dsm-firmenich launches microbiome diagnostic service to improve poultry gut health in EMEA

EMEA – dsm-firmenich has introduced a new microbiome-based diagnostic service to help poultry producers detect gut health issues earlier and optimise feed efficiency as the industry moves toward reduced antibiotic use.

The SciTell™ Microbiome Analytics service, developed by dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health, uses non-invasive sampling and DNA sequencing to analyse the gut microbiome of broiler chickens, providing data-driven insights into flock health and performance.

“Gut health challenges often develop long before they show up in flock performance,” said Maria Iuspa, Global Senior Manager for Poultry Gut Health Solutions. 

“SciTell™ Microbiome Analytics helps poultry producers gain earlier, objective insight into what is happening in the gut.”

The service works by collecting fecal samples, which are analysed using advanced sequencing and bioinformatics tools. 

Results are then translated into standardised gut health indices, offering producers a clear view of microbiome balance, pathogen pressure and overall performance.

Early detection to support feed efficiency and performance

For poultry producers, gut health is closely linked to feed conversion, growth rates and disease resistance. 

Given that feed accounts for a major share of production costs, early detection of imbalances, such as dysbiosis or pathogen presence, can help reduce losses and improve efficiency.

SciTell™ benchmarks each result against a global reference database of chicken microbiomes, allowing producers to compare performance across farms, production stages and regions.

The system is designed as an early warning tool, flagging risks such as microbial imbalances and disruptions to short-chain fatty acids before they affect productivity. 

It also provides simplified scoring and expert interpretation, making results easier to act on at the farm level.

By linking microbiome data to nutritional strategies, including eubiotics, the service supports more precise feed formulation and targeted interventions.

Growing demand for precision livestock solutions

The launch reflects a broader shift in the poultry and feed industries toward precision nutrition and data-driven decision-making. 

As regulatory pressure increases to limit antibiotic use, producers are turning to alternative approaches to maintain flock health and performance.

Microbiome analysis is emerging as a key tool in this transition, offering insights into how feed, management practices and environmental conditions affect animal health at a microbial level.

By providing standardised, objective data, SciTell™ aims to help producers and nutritionists make more informed decisions, improving both productivity and animal welfare.

The launch also comes as dsm-firmenich continues to evaluate strategic options for its Animal Nutrition & Health business, including a potential divestment announced in 2024, even as it expands its portfolio of precision nutrition solutions.

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