Improve nitrogen retention with CERTILLUS™ Eco
Dr. Ellen Davis, Swine Technical Manager, Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production
Beneficial strains of Bacillus can have a positive impact in many different applications on a swine operation. Often referred to as “microbes on a mission,” every application of these CERTILLUS™ Targeted Microbial Solutions is ready to deliver tangible, real-world benefits.
Take CERTILLUS™ Eco as an example. This feed additive contains Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis to improve nitrogen retention in manure.
A study within grow-finish operations in the Midwest evaluated whether including CERTILLUS Eco in rations impacts resulting manure composition and odor-causing compounds in manure storage systems.
The study encompassed nutrient and microbial analyses of 217 deep pit manure storage samples. The samples were collected from commercial swine grow-finish systems before and after implementation of CERTILLUS Eco, already feeding CERTILLUS Eco, and never having fed CERTILLUS Eco (n=141 for CERTILLUS Eco and n=76 for control).
CERTILLUS Eco was administered in the feed of the grow-finish pigs at a rate of 1 x 105 CFU/g feed, compared to pigs who were fed similar corn/soybean meal-based diets with dried distillers’ grain, typical of diets formulated for commercial swine production but without CERTILLUS Eco.
The study found statistically significant changes in nutrient composition, specifically increased N retention and reduction in fiber content. In addition, reduced manure viscosity indicated a more complete manure solids digestion, making pumping the pit easier and using less electricity or other fuel inputs. Results also showed a reduction in VFAs and methane-and-hydrogen-sulfide-gas-producing microorganisms.
Clearly, improved nutrient retention helps improve fertilizer values, while providing a more nutrient-dense fertilizer to help cultivate future crops—all while reducing volatile ammonia gas, which affects people, animals, and the planet.
This is consistent with the sustainability commitment at Arm & Hammer Animal and Food Production. We will continue to be centered around how our products help producers reach their sustainability goals and lessen the environmental footprint of animal agriculture as whole.
To learn more about our sustainability efforts, CERTILLUS Eco feed additive or other applications of CERTILLUS Targeted Microbial Solutions, contact your ARM & HAMMER™ representative.
