Pig International - September 2017 - 6
6 ❙ PigInternational How phytogenics affect animals provides usage insights Phytogenics are currently considered one of the top alternatives to in-feed antibiotics for poultry, and understanding how they work can aid in selecting and using the right product for the right purpose. BY IOANNIS MAVROMICHALIS Phytogenics are well-known in Europe and some parts of the world, often under different names like essential oils, botanicals and plant extracts. They have been tested and used in poultry diets as a direct replacement to antibiotics that were previously used to promote animal performance. The recent decision to limit the use of similar antibiotics in the feeds of poultry raised in the U.S. has caused a new wave of research and enthusiasm for these rather "exotic" compounds. In fact, 5 ways phytogenics improve pig feed efficiency: www.WATTAgNet.com/articles/30731 they have captivated the U.S. feed market to such degree that their use is expected to surpass consumption in other markets. Although there is ample information about why to use these compounds, similar knowledge on how these products work inside the animal remains largely unavailable. www.WATTAgNet.com ❙ September 2017