Antimicrobial resistance occurs when a microorganism becomes resistant to antibiotics. It is a rising problem for both humans and animals worldwide. If not tackled, it will be the number one global public health issue and could grow to 10 million human deaths in 2050.
Selko’s Antibiotic Reduction Programme aims to empower producers in safely and efficiently reducing the use of antibiotics. With a record of accomplishment spanning over 15 years our integrated feed-, farm- and health approach has helped producers to achieve at least equal, but in most cases improved productivity, while reducing antibiotic usage. Selko's antibiotic reduction programme safeguards animal health, animal welfare, and production profitability.
Selko’s gut scan measures gut health at a specific and provides a good indication of the severity and the location of issues in the intestine. The result of this gut health scan can be used to evaluate the effect of feed management changes. In addition to that, via the gut health scan, we can analyze which synergistic blends of feed additives can be applied to improve animal zootechnical performance while reducing the reliance on antibiotics.
FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) recommends on diverse types of feed additives. Via the water – our synergistic organic acid blend- supports digestion via its specific blend of organic acids.
Our gut health additive containing patented slow-release C12, butyrate, and phenolic compound in the feed stabilizes the gut microbiota and improves the gut barrier integrity.
Another FAO recommendation is the usage of copper and zinc. Selko’s hydroxy trace minerals copper and zinc source have a strong antimicrobial effect and improved immunity response.
Supplementing feed with a synergistic combination of our gut health additive and hydroxy trace minerals (where it is allowed) is a proven and promising approach to an AGP - free production system. This combination focuses on two aspects of gut health: strengthening the gut barrier function and microbiota stabilization while improving gut digestion and immune modulation to achieve notable health and performance benefits.
Phytogenics were introduced into animal nutrition decades ago to find alternatives for the use of antibiotics to support livestock performance. Some phytogenics may indeed have antimicrobial activity in vitro, but at the in-feed inclusion levels commonly used, most of them have little to no direct antimicrobial effect. However, by using phytotechnology to support the host’s own natural defense mechanisms and robust physiological funtions, phytogenic products can have a valuable contribution to optimal performance in antibiotic-free or -reduced production systems.