Navigating The World of Phytogenics in Swine Nutrition

In Canada and around the world, the swine industry is undergoing transformation, driven by evolving consumer expectations, regulatory pressures, and the growing demand for sustainable production practices. Within this landscape, phytogenics have emerged as a promising innovation in animal nutrition.

These plant-derived feed additives are becoming increasingly popular, with an ever-expanding range of products on the market. With so many options available, it’s important for swine producers to understand what phytogenics are, how they work, and when they can bring the most value; this knowledge is key to making informed, profitable decisions.

What are phytogenics?
The term ‘phytogenic’ means ‘derived from plants.’ In animal nutrition, phytogenics are feed additives that contain bioactive components derived from plants that can be used to improve animal performance and health. Examples of plants that have been used in livestock feed include oregano, capsicum, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Although they are often discussed as alternatives to antibiotics, phytogenics do not target microbes directly at typical inclusion levels. Instead, these novel, plant-based functional ingredients act on the host animal, with the potential to alter the animal’s physiology, metabolism, or nutrient absorption. When phytogenic compounds are provided in the right combinations and at the right dosages, they can support pigs in reaching their full potential.

How do phytogenics work?
The gastrointestinal tract has a large surface area and is important for digestion. Scientists have realized that it acts as much more than a digestive organ. Furness and colleagues (2013) describe the gut as a sensory organ that can detect and process messages from its environment through receptors located on the intestinal cells facing the inner space of the gut. The molecules in an animal’s diet can interact with these receptors to target, desensitize or block certain signals. The signals initiate a chain of adjustments within the animal’s body, which can impact processes like metabolism, immunity, hormone secretion, or inflammation. As a result, including these molecules in an animal’s diet can ultimately impact their health and performance.