ISSUE FOCUS 40 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE January 2026 “The future of phytotechnology is bright. Advances in genomics, metabolomics, and artificial intelligence are opening new frontiers in plant-based solutions. These tools enable us to predict biological effects, optimize formulations, and accelerate development timelines without compromising safety or efficacy.” In the September 2025 issue of Feed & Additive, Trouw Nutrition introduced the concept of PhytoComplexes. These plant-based solutions are designed to support animal health and resilience by working in tune with the animal’s physiology and adopting a host-focused, preventive approach instead of targeting pathogens. Our Phytotechnology program goes beyond antimicrobial replacement, embracing complexity to address the multifaceted challenges of modern livestock production. This article provides an in-depth look at how Trouw Nutrition develops its PhytoComplexes - from initial discovery to final delivery. Spanning continents and disciplines, the process reflects a deep respect for the intelligence of nature. A NEW PARADIGM FOR A COMPLEX WORLD Today’s dynamic and interconnected animal production systems are shaped by climate variability, evolving regulations, microbial pressures, and shifting consumer expectations. In this context, simplistic solutions often fall short. Producers face a balancing act: maintaining productivity while meeting higher standards for animal welfare, sustainability, and food safety. Feed additives have become an essential tool in this equation, but the industry is moving beyond single-function products. Trouw Nutrition’s PhytoComplexes represent a response to this complexity. These multi-compound, multi-target plant-derived solutions are designed to interact with animal biology through conserved receptors and signal transduction pathways. Their development relies on a model that integrates discovery science, biological modeling powered by artificial intelligence, plant domestication, and global supply chain design. Trouw Nutrition has anchored this integrated approach at Nutreco’s Garden of the Future. This proprietary center of excellence in phytotechnology located in Switzerland brings together all necessary expertise under one roof. WHY COMPLEXITY MATTERS Livestock production is influenced by multiple stressors: immune challenges, dietary transitions, microbial imbalances, and environmental conditions such as heat stress. These factors rarely act in isolation. For example, heat stress can impair gut From Discovery to Delivery: DEVELOPING PHYTOCOMPLEXES FOR ANIMAL NUTRITION Dr. Ellen Hambrecht Global Product Manager PhytoComplex Solutions Trouw Nutrition
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