With the use of antibiotics becoming more limited, the role of the microbiome is becoming increasingly important.
That is, according to the Head of the Department of Animal and Poultry Science of the University of Saskatchewan.
Dr. Andrew Van Kessel told Manitoba Pork recently that the diverse mix of bacteria, viruses and yeasts that make up the microbiome contain organisms that are both beneficial and detrimental to the health of mammal digestive tracts.
He notes Canadian scientists are working with Swine Innovation Porc at exploring the microbiome's potential for improving pig health, thus reducing the need for antibiotics.
Researchers are hoping to unlock the best possible diet combination for increasing the beneficial organisms, giving a potential advantage to both the health of pigs and the profitability of farmers.
