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ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS – SOFTACID

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS – SOFTACID

Many animal feed producers have been replaced antibiotics by applying organic acids, enzymes, probiotics and prebiotics, etc. to inhibit growth of pathogen bacteria.
Harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E.coli) or Samonella live and grow at pH ≥ 4 while beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium live at pH ≤ 3.5. The addition of organic acids lowers the pH ≤ 3.5 promotes beneficial bacteria at the expense of pathogenic organisms and inhibit harmful bacteria.
Organic acids commonly used are lactic acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, butyric acid, etc. Through supplementation of these organic acids, which decrease the pH of gastric juice and intestinal juice without corrosion of the mucous membrane lining gastrointestinal tract. Recently, most pig farms in EU are considering the use of organic acids is an important alternative for antibiotic growth promoters. However, the use of organic acids causes major handling and usage problems due to their corrosive nature. Hence, there is a need for an improved form – one that is less corrosive, safe, effective and easy to use. For this purpose, Borregaard LignoTech has specifically developed a unique and patented technology called SoftAcid.

Protecting Values

SoftAcid is a product range that consists of organic acids and modified lignosulphonic acid.

SoftAcid works as an acidifier, which control the pH in the feed until it is utilized by the animal. The chance of bacterial contamination (after it has been heat treated in the production process) is hereby reduced. Hence, SoftAcid is less corrosive, safer to use and easier to handle than pure organic acids. In addition to these benefits, SoftAcid provides a clear inhibition of bacterial colonisation and a reduction of biofilm adhesion.

Different SoftAcid-products are being used in a number of animal feed-related applications:

  softacid