Probiotics help combat heat stress in sows

Including probiotic live yeast Levucell SB in sow diets has been shown to reduce the effects of heat stress during farrowing and weaning.

This is according to findings from a recent commercial-scale trial conducted in farrowing houses under heat stress conditions.

How does Levucell SB help reduce heat stress in sows? 

The trial involved 199 sows split into two groups, with one group receiving Levucell SB at 200g per tonne of feed from five days pre-farrowing until weaning.  

During the trial, sows experienced temperatures above 25°C for prolonged periods, which is not uncommon for farrowing rooms with piglet heat sources, causing heat stress symptoms such as reduced feed intake and weight loss. 

The results showed that feeding Levucell SB to sows improved gut function and energy utilisation.  

This helped the pigs better cope with heat stress and maintain body condition despite similar feed intake. 

What are the benefits of feeding Levucell SB to heat-stressed sows? 

The trial results showed that sows fed Levucell SB lost significantly less body weight (33%), backfat (17%), and loin muscle (23%) compared to control sows under heat stress. 

Colostrum quality also improved, with 85% of probiotic-treated sows producing good (>25 brix) or very good colostrum (>30 brix) compared to 44% in the control group. 

Litter performance also improved in the following cycle, with supplemented sows producing 1.16 more piglets born alive per litter. 

Overall, fewer sows were removed from the herd, reducing economic losses linked to farrowing efficiency and heat stress. This is particularly important as sow profitability is not reached until the third farrowing cycle. 

How does Levucell SB work to combat heat stress in pigs? 

Levucell SB is a probiotic live yeast strain known for its robustness in acidic environments and superior oxygen-scavenging ability. 

It stimulates beneficial gut bacteria that enhance fibre digestion and produce phosphatase, protease, polyamines, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) such as acetate for its anti-microbial properties and use as a substrate for butyrate production. 

By supporting gut health and nutrient absorption, Levucell SB helps sows maintain body reserves and perform better during hot periods. 

Why choose Levucell SB to manage heat stress in sows? 

For pig producers in the UK and Ireland seeking ways to mitigate heat stress in pigs and avoid losses, Levucell SB offers a cost-effective, science-backed solution. 

Adding this probiotic live yeast to sow diets helps reduce heat stress symptoms and supports better sow and litter health.