Which substance can be used in feed to improve animal health and growth rates?

The use of antibiotics in animal feed has been a common practice aimed at enhancing animal health and growth rates. Antibiotics can help prevent and control bacterial infections, which can interfere with the animals’ ability to grow and thrive. By reducing the burden of disease, animals can allocate more energy towards growth rather than fighting off infections, resulting in better feed efficiency and overall performance.

Additionally, certain antibiotics can have growth-promoting properties; they influence the gut microbiota positively, thereby improving digestion and nutrient absorption. This is critical in livestock management, as it can lead to healthier animals, lower mortality rates, and improved production outcomes.

It is important to note that the use of antibiotics in animal feed is a subject of regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about antibiotic resistance, but when used appropriately under veterinary guidance, they can effectively contribute to the health and growth of livestock.

In contrast, while hormones, vitamins, and minerals also play significant roles in animal health and growth, their effects are different. Hormones can regulate growth but are typically used with specific regulatory constraints, vitamins are essential for metabolic functions, and minerals are critical for various physiological processes. However, the impactful use of antibiotics specifically for growth enhancement and disease prevention makes them the most relevant choice here.