Researchers are increasingly focused on duckweed (Lemna minor) as a sustainable and cost-effective feed source for livestock, including poultry, amid growing concerns about global food security and the need to reduce reliance on traditional feed ingredients. A surge in recent studies highlights the plant’s potential to not only maintain animal performance but also to offer immunomodulatory benefits and improve the nutritional profile of meat products.
A study published in Nature in February 2026, examined the effects of incorporating duckweed into the diets of broiler chickens. The findings indicated that duckweed inclusion, at levels of up to 4%, did not negatively impact the chickens’ growth or overall weight gain. Researchers observed no significant differences in performance between chickens fed duckweed-supplemented diets and those fed a control diet. Yet, the study did note a discernible effect on the smell of the meat, with increasing duckweed percentages correlating with a more pronounced odor.
The growing interest in duckweed as a feed additive coincides with a global push to reduce antibiotic use in livestock production. According to a review published in Life in 2023, natural feed additives are being explored as viable alternatives to stimulate the immune systems of chickens. The review details the immunomodulatory benefits of phytogenic feed additives, including flavonoids, resveratrol and humic acid, and identifies herbs, spices, and other plant byproducts with similar properties.
Duckweed’s nutritional profile makes it an attractive option. Research dating back to 1980, as well as more recent studies, confirms its potential as a source of protein and amino acids. Modern research, including function published in Foods in 2024, continues to unlock the value of duckweed for both the food and feed industries. The plant’s rapid growth rate and ability to thrive in wastewater streams further enhance its sustainability credentials, as demonstrated by research focused on its cultivation on agricultural wastewater.
Whereas duckweed shows promise, researchers caution that optimal dosage is crucial. Studies suggest that excessive amounts of certain additives can actually suppress immune function. Ongoing research is focused on determining tolerance levels and identifying effective combinations of additives to maximize benefits. A 2023 study in the Iranian Journal of Applied Animal Science found that supplementing laying hens with duckweed, alongside enzymes, impacted egg yield and quality, as well as biochemical and antioxidant parameters.
The potential of duckweed extends beyond broilers and laying hens. Studies have explored its use in diets for ducks, pigs, and goats, highlighting its versatility as a livestock feed. Researchers are also investigating the use of duckweed in conjunction with other sustainable feed sources, such as amaranth, to further enhance nutritional value and immune response. A 2023 study in Antioxidants demonstrated the positive effects of amaranth supplementation, combined with an enzyme blend, on egg quality and serum biochemistry in laying hens.
However, challenges remain. Processing techniques can influence the phytochemical content and potential toxicity of duckweed, as noted in a 2021 study in the International Journal of Vegetable Science. Further research is needed to optimize processing methods and ensure the safety and efficacy of duckweed-based feed products. The effects of extreme climate events on food security, as highlighted in a 2021 Nature Food article, underscore the urgency of identifying resilient and sustainable feed sources like duckweed.
As of February 25, 2026, the long-term effects of widespread duckweed adoption on poultry health and meat quality remain under investigation. Further studies are planned to assess the impact of duckweed on gut microbiome composition and the expression of immune-related genes in broiler chickens.