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Home > Emerging Technologies > Animal Probiotics

Animal Probiotics

Research

A probiotic consists of live bacteria which are fed to animals to promote healthy gut function. While various forms of probiotics have been used for thousands of years (yogurt is a probiotic), it is only in the last decade that the science of probiotics has come of age.

Probiotics effectively flood the gut with billions of live, beneficial bacteria to help boost the gut's normal microflora (the population of billions of bacteria and yeast which play an important role in the growth, health and vigor of the animal).

The digestive system of all animals and birds is home to billions of bacteria, protozoa and fungi, collectively known as microflora. A healthy, balanced microflora is essential to the health of any animal because it:

  • Helps digestion by breaking down cellulose and other indigestible substances
  • Promotes the synthesis and absorption of vitamins and minerals
  • Stimulates the immune system
  • Prevents the proliferation of potential disease causing pathogens such as E.coli and salmonella

Benefits of Animal Probiotics

Improved Growth of Farm Animals

Through control of sub-clinical gut infections, a similar mechanism to that of antibiotic growth promoters.

Improved Utilization of Food

Achieved by increasing the efficiency of the existing digestive processes and/or by promoting the digestion of previously indigestible substances.

Reduced Intestinal Upsets

Symptoms include scouring or diarrhea, loss of appetite and poor digestion of food.

Improved Health

Generated by increasing resistance to infectious diseases either by direct antagonism or by stimulating immunity.

Establishment/Re-establishment of Microflora

For the establishment of healthy gut microflora in immature animals or the re-establishment of gut microflora following antibiotic use.


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