Phytogenic feed additives (PFAs)
PFAs represent an efficient tool to meet the current and upcoming challenges of livestock production. Many plants (e.g. thyme, oregano) show antioxidant efficacies that improve nutrient supply of cells, strengthen the cellular defence against oxidative substances and minimise damages caused by bacteria and oxidative stress, respectively. Consequently, these mechanisms lead to an improved health status of animals, allowing them to fully max out their genetic potential.
Feed additives that improve resilience against heat stress, among which phytogenic feed additives, generally exert clear antioxidant effects. Therefore, antioxidant effects seem to be the most important effects to focus on, when developing feed additives to improve heat stress resilience. Many aromatic plants, especially those from the plant family Labiatae (e.g. rosemary, thyme, oregano and sage), have been extensively studied for their antioxidant activity. This activity is not only related to the phenolic compounds as also non-phenolic compounds may show considerable antioxidant activity by stimulating the antioxidant enzyme production. Thyme oil improved intestinal antioxidant status, reduced MDA content in the enterocytes and improved intestinal integrity.
A phytogenic feed additive, containing essential oils, herbs, spices and saponins (Biostrong 510) positively influenced gut morphology in broilers and significantly increased nutrient digestibility in a study. Moreover, it stimulates the production of antioxidant enzymes.
Due to their proven beneficial characteristics, especially with respect to enhancing digestibility and antioxidant properties, phytogenic feed additives have the potential to become a new generation of feed additives for innovative livestock nutrition and welfare. They are foreseen to be a crucial tool when it comes to counteracting heat stress and thus, being able to contribute to profitable animal production.