As public concerns about antimicrobial resistance in food-borne bacteria continue to rise, there is an increasing need to explore feed-based alternatives to antibiotics in agricultural animal industries. The research led by Dr. Yanhong Liu at the Comparative Animal Nutrition & Physiology Laboratory at UC Davis has identified the need for innovative feed ingredients that can positively alter microbial populations in the gastrointestinal tract or bolster immune systems in pigs. This aligns directly with the objectives of Green Feed Supply and our flagship product, Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed, a hemp-based feed formulated to support animal health through natural, nutrient-dense ingredients.
This paper outlines how Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed could serve as an excellent subject for ongoing research at UC Davis, particularly in the areas of gut health, immune response, and sustainable feeding practices in swine production.
1. Investigating Alternatives to Antibiotics: Hemp Feed as a Natural Solution
The research conducted at UC Davis emphasizes the importance of finding effective, natural alternatives to antibiotics. Our Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed is uniquely positioned to address this challenge due to its rich profile of essential fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants, which can contribute to improved gut health and immune function.
The balanced ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids found in hemp has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the need for antibiotics by enhancing the pig’s natural immune defenses. Furthermore, the presence of Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) in hemp may assist in maintaining a healthy microbial balance within the gastrointestinal tract, potentially reducing the occurrence of infections and gut-related diseases that would otherwise necessitate antibiotic intervention.
Research Hypothesis:
Hemp-based feed can improve gut microbial balance and enhance immune responses in pigs, reducing the reliance on antibiotics.
2. Pigs as a Model for Human Digestive Research
The internal anatomy and physiology of pigs are strikingly similar to humans, making pigs an ideal model for studying human digestion and metabolic processes. UC Davis researchers could explore how the functional components of our hemp-based feed impact not only pig health but also provide valuable insights into human nutrition. Hemp’s high levels of protein (7.43g per serving) and its broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, Zinc, Magnesium, and Phosphorus, are critical for maintaining gut health and regulating metabolic functions.
Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed could be used to evaluate whether the inclusion of hemp-based ingredients positively affects digestive health and brain-related metabolic processes. The polyunsaturated fatty acids in hemp, especially Omega-3s, have been shown to support brain health, which could have implications for both swine and human health studies.
Research Hypothesis:
Hemp-based feed improves digestive function and brain health in pigs, offering potential insights into human digestive health and disease prevention.
3. Hemp Biomass as a Sustainable, Low-Cost Feed Ingredient
One of the key areas of interest in the UC Davis research is the evaluation of low-cost by-products or co-products from the feed and food industry to enhance the sustainability of pig production. Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed, derived from U.S.-grown hemp biomass, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional feed ingredients such as corn and soybeans. Hemp is a fast-growing crop that requires fewer pesticides and herbicides, reducing its environmental footprint.
Additionally, the high nutrient density of hemp biomass can lead to more efficient feed conversion rates, thereby reducing the amount of feed required for swine production. This has the potential to increase sustainability in the industry while simultaneously improving the health and productivity of pigs.
Research Hypothesis:
Hemp biomass-based feed can enhance the sustainability of swine production by reducing reliance on traditional feed ingredients while maintaining or improving pig health and performance.
4. Practical Application in Pig Diets
To further validate the effectiveness of Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed in swine nutrition, UC Davis could investigate the practical applications of introducing hemp-based feed into pig diets. The high crude protein (23.07%) and crude fat (3.88%) content in our feed make it an ideal supplement for supporting growth, muscle development, and immune function in pigs.
The addition of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and E, as well as key minerals like Zinc, Magnesium, and Iron, supports a holistic approach to animal nutrition. These nutrients are vital for maintaining a robust immune system, regulating digestion, and promoting overall well-being.
Research Hypothesis:
The introduction of hemp-based feed into pig diets improves growth rates, immune responses, and overall health, making it a viable alternative in commercial swine production.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Opportunity for Research
Green Feed Supply is eager to partner with UC Davis and other academic institutions to explore the benefits of hemp-based feed for pigs. Our Optimum Stress-Free Pro Feed offers a natural, sustainable, and nutritionally dense solution that aligns with the research focus of the Comparative Animal Nutrition & Physiology Laboratory.
By collaborating with Green Feed Supply, UC Davis can lead the way in studying innovative feed solutions that address antimicrobial resistance, improve animal and human health, and promote sustainability in the agricultural industry. We believe that together, we can help advance the understanding of feed-based health technologies and create lasting positive impacts on both the animal industry and broader food systems.
Contact Information: To discuss research collaborations, please contact us at Green Feed Supply.