Effects of a phytogenic feed additive on the growth and mortality of nursery pigs

Phytogenics have been considered as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) and have gained increased attention in feeding programs for swine (Kommera et al., 2006). Special aspects of using phytogenic substances are their beneficial properties on the intestinal tract by modulating gut microbiota and anti-inflammatory effects. Digestarom® P.E.P. is a combination of phytogenics and fructo- oligosaccharides designed to stimulate piglets` appetite through its aromatic properties, optimize digestion and enhance the immune system through its antimicrobial and anti-oxidative effects.

The objective of this trial was to determine the effect of a phytogenic (Digestarom® P.E.P. 125) addition to nursery pig diets on post-weaning growth performance.

A total of 180 weaned piglets (6.7 kg BW at 23 days of age) were grown for a 28 days period. Pigs were randomly allocated to one of 3 experimental treatments. Each treatment had 30 pigs per pen and 2 replicates (pens). Data were analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS with each pen as an experimental unit. Each pen contained one self-feeder and nipple drinker to provide ad libitum access to feed and water. The breed used for this trial was Duroc x Yorkshire x Landrace.

Treatment groups were as follows:

Treatment 1: negative control (NC: standard diet)

Treatment 2: positive control (PC: standard diet + Apramycin 100 ppm)

Treatment 3: trial group (PFA: standard diet + phytogenics 125 ppm)

A two-phase diet system was used: Phase 1 diet fed from day 0 to day 14 and Phase 2 diet fed from day 14 to day 28 after weaning. Pigs and feeders were weighed on days 0, 14, and 28 post-weaning to calculate average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality (%) during trial period.

Pigs supplemented with phytogenics had significantly increased ADG (P < 0.05), and better FCR (P < 0.08) than pigs fed with antibiotics.

However, there were no significant differences compared to the negative control (Table 1).

Mortality was reduced in the PFA group, compared to negative and positive control groups, respectively (Figure 1).

Phytogenics have both a flavoring and a biological effect in animals (Steiner T., 2013). The pronounced improvement in feed conversion ratio and mortality rate in pigs supplemented with phytogenics under commercial conditions indicate the efficiency of these products not only as natural growth promoter but also as a powerful alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in the diet of pigs.

Disclosure of Interest: None Declared.