Acid blends interaction with other feed additives, such as enzymes or probiotics, in large-scale animal nutrition

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3/30/20261 min read

Acid blends are commonly incorporated into animal feed to enhance gastrointestinal health and improve nutrient utilization (Khan et al., 2019). When combined with enzymes, such as phytases or carbohydrases, acids can facilitate better enzyme activity by lowering feed pH and improving enzyme stability within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) (Gadde et al., 2017). This synergistic interaction often leads to increased nutrient digestibility and growth performance in livestock (Yoon et al., 2020). Probiotics, which are beneficial microorganisms added to feed, may also interact positively with acid blends by promoting a more favourable gut environment, reducing pathogen load, and supporting the colonization of beneficial bacteria (Zhao et al., 2018). Acidification of the GIT via acid blends can suppress pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, thereby enhancing the efficacy of probiotics (Hu et al., 2015). Additionally, acid blends may help to stabilize probiotic strains during feed processing and passage through the upper GIT (Ricke et al., 2018). The combined use of acids, enzymes, and probiotics can optimize gut health, improve feed efficiency, and reduce reliance on antibiotics (Allen et al., 2021). However, interactions between these additives can be complex; excessive acidity may inhibit some probiotic strains or enzyme activity if not properly balanced (Sánchez et al., 2019). Therefore, precise formulation and dosing are critical to maximize benefits and prevent antagonistic effects (Miller & Van Kessel, 2020). The strategic combination of acid blends with enzymes and probiotics holds promise for advancing sustainable animal nutrition (Liu et al., 2022).

Promois International (www.promoisinternational.com) is one of the best-known manufacturers of encapsulated acid blends.