Interventi nutrizionali sostenibili nel suinetto in post-svezzamento

Weaning is the most critical phase in the life of pigs with a signicant impact on health and welfare. At weaning, piglets are subjected to several stressful factors: environmental and nutritional changes, mixing of piglets from different litters and fights to establish new social hierarchies. Weaning is associated with a period of feed intake depression, the presence of in ammatory states and immune system activation. In addition, a reduction in nutrient absorption and an increase in intestinal permeability is observed, with a consequent high incidence of enteric disease and mortality. Animal welfare and sustainability are key factors for a sustainable agri-food system, with rigorous limits on the use of antimicrobials and microelements. Research has focused on sustainable feeding techniques to improve piglet health. Recent studies have therefore focused on dietary supplementation with natural substances that can positively modulate the immune system and antioxidant status. Positive effects on antioxidant status and the immune system are observed in literature. In addition, the antimicrobial action through modulation of the intestinal microbiota has positive effects on nutrient digestibility and a reduction in enteric diseases. The natural substances are sustainable dietary supplements in the diet of weaned piglets that can improve the welfare and health of the animals, in accordance with the “One Health” approach and the European “Green Deal”.