Feed Additives and Supplements

[Jeffery Escobar]

Probiotics or direct fed microbials can have a beneficial effect on poultry production including better feed intake, better feed conversion, and higher growth rates. The mode of action is completely dependent on each microbial strain. Nonetheless, in general terms, probiotics can improve the gastrointestinal microbiota, some probiotics are capable to produce and secrete various enzymes in the gut that may aid in the digestion of the diet, they can produce a plethora of postbiotics compounds that may be beneficial for the intestinal environment. For example, probiotic strains that produce butyrate, which may improve intestinal permeability or be used as a source of energy by different intestinal cell populations. Other probiotics may be able to product compounds capable to stimulate a better immune function in birds. Before using probiotics, ask the suppliers for scientific information about the mode of action of microbial strain under consideration as well as any potential negative effects, safety inclusion levels, thermal stability if pelleting diets, as well as any known of potential interactions with other supplements used in the diet.

[Ofonime Essien]

Good