All natural and organic are terms that can be applied to different theories of animal agriculture.
Regardless of the method used, “Nothing can overcome shortcomings in management,” according to Melissa Hudson, Assistant Professor of Animal Science at Missouri State University. She explained that there is no substitute for a clean environment, fresh water and proper nutrition.
Low dose, long term use of antibiotics such as Tylan, which is often used with Monensin has been shown to decrease the amount of energy needed for animals to grow. There is no residue in the meat. There is, however, some debate about a link between the uses of antibiotics in animals to the increased occurrence of antibiotic resistant germs. “There is little to no data with that link,” Melissa said, “it is a growing area of interest.”
“Rumensin is not on the United States list of feed grade antibiotics,” explained Clint Krehbiel, Professor of Animal Science with Oklahoma State University. “It is an ionophore with antibiotic capabilities.” The talk is not that some additives may be banned, but they may require a prescription at some point.
A more natural approach includes using probiotics and microbials. These are good bacteria that have been shown to yield a 2 percent improvement in feed efficiency when fed to animals. “A combination of lactobacillus and propionate are especially effective,” said Clint. The idea is to repopulate the gut to improve health. There are different microbes that are being used to improve overall health. Proteins that ward off infection and inflammation, known as Cytokines, are being used with poultry and pork. Zinc and copper in levels above the daily requirement are being used to increase growth rate and efficiency in swine.
A farmer wanting to try some of these natural alternatives should contact their feed supplier or local extension agent. The feed salesman or nutritionist will be able to help producers find the product to suit their purpose.
