ISSUE FOCUS 56 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE September 2024 Control Group 22% 55% Lachnospiraceae Lactobacillus Escherichia coli Cl. Perfringens Ruminococcaceae Bifidobacterium Not identified Bacteroides 18% 5% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 5% 26% 50% 20% 0% 0% 0% Miarom Intest C tobacilli group was increased in the supplemented group (Figure 2). The relative amount of acetic acid was significantly higher and that of valeric acid significantly lower in the supplemented group (Table 3). The increase in acetic acid is reflected in lower amounts of other acids (not significant). The reduction in valeric acid in the supplemented group could indicate less protein fermentation in the large intestine and thus improved protein digestibility (Rasmussen et al. 1988). In combination, these results indicate a positive influence on the fermentation process. However, the exact mode of action of this semi-coated phytogenic product could not be proven by the experimental approach used. Further findings on microscopic changes of the intestinal mucosa, digestibility and long-term effects might help to clarify this question. SUMMARY In a practical trial, the use of a semi-coated phytogenic product on weaned piglets was investigated and showed positive effects on performance parameters despite a high performance level. Additional trials confirm these positive results. A positive effect was also shown on the microbiome through an improved fermentation process, although the exact mode of action is still to be proven. Figure 2. Relative amount [16s rDNA copies/g sample] of specific bacterial taxa in faecal sample Acetic acid Propionic acid Butyric acid Valeric acid Lactic acid Branched chain fatty acids Volatile fatty acids 58.4 19.7 14.7 2.69 2.13 2.39 97.9 65.1 18.2 11.4 1.31 0.82 3.15 99.2 0.015 0.172 0.287 0.001 0.263 0.616 0.263 Control Miarom Intest C p-value Short chain fatty acids Table 3. Short chain fatty acid pattern in faeces on day 12 in % of the total amount of short-chain fatty acids About Dr. Klara Schmitz Dr. sc. agr. Klara Schmitz studied agricultural sciences and animal sciences at the University of Bonn, where she completed her doctorate in animal nutrition. As an animal nutritionist and researcher, she has a broad range of experience with a focus on feed analysis, fibre analysis and swine nutrition. Recently she joined MIAVIT GmbH as Technical Sales Support in the field of swine nutrition.
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