Investigation of in-feed organic acids as a low cost strategy to combat Salmonella in grower pigs

Within the first two days of exposure to the contaminated environment, 96% (77/80) of pigs became infected. Most pigs shed Salmonella at levels of between 100-103 CFU/g faeces for at least 7 days post-exposure. A significant reduction in Salmonella faecal concentration was observed after supplementation with sodium butyrate (p = 0.001) and a formic citric acid blend (p < 0.0001). Average daily weight gain (ADWG) was significantly increased in all groups fed the supplemented feed when compared to the positive control group. The use of sodium butyrate or a blend of formic and citric acid in feed could be considered a cost-effective control measure to reduce Salmonella faecal shedding and improve ADWG in Salmonella infected herds.