Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) in poultry nutrition: a bibliometric analysis (1962–2025)

Resumo

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific production on the use of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) in poultry nutrition, with particular emphasis on its relevance for tropical and subtropical production systems. Records were retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science databases on September 28, 2025, using a title-restricted search strategy, and the resulting metadata were analyzed in R using the bibliometrix package. A total of 50 documents published between 1962 and 2025 were retained after screening, cleaning, and duplicate removal. The dataset revealed a negative annual growth rate (−2.18%), an average document age of 19.8 years, 5.1 citations per document, and limited international co-authorship (8%). Original research articles predominated (90%), whereas reviews and technical notes were scarce. Scientific production was concentrated in tropical and subtropical countries, especially Nigeria, Indonesia, China, Brazil, and Australia, reflecting the regional availability of sweet potato and the applied nature of the topic. Studies on performance and digestibility still prevail in the literature, but recent thematic shifts indicate growing interest in functional properties, gut health, antioxidant effects, and bioactive compounds, particularly from purple sweet potato. Despite its potential as a sustainable alternative feed ingredient, the field remains fragmented and methodologically heterogeneous. Greater international collaboration, harmonized protocols, and quantitative integrative approaches such as meta-analyses and multicenter trials are needed to improve the robustness and applicability of evidence on sweet potato in poultry production systems.