MARKET REPORT 110 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE November 2025 nificant differences depending on the animal species. Each species' digestive system, microbial profile, feeding habits, and rearing conditions shape the composition of the essential oil blends used and their application purpose. The poultry, pig, ruminant, aquaculture, and pet segments have different dynamics in terms of both usage intensity and market growth rates. Poultry The poultry sector is the segment where essential oils are most commonly used as feed additives. In broiler, layer, and turkey production, the primary objectives are to support digestive health, improve feed utilization, and reduce antibiotic use. For example, active compounds derived from thyme and cinnamon (thymol, carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde) reduce pathogen load and improve nutrient absorption by modulating the gut microbiota. They also limit oxidative damage during periods of heat stress, preventing performance losses. Therefore, the poultry segment has the largest share in the global feed essential oils market. Intensive production systems, short production cycles, and increasing demand for antibiotic alternatives support the segment's growth. Pigs Essential oils in pig feed are used primarily for digestive health, immune support, and weaning stress reduction. Mixtures containing carvacrol, thymol, eugenol, and menthol are preferred for balancing the intestinal flora in weaned piglets, maintaining feed intake, and reducing cases of diarrhea. Furthermore, microencapsulated formulations that create a synergistic effect with fatty acids are becoming widespread in the pig sector. Strong production volumes in China, Europe, and North America have made this segment the second largest market after poultry. Ruminants In ruminants (dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats), essential oils are used to optimize rumen fermentation and reduce methane production. Improving energy balance, maintaining milk yield and fat-protein ratio, especially during lactation, are the primary objectives. Peppermint, garlic, clove, and cinnamon oils reduce ammonia formation and improve feed conversion by balancing rumen microbial activity. Although market share is more limited compared to the poultry and swine segments, intensive operations in Europe and Latin America focused on milk yield are the main drivers of growth. Aquaculture The use of essential oils in aquafeeds is still in its early stages but has the potential for rapid growth. It is used in fish and shrimp feed to protect intestinal health, reduce oxidative stress, and increase palatability. Oils derived from mint, garlic, cloves, and citrus fruits limit microbial pressure in aquatic environments and improve feed conversion rates. In formulations using plant or insect proteins instead of fish meal, essential oils stand out as functional ingredients that compensate for loss of flavor and digestibility. Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing region in this segment. Pets Essential oils are valuable ingredients in pet food, both functionally and from a marketing perspective. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they extend Photo: Budimir Jevtic | Shutterstock
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