A feed additive containing Bacillus toyonensis (Toyocerin (R)) protects against enteric pathogens in postweaning piglets

AimsThis study evaluated the efficacy of a probiotic containing Bacillus toyonensis spores (Toyocerin((R))) in postweaning piglets against enteric pathogens. Methods and ResultsSeven hundred and ninety-two healthy weaning pigs of a commercial farrow-to-finish pig farm were used. The negative control group fed without Toyocerin((R)) and two experimental groups fed similar to the negative control group, but supplemented with Toyocerin((R)) at t 500mgkg(-1) diet (Toyocerin 500 group) and 1000mgkg(-1) diet (Toyocerin 1000 group), respectively. No significant difference (P>005) in morbidity and mortality rate between groups was noticed. The Toyocerin groups showed higher body weight (P<005) and lower feed conversion ratio compared to the negative control group. Diarrhoea score was less in both Toyocerin groups than negative control group (P<005). Moreover, the use of Toyocerin((R)) at 1000mgkg(-1) diet resulted in higher average daily feed intake compared to other groups (P