Role of probiotic in the performance of young piglets: A review

Abstract

A balanced microbiota is an indispensable constituent of a healthy gut. The word “probiotic” was derived from the Greek meaning “for life” or “in favour of life”. Probiotics, the live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer good health benefits onto the host, are a category of feed additives that can be used to replenish the gut microbial population while recuperating the host immune system. Besides their antitoxin and diarrhoea reduction effects, dietary supplementation of probiotics can improve gut health, nutrient digestibilities and, therefore, benefit nutrient utilization and growth performance of pigs. Thus, this review paper aims to provide some beneficial role of probiotics in the performance of young piglets.