Original scientific paper
OPTIMIZING GUT HEALTH AND PERFORMANCE THROUGH A PHYTOGENIC FEED ADDITIVE
Tobias Steiner
; BIOMIN GmbH, Herzogenburg, Austria
Abstract
The significance of gut health for optimized feed efficiency has become more evident in present times of volatile prices for feed ingredients. Several feeding strategies may be implemented in order to secure gut health and performance of farm animals. Among potential alternatives, phytogenics represent a relatively new and promising group of substances that may help the animal to achieve its genetic potential for growth performance better. Originating from plant materials, phytogenics have flavouring properties as well as biological activities. Antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant and many other biological activities have been found in various phytogenic compounds. However, the mode of action of phytogenics is versatile and still needs further scientific evaluation in many cases. A beneficial impact on gut microflora, level of microbial toxins in the gut and nutrient digestibility was reported in a recent study with pigs. Moreover, it has been speculated that phytogenics may stimulate the secretion of saliva and digestive enzymes. Recent research findings, obtained in experiments with a phytogenic blend of oregano, anise and citrus essential oils, are reviewed in the present paper, indicating that these substances have a pronounced impact on performance and health status of poultry, swine and calves. Considerable improvements in daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio and feed intake were obtained when phytogenics were included in the feed of different species.
Keywords
Phytogenics; flavouring; performance; gut health
Hrčak ID:
66748
URI
Publication date:
20.12.2010.
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