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Researchers Using Probiotics To Reduce Antibiotic Use In Animals

An Ontario-based company believes it can reduce the use of antibiotics in animals.

MicroSintesis says it's research suggests the bioactives produced by probiotic bacteria can be effective against a wide range of gut bacteria, including hyper-virulent strains of e.coli, salmonella and C. difficile.

CEO Hannah McIver suggests the use of those bioactives may ultimately allow antibiotic drugs to be used in more conservative ways, reducing the rate at which pathogens acquire antibiotic resistance in the future.

The company has been researching probiotics in partnership with the University of Guelph since 2011.

It expects to launch its first product next year for feed animals, with products for other monogastric animals following soon after.

MicroSintesis is also researching the use of probiotics for human health.

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