ARTICLE 94 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE November 2025 reduced physical activity throughout the finishing period and 42% fewer aggressive behaviors (such as tail and ear biting). Mortality and culling due to severe lesions or digestive disorders were also reduced. By promoting more positive social interactions, Robus Zen enhances feed efficiency and growth performance. Recent trials reported an average improvement of 6.1% in growth rate and a 5.6% better feed conversion ratio. The average return on investment was 1:4, corresponding to an improvement of €5.7 per pig in feed margin. In sows, it has been shown that cortisol and adrenaline—stress hormones—act antagonistically to oxytocin and prolactin, which are involved in farrowing and milk production. Recent data revealed reduced salivary cortisol levels during farrowing in sows supplemented with Robus Zen, resulting in fewer stillbirths (from 7.0% to 4.6%) and a 1.9 kg improvement in litter weaning weight. Techna experts provide tailored support to optimize the use of Robus Zen according to farm conditions and feeding strategies, with objectives such as: • Calmer animals during high-risk periods. • Reduced aggressive behaviors and improved social interactions. • Enhanced fattening performance (ADG, FCR). • Calmer animals during periods of risk during farrowing and lactation (fewer stillbirths, higher litter weights). • Nutritional support for Animal Welfare-certified production systems (intact tails, entire males, etc.). 3,4% 4,6% 1,9% 15,3% 5,3% 6,1% 2,3% -6,2% -12,5% -6,2% -5,6% Performance Improvement (B100/CTL) Performances Meta-analysis -15,0% -10,0% -5,0% 0,0% 5,0% 10,0% 15,0% 20,0% FR1 FR2 IL UK PL Mean ADG FCR Figure 3. Performances synthesis About Tristan Brehelin Holder of a Master’s degree in Animal Production, Tristan Brehelin has worked as a swine nutritionist for over a decade at Techna. His career includes leading R&D for the swine business, providing technical support for key accounts, and developing a range of swine additives and decision-support tools to predict technical and economic performance trends.
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