Anpario, developer of the natural oregano essential oil Orego-Stim, said the product could be used to reduce the use of antibiotics at weaning.

Results of the independent study revealed that piglets fed with the supplements recorded improved survivability and growth performance, as well as reduced numbers of positive faecal E. coli counts.

“During weaning, piglets are subjected to a massive variety of stressors which can result in impaired growth, ultimately affecting producer profitability and lifetime performance,” said Heidi Hall, Anpario swine expert and global technical service manager.

“Antibiotics remain essential in treating disease within the herd. However, with the risk of selecting for the development of antimicrobial resistance, it is important not to overuse antibiotics to ensure we safeguard their efficacy for future use,” she said.