Maintaining optimal gut health is fundamental to the overall health and performance of swine. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the crucial role played by the gut microbiota in modulating immune function, nutrient metabolism and overall well-being in pigs. In this context, prebiotics and probiotics have emerged as valuable tools for promoting gut health and enhancing immunity in swine production. To this end, it is not a bad idea to remind ourselves about these additives.
Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. By serving as substrates for beneficial microbial fermentation, prebiotics promote the production of short-chain fatty acids, which play key roles in maintaining gut barrier function, modulating immune responses and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Common prebiotics used in swine nutrition include fructooligosaccharides (FOS), mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) and inulin.
