Phytobiologics: Novel natural compounds for improving enteric health in nursing pigs

摘要

Newborn piglets are dependent upon antibodies contained within sow's colostrum and milk for protection against invasion by the enteric pathogens, but often such maternally derived protection is insufficient. Suckling and weaned piglets often experience scour, resulting in significant mortality (up to 20%) in the problem herds. The factors contributing to the incidence of piglet scour include the stress of weaning, contaminated feed and water, improperly maintained pens, and poor farm management and hygiene.2,3 Historically, the farmers and veterinarians around the world have managed piglet scour with strict biosecurity, various disinfectants and antimicrobial agents. However, the European Union (EU) banned growth promoters in 2006, and now EU MemberStates are taking strong measures to reduce the use of veterinary antimicrobials in animals. Similarly, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has imposed guidelines to limit the use of antimicrobials in the livestock in the hope to reducethe emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.4 Thus, alternative methods and materials to address scour incidences are in urgent need in commercial swine production facilities.