Abstract
Growing global demand for poultry products continues to intensify pressure on conventional feed ingredients, particularly soybean meal and fishmeal, which face sustainability, cost, and supply-chain constraints. Biotechnological and digital innovations are emerging as viable pathways for developing alternative protein sources that reduce environmental impacts while supporting efficient poultry production. This review synthesizes recent advances in single-cell protein, precision-fermentation products, insect-derived meals, microalgae, and upgraded agro-industrial byproducts, with emphasis on their nutrient composition, amino acid balance, digestibility, and functional bioactive properties. Special attention is given to improvements in growth performance, feed efficiency, immune responses, gut microbiota modulation, and meat quality observed in poultry fed biotechnology-derived protein. The review integrates evidence on environmental and economic benefits, including reductions in land use, water demand, and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as their contributions to a circular bioeconomy through waste valorization and nutrient recycling. Key regulatory, safety, and industry-adoption challenges are evaluated, particularly those related to large-scale processing, standardization of nutrient profiles, consumer perception, and approval pathways. Digital innovation is presented as a critical accelerator for next-generation protein development. Emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital twins, automated bioprocess monitoring, and multi-omics technologies are described in relation to strain optimization, predictive modelling of nutrient digestibility, process control, quality assurance, and precision formulation. These technologies increase feasibility and reduce development time, making biotechnology-enhanced proteins more competitive with conventional feedstuffs. Overall, biotechnology combined with digital innovation presents transformative opportunities for sustainable poultry nutrition. The integration of engineered microbial biomass, insects, fermentation-enhanced byproducts, and data-driven feed optimization can improve production efficiency while reducing environmental burdens. The insights summarized in this review provide a foundation for researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers seeking to advance climate-smart, resource-efficient, and circular poultry production systems.