The intestinal microbiota, epithelium, and immune system collectively provide resistance to enteric pathogens. Recent studies suggest that this resistance is not solely due to the sum of these components but also involves cross-talk between them. Probiotics and prebiotics are two approaches that have shown promise in reducing enteric diseases in poultry and subsequent contamination of poultry products. Probiotics are live microbial feed supplements that beneficially affect the host by improving intestinal balance, while prebiotics are nondigestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. These microorganisms can increase resistance to disease and can be enriched in the intestinal tract by feeding specific carbohydrates. The use of probiotics and prebiotics as alternatives to sub-therapeutic antibiotics in livestock is gaining interest due to concerns about antibiotic resistance. Research is focused on identifying beneficial bacterial strains and substrates, as well as the conditions under which they are effective. Studies have shown that probiotics and prebiotics can reduce pathogen colonization, alter microbial populations, and enhance the immune system. However, the efficacy of these products can be influenced by environmental and stress conditions. Understanding the mechanisms of action and optimal conditions for their use is crucial for their effective application in poultry production.The intestinal microbiota, epithelium, and immune system collectively provide resistance to enteric pathogens. Recent studies suggest that this resistance is not solely due to the sum of these components but also involves cross-talk between them. Probiotics and prebiotics are two approaches that have shown promise in reducing enteric diseases in poultry and subsequent contamination of poultry products. Probiotics are live microbial feed supplements that beneficially affect the host by improving intestinal balance, while prebiotics are nondigestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. These microorganisms can increase resistance to disease and can be enriched in the intestinal tract by feeding specific carbohydrates. The use of probiotics and prebiotics as alternatives to sub-therapeutic antibiotics in livestock is gaining interest due to concerns about antibiotic resistance. Research is focused on identifying beneficial bacterial strains and substrates, as well as the conditions under which they are effective. Studies have shown that probiotics and prebiotics can reduce pathogen colonization, alter microbial populations, and enhance the immune system. However, the efficacy of these products can be influenced by environmental and stress conditions. Understanding the mechanisms of action and optimal conditions for their use is crucial for their effective application in poultry production.