BASF introduces BalanGut^® LS, a combination of butyric acid monoglycerides and medium-chain fatty acids to fortify intestinal health and support growth of poultry and swine.

Benefits and limitations of butyrate and medium-chain fatty acids

Butyric acid helps maintain the integrity of the epithelium, regulate the immune system and has antibacterial properties. Medium-chain fatty acids (C6-C12) are also known to have potent antimicrobial properties.

However, all these fatty acids are rapidly absorbed by the digestive tract, which may limit their positive effect on gut health. In addition, butyric acid has a very unpleasant odour, is corrosive and volatile.

Why monoglycerides?

To eliminate these drawbacks, BalanGut^® LS presents these fatty acids in the form of glycerides (3/4 monoglycerides). This odourless product allows a prolonged action along the intestine.

Monoglycerides also have their mode of action: monobutyrin activates angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), contributes to the entire epithelial barrier and has stronger antimicrobial effects than those of butyric. The caprylic- (C8) and capric- (C10) monoglycerides also act directly against pathogens.

Various tests carried out by independent laboratories have shown the efficacy of BalanGut ™ LS against E. coli, salmonella and Clostridium.

Proven efficacy

Available in liquid or powder form, BalanGut^® LS withstands high temperatures (150°C) and has preventive action in poultry at a dose of 0.5kg /t feed.

In piglets and, more generally, under conditions of high sanitary pressure for all young animals, it is more effective between 1.5kg/t and 3.0kg/t. A version of BalanGut^® LS is also proposed for aquaculture.

Various tests carried out by independent laboratories have shown the efficacy of BalanGut^® LS against E. coli, salmonella and Clostridium. It improves animal performance, reduces the risk of diarrhoea in piglets (Figure 1), enteric necrosis or pododermatitis in chickens (Figure 2), both under normal production conditions and under health stress conditions.

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Article made possible through the contribution of Dr. Adriana Barri and BASF Animal Nutrition

Balangut LS strengthens gut health and improves animal performance