France - Probiotics in Pig liquid feed: benefits highlighted

On 29th September, the European Probiotic Association took part in the Pig Liquid Feeding Seminar hosted by IRTA, the Spanish Institute for Food and Agricultural Research and Technology (Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries), in Lleida, Spain. This one-day technology transfer seminar was tailored for feed producers, farmers and technicians of the pork industry. Bruno Rochet presented the benefits of probiotics in liquid feed, a natural solution that insures at the same time hygiene and safety of the feed, health and well-being of the animal and protection of the environment; by controlling pathogenic bacteria development in the feed and the gut and regulating the natural microflora. And the effects of the probiotic are visible for the producer: reduced health-related costs, increased productivity (the daily weight gained is generally improved), and improved meat quality, with a positive effect on the organoleptic properties of the meat. Bruno Rochet concluded: "Probiotics can contribute to build a positive image of the porcine industry within a sustainable agriculture, where the well-being of the animals is respected with regards to the breeding conditions, the expectations of the consumers and the impact on the environment." The European Probiotic Association is the association of producers and distributors of probiotics that are authorised in Europe. Its objectives are to inform and educate the scientific communities as well as veterinaries, nutritionists and industries about the benefits of probiotics in animal nutrition.