Cargill’s new feed additive tackles avian E. coli in layers with promising results

USA – A new feed additive developed by Cargill is showing strong potential in reducing the impact of avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) in poultry flocks, according to recent company-led trials.

Cargill launched Biostrong C-Protect, a blend of postbiotics and saponins, after extensive testing with layer producers revealed a 26% reduction in bird fatalities and improvements in overall flock health when exposed to APEC. 

The innovation is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to address persistent animal health challenges through nutrition-based solutions.

“What our customers were experiencing was that avian E. coli is a very prevalent disease, but there is no silver bullet for it,” said Dr. Manuel Da Costa, director for strategic marketing and technology innovation at Cargill’s poultry division. 

“There are good management practices, vaccination, sanitation, and nutrition strategies, but there’s not a silver bullet.”

APEC, a common yet often fatal bacterial infection in poultry, poses a costly challenge for commercial egg producers globally. 

Leveraging the synergies of two additives 

Seeking an effective nutritional tool, Cargill researchers tested various additive combinations before landing on a synergistic blend of postbiotics and saponins.

Postbiotics, beneficial compounds produced during the fermentation of probiotics, are known to support immune function and gut health. 

Saponins, naturally occurring plant metabolites commonly found in legumes, are recognised for their antimicrobial potential and effects on digestibility, gut integrity, and ammonia control.

“When you put those two together, we know they work well, but we don’t know the exact mode of action,” said Dr. Da Costa. While the precise interaction remains under investigation, early field data suggest that the blend is more effective than either component used alone.

Cargill recommends consistent feeding of C-Protect, especially four to six weeks ahead of anticipated seasonal outbreaks. 

Although trials didn’t assess specific feeding schedules, Dr. Da Costa noted that time is likely needed for postbiotics to fully activate their gut and immune benefits.

The launch follows a broader research push by Cargill, which has ramped up investment in novel feed additive technologies after a string of acquisitions. 

“We plan to keep experimenting with different postbiotics and plant-derived compounds, especially those that could address challenges related to animal health, food safety and sustainability,” Dr. Da Costa said.

With Biostrong C-Protect now available to producers, Cargill’s latest innovation seeks to fill a long-standing gap in the fight against avian E. coli, offering a science-driven tool to boost poultry health and productivity.

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