ISSUE FOCUS 54 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE October 2025 ins from entering the bloodstream, thereby reducing inflammation and infection risk. They also help balance the gut microbiome by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria and encouraging beneficial microbes, which enhances digestion and nutrient absorption. Moreover, MCFAs modulate immune responses by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-8, supporting mucosal immunity and natural disease defenses. Research has shown the antimicrobial effectiveness of monolaurin, derived from lauric acid, is dependent on its molecular structure. In the alpha configuration, monolaurin is more functional because it can effectively insert itself into the lipid-based outer membranes of enveloped viruses and Gram-positive bacteria. This helps break down the pathogen’s protective membrane, causing it to become destabilized, more permeable, and eventually disintegrate. In contrast, the beta form is less stable and biologically active, with a limited ability to disrupt these pathogen membranes. For example, in inhibition assays against Escherichia coli and Streptococcus suis, pre-emulsified α-monolaurin at 600ppm and 1200ppm achieved inhibition ratios above 87% and 92%, respectively, whereas monomeric α-monolaurin showed minimal inhibition. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL): They lack an adaptive immune system and do not produce antibodies. Instead, they rely on a diverse array of antimicrobial proteins (AMPs) and peptides for pathogen defense, with over 57 AMPs identified. These AMPs exhibit broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. BSFL’s AMPs have gained my attention as promising antibiotic alternatives in animal feed, helping reduce antibiotic use. Their robust innate immune factors enable them to thrive in microbe-rich environments such as decomposing waste. Additionally, about 47% of BSFL’s fatty acid profile is lauric acid, a much higher level than other insects, further enhancing their antimicrobial properties. Feed Particle Size: Fine feed particles (<0.4mm) lead to faster feed passage and lower exposure to acidic conditions in the gizzard or stomach. This environment allows pathogens like Clostridium perfringens, E. coli, and Salmonella to survive and multiply in the small intestine. In contrast, coarser particles (1–1.2mm) improve gut health in pigs and poultry by extending feed retention time in the stomach or gizzard, increasing exposure to acidic conditions. Coarse particles also boost SCFA production—especially propionic and butyric acids— in the hindgut, which support gut barrier integrity, lower intestinal pH, and inhibit harmful bacteria. While some fine particles are necessary in pelleted feeds to ensure starch gelatinization and pellet quality, excessively large particles (>1.2mm) should be avoided as they reduce available surface area for enzymatic digestion, decreasing feed efficiency. Trace Minerals: They are vital—not just for growth and reproduction but also for gut health. Minerals like zinc, copper, manganese, iron, and selenium influence gut flora, structure, and function, including regulation of gene expression for tight junction proteins. These minerals, particularly in organic form, improve intestinal morphology by increasing villus Photo: ShutterStock | 711308023
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