Effects of Fulvic Acid and Probiotic on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Parameters and Immunity of Pigs

This study was conducted to determine the influence of fulvic acid (FA) and probiotic (PB) supplementation on performance, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters and immunity of pigs. The trial 1 evaluated the effect of FA and probiotic on nutrient digestibility of pigs at approximately 20 kg. The trial 2 examined the effect on performance, blood parameters and immune response of 80 weanling pigs. Five dietary treatments consisting of control, antibiotic (200 ppm oxytetracycline), 200 ppm FA, 10 9 cfu/g probiotic and combination of 200 ppm FA and 10 9 cfu/g probiotic (FA+PB). Results from the trial 1 indicated that FA and FA+PB improved the total phosphorus, gross energy and ash digestibility compared with the antibiotic and control group (P<0.05). In trial 2, weanling pigs fed antibiotic showed a significantly higher (P<0.05) average daily gain (ADG) than pigs fed the control diet. Pigs fed FA+PB had a significantly (P<0.05) higher SRBC antibody titers, IgG and phytohemaglutination (skin challenge) level than pigs fed the control diet, as well as of IgG in FA group. In conclusion, FA and FA+PB supplementation increased the gross energy, total phosphorus and ash digestibility of pigs, as well as improved the immune capacity of weanling pigs.