type of wood burned and the combustion conditions, which can limit its widespread use as a consistent mineral source. Despite this variability, the traditional use of wood ash highlights an awareness of the mineral needs of livestock and the potential of readily available resources to meet those needs.
Interestingly, observations of wild animals also provide clues about the potential benefits of charcoal consumption. Some wild mammals, such as deer and elk, have been reported to eat from charred trees after wildfires. The Zanzibar red colobus monkey regularly consumes charcoal to aid in the digestion of young leaves that contain toxic phenolic compounds. This natural behavior suggests that charcoal can play a role in detoxification and digestive regulation in animals, supporting the traditional and scientific findings in domestic livestock. The fact that animals instinctively seek out and consume charcoal when available indicates a potential physiological benefit, particularly in managing dietary toxins.
5. Legal Status in the US:
The legal status of biochar as a feed additive in the United States is currently somewhat complex and evolving. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates animal feed in the US for interstate commerce, and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) defines what is acceptable for use in animal foods. As of 2010, AAFCO withdrew charcoal as an animal feed ingredient, and currently, there is no specific food additive regulation, feed term, or feed ingredient definition for any type of charcoal, which includes biochar. This means that no generally acceptable animal food use has been established for “charcoal” in general.
Despite the lack of federal approval, the use of biochar as a feed additive is more widespread in Europe, where a certification process is in place. In the US, the FDA approves biochar as a feed additive on a case-by-case basis. Some suppliers of biochar for livestock feed have obtained approval at the state level only. Many states tend to follow the FDA approval process, but some allow the use of biochar as an additive as long as the firm complies with reporting requirements and pays the necessary taxes. Firms interested in using or selling biochar for animal feed in the US need to check with their state-level feed regulation agencies to understand the specific requirements.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) has defined biochar as “a biomass that has been carbonized or charred” and classifies it as a non-synthetic substance for use in organic production. However, the NOP stipulates that biochar sources must be untreated plant or animal material, and the pyrolysis process must not use prohibited additives. Notably, the USDA organic regulations prohibit the use of non-synthetic “ash from manure burning”. A petition was submitted to the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) arguing that biochar produced from cow manure should not be misclassified as ash from manure burning, highlighting the improved agricultural and environmental outcomes associated with biochar compared to manure itself. This indicates an ongoing discussion and potential for future regulatory changes regarding the use of biochar, particularly manure-derived biochar, in organic agriculture. While activated charcoal from vegetative sources is approved as a synthetic substance allowed for use in organic livestock production for filtering purposes, biochar’s classification and regulatory pathway for use as a feed additive remain under scrutiny.
6. Potential Dangers and Risks for Animals:
While research generally points to the benefits of biochar in animal husbandry, it is important to consider potential dangers and risks associated with its use. Some studies have identified rare negative effects, such as the immobilization of liposoluble feed ingredients like vitamin E or carotenoids, which could limit the long-term feeding of biochar. This potential for adsorbing beneficial nutrients alongside toxins highlights the need for careful consideration of dosage and the characteristics of the biochar being used.
Another potential risk is the contamination of biochar with heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), depending on the feedstock material and the pyrolysis production process. If the biomass used to produce biochar contains high levels of heavy metals, these contaminants can become concentrated in the biochar. Similarly, incomplete combustion or lower pyrolysis temperatures might result in the formation of PAHs, some of which are known carcinogens. Therefore, ensuring the quality and safety of biochar through proper feedstock selection and controlled production processes is crucial to mitigate these risks. Quality control measures, including testing for heavy metals and PAHs, are essential, especially when biochar is intended for use in animal feed.
It is also worth noting that activated charcoal, while similar to biochar, has been reported to potentially cause diarrhea in some formulations and may lead to electrolyte imbalances or gastrointestinal obstruction with repeated doses. Its strong adsorptive properties can also interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients and medications if not used carefully. While these concerns are primarily associated with activated charcoal, they underscore the general principle that any highly adsorptive material ingested by animals should be used with caution and with consideration for potential unintended consequences. Research suggests that the effects of biochar on animals can vary depending on the specific properties of the biochar, such as porosity, surface area, pH, and the presence of functional groups, which are in turn determined by the feedstock and pyrolysis conditions. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the biochar’s characteristics and its potential interactions within the animal’s digestive system is necessary to ensure safe and beneficial use.
7. Effects of Biochar Consumption on the Human Body:
The effects of biochar consumption on the human body have also been investigated, primarily in the context of activated charcoal, which shares many similarities with biochar in terms of its adsorptive properties. Activated charcoal is well-documented for its use as an antidote for poisoning and drug overdose in humans due to its ability to adsorb a wide range of toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. It has also been used to treat nonspecific diarrhea by adsorbing bacteria and toxins in the gut. This established medical use highlights the potential of carbonaceous materials like biochar to interact with and remove harmful substances from the human body.
Beyond emergency medical applications, some research and anecdotal evidence suggest potential benefits of consuming biochar or activated charcoal for general detoxification and gut health. Proponents claim that it can help remove environmental toxins, heavy metals, and other harmful compounds from the body. Some individuals report using it to alleviate digestive issues and improve gut microbial balance. However, it is crucial to approach these claims with caution, as scientific evidence supporting widespread health benefits in healthy individuals is limited.
There are also potential risks associated with human consumption of biochar or activated charcoal. One significant concern is the non-selective adsorption of substances in the digestive tract, which means that alongside toxins, beneficial nutrients, vitamins, and medications can also be adsorbed and their absorption reduced. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies or decreased efficacy of prescribed drugs if not managed carefully. Another risk is the potential contamination of biochar with PAHs, which, as mentioned earlier, are carcinogenic. If biochar intended for human consumption is not produced under carefully controlled conditions to minimize PAH formation, it could pose a health hazard.
The distinction between biochar, charcoal, and activated charcoal is important in the context of human consumption. While all three are carbon-rich materials produced by pyrolysis, activated charcoal undergoes additional processing to significantly increase its surface area and adsorption capacity, making it more potent for detoxification purposes. Biochar, intended primarily for soil amendment, may not be produced with the same level of purity and quality control necessary for safe human consumption. Charcoal, especially charcoal briquettes intended for grilling, may contain additives that are harmful if ingested. Therefore, if considering consuming any form of pyrolyzed carbon material, it is essential to ensure it is specifically produced and tested for human consumption to minimize potential risks. Research indicates that charcoal production and usage, particularly in poorly ventilated environments, have been linked to adverse health outcomes, including respiratory diseases. While this is primarily related to inhalation of emissions, it underscores the importance of understanding the potential health impacts associated with carbonaceous materials.
8. Different Types of Biochar and Their Varying Effects:
The effects of biochar on both animal and human health can vary significantly depending on the type of biochar used. The properties of biochar are largely determined by the feedstock material and the conditions under which it is produced, particularly the pyrolysis temperature.
Different feedstock materials, such as woody biomass, manure, and agricultural residues, can result in biochars with varying nutrient content, pH levels, and adsorption capacities. For example, biochar derived from manure generally has a greater content of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as a higher cation exchange capacity compared to biochar made from wood. This difference in nutrient profile can influence the effectiveness of biochar when used as a soil amendment or as a feed additive, particularly in terms of providing trace minerals. Biochar from wood waste, on the other hand, tends to have a greater fixed carbon content, making it more stable and potentially better for long-term carbon sequestration. It also often has a greater porosity, which can enhance its water retention capacity when applied to soil. The pH of biochar can also vary with the feedstock, with biochar from conifer wood having a lower pH, making it more suitable for alkaline soils.
The pyrolysis temperature also plays a crucial role in determining biochar characteristics. Higher pyrolysis temperatures (500-650°C) tend to produce biochar with a greater amount of micropores, which are particularly effective for the adsorption of toxic substances and soil rehabilitation. Biochar produced at higher temperatures also generally has a higher pH and mineral content but a lower cation exchange capacity. Lower pyrolysis temperatures (400°C and below) result in biochar with lower carbon content but increased levels of nitrogen, sulfur, potassium, and phosphorus. The electrical conductivity of biochar, which is a measure of its salt content, is also influenced by temperature and feedstock.
These varying properties mean that different types of biochar can have different effects on animal health. For instance, research has shown that certain animals may exhibit more pronounced benefits from specific types of biochar in their feed. In cattle, biochar can improve digestive health and reduce methane emissions. In poultry, it has been used to reduce ammonia emissions from litter and improve growth rates. Sheep may benefit from enhanced nutrient utilization and healthier fleece, while swine can experience detoxification and improved growth performance. The specific type of biochar, its source, and the processing conditions are critical factors in determining these varied effects. For example, bamboo charcoal has shown positive effects on growth rates in goats , while corncob charcoal has improved weight gain in chickens. Even within poultry, biochar derived from different sources like wood or poultry litter can have different impacts on growth and egg production. Therefore, the selection of the appropriate type of biochar is essential for achieving the desired outcomes in animal husbandry.
9. Mechanisms of Action:
The beneficial effects of biochar in livestock and poultry are attributed to several key mechanisms, primarily related to its unique physical and chemical properties.
One of the most significant mechanisms is adsorption. Biochar’s high porosity and large surface area provide numerous binding sites for various substances, including ammonia and toxins. In animal housing, biochar in the litter can effectively adsorb ammonia gas, reducing its concentration in the air and improving the environment for the animals. When ingested, biochar can adsorb toxins such as mycotoxins, plant toxins, and pesticides in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption and mitigating their harmful effects. The adsorption process can involve physical entrapment, electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and chemical bonding with surface functional groups on the biochar.
Biochar also exerts a significant influence on the gut microbiome of animals, particularly poultry. Its porous structure can provide a habitat for beneficial microorganisms, promoting their growth and activity. Studies have shown that biochar supplementation can lead to a shift in the gut microbiota, often increasing the ratio of beneficial to pathogenic bacteria. This can result in improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and better overall gut health. For example, biochar has been shown to reduce the survival of pathogenic bacteria like Campylobacter in the gut. The exact mechanisms by which biochar modulates the gut microbiome are still being investigated, but they likely involve a combination of direct adsorption of pathogens and toxins, as well as indirect effects on the gut environment that favor the proliferation of beneficial microbes.
Emerging research also highlights the redox activity of biochar as another important mechanism in feed digestion. Biochars can act as electron mediators, facilitating electron transfer between microorganisms and between microbes and their environment in the gastrointestinal tract. This redox activity can potentially enhance the efficiency of microbial degradation of feed and overcome metabolic limitations, contributing to improved nutrient utilization. While this aspect of biochar’s function is still being explored, it suggests a more complex interaction within the digestive system beyond simple adsorption.
10. Quality Standards and Control:
Given the potential variability in biochar properties and the risks associated with contaminants, quality standards and control measures are crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of biochar, especially in animal feed. Several organizations have developed voluntary biochar quality standards, such as the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) and the International Biochar Initiative (IBI) standards. These standards aim to provide guidelines for biochar production and use, emphasizing factors like carbon content, pH levels, particle size, water content, and the presence of contaminants like heavy metals and PAHs.
For biochar intended for use as animal feed, the EBC has specific “EBC-Feed” certification, which has stricter limits for certain contaminants compared to biochar used as a soil additive, aligning with EU regulations on undesirable substances in animal feed. These regulations include thresholds for heavy metals like arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury, as well as for benzo[a]pyrene, a carcinogenic PAH, and for dioxins, furans, and PCBs. The EBC-Feed certification also requires the biochar to be produced from pure plant biomass and to be milled to a particle size below 3 mm to prevent choking hazards. Achieving this certification requires meeting all the conditions for EBC-AgroOrganic quality and undergoing appropriate testing.
The IBI standards also provide guidelines for product testing, including requirements for organic carbon content, hydrogen-to-organic carbon ratio (as an indicator of stability), moisture content, ash content, nutrient levels, pH, electrical conductivity, particle size, and thresholds for heavy metals and organic pollutants like PAHs, PCBs, PCDDs, and PCDFs. A germination inhibition assay is also often required to assess potential phytotoxicity. In jurisdictions where no national or sub-national regulations exist for biochar use in soil or animal feed, adherence to these voluntary quality standards is particularly important to ensure safety and efficacy. Producers are typically required to test their biochar for PAH content and meet the limits set by EBC or IBI guidelines.
Proper production methods and feedstock selection are fundamental to achieving high-quality biochar that is safe for animal consumption. Recommended pyrolysis temperatures for producing biochar with low PAH content are generally above 500-550°C. Feedstock should be clean and untreated wood, agricultural residues, or nut shells, while treated wood, municipal waste, and contaminated biomass should be avoided. Regular testing of the biochar product is essential to ensure it meets the required quality standards for its intended application.
While quality standards for biochar in animal feed are becoming more established, those specifically for human consumption research are less defined. However, the principles of minimizing contaminants like heavy metals and PAHs, as well as ensuring the purity of the source material, remain critical. Some simple tests, like the water bottle test and UV light fluorescence test, can provide preliminary indications of PAH contamination in charcoal. Ultimately, for human consumption, biochar or activated charcoal should be sourced from reputable suppliers who follow stringent quality control measures and provide testing results for contaminants.
11. Economic and Environmental Impact:
The use of biochar in poultry farming has significant economic and environmental implications. Economically, biochar can offer cost savings and create new market opportunities. Improved feed efficiency due to better digestion and nutrient absorption can reduce the amount of feed required, leading to lower feed costs. Reduced disease incidence and mortality can also contribute to economic benefits by lowering veterinary expenses and increasing the number of birds reaching market weight. Furthermore, the use of biochar in manure management can transform poultry litter into a more valuable fertilizer product, potentially creating an additional revenue stream for farmers. Some companies are already producing and marketing biochar-enriched fertilizers made from poultry litter, highlighting this economic potential. The long-term stability of carbon in biochar also opens the possibility of participating in carbon credit markets, providing another potential economic incentive for its adoption.
Environmentally, biochar offers several key benefits in poultry farming. The reduction of ammonia emissions from poultry litter is a major environmental advantage, as ammonia is a significant air pollutant and can contribute to water pollution through deposition. Studies have shown substantial reductions in ammonia emissions when biochar is added to poultry litter. Biochar also plays a role in carbon sequestration by storing carbon in a stable form that resists decomposition, thus reducing the carbon footprint of poultry farming. Furthermore, biochar’s ability to bind nutrients in manure, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, helps prevent their loss through runoff, protecting water bodies from eutrophication. The resulting biochar-enriched manure is a more valuable organic fertilizer, improving soil health and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. By addressing waste management, improving soil fertility, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, biochar presents a sustainable solution for the poultry industry to mitigate its environmental impact.
12. Conclusion:
The exploration of biochar’s role in livestock and poultry farming reveals a substance with a rich history, a growing body of scientific support, and significant potential for addressing contemporary challenges in agriculture. Historically, charcoal has been recognized for its beneficial effects on animal health, particularly in relation to digestive issues and detoxification, with specific applications in poultry emerging in the mid-20th century. Modern scientific investigations have largely validated these traditional uses, demonstrating biochar’s positive impacts on disease resistance, gut health, and the reduction of ammonia and odor emissions in poultry. While the effects on growth performance and feed conversion ratio appear to be dose-dependent and influenced by biochar type, the overall evidence suggests a promising role for biochar in enhancing poultry health and productivity.
Traditional knowledge, including the use of charcoal and wood ash, further supports the scientific findings, highlighting an empirical understanding of the benefits of these carbonaceous materials in animal care. However, the legal landscape in the US for biochar as a feed additive remains complex, with no general federal approval currently in place, although state-level approvals exist. In contrast, Europe has established certification processes for biochar in animal feed. Potential dangers associated with biochar use, such as the immobilization of nutrients and contamination with heavy metals and PAHs, underscore the importance of quality control and proper production methods.
The effects of biochar consumption on human health are primarily studied in the context of activated charcoal, which has established medical uses for detoxification and diarrhea treatment. While some proponents suggest broader health benefits, potential risks like nutrient and medication adsorption and PAH contamination necessitate caution. The type of biochar, determined by feedstock and pyrolysis conditions, significantly influences its properties and effects on both animal and human health, highlighting the need for careful selection based on the intended application. Mechanistically, biochar’s benefits stem from its high adsorption capacity for ammonia and toxins, its positive modulation of the gut microbiome, and potentially its redox activity in the digestive system. The establishment and adherence to quality standards are crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of biochar in animal feed.
Economically, biochar offers potential cost savings and new revenue streams for poultry farmers, while environmentally, it contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration, and improved manure management. In conclusion, biochar holds considerable promise for sustainable agriculture and animal health, particularly in poultry farming. However, further research is warranted to optimize its production, dosage, and application methods for different livestock species and to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its long-term effects on both animal and human well-being.
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