What is the primary purpose of feed additives in livestock production?

The primary purpose of feed additives in livestock production encompasses both controlling health issues and increasing growth rates, making the combination of both fundamental to the overall objectives of efficient livestock management.

Feed additives can play a crucial role in animal health by preventing or mitigating diseases. For instance, certain additives function as probiotics or prebiotics that promote gut health, improving feed efficiency and reducing the incidence of health problems in the herd. This, in turn, contributes to better overall animal welfare, which is vital for sustainable livestock production.

Furthermore, feed additives are also designed to enhance growth performance. Additives like growth promoters or specific nutrients can lead to quicker weight gain, improved feed conversion ratios, and overall better productivity. By maximizing growth rates, producers can achieve higher outputs within the same periods, ultimately contributing to economic viability and meeting market demands.

Therefore, the combined ability of feed additives to control health issues while simultaneously promoting growth underscores their essential role in enhancing the efficiency and profitability of livestock production systems.