16 March 2016

2 minute read

The congress featured an open thematic meeting to highlight new and promising developments in the field of veterinary treatments, especially in the light of efforts of the Dutch livestock production industry to drastically reduce veterinary antibiotic use.

Much attention was therefore given to innovative alternatives that can reduce the dependency on the use of antibiotics, such as functional feed ingredients that promote intestinal health. Chair of the day was Prof Dr Johanna-Fink Gremmels (Faculty of veterinary medicine of Utrecht University).

The toolbox of the practising vet changes rapidly. The push to reduce the use of antibiotics propels a stream of innovative ideas on product development and viable alternatives. Functional ingredients, bio-active components and resources that promote the health of animal are part of daily practice for companion animals, horses and farm animals.

The CPD has taken the lead in bringing new developments and trends to the attention of the practitioner. At the congress several companies and research institutes shared their knowledge and presented existing concepts that are being applied in different areas in the world.

Key note speakers were, Dr Maria de Groot Rikilt (Wageningen UR) who talked about the phyto-V project and stable booklets; Dr Bart Halkes (Phytaxis SA) presented on bioactive aromatic polyphenols; Prof Dr Henk Haagsman (FD UU/Immuno Valley ALTANT) discussed Antimicrobial peptides; Drs Wim Nuboer (Micreos) addressed phage-and lysine uses; Dr Pedro Caramona spoke about mycotoxin inactivation and Drs Ashok Lakha (Ministry Economic Affairs) highlighted national and European and developments.

Dr Tim Goossens (Nutriad Business Development Manager – see picture) presented Nutriad’s research on intestinal precision delivery of butyrates and on quorum sensing, a form of bacterial communication.

According to Dr Goossens: “Both topics nicely illustrate Nutriad’s efforts to get the most out of butyrate and phytogenic feed additives, respectively.”

Mr Algra (Nutriad Manager Benelux) further added that in modern livestock production, the importance of the vets is increasing day by day.

“They are crucial in protecting animal health and productivity,” he explained: “and by doing so, they are also heavily involved in preventing zoonotic disease outbreak and safeguarding the health of the consumers.”

Stated Mr Algra: “That’s why I listen to them on a daily basis, and closely collaborate with them to discuss new products and methods to strengthen the animal defence system and to further reduce the use of antibiotics. And providing ‘healthy food for healthy animals’, based on sound science, is a critical factor in doing so.”

Nutriad delivers products and services to over 80 countries through a network of own sales offices and distributors, supported by 4 application laboratories and 5 manufacturing facilities on 3 continents.

Find out more at www.nutriad.com