Fermented Feed Research Articles

Biotechnological Approach for Development and Characterization of Protein Feed for Melipona quadrifasciata

Stingless bees are vital pollinators in tropical and neotropical regions, emphasizing the need to conserve these species. However, resource scarcity, particularly pollen, during certain periods negatively impacts bee health and pollination efficiency. To address this, we developed a fermented protein feed using microorganisms from pollen of Melipona quadrifasciata, a species commonly found in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The fermented feed consisted of a protein bran mixture, sugar syrup, and an inoculant derived from species’ fermented pollen. To assess the feed quality, nutritional evaluation and metabolomic analyses were conducted (UHPLC/DAD-HRMS/MS and GC-MS). The metabolomic analysis identified 85 compounds in positive and 102 in negative ionization modes. Shared metabolites, such as isoquercetin and palatinose, highlighted similarities between the feed and natural fermented pollen. Laboratory tests with caged bees showed comparable consumption between the feed and fermented pollen with no statistical difference (mean: 0.067 g vs. 0.060 g; p = 0.53). The feed exhibited a favorable pH transition (5.30 pre-fermentation to 4.41 after the fermentation process) and remained stable for six months at ±2 °C. These findings demonstrate a biotechnological advance in stingless bee nutrition, offering a viable solution during resource scarcity and promoting the health of M. quadrifasciata.

Anti-Methanogenic Potential of Seaweeds and Impact on Feed Fermentation and Rumen Microbiome In Vitro.

A series of in vitro studies were conducted to explore the anti-methanogenic potential of five seaweeds collected from the Indian sea and to optimize the level(s) of incorporation of the most promising seaweed(s) into a straw and concentrate diet to achieve a significant reduction in methane (CH4) production without disturbing rumen fermentation characteristics. A chemical composition analysis revealed a notable ash content varying between 55 and 70% in seaweeds. The crude protein content was highly variable and ranged between 3.25 and 15.3% of dry matter. Seaweeds contained appreciable concentrations of tannins and saponins. Among the seaweeds, Spyridia filamentosa exhibited significantly higher CH4 production, whereas the percentage of CH4 in total gas was significantly lower in the cases of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Sargassum wightii. The ranking of seaweeds in terms of CH4 production (mL/g OM) is as follows: Sargassum wightii < Kappaphycus alvarezii < Acanthophora specifera < Padina gymnospora < Spyridia filamentosa. A remarkable decrease of 31-42% in CH4 production was recorded with the incremental inclusion of Kappaphycus alvarezii at levels of 3-5% of the dry matter in the diet. The addition of Sargassum wightii led to a significant decrease of 36-48% in CH4 emissions when incorporated at levels of 4-5% of dry matter, respectively. The findings of this study revealed a significant decrease in the numbers of total protozoa and Entodinomorphs, coupled with increasing abundances of sulfate-reducing microbes and minor methanogens. Metagenome data revealed that irrespective of the seaweed and treatment, the predominant microbial phyla included Bacteroidota, Bacillota, Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, Fibrobacterota, and Euryarchaeota. The prevalence of Methanobrevibacter was similar across treatments, constituting the majority (~79%) of the archaeal community. The results also demonstrated that the supplementation of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Sargassum wightii did not alter the feed fermentation pattern, and therefore, the reduction in CH4 production in the present study could not be attributed to it. Animal studies are warranted to validate the extent of reduction in CH4 production and the key processes involved by supplementation with Kappaphycus alvarezii and Sargassum wightii at the recommended levels.

Goat agribusiness extension in Komala Village, South Wangi-Wangi District

The Komala Village community has many goats but there are many problems faced by the community such as dead fetuses, malnutrition, limited health care, environmental conditions, lack of knowledge and training and limited infrastructure. Therefore, the aim of this extension activity is to provide education to the farming community about the correct way to raise goats. This activity was carried out on Friday, March 26, 2023 at 16.00 WITA - Finish, located at the Gazebo of the Komala Village Head's House, South Wangi-Wangi District, Wakatobi. Counseling materials presented to the community: (1) Types of appropriate and balanced feed for goats, (2) Natural feed, supplementary feed, and fermented feed, (3) How to organize feeding according to age, weight, and maintenance objectives, (4) Efficient feeding methods, and (5) Mixing and serving feed techniques. After following the goat farming extension, the community response was as follows: (1) enthusiasm and participation, (2) increased understanding, (3) interest in new practices, (4) awareness of the importance of improving goat rearing practices (5) satisfaction with information, (6) positive perception of benefits, (7) desire for further training, and (8) better collaboration. The conclusion from this community service activity is that the community in Komala Village still has low knowledge regarding how to raise goats. Although they have experience in raising goats, many things can still be improved in farming practices to achieve better results. As for what needs to be improved in community knowledge, such as feed management, care, production management, use of technology, and business management skills.

Factors affecting the occurrence of cyclopropane fatty acids in grass silage

Haymilk and haymilk products meet the consumers expectations about traditional and sustainable dairy farming and have gained increasing interest in some parts of Europe. In haymilk production, among other restrictions, fermented feed is not allowed in the ration of cows. Recently, advancements in analytical methods applicable to dairy products have emerged, enabling the detection of silage utilization in animal diets. Notably, cyclopropane fatty acids (CPFAs), such as dihydrosterculic acid (DHSA) (cis 9,10-methylene octadecanoic acid) and lactobacillic acid (LBA) (cis-11,12-methylene octadecanoic acid), have been identified as biomarkers capable of distinguishing between Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses. Silage is permitted in the production of the former but prohibited for the latter. Consequently, these biomarkers allow authentication by confirming the absence of silage in the animals' diet. CPFAs are known to be produced by some microorganisms during fermentation in silage production, thus they are expected to occur only in milk of animals fed silage. Most of the previous studies in this area referred to lowland areas, where the fermented part of the dairy cows' diet typically consists of maize silage. However, in the mountainous areas of the Alps (Europe) the diet often includes on-farm produced grass silage, which only recently came to the attention of research concerning the authentication of dairy products based on a silage-free diet. In this work, grass silage was produced under controlled conditions to test the formation of CPFAs depending on the growth cycle (cut), fermentation temperature and the use of fermentation starters. In addition, 69 silage samples of several farms were collected and studied to investigate the relationship between silage quality and the CPFAs content under on-farm conditions in the local practice. The concentration of CPFAs were found to be differently affected by the temperature, depending on the cut, whilst the starter only marginally affected CPFAs. A positive relationship between acetic acid and CPFAs was observed both in laboratory-produced silages and in on-farm collected grass and maize silages. These results provide a first insight into the presence of CPFAs in grass silage and its association with fermentation parameters adding new helpful information in using CPFAs as markers to authenticate milk from a silage-free diet.

Assistance in agricultural waste fermentation technology in Krueng Kalee Village, Darussalam Sub-District, Aceh Besar [Pendampingan teknologi fermentasi limbah pertanian di Gampong Krueng Kalee Kecamatan Darussalam Aceh Besar

Agricultural waste holds significant potential as a source of animal feed and liquid organic fertilizer through the application of fermentation technology. The types of agricultural waste that can be utilized include water spinach leaves, sweet potato leaves, and spinach leaves. The utilization of these wastes not only adds value but also contributes to enhancing the economic independence of communities. Using waste as animal feed offers a sustainable alternative, especially during dry seasons and planting periods, with the potential for higher nutritional content following the fermentation process. The aim of this community service initiative is to educate the public about the types of agricultural and plantation waste that can be used as animal feed, as well as the risks to be avoided related to the effects of fermented feed. Additionally, the program involves training the community in the application of fermentation technology on rice straw, vegetable waste, and cassava leaves, utilizing microbial starters derived from the rumen of goats and cows that have adapted to cyanide toxins. The methods employed in this initiative include outreach and hands-on practice in the production of fermented feed and liquid organic fertilizer. The results indicate a high level of enthusiasm among community members regarding the dissemination of information on utilizing agricultural waste as materials for fermented feed and liquid organic fertilizer, as well as an increased awareness of the importance of environmental preservation surrounding residential and agricultural areas. In conclusion, this initiative has fostered a commitment from partners to independently implement fermentation processes, along with a hope for the continuation of further community service programs focused on the application of technology to enhance the economic conditions of farmers and livestock farmer.

Research and Prospects of Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Microbial Fermentation Technologies in Protein Raw Materials for Aquatic Feed

Aquaculture relies heavily on formulated feed, with feed costs accounting for approximately 50% of the total production expenses. High-protein feed is expensive, and some raw materials are dependent on imports. Organic waste, primarily from food scraps and agricultural residues, can be considered feed ingredients to reduce costs. Through fermentation, the nutritional value of these feeds can be enhanced, promoting the growth of aquatic animals, such as fish, and reducing overall costs. Enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation are commonly used bioprocessing methods, particularly suitable for unconventional feed sources. These methods not only enhance the nutritional value of the feed but also reduce the content of anti-nutritional factors, improving feed digestibility. Enzymatic hydrolysis is often combined with microbial fermentation to produce more efficient novel biofeeds. This synergistic approach enhances microbial fermentation efficiency and the degradation of macromolecules, further improving the nutritional value of the feed, promoting intestinal digestion and absorption, and enhancing animal production performance. Compared to treatments with single strains or enzymes, the synergistic fermentation of feed with microorganisms and enzymes shows more significant effects. This review summarizes the fermentation mechanisms and classifications of enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation in producing novel biofeeds. It also outlines the advantages of this synergistic process and its progress in aquatic animal production, providing a scientific basis for its broader application in aquaculture.

Mixed Strains of Bacillus velezensis PBS-17, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum J-135, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae DAE-4 Increase the Storage Capacity of Fermented Feed and Silage

In this study, we investigated whether three microbial strains, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum J-135, Saccharomyces cerevisiae DAE-4, and Bacillus velezensis PBS-17, could be used to reduce mold growth and spoilage during the production of fermented feed. These microorganisms were isolated and characterized via an evaluation of their antibacterial activity, enzymatic activity, bile acid resistance, and acid tolerance. L. plantarum J-135 and S. cerevisiae DAE-4 demonstrated excellent acid tolerance and bile acid resistance, and L. plantarum J-135 exhibited antibacterial activity against Salmonella species. B. velezensis PBS-17 showed the greatest protease, cellulase, α-amylase, and phytase enzymatic activities, and displayed antibacterial activity against Fusarium solani, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium sp., and Fusarium oxysporum. The three isolated strains were diluted to the same concentration (1:1:1) to create a culture solution, which was added to a standard feed (experimental group) to prepare fermented feed. This was compared with feed treated with a commercially available single probiotic preparation (control group 1) or a mixed microbial preparation that was composed of multiple strains, including B. subtilis. The feed treated with the single probiotic preparation spoiled after 21 days due to insufficient lactic acid bacteria growth, whereas the feed treated with the mixed microbial preparation exhibited mold growth after 14 days. The bacteria and fungi that cause spoilage during fermented feed production were effectively controlled in feed treated with L. plantarum J-135, S. cerevisiae DAE-4, and B. velezensis PBS-17. Therefore, the mixture of these three microbial strains may reduce the risk of spoilage during fermented silage and feed processing, thereby improving storage properties and stability.

Effect of Adding Indigofera zollingeriana to Fermented Completed Feed from Pakchong (P. purpureum × P. americanum) at Different Harvest Ages on the Physical and Chemical Quality

This study aimed to evaluate fermented complete feed (FCF) based on various harvested ages of Pakchong (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Thailand) with the addition of Indigofera (Indigofera zollingeriana). This study used Pakchong at three different harvest ages, namely, 60, 70, and 80 days, which were then formulated by adding Indigofera at 10%, 20% and 30% of the total feed. A complete randomized design with a 3x4 factorial pattern was used, with the first factor being the age of the Pakchong grass and the second factor being the addition of Indigofera and 3 replications. The addition of different amounts of indigofera to complete fermented feed from pakchong grass at various harvest ages had a very significant effect (p&lt;0.01) on the pH value, fleigh value (FV), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF). The complete feed fermentation method has a vinegar aroma, crumb texture, color 2.5 Y 4/6, the best pH is 4.40, the highest FV is 90.76, the highest CP in this study is 13.88%, the NDF content is 55.91%, and the ADF content is 32.63%. The best harvest age was 80 days, and 30% indigofera

Enhancing Manganese Peroxidase: Innovations in Genetic Modification, Screening Processes, and Sustainable Agricultural Applications.

Manganese peroxidase (MnP), a vital extracellular enzyme for the degradation of lignin and other organic pollutants, has demonstrated immense potential for agricultural and environmental applications, including straw pretreatment, feed fermentation, mycotoxin degradation, and water treatment. However, current research remains in its exploratory phase, with naturally sourced MnP unable to meet industrial-scale demands and no mature commercial enzyme preparations available on the market. This comprehensive review innovatively constructs a framework for MnP research, probing into its molecular conformation and catalytic principles, while providing an overview of the advancements in high-throughput screening and In silco designing strategies. Specifically, this review focuses on the practical applications of MnP in sustainable agriculture, elaborating on its potential and challenges in straw resource utilization, efficient feed fermentation, mycotoxin control, and water quality improvement. Furthermore, this review summarizes the recent achievements in optimizing MnP activity through enzyme engineering techniques and discuss customized mutation strategies tailored to specific agricultural and environmental requirements, thereby laying a solid theoretical foundation and scientific basis for the industrial production and commercialization of MnP.

Peran Manajemen Kesehatan Ternak Dalam Meningkatkan Produktiviitas Peternakan Kambing Etawa

Livestock health management plays an important role in improving the productivity of Peranakan Etawah (PE) goats, especially in terms of milk and meat production. This study aimed to analyze the impact of implementing comprehensive health management on the productivity of PE goats in various farms. The research method involved observations and interviews with farmers, as well as analysis of productivity data obtained from the implementation of animal health practices, such as vaccination, fermented feed, and natural ingredient-based treatment. The results showed that farmers who implemented good health management managed to increase milk production by 25% and reduce mortality rates by 15%. The main factors influencing this success were regular vaccination, implementation of biosecurity, and structured feed management. However, constraints faced by farmers, such as limited access to technology and high operational costs, hinder the adoption of comprehensive health management. This study recommends increased extension programs and support from the government and relevant agencies to facilitate wider adoption of health management. With multi-stakeholder collaboration, it is expected that PE goat productivity can continue to increase, support food security, and provide economic benefits for farmers in rural areas.

Transcriptomic and proteomic changes associated with cobalamin-dependent propionate production by the rumen bacterium Xylanibacter ruminicola.

In ruminants, the rumen microbial community plays a critical role in nutrition through the fermentation of feed to provide vital energy substrates for the host animal. Propionate is a major rumen fermentation end-product and increasing its production is desirable given its importance in host glucose production and impact on greenhouse gas production. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) can induce propionate production in the prominent rumen bacterium Xylanibacter ruminicola, but it is not fully understood how cobalamin regulates propionate pathway activity. Contrary to expectation, we found that cobalamin supplementation had little effect on propionate pathway expression at transcriptome and proteome levels, with minor upregulation of genes encoding the cobalamin-dependent enzyme of the pathway. These findings provide new insights into factors that regulate propionate production and suggest that cobalamin-dependent propionate production by X. ruminicola is controlled post-translationally.

Fermented By-Products of Banana Wine Production Improve Slaughter Performance, Meat Quality, and Flavor Fingerprint of Domestic Chicken.

This study aimed to compare the effects of incorporating fermented feed into daily diets on the slaughter performance, meat quality, and flavor compounds of 120 domestic chickens over a 140-day period. A total of five groups (n = 24), including the control group (CK) of the Guangxi Partridge chickens received a standard base diet. The other four groups were provided with pellets that had been added with 10% fermented banana peel (Pe-10), 20% fermented banana peel (Pe-20), 10% fermented banana pulp residue (Pu-10), and 20% fermented banana pulp residue (Pu-20). The flavor compounds in the meat samples of the chickens in these groups were determined using the gas chromatographic method. The results demonstrated that the chickens in the Pe-10, Pe-20, Pu-10, and Pu-20 groups exhibited pectoral muscle percentages, thigh muscle percentages, and total fatty acid content of chest meat that were higher than those observed in the CK group. The moisture content, meat color, carcass weight, total net weight, and abdominal fat percentage of the meat samples in these experimental groups exhibited no notable differences. The flavor compounds in the meat samples of the chickens fed with the two concentrations of fermented banana peel and banana residue were found to be significantly different from those in the control group, with p-values less than 0.05. As the quantity of fermented banana peel incorporated into the daily ration was increased from 10% to 20%, a notable alteration in the flavor compounds present in the chicken samples was observed. The chickens that were provided with fermented banana peels and pulps in their diets exhibited superior slaughter performance and meat quality, particularly in the case of the Pu-10 group, in comparison to the control chickens.

CARCASS CHARACTERIZATION AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIESOF KAMPUNG CHICKENS STRAIN OF SENSI-1 AGRINAKMEAT WITH FERMENTED CORN STRAW SUBSTITUTION FEEDING

Fermentation of corn straw using Trichoderma viridecan produce enzymes that decompose crude fiber and make palatable fermented feed products because of their specific fragrance.This research was aimed to determine the carcass characteristics and physical properties of kampong chicken meat fed with fermented corn straw as a substitute for rice bran. Feedquality affects slaughter weight,weightand percentageof carcass, and meatphysical quality. In this study, 250 kampongchickens strainof SenSi-1 Agrinakwere used, which were fed rice bran (P0) with fermented corn straw (JJF). The treatment as follows: 100% P0 (R0); 95 % P0 + 5 % JJF (R1); 90 % P0 + 10 % JJF (R2); 85 % P0 + 15 % JJF (R3); 80 % P0 + 20 % JJF (R4) with six repetitions. The parameters observedconsist of quality of carcass and quality of meat. Quality of carcass includesweight,percentage, andparts percentageof carcass. Physical qualityof meatincludeswater holding capacity, cooking loss, color, textureandmeatmicrostructur. Based on the results,the subtitutionof rice bran with fermented corn straw in kampongchicken feed has a very significant effect (p&lt;0.01) on carcass quality and significant effect (p&lt;0.05) onmeat quality. The microstructure of kampongchicken meat shows the presence of coarse parts and large cavities so that it supports physical resistance as seen in the water binding capacity and texture of meat tenderness. It can be concluded thatfermented corn straw could be used in the kampongchicken feed up to 10%

Advancements in synergistic fermentation of probiotics and enzymes for non‐grain feed raw materials

AbstractTo address the escalating challenge of food scarcity and the associated conflicts between human and animal consumption, it is imperative to seek alternative resources that can substitute for traditional feed. Non‐grain feed (NGF) raw materials represent a category of biomass resources that are distinct from grains in their composition. These materials are characterized by their high nutritional content, cost‐effectiveness, ample availability, and consistent supply, which contribute to their significant economic potential. Nonetheless, the extensive application of NGF is currently hindered by several limitations, including a high concentration of antinutritional factors, suboptimal palatability, and an offensive odor, among other shortcomings. The synergistic fermentation of probiotics and enzymes (SFPE) is an innovative approach that integrates the use of a diverse array of enzymes during the feed fermentation process, as well as various strains of probiotics throughout the feed digestion process. This method aims to enhance the nutritional value of the feed, diminish the presence of antinutritional factors, and improve the overall palatability, thereby facilitating the optimal utilization of NGF. This strategy holds the promise of not only replacing conventional feed options but also mitigating the pressing issue of grain scarcity. This paper delves into the practical applications of NGF and presents an overview of the latest research advancements in SFPE fermentation techniques, which can provide cutting‐edge and valuable reference for researchers who devote themselves to research in this field in the future.

Pelatihan Pembuatan Pakan Ternak Fermentasi Berbahan Baku Sumberdaya Lokal Di Kelompok Tani Ternak (KTT) Berlian Desa Sukadana

The purpose of this activity is training in special production technology for fermented feed using local resources such as straw and others. The implementation of preparation for community service activities includes: initial observation/survey activities, identification of potential and problems, preparing an action program plan, determining activities, coordinating and taking care of permits for all parties related to the service activities. The results obtained were that most group members did not utilize local raw materials for animal feed and they did not provide fermented animal feed for their livestock. Providing an understanding of the importance of the concept of increasing livestock production in the form of information transfer, knowledge about the concept of fermented animal feed related to its benefits and functions for increasing production carried out through FGD and lecture methods. During the discussion session, input and feedback were obtained from participants that could be useful for the implementation of the service process. The next session was a demonstration or practice of making fermented animal feed using local resources. In the follow-up stage, assistance was provided in providing fermented animal feed to each farmer's livestock, with the hope that the livestock would accept and eat the results of the fermented feed so that it could increase production and increase the income of livestock farmers. The implementation of community service activities went according to plan and could be realized according to expectations. In order to optimize and massively implement the activity of making fermented animal feed among livestock farmers, especially in the surrounding areas, the next community service activities were carried out in various community groups that could be directly affected by handling vulnerable animal feed.

Novel mechanistic understanding that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is more capable of improving the ensiling performance of wheat straw silage than xylanase by driving certain key metabolites

Microbial and enzyme additives can improve silage performance, but there is limited comparative research on the effects of microbial and enzyme additives on improving silage fermentation quality, and the underlying microbial and metabolic pathways remain unclear. This study investigated the effects without inoculants (CK treatment) or with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP treatment), xylanase (XY treatment) and their combination (LPXY treatment) on the fermentation quality, as well as on the microbial communities and metabolite profiles of the wheat straw silage. The results demonstrated that the LP treatment has a better effect on improving the fermentation quality of wheat straw silage compared to other treatments, as evidenced by markedly (p < 0.05) decreased the pH (4.06), acid and neutral fiber (ANF, NDF, 23.43 and 31.69%DM), and increased the lactic acid (LA, 965.89 mg/L) and acetic acid (AA, 656.10 mg/L) concentrations. After the fermentation process, the LP treatment significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the abundance of Lactobacillus, reduced bacterial Shannon (p < 0.05) and increased some key metabolites content. The structural equation models (SEMs) and Pearson’s correlation results proved that the LP treatment improved the wheat straw silage fermentation quality via increasing the abundance of Lactobacillus, decreasing the diversity of bacterial community and enriching the content of certain key metabolites. The present study provides mechanistic evidence that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum additive is superior to xylanase additive and their combination on improving fermentation quality of wheat straw silage, that is, by enriching certain key metabolites to increase AA and LA concentrations, providing a reference for the cross study of silage feed fermentation microbiome and metabolome.Graphical

Assessing the feasibility of adjusting the dry matter content utilizing corn grits and cottonseed meal and inoculating with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in the production of fermented feed from kitchen waste

The feasibility of converting kitchen waste into fermented feed was investigated by adjusting the dry matter (DM) content through addition of corn grits or cottonseed meal, in conjunction with inoculation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The LAB-inoculated (LP) group exhibited acidic aroma and excellent sensory quality, producing significantly lower ammoniacal nitrogen throughout the fermentation process (p < 0.05). On day 3, pH value of the LP group dropped below 4.2 and the lactic acid concentration reached 50 g/kg DM. On day 9, Lactobacillus was the dominant genus in the fermented feed of the LP group, reducing the risk of undesirable fermentation. On day 60, the absolute abundance of bacteria in the LP group was low, and the feed hygiene indices met the national standard. LAB inoculation to produce fermented feed achieved stability on day 3, and remained stable for at least 60 days without spoilage.

Fermented Feed in Broiler Diets Reduces the Antinutritional Factors, Improves Productive Performances and Modulates Gut Microbiome—A Review

Fermented Feed in Broiler Diets Reduces the Antinutritional Factors, Improves Productive Performances and Modulates Gut Microbiome—A Review

Thermophile-fermented feed modulates the gut microbiota related to lactate metabolism in pigs.

Extracts of fermented feed obtained via fermentation of marine animal resources with thermophilic Bacillaceae bacteria increase the fecundity of livestock. The intestinal bacterial profiles in response to long-term administration of this extract to pigs were investigated. Half of a swine farm was supplied with potable water containing an extract of fermented feed for more than 2 years, whereas the other half was supplied with potable water without the extract. Feces from 6-month-old pigs rearing in these two areas were collected. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and isolation of lactic acid bacteria revealed an increase in the D/L-lactate-producing bacterium, Lactobacillus amylovorus, and a decrease in several members of Clostridiales following administration of fermented feed. A lactate-utilizing bacterium, Megasphaera elsdenii, was more abundant in the feces of pigs in the fermented feed group. All representative isolates of M. elsdenii showed rapid utilization of D-lactate relative to L-lactate, and butyrate and valerate were the main products. The probiotic effect of fermented feed is associated with the modulation of lactate metabolism in the digestive organs of pigs.

Modulation of fecal microbiota and reductions in fecal antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) driven by Weissella-fermented feed in growing pigs

Probiotics-induced feed fermentation can improve the composition of microbiota, leading to benefits in pig production. However, the influence of probiotics-driven feed fermentation on pollution reduction is limited. This study aimed to analyze the impact of Weissella-based feed fermentation on the chemical characteristics, changes in microbial abundance, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Moreover, the possible mechanism and the association among them was also analyzed. First, pigs reared on fermented feed exhibited improved growth performance. The fermentation group showed a significant reduction in emissions of total phosphorus (TP), total carbon (TC), organic matter (OM), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) levels in feces compared to the control group. The fermentation group also showed a significant decrease in the ARGs, especially for the tetX, tetW, tetQ, tetL, tetO, tet32, tet44, ermG, ermF, CfxA2, CfxA3, aph3-III, aadA, and ant9-I, compared to the control group. The primary functional microbiota, characterized by increased levels of Bifidobacterium, Megasphaera, and Mitsuokella, and decreased levels of Methanosphaera, and Ruminiclostridium, displayed both negative and positive correlations with ARGs, TC, TP, OM, Cu, and Zn. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between the alterations in microbiota and ARGs and the lactic acid concentration in the fermented feed. The molecular docking results showed a good fit between lactate dehydrogenase and three antibiotics, particularly tetracycline. In conclusion, these results offer novel targets and strategies to address environmental pollutants associated with pig farming.