
A new lens for phytogenics
Phytogenics were introduced into animal nutrition decades ago with a specific target: to find alternatives for the use of antibiotics to support livestock performance. Due to that narrow lens, phytogenics – specifically essential oils – were screened for antimicrobial properties and selected for their ability to kill relevant pathogenic bacteria.
However, even though some phytogenics may have antimicrobial activity in vitro, at the in-feed inclusion levels commonly used, they have little to no antimicrobial effect. So, instead of focusing on a narrow, oversimplified silver-bullet approach, Selko works on science-based phytogenic solutions that support the host’s natural defense mechanisms as well as robust physiological functions in all kinds of conditions.