Indonesian Students Develop Kirinyuh Leaf Additive to Combat Microplastics in Broiler Chickens

Microplastic contamination has infiltrated the drinking water and feed of broiler chickens, posing a significant threat to animal health and potentially human consumers. This contamination can induce oxidative stress, damage digestive systems, hinder nutrient absorption, and stunt growth.

In response, a team of students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) in Yogyakarta has engineered an innovative, natural feed additive. Their creation utilizes nano-particles derived from kirinyuh leaves (Chromolaena odorata) to create a dual-action product. It functions as a natural adsorbent, effectively binding microplastics within the animal's digestive tract, while also serving as a source of natural antioxidants.

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The nano-scale particle size of the product from kirinyuh leaves allows for an increased surface area, enabling it to bind microplastics more effectively and aid in excretion through feces.

The project, led by Fauzan Akbar Nugroho, involved a multidisciplinary collaboration of UGM students. Fauzan explained that the nano-scale particles of the kirinyuh-based product increase surface area, enabling more efficient microplastic binding and excretion. The plant's flavonoid and phenolic compounds also help mitigate oxidative stress and maintain gut health.

This research holds the potential to bolster food security and promote sustainable livestock farming. The team believes their cross-disciplinary approach can significantly contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, specifically addressing food security, health, and environmental sustainability.

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Cross-disciplinary research collaboration can support the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) from the aspects of food security, health, and environmental sustainability.