CLASSIFICATION OF NON-STARCH POLYSACCHARIDES

Dear EggCellent Feeds Subscribers,

In this edition of EggCellent Feeds, we’re diving into the classification of Non-Starch Polysaccharides (NSPs)—a crucial topic in poultry nutrition. Understanding the different types of NSPs and their properties can help optimize feed formulation, improve gut health, and enhance overall poultry performance.

??? Classification of Non-Starch Polysaccharides

NSPs are complex carbohydrates found in plant-based feed ingredients. They are broadly categorized into three main groups based on their solubility and composition:

1?? Non-Cellulose Polymers (Partially Soluble in Water) ??

These NSPs can dissolve partially in water, influencing feed digestibility and gut function. They include:

• Arabinoxylans – Found in cereals like wheat, rye, and barley, these impact gut viscosity.
• Mixed-linked β-glucans – Commonly found in barley and oats; can increase intestinal viscosity.
• Mannans, Galactans, and Xyloglucans – Found in legumes and seeds, playing a role in fiber structure and digestion.
• Fructans – Present in vegetables and certain grains, affecting water retention in the gut.

?? Why it matters: The solubility of these NSPs can influence feed efficiency, nutrient absorption, and gut microbiota composition in poultry.

2?? Cellulose (Insoluble in Water) ????

Cellulose is a structural component of plant cell walls, making it highly resistant to digestion. Poultry lack the necessary enzymes to break down cellulose efficiently.

• Extraction: Can only be broken down by alkali or dilute acid treatments.
• Source: Found in plant stems, leaves, and husks.

?? Why it matters: Though indigestible, cellulose provides dietary bulk and supports gut motility.

3?? Pectic Polysaccharides (Partially Soluble in Water) ??

Pectic substances are primarily made up of polygalacturonic acids, which may be further substituted with:

• Arabinan
• Galactan
• Arabinogalactan

?? Why it matters: Pectins play a role in modifying gut viscosity and fermentation, influencing digestion and nutrient absorption.

?? What This Means for Poultry Nutrition

• Soluble NSPs can increase intestinal viscosity, potentially leading to poor nutrient absorption.
• Insoluble NSPs aid gut motility and support beneficial microbial populations.
• Proper feed formulation can help mitigate the anti-nutritional effects of NSPs, improving bird health and performance.

For a more detailed breakdown, check out my previous infographic design on NSP classification from below link:

https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/adel-halbouni-57ba9b25_poultrynutrition-animalscience-infographicdesign-activity-7201915315046301696-ytXi?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAVSbm8Bs2P3eoHTP_01Tvogq6-A12N0rz4

?? I’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you manage NSP content in your poultry feed formulations? Drop your insights in the comments below!

Feathered Regards, Adel Halbouni

EggCellent Feeds Team ?

??2025

#PoultryNutrition #NSPClassification #FeedScience #GutHealth #EggCellentFeeds