Based on the relevant literature it is likely that mannans help to maintain the intestinal integrity and the digestive and absorptive function of the gut post-weaning. Therefore the malabsorption syndrome associated with this period can be alleviated with dietary MOS supplementation. Recent results suggest that MOS enhances the disease resistance in swine by promoting antigen presentation, thus enhancing the shift from an innate to an adaptive immune response. Accordingly, dietary MOS supplementation may have a growth promoting effect in pigs kept in a poor hygienic environment, while the positive effect of MOS is not observed in healthy pig herds with high hygienic standards that are able to maintain their high growth rate post-weaning. In addition to the economic benefits resulting from the maintenance of gut health and support of the defense mechanisms, the use of medication and drugs can be reduced during the post-weaning period with the use of dietary MOS supplementation that enables healthier and safe, and therefore more desirable pork production.