What’s new in feed technology heading into the new year? Here is a round-up of some of the key options to consider to benefit swine and poultry production.
1. Multi-Carbohydrase
Multi-Carbohydrase technology is a leading-edge area of enzyme technology that involves utilizing multiple enzymes with multiple activities to achieve a high level of targeted feed breakdown and nutrition capture.
“Multi-Carbohydrase technology represents the leading-edge of our science-based knowledge on the most effective use of feed enzymes,” says Dr. Bogdan Slominski of the University of Manitoba, head of a long-standing research program that investigates the potential of novel feed ingredients.
“It leverages what we have learned from many years of research to offer a much more comprehensive and sophisticated option than traditional approaches.” The multi-carbohydrase approach adds value to feed, reduces potential waste and presents a new way to gain a competitive advantage and enhanced profitability.
2. Enhanced yeast
Enhanced yeast technology features natural growth promoter activity supporting healthy animals and optimized productivity.
As a bio-based tool, enhanced yeast options are an excellent fit with what customers and consumers are demanding today. They also fit well with reduced antibiotic systems, by providing alternative ways to promote optimal productivity.
The cutting-edge of research in this area is focused on innovative yeast options that have the capability to act as a probiotic in the gastrointestinal tract which improves the microbiome environment. Also, combining yeast options with additional additives such as enzymes which can further unlock the beneficial bioactive components of yeast.
“The nice thing about this type of bio-based option is that it is something consumers are comfortable with,” says Dr. Anna Rogiewicz, also of the Univeristy of Manitoba program. “Yeast components are in the bread we eat every day and lots of other foods. Finding these types of ‘win-win’ options is a big part of our research focus.”
The Slominski-led research program integrates three areas of innovation. First is improving efficiency of animal production. Second is supporting animal health and food safety. Third is enhancing the nutritional attributes of animal products.
“Enzyme technology and yeast-based options are tools that can unlock greater potential in each of these areas,” says Slominski. “That is what we are striving towards. All benefit the producer and also improve the competitiveness and positioning of animal products in the marketplace.”
3. Functional fatty acids
Functional fatty acids are a form of feed additive that goes beyond nutritional value to offer broader animal and performance benefits, to support efficient and sustainable livestock production in alignment with marketplace expectations.
Functional fatty acids are gaining rising attention today, in particular for their potential to replace conventional options and support systems moving toward reduced use of antimicrobials. A key recent area of innovation is utilizing functional fatty acids to positively influence gut wellness and morphology.
In addition, research is uncovering new opportunities for these ingredients to help with strategies to support animals during key periods of stress risk, such as periods involving diet change, long distance transportation or exposure to other wellness challenges.
4. Grain management
Grain management technology focuses on safeguarding feed quality to provide a valuable quality assurance tool and insurance policy for both feed and animals.
Safeguarding feed grains from threats such as fungi (including mold), fungi-produced mycotoxins and other contaminants is essential to protect quality and value.
The latest in grain management technology locks in the full potential of feed with superior protection. Tailored ‘clean feed’ technology provides a valuable insurance policy for feed and animals, via simple and reliable science-based solutions.
5. Phytogenics and probiotics
Phytogenics and probiotics represent innovative plant-based extract technology that helps support a positive and nurturing environment critical to get the most efficiency and benefits from feed and nutrition approaches.
The latest generation options support benefits such as stimulating feed intake and boosting gut health while contributing to overall more efficient and sustainable livestock production.
Bright future
The latest solutions in each of these areas represent a brand new level of opportunity, says Slominski. “Swine and poultry operations have more and better options than ever to make a difference on the farm with feed technology.”
“We are in an era of modern agriculture where we have many advantages,” adds Rogiewicz. “Through genetics we have better animals. We have a much better understanding of nutrition. We know a lot more about best animal welfare practices. And feed technology is an area where through science we now have more options to get more benefits out of feed.”
