ISSUE FOCUS FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE October 2025 55 height and the villus-to-crypt ratio, indicators of better nutrient absorption and digestive efficiency. They also maintain the intestinal barrier’s integrity, preventing leakage and infection. Furthermore, trace minerals modulate immune responses in the gut by reducing excessive inflammation and enhancing pathogen defense. For example, zinc can lower the cellular levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. They also support antioxidant enzyme activity, protecting gut cells from oxidative stress, reducing damage, and aiding recovery from disease. Diagnostics: They complement nutritional strategies aimed at improving gut health. Rapid analysis of key biomarkers related to productivity, gut damage, and microbial balance—using simple, non-invasive samples like cloacal or rectal swabs—enables early detection of gut health issues before clinical symptoms emerge. This timely insight allows prompt targeted interventions, maintaining a balanced and resilient microbiome that naturally reduces disease risk. Healthier gut environments make animals less vulnerable to infections. Overall, this data-driven approach empowers smarter and faster decision-making on farms across nutrition, management, and welfare. These informed actions contribute significantly to minimizing antimicrobial use and combating antibiotic resistance, driving sustainable and productive livestock systems. CHALLENGES AND CONSIDERATIONS In shifting away from antibiotics toward nutrition-based gut health, I am mindful of the challenges involved. Nutrition alone isn’t a cure-all. Achieving antibiotic-free production requires a holistic approach, combining strict biosecurity, improved management, and effective vaccination to sustain animal health and resilience. During this transition, I expect some temporary setbacks as production systems adapt. Patience and ongoing adjustments are crucial. Additionally, I suggest to tailor nutritional interventions to species differences, age, diet composition, and management conditions for maximum effectiveness. FINAL THOUGHTS The animal agriculture sector’s reliance on antibiotics is unsustainable in light of the global threat posed by AMR. While challenges remain, I’m convinced that nutrition-driven gut health solutions present a practical, science-based alternative to sustainably protect animal and human health, while enhancing productivity and welfare. Based on long-term experience across many countries, I can confidently say that antibiotic-free production is achievable without sacrificing productivity or profitability. Success depends on collaborative efforts, shared responsibility, and continuous innovation. Central to this success are targeted nutritional strategies that promote gut health, optimize nutrient absorption, and enhance immune function. By adopting comprehensive, nutrition-driven approaches, producers can ultimately reduce reliance on antibiotics while maintaining animal performance and welfare, ultimately building resilient, sustainable animal agriculture systems. About Edward Manchester As the Global Commercial Director of Ecolex Animal Nutrition, Edward Manchester has nearly 30 years of international experience, including early career roles in Europe and two decades leading innovation in Asia. He is recognized for pioneering advanced feed additive technologies and precision nutrition strategies that drive feed efficiency, animal health, and sustainability across global markets.
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