For a long time, tannins were misunderstood in animal nutrition, being classified as antinutritional. However, researchers in the field have challenged this view, revealing the potential of tannin-based phytogenics in improving animal health and performance, mainly within the pig farming sector.
These natural compounds, found in a variety of plants, such as black wattle, are rich in polyphenols and have properties that significantly benefit pig feed.
This article aims to clarify how tannin-based phytogenics contribute to pig nutrition, covering everything from their antioxidant properties to their positive effects on intestinal health.
By delving into this topic, we aim to reveal the importance of these compounds for producers and nutrition experts interested in phytogenic additives, while also highlighting where to find the best sources of these beneficial compounds.
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Phytogenics: what are they for?
Thinking about phytogenics, what they are for and what they are, we begin by highlighting that they are bioactive compounds derived from plants and exert beneficial functions when added to animal feed. This is because they have several properties, such as antimicrobial and antioxidants, which contribute to the health and performance of animals.
In the specific case of tannins, which are phytogenic found in several plants such as black wattle, they act as natural antimicrobial agents in the gastrointestinal tract.
Therefore, tannins help to positively modulate the intestinal microbiota, controlling the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. This regulation of the microbiota promotes better intestinal health, optimizing nutrient absorption and food conversion.
Furthermore, tannins have antioxidant properties that protect cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant action contributes to the integrity of cell membranes and the maintenance of a healthy immune system, reducing oxidative stress in animals.
How does pig nutrition benefit from tannin-based phytogenics?
Speaking more specifically about pig nutrition, the use of tannin-based phytogenics has evolved significantly. These natural compounds offer a series of benefits that defy the old conception of them being merely anti-nutritional.
In pig nutrition, these compounds have antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial and antioxidant characteristics, in addition to antidiarrheal effects.
Therefore, dietary supplementation of tannin-based phytogenics in piglets can improve animal health and performance, combating diarrhea in weaned piglets, which is one of the great advantages.
This potential arises from the fact that tannins have the ability to create complexes with countless types of molecules, which can contribute as a solution to a major problem in pig production, which is precisely the incidence of diarrhea during the weaning phase.
Furthermore, the phytogenics in question can also have positive effects on the blood metabolites of pigs.
What's more, unlike synthetic additives, phytogenic additives offer a natural alternative that aligns breeding practices with demands for more sustainable products. Thus, by promoting a balance between the performance and well-being of animals and the environment, phytogenics also contribute to reducing environmental impact.
The tannin-based phytogenic market
Seta supplies black wattle tannin extracts from a renewable and sustainable source with quality guaranteed by scientific studies. Its production comes from forests located in the south of the country, which receive adequate forest management.
With more than 80 years of experience in the market, Seta has the expertise, experience and technology necessary to provide both the highest quality vegetable tannins and innovative phytogenic additives for the animal nutrition sector.
Visit our website and contact us to find out more details and understand how Seta can contribute to animal nutrition!
