“This symposium focused on the responsible use of antibiotics in animal production, an ongoing debate within the poultry industry,” says Chairman Filip Van Immerseel. “Speakers provided insights into the pathogenesis of different intestinal disorders, and supplied diagnostic tools and information on preventive strategies to maintain intestinal health in animals.”

Richard Ducatelle (Ghent University, Belgium) explained the complex interactions that take place between bacteria and host, and the importance on their interpretation in order to have a healthy, antibiotic-free poultry production. Both Ducatelle and Petra Louis (Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, UK) presented new research on butyric acid and the importance of butyric acid producing bacteria in their role on gut health.

José Ignacio Barragán Cos (Veterinary Consultant, Spain) discussed the concept of optimization of nutrient digestibility as a means to reduce bacteria number or change in bacteria species profile and presented field trial data on different natural solutions to manage the Clostridium population in poultry.

Dr De Gussem was the lecturer and teacher for the workshop which took place the second day. During this workshop, the attendees were able to evaluate bacterial enteritis and make the connection between intestinal disorders and Clostridium perfringens, one of the main players in bacterial enteritis. Attendees learned about the importance of scoring systems applicable both in the field and under experimental conditions.

ihsig will continue to organize more events to educate the market on intestinal health issues. “ihsig is a group of European experts collaborating with the aim of improving knowledge on intestinal health and narrowing the gap between fundamental research and practical experience in the field,” says Kemin Marketing Director Tom Verleyen. “Since it is the intention of the ihsig group to be independent, Kemin will continue to facilitate practical arrangements only, in order to support their success.”