ISSUE FOCUS 70 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE September 2024 from 'phyko,' meaning algae, remains largely unexplored. There is growing interest in investigating the potential of marine algae through various approaches, with some studies focusing on seaweeds as a nutrient source and others examining their broader properties. A novel approach within this domain involves identifying algae metabolites that can enhance animal gut health, rather than treating algae merely as a raw material. This research aims to establish connections between seaweed metabolites and their effects on animal physiology. Collaboration with experts, such as the ongoing partnership between NUQO© and the University of Wels in Austria, facilitates the exchange of expertise and ideas. This collaboration seeks to identify promising solutions and advance innovative bioprocessing technologies. The potential of phycogenics is still emerging, and there is growing enthusiasm for exploring its possibilities and advancing this innovative field. Of course, when considering the future of phytogenics, seaweed metabolites, or 'phycogenics,' represent one avenue of innovation. Other possibilities include developing new methods for producing plantbased metabolites, refining processing techniques, or enhancing the activity of these natural compounds. Manufacturing Expertise is Key As the phytogenics market began to expand, the initial solutions developed were based on relatively rudimentary technologies. While these early products met emerging market demands for natural and sustainable alternatives, they faced several challenges, including the need to demonstrate stability over time and through the feed production process, particularly under harsh conditions like extrusion or pelletization. Additionally, these products had to ensure they did not negatively impact feeding behavior, show efficacy with a clear mode of action, and guarantee safety for both animals and workers in feed factories and farms. Many first-generation phytogenics contained volatile ingredients that were unstable during processing, dusty or irritant, or unpalatable. While these early products added value, they had limitations. Some remain available today, but they no longer meet the needs of modern farming. Recent advancements in technology have addressed these limitations, resulting in products that better align with customer expectations. Notably, developments in micro-encapsulation have produced top-tier products: industry leaders now offer high-concentration, highly stable products that are effective even at low doses and under harsh feed production conditions. These products are dustfree, pose no irritation risk to workers, and are designed to release active ingredients precisely where needed in the digestive tract for maximum efficacy. However, the term ‘encapsulated’ is becoming overused, and it is important to verify suppliers' claims to ensure products rely on reliable production technologies rather than just marketing hype. ([Plants + Algae] x Micro-Encapsulation Technology) = The new standard In recent years, one company took lessons from the past to develop a portfolio that addresses the strengths and weaknesses of traditional phytogenics. One of the first products designed through this approach, NUQO©NEX (referred to hereafter as ‘NQ’), is an exclusive product that stands apart from other classic plant-based solutions. It contains a high concentration of metabolites from both plants and seaweed. Not only does it rely on a transparent formulation, but it also boasts one of the highest concentrations of active ingredients, coupled with exceptional stability. This ensures high efficacy at low doses compared to other solutions. The product's protection has been evaluated under various feed processing conditions, for different species, including mash, pelletization, or extrusion processes, demonstrating consistent recovery over time. It does not negatively influence feed quality or palatability and is both safe and easy to handle for factory operators. Extensive research has been conducted to demonstrate the overall efficacy of these technologies on animal performance, as well as to elucidate their modes of action. Various publications have shown how this technology can release active ingredients precisely in
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