In vitro Methodology to Evaluate the Effect of Various Organic Acids on the Microflora in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Pigs

摘要

An in vitro system was developed to study the effect of various feed additives on the microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract of pigs. The system was adjustable with regard to pH and temperature and an anoxic atmosphere was created. Bacteriological measurements, including bacterial colony count and quantification of fermentation products, were conducted in response to pH and various types and doses of organic acids. A pH-dependent microbial growth and fermentation pattern was observed. In addition,both type and dose level of the organic acids employed affected the magnitude of response.