The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is a highly complex system which acts differently across livestock species. Feed, water, microorganisms and contaminants ingested by the animals exert their impact in the GIT. Therefore, intestinal immunity and intestinal barrier function play a crucial role, covering around 70-80% of the total immune system. Animal performance directly correlates with health status, in particular with the health status of the digestive tract. Compared to standard health animals, the growth rate of animals in a germ-free environment is higher. Consequently, performance of standard health animals is higher compared to animals facing pathogenic challenges (Burch, 2004).

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