Feed supplements in pig farming as alternative to antibiotics

Abstract

Introduction. For a long time, antibiotics were the main tool to improve pig growth, but several feed supplements are currently under study to replace them and avoid the impact on public health derived from their use. Aim.The aim of the present review was to synthetize a descriptive list of the main feeding supplements used in swine feeding to reduce the use of antibiotics in pork production. Methodology. Searching and reviewing of documents was based on a macro collection of scientific information available; for writing, the key concepts were outlined and little relevant or imprecise data were excluded. Results. Among these alternatives are phytobiotics, which are chemical compounds derived from plants such as thyme, oregano and garlic. Another group are probiotics, live microorganisms which are administered in adequate doses to provide a benefit to the host by regulating the microbiota and intestinal immunity; they mainly comprise bacteria and yeasts that synergize with other types of feed supplements, prebiotic, which are substrates that provide energy for probiotics. Some organic acids and mineral compounds also stand out. Conclusions. By various mechanisms of action, all these supplements could have a similar usefulness to antibiotics, by decreasing the colonization of pathogens that reduce development and increase the utilization of feed, improving aspects such as reproduction and general health. The implementation of the described supplements is relevant, considering the role of animal production in the generation of antibiotic resistance, framed in the One Health concept.