By Jamie Martin
Protecting pigs from external disease threats begins with strong biosecurity protocols. These include disinfecting tools, showering when entering and exiting barns, and thoroughly cleaning vehicles that come onto the farm. However, one critical component often goes unnoticed feed.
The 2013 outbreak of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) in the U.S. sparked a deeper industry focus on feed not just as a potential vector for disease but also as an opportunity to reinforce biosecurity measures.
Stacie Crowder, Ph.D., director of additive sales and technical innovation with Fortiva, explains, “Feed is in constant motion – delivered from feed mills to farms to feed troughs, touching multiple points along the way. Utilizing the right ingredients can help reduce pathogens in the feed while also supporting immune health for long-term performance.”
With diseases like highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) posing ongoing risks, feed additives offer a viable method to address one of the most commonly overlooked gaps in biosecurity.
Traditional biosecurity steps, while important, can’t fully block aerosol-transmitted viruses or diseases passed through fecal matter. Feed biosecurity additives provide added protection against threats from feed and other environmental sources.
“We’ve placed more focus in recent years on feed materials, ingredients and where they come from to better understand the biosecurity risk they may pose,” says Crowder. “But, we also know that diseases can enter farms through multiple avenues.”
“Look for ingredients that give you a benefit beyond the feeder,” Crowder notes. “To get the maximum return on your investment, there needs to be a benefit beyond targeting pathogens in the feed because we know the right ingredients can impact the immune system and gut health to help reduce incidence and severity of disease, no matter the pathogen source.”
Ease of use is also important. Crowder advises selecting additives that suit both the farm’s and the feed mill’s capabilities.
Lastly, timing matters. “Feed additives, like medium chain fatty acids, help boost the immune system to reduce the incidence of disease and better prepare the animal to defend against pathogens,” says Crowder.
Strategic use of feed additives, particularly during high-risk periods, can reinforce disease prevention strategies and enhance herd resilience.
Photo Credit: istock-songqiuju
Categories: National