Alltech launches Olerix phytogenic feed additive

USA – Alltech has introduced Olerix™, a new phytogenic feed additive developed to improve growth performance and feed efficiency in pigs, as livestock producers increasingly seek nutritional solutions that can enhance productivity while supporting animal health.

The company said Olerix combines a proprietary blend of phytogenic compounds with a specialised coating technology designed to protect bioactive ingredients throughout feed manufacturing and delivery. 

The approach aims to ensure the additive remains effective from feed production through to animal consumption, delivering more consistent performance under commercial production conditions.

According to Alltech, the product was developed to support gut health, immune function, feed efficiency and overall growth performance in swine operations. 

The launch comes as pork producers face mounting pressure from rising production costs, tighter margins and increasing demands for sustainable production practices.

“As the industry searches for technology to drive profitability forward in a more sustainable manner, we’re thrilled to join that effort with our Olerix technology,” said Mark Hulsebus, General Manager for U.S. Pork at Alltech.

“Our work in this phytogenic space is yielding very encouraging results, and we’re excited to make this new opportunity available to pork producers focused on optimising feed efficiency and growth rates.”

Phytogenic feed additives, which are derived from plant-based compounds such as herbs, spices and essential oils, have gained growing attention across the global feed industry as producers seek alternatives that support animal performance, gut health and resilience. 

Interest in these products has increased alongside efforts to improve feed conversion efficiency and reduce production costs.

Focus on feed efficiency and animal performance

Alltech said Olerix was developed by its global team of animal nutrition and health specialists to help bridge efficiency gaps commonly observed in modern swine production systems.

The company noted that the additive has been evaluated in trials conducted under commercial pork production conditions, with results indicating consistent improvements in growth performance and animal livability.

“Olerix represents the next generation of phytogenic technology, combining feed efficiency, livability and immune support into a practical commercial solution producers can implement today,” said Andy Rash, U.S. Monogastric Director at Alltech.

The product is intended for use across different stages of swine production, including nursery and finishing operations, where feed efficiency remains a key economic driver.

Dr Jose Soto, Monogastric Research and Technical Lead at Alltech, said research conducted by the company demonstrated benefits beyond growth performance alone.

“The Olerix technology is a robust addition to the Alltech monogastric product portfolio,” Soto said.

“In our research, we have observed repeatable responses not only in growth performance but also in livability, especially in health-challenged nursery pigs. In finishing pigs, we have observed similar outcomes.”

Feed accounts for the largest share of pork production costs globally, making improvements in feed conversion a major focus for producers and nutrition companies. 

Even small gains in feed efficiency can translate into significant economic benefits at a commercial scale.

The launch strengthens Alltech’s portfolio of swine nutrition solutions and reflects wider industry efforts to leverage feed technologies that improve animal performance while supporting more sustainable livestock production systems.

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