A new compendium entitled 'Phytogenics in Animal Nutrition: Natural Concepts to Optimise Gut Health and Performance' edited by Dr Tobias Steiner is now available.
The book, published by Nottingham University Press (UK), represents a review of existing knowledge, as well as well as a basis for future research and development for scientists and the feed industry in order to develop efficacious phytogenic preparations for animal nutrition.
The term 'phytogenics', also referred to as botanicals or phytobiotics, describes plant-derived compounds incorporated in animal feed to improve productivity of livestock through amelioration of feed properties and promotion of the animal's production performance.
In the last few years phytogenics have gained considerable attention in the feed industry.
The in vitro antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant and other activities of phytogenic compounds are described in the book and backed up by numerous scientific reports.
An increasing number of studies addressing the gastro-intestinal effects of phytogenics under in vivo conditions in animal feeding experiments are available.
The potential and application of this new type of feed additive in different animal species is reviewed by international experts from universities and research departments.
