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The genetic selection of hyperprolific sows has resulted in an increase in litter size. However, this has been correlated with an increase in the number of stillborn piglets and a decreased mean piglet birth weight. Additionally, litter size has been positively related to the colostrum and milk yield, while the milk composition has been negatively correlated with milk yield. Altogether, all these factors can induce the appearance of oxidative stress in hyperprolific sows. In this context, literature has described that phytogenic compounds (PC), which are plant-derived natural bioactive compounds, may promote livestock health and production efficiency. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the effects of the maternal transfer of PC on sows’ reproductive performance, colostrum-milk features and their antioxidant status. A total of 81 hyperprolific gilts and sows were assigned to one of 3 treatments: a control treatment (C), offered a non-supplemented diet during gestation and lactation; and two supplemented groups with 1 g/kg of a blend of PC (BPC) in lactation (L), or during gestation and lactation (GL).
As a result, dietary PC, such as tymol and anethole, reached GL placental fluid, and the milk of L and GL sows. BPC supplementation during gestation (GL) increased the number of piglets born alive while reducing the newborn piglets’ weight. However, no differences among treatments were observed in weaned piglets’ BW. Moreover, colostrum protein in GL and milk fat content in L and GL were increased. Milk of GL showed inhibitory activity against B. subtilis and S. aureus. Antioxidant status of GL sows showed an enhanced of catalase and total antioxidant capacity levels at early gestation (day 35), whereas higher levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes at late gestation (day 110).
In conclusion, the prenatal and postnatal maternal transfer of BPC (in placental fluid and milk) increased the number of born alive piglets and improved the composition and bioactivity of colostrum and milk. In addition, BPC modified the antioxidant status of hyperprolific sows.
Reyes-Camacho, D., Vinyeta, E., Pérez, J. F., Aumiller, T., Criado, L., Palade, L. M., Taranu, I., Folch, J. M., Calvo, M. A., Van der Klis, J. D., & Solà-Oriol, D. (2020). Phytogenic actives supplemented in hyperprolific sows: effects on maternal transfer of phytogenic compounds, colostrum and milk features, performance and antioxidant status of sows and their offspring, and piglet intestinal gene expression. Journal of Animal Science, 98(1), skz390.
https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skz390