Juan Jose Mallo, NOREL & NATURE - Fima 2009

Indeed, when the temperature is higher than 100 ºC, we normally see a decrease in viable cell counts. Our experience says that a normal extrusion process, at 120 ºC, can lower the counts to 50% of the live cells included in the feed. To avoid this we normally advise a post-pelleting application of the product (normally by mixing it with the fat added after the extrusion process).

This sounds good. Probiotics are good alternatives in animal nutrition especially in fisheries. I will like to know if the bacteria can resist extruding temperatures? Noticed Juan said that they have tried pelleting with temperatures of 100 degrees. Extrussion temperatures are much higher. Nevertheless the profile of action is very encouraging and production of lactic acid is a welcome development like in the case of S. cerevisiae which enhances immunity against Aeromonas hyhila in common carp, by enhancing the action of kidney phagocytic cells.