Abstract
This meta-analysis evaluates the effects of yeast supplementation (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) in beef cattle. The inclusion criteria were complete and randomized trials and supplementation with yeast S. cerevisiae versus no supplementation to measure DMI or ADG. Data were extracted from relevant papers via pre-defined protocols. A meta-analysis of random effects was conducted for each indicator separately including the mean of the control and treated groups. The results were presented with the pooled mean difference (MD), 95% of confidence interval, and I² (percentage of total variation between studies that is due to heterogeneity rather than chance). A total of 12 publications reporting 22 trials conducted in 1,161 cattle were analysed. The heterogeneity between studies was high and ranged from 92 to 99%. No effects were observed in ADG with the inclusion of yeast in the diet (MD = -2.849 g/day, p = 0.492). However, there was a reduction in the DMI (MD = -0.885 kg/day; p = 0.023) despite the high heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 92.4%; p < 0.001). The ADG increased when the forage level in the diet was between 30 and 50% (MD = 641.08 g/day; p = 0.001) and decreased when the level range from 51 to 75% (MD = -2.90 g/day; p < 0.001). In over 60% of the Neutral Detergent Fibre, the use of yeast in the diet decreased the ADG by 406.94 g/day (p = 0.034). Feedlot animals showed a reduction in the DMI (MD = -0.97 kg/day; p = 0.019) if supplemented with yeast. Supplementation with S. cerevisiae in the diet of beef cattle had no effect on ADG; however, it does improve the feed conversion due to the reduction in DMI.
Highlights
The intensification of livestock production has continued
The inclusion of S. cerevisiae yeast in the diet for beef cattle had no effect on average daily gain (ADG), but reduced the dry matter intake (DMI) and improved feed conversion
The available literature is inconclusive and suggests that best performance of yeast supplementation occurs with an increase in feed intake (França & Rigo, 2011)
Summary
The intensification of livestock production has continued. Yields are improved by providing appropriate levels of protein, vitamins, minerals and energy. Some countries restrict certain additives including antibiotics in the European Union. This has increased the use of alternative additives in animal nutrition (Morais, Berchielli, & Reis, 2011). Of these additives, live yeast is one of the most important for cattle nutrition—especially Saccharomyces cerevisiae yield. Live yeast is one of the most important for cattle nutrition—especially Saccharomyces cerevisiae yield This yeast can stimulate microbial growth—mainly lactic acid-utilizing bacteria—and reduce the likelihood of acidosis (Lila et al, 2004; Pinloche et al, 2013; Ding et al, 2014). S. cerevisiae decreases the redox potential of the rumen and promotes a more favorable environment for the development of microorganisms—mainly cellulose consumers—which maximize the fibre degradation rates (McAllister et al, 2011)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
