Field studies of a new probiotic composition (AQ1202-PigLife) for newborn piglets

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of providing a special feed preparation with a new feed additive based on probiotics to newborn piglets in the first day of life, on their performance during the lactation period. Oral administration of porcine lactic acid lactic bacteria in the first hours of life permits an early colonization of the intestine by beneficial microorganisms that can hinder or prevent a later colonization by pathogens. An appropriate and early intestinal microbiota influences and modulates the maturation of both innate and acquired immunity.

PigLife is an oral suspension that is composed of two freeze-dried lactic acid bacteria selected by their probiotic capabilities from a collection of isolates of colostrum of sows and meconium of piglets. Both strains are QPS (Qualified Presumption of Safety) according to EFSA requirements. This product is intended to be administered in one 2 ml dose as soon as possible after birth.

The efficacy of PigLife was tested in four different conventional Spanish pig farms, eventually in several experiments, during 2014 and 2015. In every farm, new born piglets were divided in a group treated with the probiotic (AQ1202-PigLife) and a control group.

Litters in both groups were monitored from farrowing to weaning. Productive and clinical data were recorded and the quantification of the main bacterial groups of the intestinal microbiota in the faeces of piglets was performed by qPCR when possible.

Mortality and antibiotic treatments were significantly lower in piglets treated with PigLife. In addition, both mild and severe diarrhea were recorded more frequently in control litters and in some cases significant differences were found in the weaning weight of piglets.

The quantification of microbiota revealed a better balance of beneficial bacterial groups in the faecal samples of probiotic treated piglets.

The treatment with PigLife reduces mortality, diarrhoea and the need of antibiotic treatments in lactating piglets. Besides, it should be expected that a better balanced microbiota contribute to improve health and production results in weaning and fattening periods.

Disclosure of Interest: None Declared.