The overuse of antibiotics in livestock production has raised concerns about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their potential impact on human and animal health. In response to these challenges, there has been growing interest in exploring alternative strategies for promoting gut health and even managing infectious diseases in swine without relying on antibiotics.
One promising approach involves the use of organic acids as feed additives to control the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria in the gut. Organic acids such as formic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid, among many others, exhibit antimicrobial properties and can also help acidify the gastrointestinal tract, creating an unfavorable environment for the growth of pathogens while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. In some cases, organic acid salts such as calcium formate and sodium butyrate offer comparable benefits while minimizing the risk of corrosive effects on equipment.
