The use of yeasts or yeast-based additives in animal diets is a reality, and there is a major tendency for this to increase in the coming years. This is due to the characteristics of yeasts and their components, which result in nutritional and functional benefits.

“In animal production and the PET industry, the use of yeast as an ingredient or of yeast-based additives adds value to health, well-being and performance. In addition, one of the characteristics of yeast from Brazil’s ethanol production is that it is part of a 100% sustainable, renewable and zero-carbon process. These characteristics allow us to meet the demands of the market, which is looking for sustainable alternatives for animal nutrition and health,” says zootechnician Dr. Melina Bonato, Global Technical and R&D Manager at ICC.

In addition, the benefits of using yeasts and their components are an integral part of programs to reduce or avoid the use of growth promoters and the like in animal production.

“In this sense, ICC – one of the biggest global players in natural and sustainable solutions based on Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts from the ethanol production process – has been investing in biotechnology and innovation for more than three decades. Experience, combined with investment in research over the years, has brought ICC to its current level as a pioneer and leading company in solutions that offer nutrition, immunonutrition and animal welfare, says Melina.

“The singularity of yeast from the ethanol production process in Brazil plays a decisive role in the functional benefits of the animal’s gastrointestinal tract. The immunonutrient components of yeast, such as β-glucans, mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), nucleotides and amino acids, support the immune system directly, as well as having a positive impact on the beneficial microbiota, intestinal integrity, the control of inflammatory processes and animal growth,” says Melina.

Yeast-based additives are increasingly gaining ground. Poultry, swine and beef producers are already seeing positive results. As a result, they produce more and better and are aligned with the requirements of the ESG concept (environmental, social and governance commitments). “ICC is present in the region to promote these innovative solutions and establish partnerships with producers,” says Melina Bonato, the company’s global technical and research and development manager.