Oxford University Press (OUP), Journal of Animal Science, Supplement_3(98), p. 98-99, 2020
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Abstract Improvement on litter size in hyperprolific sows has decreased piglet’s birthweight and increased newborn mortality. Besides, no significant changes have been reported on the sow colostrum-milk composition. Phytogenic compounds (PC) are phytochemicals that may promote swine health and performance. This study aims to evaluate the effects of PC maternal transfer on reproductive and litter performance, and sows colostrum-milk features. Eighty-one hyperprolific sows were assigned to 3 treatments. Control sows were unsupplemented, whereas treated sows were offered supplemented diets with 1 g/kg of a blend of PC (BPC) during gestation and lactation (GL), or only lactation (L). Maternal transfer of PC into the amniotic fluid and milk were determined by using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Farrowing and litter performance were monitored. Moreover, the colostrum and milk composition, and milk inhibitory activity against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Candida albicans were determined. Data were analyzed with ANOVA by using the MIXED procedure of SAS, while, Fisher test for milk bacteriostatic activity was performed. Thymol, anethole, linalool, and eucalyptol were transferred via amniotic liquid, whereas, p-cymene, thymol, and anethole were also transferred into the milk (P < 0.05). No differences (P > 0.05) were observed on number of total born piglets (C 17.14, L 17.75, and GL 19.16). However, BPC supplementation increased (P = 0.007) the piglets born alive (C 14.53, L 15.33, and GL 17.60), while reduced (P = 0.031) the newborn piglets BW. Colostrum protein in GL and milk fat contents in L and GL (Table 1) were increased (P < 0.05). Milk of GL showed inhibitory activity (P < 0.05) against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. In conclusion, dietary BPC supplementation during gestation and/or lactation increased the number of piglets born alive, enhanced both the colostrum-milk composition, and the milk inhibitory activity against well-known pathogens.