Biomin^® P.E.P. functions in three ways, i.e. through (1) modifications of the gut microflora, along with (2) a stimulation of digestive secretions and, particularly in sows, (3) a positive impact on feed intake, all in all resulting in improved digestion. An increasing number of trials conducted under experimental and field conditions have shown that inclusion of well-selected phytogenic compounds in diets for sows increases the voluntary feed consumption in the lactation period. Moreover, there is growing evidence that phytogenics have a stabilizing effect on digestion, resulting in improved feed conversion (Kroismayr et al., 2005). Thus, on one hand more feed is ingested; and on the other nutrients and energy are better converted into performance. Consequently, the overall efficiency of production is increased, which is the major aim in view with rising prices for commodities.

Data presented in Figures 1 and 2 were obtained from trials in South and North America. In both trials, sows were fed basal feed either with or without supplemental Biomin^® P.E.P. Although there was a dramatic increase in feed intake in both groups during the early lactation period, sows fed phytogenics consistently ingested more feed as compared to the control sows.

Positive effects of phytogenics in sow nutrition are usually reflected in increased litter performance. Results from different trial locations are summarized in Figure 3. In these trials, supplementation of diets for sows with Biomin^® P.E.P. increased average weaning weight of the piglets by 3 to 9%.

The latest results from another field trial in Chile (Table 1) confirmed the positive observations that were made in the above mentioned studies.

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