Effect of dietary inclusion of a herbal extract mixture and different oils on pig performance and meat quality

The biological function of Urtica spp. and its application in poultry, fish and livestock

Urtica species is an angiosperm plant in the Urticaceae family. It serves as a traditional food and medicinal herb, possessing high nutritional value and various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, flavonoids, and polyphenolic compounds. In the realm of animal feeds, Urtica spp. can replace traditional protein feed sources and high-quality forage, thereby reducing feed costs. Moreover, Urtica spp. extract exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and boosts immune regulation. Hence, Urtica spp. plays a beneficial role in enhancing animal performance and improving their immune function. Recently, with the development of sustainable farming techniques, the demand for feed additives that prioritize safety, the absence of drug residues, and environmental friendliness have grown. Consequently, Urtica spp. and its extracts have received widespread attention in animal production. This article summarizes the biological functions of Urtica spp. and its application in animal husbandry while also outlining future prospects for its application. It will provide a scientific basis and reference point for the application of Urtica spp. in animal health and breeding.

Assessing the potential of phytogenic feed additives: A comprehensive review on their effectiveness as a potent dietary enhancement for nonruminant in swine and poultry

Phytogenic feed additives (PFAs) often referred to as phytobiotics or botanical feed additives, are natural compounds derived from various plants, herbs, spices and other botanical sources. These feed additives are intended to serve a variety of purposes, including an immune system regulator, an antimicrobial, an antimutagenic, an antioxidant and a growth promoter. They are composed of bioactive compounds extracted from plants, including essential oils, polyphenols, terpenoids and flavonoids. They are mostly utilized as substitute antibiotic growth promoters in nonruminant (swine and poultry) livestock production, owing to the prohibition of antibiotic usage in the feed industry. It has been thoroughly examined to ascertain their impact on intestinal health and activity, correlation with animals' effective health and well-being, productivity, food security and environmental impact. The potential uses of these feed additives depend on the properties of herbs, the comprehension of their principal and secondary components, knowledge of their mechanisms of action, the safety of animals and the products they produce. They are gaining recognition as effective and sustainable tools for promoting animal health and performance while reducing the reliance on antibiotics in nonruminant nutrition. Their natural origins, multifaceted benefits and alignment with consumer preferences make them a valuable addition to modern animal farming process. However, because of their inconsistent effects and inadequate knowledge of the mechanisms of action, their usage as a feed additive has been limited. This review offers a comprehensive assessment of the applications of PFAs as an effective feed supplement in swine and poultry nutrition. In summary, this comprehensive review provides current knowledge, identifies gaps in research and emphasizes the potential of phytogenic additives to foster sustainable and healthier livestock production systems while addressing the global concerns associated with antibiotic use in livestock farming.

Effect of dietary Achyranthes japonica extract on growth performance of growing pigs and absorption rate of quercetin in blood

This study was done to investigate the effects of the incorporation of Achyranthes japonica extracts (AJE) in diet on the production parameters of growing pigs. Exp 1: Total, 105 crossbred pigs (average body weight: 24.47 ± 2.46 kg) were used in a 6-week feeding trial. Pigs (seven replicates, five pigs per pen) were allotted randomly to three treatments. Dietary treatments: CON (basal diet); basal diet with 0.025% AJE, and basal diet + 0.050% AJE). Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal microbial count, and fecal noxious gas were assessed in this study. Average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and gain to feed ratio (G:F) were not affected by the addition of up to 0.05% AJE. In the case of apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), dry matter (DM), nitrogen (N), and digestible energy (DE) were not changed in 3rd and 6th weeks of the feeding trial through the addition of AJE up to 0.05% in the growing pig diet. In microbial count, Lactobacillus and Escherichia coli count at 3rd and 6th week was similar in all the treatment diets. The inclusion of AJE at levels up to 0.05% in growing pig diet had no effect on the production of NH3, H2S, acetic acid, and CO2 in the feces. After ending the Exp 1, a total of nine pigs were divided into three treatment groups. Treatment diets were included, TRT1, basal diet + powder quercetin 30 g; TRT2, basal diet + powder quercetin 150 g; TRT3, basal diet + powder quercetin 300g. Rate of absorption in blood was increased with the higher dose of quercetin. The results suggested incorporation of AJE up to 0.05% has no significant effect on ADG, ADFI, and G:F, as well as DM, N, and DE digestibility, fecal microbial count, and fecal noxious gas emission in growing pigs, even though no negative effect was found.

Sex Does Not Affect the Colour, Shear Stress, and Lipid Oxidation of Pork Meat, but Feed-Added Plant-Derived Extracts, Storage Time and Packaging Type Do

Essential plant oils added to products, packaging or animal feed are used as a method of preserving food quality because they extend the shelf-life of meat due their antioxidant and/or antimicrobial capacity. This action can be achieved with the correct packaging that preserves the meat's quality and safety. This study investigates the effects of plant-derived extracts (PDE) on the meat quality and shelf-life of pork packaged in vacuum or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). Thirty-six barrows and thirty-six gilts were allocated into three experimental groups: the control, garlic extract (1 kg/ton of feed) and oregano-rosemary oil (2 kg/ton of feed) with the same base-diet. Two packaging were used: vacuum and a commercial MAP (70% O₂, 30% CO₂). The meat fat content, pH, colour, TBARS values and Warner-Bratzler shear stress were investigated. The sex of the animals did not affect any of the studied variables, whereas PDE affected some of the colour variables and the shear stress; both the packaging type and the storage time affected the colour variables, lipid oxidation and shear stress. Vacuum-packed meat was more stable in terms of colour, lipid oxidation and shear stress than MAP-packed meat.

Prevalence and potential risk factors of PDCoV in pigs based on publications during 2015-2021 in China: Comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), a novel coronavirus which infects pigs, spreading around the world and causing huge economic losses. In recent years, there have also been human cases of PDCoV infection, which poses a potential threat to public health. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of PDCoV in pigs in China between 2015 and 2021. The prevalence of PDCoV in China was searched from five databases (CNKI, VIP, WanFang, PubMed and ScienceDirect) and 65 articles met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 25,977 samples, including 3828 positive cases. The overall prevalence of PDCoV was 13.61% (3828/25,977), with the highest prevalence in northern China (19.18%) and the lowest prevalence in southwest China (7.19%). We also analyzed other subgroup information, such as sampling years, test methods, age and geographic factors. The results show that PDCoV is endemic in China and climate may be a potential risk factor for PDCoV infection. It is suggested that appropriate measures should be taken in different climatic areas to reduce local PDCoV infection.

Phytogenics and encapsulated sodium butyrate can replace antibiotics as growth promoters for lightly weaned piglets

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of essential oils plus dry herbs (PHYTO) and encapsulated sodium butyrate (BUT) supplementation compared with enramycin (ENR), as a growth promoter, on the performance, diarrhoea control and intestinal microbiota in lightly weaned piglets. Two hundred weaned piglets, 20 days old, 4.69 ± 0.56 kg, were submitted during the nursery phase (20 to 69 days of age) to four treatments: control (CTR)-without any additive supplementation; ENR (with 8 ppm of enramycin throughout), BUT (with 2000 ppm between 20 to 34 d, 1500 ppm between 34 to 48 d and 1000 ppm between 48 to 69 d), and PHYTO (150 ppm between 20 to 48 d). At 62 days old, forty piglets (10 replicates per treatment) were slaughtered to perform bacterial identification through 16S rRNA (V3-V4) sequencing of the caecal content. During the second phase of the trial (34 to 48 days), the BUT group showed higher DWG (P = 0.023) and BW (P = 0.039) than the CTR group, and all groups that received additives had better FCR than the CTR group (P = 0.001). In the last phase of the trial (48 to 69 days), the ENR group presented a better FCR (P = 0.054) than the CRT and other groups. In the total period (20 to 69 days), ENR and BUT showed better FCR (P = 0.006) than CRT. Diarrhoea incident data showed differences (P<0.05), favouring the BUT treatment compared to the CTR. Only the Megasphaeraceae and Streptococcaceae families showed differences (p<0.05) in relative abundance between CTR and PHYTO and between CTR and BUT, respectively. Differential abundances of the Megasphaera and Streptococcus genera were observed between CTR and PHYTO and CTR and BUT. Phytogenics and encapsulated sodium butyrate are able and effective for modulating the specific caecal microbiota, improving performance and controlling diarrhoea occurrence.

The Effects of Nettle Extract Consumption on Liver PPARs, SIRT1, ACOX1 and Blood Lipid Levels in Male and Female C57Bl6 Mice

The aim of this study was to evaluate how nettle (Urtica dioica L.) water extract consumption would interact with regulators of peroxysomal lipid oxidation, histone deacetylase, and markers of oxidative stress in the liver and blood lipid levels in male and female C57Bl6 mice. Metabolically unchallenged (healthy) mice (n = 5 per sex) were treated with a nettle extract in a dose of 40 mg of total polyphenols in the extract per kg mice body weight. The nettle extract was applied daily along with normal diet for 15 days. The serum triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and liver PPAR-α, PPAR-γ, PGC-1-α, ACOX1, SIRT1, MDA, SOD, CAT, and GSH were compared between exposed and unexposed (control) animals. In males, the PPAR-α, PGC1-α, and ACOX1 levels together with systemic HDL cholesterol were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased while the LDL cholesterol decreased (p ≤ 0.05). In females, no changes in PPAR-α and PGC1-α or serum lipids were noted, but the ACOX1 content in the liver was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased. The SIRT1 activity increased (p ≤ 0.05) only in females. In both sexes, the PPAR-γ levels were not significantly (p ≤ 0.05) affected in either sex. The results indicate that nettle plant extract has the potential to modulate selected transcriptional factors and histone deacetylase in vivo, with certain sex differences, which should be studied further in similar models.

Dietary Forsythia suspensa extracts supplementation improves antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory functions, meat fatty acid deposition, and intestinal microbial community in finishing pigs

This study aimed to determine the effects of Forsythia suspensa extracts (FSE) on performance, antioxidant status, inflammatory cytokines, meat quality, meat fatty acid composition, and gut microbial community in finishing pigs. Sixty-four pigs [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)] with an average initial body weight of 88.68 kg were randomly allotted to two dietary treatments, with eight replicate pens per treatment (four pens were barrows and four pens were gilts), four pigs per pen. The dietary treatments included a corn-soybean meal basal diet (CON) and an FS diet (basal diet + 100 mg/kg FSE; FS). Compared with CON, pigs fed FSE showed enhanced (P < 0.05) saturated fatty acid (SFA)/polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio, reduced (P < 0.05) lightness, and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio, as well as tended to increase C20:5n3 content in the longissimus dorsi muscle. Moreover, pigs fed FSE showed decreased (P < 0.05) serum cortisol and tumor nuclear factor-α contents, and increased (P < 0.05) serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase contents compared with CON. These pigs also tended to have increased serum total protein and immunoglobulin G contents, and decreased serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and interleukin-1β contents compared with CON. In the colon, pigs fed FSE had a higher (P < 0.05) relative abundance of Bifidobacteriales at the order level, Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacteriaceae at the family level, as well as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium at the genus level compared with CON. In conclusion, dietary Forsythia suspensa extract supplementation effectively improved antioxidant status and anti-inflammatory functions, as well as modulated meat fatty acid composition, and gut microbial community in finishing pigs.

Dietary supplementation with a mixture of herbal extracts during late gestation and lactation improves performance of sows and nursing piglets through regulation of maternal metabolism and transmission of antibodies

The dietary inclusion of phytogenic feed additives to improve the performance and health of sows is considered to be safe, effective and environmentally friendly, thus gaining growing popularity among new strategies. This study was designed with three trials aimed to determine the effective supplemental levels of Scutellaria baicalensis and Lonicera japonica mixed extracts (SLE) in sow diets based on production performance and explore its related mechanisms of action based on serum metabolites, antioxidant capacity, and immune profile of sows and nursing piglets. Trials 1 and 2 were conducted to determine the effective dose and ratio of SLE by supplementation of various proportions and doses of SLE to sows diets from the late pregnancy to weaning, with litter performance at farrowing and weaning and disease conditions being evaluated. Trial 3 was conducted to further explore the mechanisms of action of SLE as evaluated by serum immunity and antioxidants indices in late gestation and lactation sows. The results of trials 1 and 2 showed that dietary supplementation of 1.0 g/kg SLE (50% S. baicalensis extract, 30% L. japonica extract, and 20% wheat bran fiber as carrier) enhanced the number of piglets born alive, litter birth weight, litter weight gain, and average daily feed intake of sows during lactation, while decreased diarrhea of suckling piglets. In Trial 3, compared with the control group, dietary SLE supplementation increased (P < 0.05) sow serum glucose (GLU), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), prolactin (PRL) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentrations, and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activities at the farrowing, and increased (P < 0.05) sow serum prolactin, leptin, and insulin concentrations at d 14 of lactation. Fat concentrations in sow colostrum and in milk on day 14 of lactation, both IgA and IgG concentrations in colostrum, and both IL-10 and IgA concentrations in piglet serum at d 14 of lactation were all increased (P < 0.05) following dietary SLE supplementation. Altogether, dietary supplementation with the appropriate levels of SLE promoted health and growth of suckling piglets, which was associated with the improvement of maternal metabolism and transmission of antibodies.

Locally Grown Crops and Immunocastration in Fattening Heavy Pigs: Effects on Performance and Welfare

This study aimed to explore dietary replacement soybean meal (SBM) with local pea seeds (PS-L) and the effects of surgically castrated (CM) or immunocastration (IM) in heavy male pigs, on growth performance, feeding behaviour, and tail and ear lesions. Four treatments were arranged factorially (2 × 2), with two sexes and two dietary treatments (96 pigs in eight pens). The inclusion of PS-L was 25%, 30%, and 40% during three phases (40−80 kg, 80−110 kg, and 110−140 kg, respectively). No difference in average daily feed intake (ADFI) and body-weight (BW) between PS-L and SBM could be demonstrated (p > 0.05), but PS-L diet decreased the average daily gain (ADG) at 110−140 kg of BW (p < 0.001) and increased feed conversion rate (FCR) (p < 0.05). The ADG was higher (p < 0.01) in IM than CM in all fattening periods, and the FCR in IM was lower (p < 0.05) than in barrows. IM pigs had lower dressing percentage than CM (p < 0.01). Pigs fed a PS-L diet ate faster but increased their passive behaviour compared with those fed SBM. In conclusion, the PS-L diet did not reduce BW and improved passive behaviour, and IM grew more efficiently, regardless of diet.

The Activity of Ten Natural Extracts Combined in a Unique Blend to Maintain Cholesterol Homeostasis-In Vitro Model

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolemia is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and statins, the HMGCoA inhibitors, are the most prescribed drugs. Statins reduce the production of hepatic cholesterol, leading to greater expression of the LDL receptor and greater absorption of circulating LDL, reducing peripheral LDL levels. Unfortunately, statins are believed to induce myopathy and other severe diseases. To overcome this problem, safe nutraceuticals with the same activity as statins could hold great promise in the prevention and treatment of hypercholesterolemia. In this study, the anti-cholesterol efficacy of a new nutraceutical, called Esterol10^®, was evaluated.

METHODS

HepG2 cells were used to study the biological mechanisms exerted by Esterol10^® analyzing different processes involved in cholesterol metabolism, also comparing data with Atorvastatin.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that Esterol10^® leads to a reduction in total hepatocyte cholesterol and an improvement in the biosynthesis of free cholesterol and bile acids. Furthermore, the anti-cholesterol activity of Esterol10^® was also confirmed by the modulation of the LDL receptor and by the accumulation of lipids, as well as by the main intracellular pathways involved in the metabolism of cholesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

Esterol10^® is safe and effective with anti-cholesterol activity, potentially providing an alternative therapy to those based on statins for hypercholesterolemia disease.

Effects of isomalto-oligosaccharides and herbal extracts on growth performance, serum biochemical profiles and intestinal bacterial populations in early-weaned piglets

The objective of the current study was to investigate the effects of isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO), Chinese herbal medicine extract (CHE) or their combination on the growth performance, diarrhoea incidence, serum biochemical profiles, inflammatory cytokine expression, intestinal morphology and microflora of weaned piglets. Thirty-two ([Landrace × Yorkshire] × Duroc) piglets, weaned at 25 days of age, were randomly assigned into four groups. Group I was fed the basal diet. Group II were fed a basal diet supplemented with 2 g/kg IMO for 14 consecutive days and then 4 g/kg IMO for another 14 days. Group III were fed diet with 0.5 g/kg CHE for 14 days and 1 g/kg CHE for another 14 days. Group IV were fed diet with (2 g/kg IMO + 0.5 g/kg CHE) for 14 days and (4 g/kg IMO +1 g/kg CHE) for another 14 days. Results showed that diets supplemented with IMO, CHE or their combination did not influence the diarrhoea rate and intestinal morphology, while co-administration of IMO with CHE tended to have higher average daily gain. Serum biochemical analysis showed that dietary CHE decreased aspartate aminotransferase levels, while inclusion of IMO led to a decrease in high-density lipoprotein. Moreover, co-administration of IMO with CHE significantly upregulated the expression of TGF-β, a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine, in jejunal mucosa of piglets. Further, CHE significantly increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium in ileal digesta. Meanwhile, the combination of IMO and CHE significantly increased Bifidobacterium in the caecum of piglets. Additionally, dietary IMO, CHE or their combination significantly reduced the number of potential entero-pathogen Escherichia coli in ileal contents and Clostridium species in caecal digesta. These results indicated that application of IMO or CHE could favourably modulate the intestinal microbial composition of piglets, while their beneficial impact and molecular mechanism on intestinal health warrants further investigation.

Effects of medicinal plants mixture on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles, and fecal microbiota in growing pigs

Background and Aim

Alternative natural materials to antibiotics for improving digestive health and growth performance are needed due to strengthening regulations related to the use of antibiotic growth promoters. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of medicinal plants mixture (60% Bidens pilosa L., 15% Urena lobata L., 15% Pseuderanthemum palatiferum, 5% Ramulus cinnamomi, and 5% Star anise) as alternative growth promotors on animal health, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, and growth performance of growing pigs.

Materials and Methods

The study was conducted, from April 2020 to June 2020, at a private pig production farm located in Cam Giang district Hai Duong Province, Vietnam. Forty-eight 10-week-old crossbred (♂Duroc×♀ [Landrace×Yorkshire]) pigs, average initial body weight 30.3±1.42 kg, were randomly allocated to four dietary groups, three replicate pens per experimental group, with 4 pigs/pen. For 7 weeks, the pigs were fed a basal diet supplemented with the mixture at levels of 0, 20, 40, and 60 g/kg of feed.

Results

Final body weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and feed conversion ratio, as well as apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, and gross energy were not significantly influenced by the diets (p>0.05). Inclusion of the plant mixture decreased significantly red blood cell count, blood cholesterol, urea nitrogen, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations (p<0.05) compared with the control diet. No diet effect was observed on fecal Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Clostridium spp., and total bacteria counts.

Conclusion

The incorporation of the plant mixture into the diet of growing pigs reduced serum cholesterol, LDL, and urea concentrations with no adverse effect on performance and nutrient digestibility.

Potential Application of Lonicera japonica Extracts in Animal Production: From the Perspective of Intestinal Health

Lonicera japonica (L. japonica) extract is rich in active substances, such as phenolic acids, essential oils, flavones, saponins, and iridoids, which have a broad spectrum of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial effect. Previous studies have demonstrated that L. japonica has a good regulatory effect on animal intestinal health, which can be used as a potential antibiotic substitute product. However, previous studies about intestinal health regulation mainly focus on experimental animals or cells, like mice, rats, HMC-1 Cells, and RAW 264.7 cells. In this review, the intestinal health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity, and its potential application in animal production were summarized. Through this review, we can see that the effects and mechanism of L. japonica extract on intestinal health regulation of farm and aquatic animals are still rare and unclear. Further studies could focus on the regulatory mechanism of L. japonica extract on intestinal health especially the protective effects of L. japonica extract on oxidative injury, inflammation, and regulation of intestinal flora in farm animals and aquatic animals, thereby providing references for the rational utilization and application of L. japonica and its extracts in animal production.

Effects of Chinese wolfberry and astragalus extracts on growth performance, pork quality, and unsaturated fatty acid metabolism regulation in Tibetan fragrant pigs

We studied the effects of wolfberry and astragalus extract on the growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality of Tibetan fragrant pigs, and we want to explain the mechanism of the difference from the level of RNA Seq. Twelve healthy 120-day-old Tibetan fragrant pigs weighing 35 ± 2 kg were divided randomly into two groups, each with six pigs. The control group was fed a basal diet, and the wolfberry and astragalus extract (WAE) group was fed a basal diet +1‰ of WAE. The experimental period was 90 days. Compared with the control group, the growth performance of the WAE group was significantly improved (p < .05), pork marble score significantly improved (p < .05), vitamin E content significantly increased (p < .05), unsaturated fatty acid content significantly increased (p < .05). A total of 256 differentially expressed genes were obtained by transcriptome sequencing, among which 114 were up-regulated and 142 were down-regulated. GO analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes were related to biological functions, such as monounsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, lipoprotein decomposition, and lipase activity. Pathway analysis showed that these differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis regulation, glycerin metabolism, and lipopolysaccharide regulation in fat. WAE improved Tibetan fragrant pigs growth performance. By intervening in key genes related to fatty acid metabolism, the unsaturated fatty acid contents in pork were regulated, which improved the nutritional value of the pork.

Pork Quality of Two Lithuanian Breeds: Effects of Breed, Gender and Feeding Regimen

Simple Summary

A few highly selected commercial pig breeds have been developed and many different local breeds have been replaced by these modern breeds. With the aim to preserve rare local breeds, the necessity has arisen to find and create the conditions under which local breeds could be more widely used. Therefore, the performance and production qualities of local breeds should be evaluated and highlighted. As the quality of pig production is associated with breeds and effects of other different conditions, the objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of breed, gender, and feeding level in the finishing phase on the carcass and meat quality of Lithuanian White and Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle pigs reared indoors. Feed restriction during the finishing phase and gender both affected the growth and fatness of pigs. The breed and gender appeared to have an effect on the parameters of meat quality including fatty acid composition. The breed and gender effects on fatty acid composition showed more favorable lipid indices in relation to healthy nutrition in the ham muscles of Lithuanian White pigs compared with Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle pigs and also in the ham muscle and backfat of females compared with castrated males.

Abstract

The diversity of breeds is an important factor influencing carcass and meat quality traits that are also associated with other different effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of breed, gender, and feeding level in the finishing phase on the carcass and meat quality of Lithuanian White and Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle pigs reared indoors. After 60 kg weight, half of the animals from both breeds were fed a restricted diet of approximately 82% of average ad libitum feeding intake, and the other half of pigs were further fed ad libitum to the end of the experiment. Feed restriction during the finishing phase decreased daily gain and weight of pigs at slaughter, and backfat thickness at the tenth rib (p ˂ 0.001, p ˂ 0.01, and p ˂ 0.05, respectively). Lithuanian White pigs demonstrated higher (p ˂ 0.001) growth rate, live body weight at slaughter and carcass weight, and had a higher (p ˂ 0.01) length of carcass and loin area and lower (p ˂ 0.05) backfat thickness at the last rib and at two points at the lumbar area compared with Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle pigs. The semimembranosus muscle of Lithuanian White pigs had relatively (8.1%) lower (p ˂ 0.001) proportions of saturated and 41.2% higher (p ˂ 0.001) proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared with the pigs of the Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle breed, whereas in the longissimus muscle and subcutaneous tissue, the breed only affected the n-6/n-3 ratio (p ˂ 0.01 and p ˂ 0.001, respectively). Gender showed an effect on saturated fatty acids in all the studied tissues, however, the effects on polyunsaturated fatty acids were found in the semimembranosus muscle and subcutaneous tissue (p ˂ 0.05 and p ˂ 0.001) and the effects on monounsaturated fatty acids was found only in the semimembranosus muscle (p ˂ 0.01). These differences in the fatty acid composition of the semimembranosus muscle and subcutaneous tissue of females exhibited more favorable lipid quality indices compared with castrated males (p ˂ 0.001). The semimembranosus muscle of Lithuanian White pigs also showed more favorable lipid quality indices in relation to healthy nutrition compared with Lithuanian Indigenous Wattle pigs (p ˂ 0.001). This study is one of the steps toward the development and utilization of endangered breeds. The obtained information can be used to increase choice in pork production and consumption, and provides new insights for research into the conservation of local breeds.

Allium Extract Implements Weaned Piglet's Productive Parameters by Modulating Distal Gut Microbiota

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has risen as a global threat for human health. One of the leading factors for this emergence has been the massive use of antibiotics growth-promoter (AGPs) in livestock, enhancing the spread of AMR among human pathogenic bacteria. Thus, several alternatives such as probiotics, prebiotics, or phytobiotics have been proposed for using in animal feeding to maintain or improve productive levels while diminishing the negative effects of AGPs. Reducing the use of antibiotics is a key aspect in the pig rearing for production reasons, as well as for the production of high-quality pork, acceptable to consumers. Here we analyze the potential use of Allium extract as an alternative. In this study, weaned piglets were fed with Allium extract supplementation and compared with control and antibiotic (colistin and zinc oxide) treated piglets. The effects of Allium extract were tested by analyzing the gut microbiome and measuring different productive parameters. Alpha diversity indices decreased significantly in Allium extract group in caecum and colon. Regarding beta diversity, significant differences between treatments appeared only in caecum and colon. Allium extract and antibiotic piglets showed better values of body weight (BW), average daily weight gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) than control group. These results indicate that productive parameters can be implemented by modifying the gut microbiota through phytobiotics such as Allium extract, which will drive to drop the use of antibiotics in piglet diet.

Dietary ethanol extract of mango increases antioxidant activity of pork

Ethanol extract of mango seeds (EEMS) are composed of several polyphenolic compounds with considerable in vitro antioxidant activity that can be used in pig feed and may contribute positively to meat quality characteristics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of EEMS as a source of antioxidants in growing-finishing pig diets on meat quality, lipid stability, sulfhydryl groups non-proteinaceous (SG-NP), total phenolic compounds, total antioxidant potential and total antioxidant activity of meat after 1 and 7 days of refrigeration storage. Thirty-two (60-day-old) barrows, weighing 20.20 ± 1.34 kg, were used in a randomized block design consisting of eight animals with four treatment regimens. Treatments consisted of: Control = no dietary antioxidant; butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) = diet with 200 ppm BHT; EEMS200 = diet with 200 ppm EEMS; EEMS400 = diet with 400 ppm EEMS. At 145 days of age and average weight of 95.47 ± 6.19 kg, the animals were slaughtered and loin samples were collected and frozen before for qualitative analysis and evaluation of the effect of subsequent storage for 1 or 7 days at 8 °C on lipid stability, SG-NP, phenolic compounds, total antioxidant capacity and total antioxidant activity Meat from animals fed EEMS400 diet showed lower cooking loss (P < 0.0001) and higher non-protein sulfhydryl groups, phenolic compounds and total antioxidant activity at both 1 and 7 days of storage (P < 0.0001) compared to the other treatments. Greater antioxidant capacity was observed at 1 day storage in the meat of animals that consumed EEMS regardless of concentration when compared to the control group (P < 0.01). The dietary inclusion of EEMS to pig diets is more effective at 400 ppm in improving meat quality after cooking and antioxidant parameters of pork.

Pig feedstuff effect on the physicochemical and sensory properties of low-salt, dry-fermented sausages

This study investigates the effect of the addition of plant-derived extracts (control, garlic extract or a combination of carvacrol, thymol, cinnamic aldehyde and eugenol oils extracts) to pig feedstuff and the reduction in salt content (NaCl or a mixture 60:40 sodium chloride:potassium lactate) on some physicochemical characteristics and consumer acceptability of dry-fermented sausages. Six different batches were formulated. The pH, color, lipid oxidation, and microbial counts were measured, and a consumer home test was performed. Both the use of a plant-derived extract and salt type affected the dry-fermented sausage characteristics. The low-salt batches presented a lower pH and higher microbial counts than the control. The salt reduction affected the color but only in the oil batches, resulting in higher L* and lower a* values. The oil batches presented the highest TBAR values (>1 mg/kg), suggesting that antioxidant compounds present into the meat were not bioavailable on the sausages or were missed during the curing process. The use of plant-derived extracts affected to consumer acceptability, whereas salt replacement did not. Oil batches scored lower than the other. From the current results, the oil extract would not be a recommended additive in pig feedstuff, especially when a low-salt strategy will be employed.

The Effect of Black Pepper (Piperine) Extract Supplementation on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Fecal Microbial, Fecal Gas Emission, and Meat Quality of Finishing Pigs

Simple Summary

Recently, Livestock industries use many herbs and spices as feed additives for various purposes. In addition, herbal extracts can be efficiently used as growth promoters, anti-stress agents, Immune boosters, and antimicrobials. However, limited studies have been conducted to evaluate the effect of black pepper extract (BPE) in swine diets. So, in this study, we use different doses of BPE (piperine) as supplemental additives to evaluate the growth performance of finishing pigs. The findings suggested that the graded level of BPE supplementation in pigs diet had a positive effect on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal microbial, fecal gas emission, and meat quality. The results of this research will provide a new perception on the applications of BPE as a feed additive in livestock feed industry.

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the effect of black pepper extract (BPE) supplementation on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal microbial, fecal gas emission, and meat quality of finishing pigs. A total of 180 crossbred [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] finishing pigs with average initial body weight (BW) of 53.7 ± 1.42 kg were used in 10-week trial and allotted to 6 dietary treatments (6 replications pens/treatment with 5 pigs per pen). The dietary treatments were: CON (basal diet), TRT1-CON + 0.025% BPE, TRT2-CON + 0.05% BPE, TRT3-CON + 0.1% BPE, TRT4-CON + 0.2% BPE, TRT5-CON + 0.4% BPE. Linear increase in body weight gain (BWG) (p = 0.038, 0.006) and average daily gain (ADG) were observed (p = 0.035, 0.007,and 0.006 respectively), during the overall trial in pigs fed increasing levels of BPE in supplemented diet compared to control. The dietary supplementation of BPE showed a linear increase (p = 0.007) in gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) at week 10. However, there were no significant results observed on average daily feed intake (ADFI) during the overall experiment. The total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM) was linearly improved (p = 0.053) with graded levels of BPE. In addition, BPE diet supplementation had linearly increased fecal Lactobacillus counts (p = 0.048) and decreased Escherichia coli counts (p = 0.031) in pigs at week 10. Furthermore, NH3, methyl mercaptans, and acetic acid was linearly decreased (p = 0.023, 0.056, 0.054) in pigs fed graded level of BPE supplementation. The inclusion of BPE in pigs’ diet had linearly increased (p = 0.015) backfat thickness at week 10. Thus, we concluded that BPE supplementation had positively enhanced the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, fecal microbial, fecal gas emission, and meat quality of finishing pigs.

Relationships Between Fat and Cholesterol Contents and Fatty Acid Composition in Different Meat-Producing Animal Species

The objective of this study was to determine the relationships between intramuscular fat, cholesterol contents and fatty acid composition in the muscles of different animal species. Intramuscular fat, cholesterol and fatty acid composition in 207 muscle samples from 129 animals of different species (pigs, beef cattle, farmed red deer, horses and geese) were determined and analysed. The obtained results indicated unequal relations between intramuscular fat and cholesterol contents and fatty acid proportions in the muscles of different animal species. The increase of intramuscular fat content resulted in higher monounsaturated and lower polyunsaturated fatty acid contents in most muscles of meat producing animals. In all the species higher fatness did not show any increase in cholesterol content and also cholesterol contents were lower as fat increased in m. semimembranosus of pigs and m. pectoralis profundus of horses. The cholesterol content positively correlated with saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids in the longissimus muscle with the lowest fat content found in red deer and beef cattle, whereas the correlations between these measures were negative in m. pectoralis profundus of horses and the breast of goose containing high fat levels. Negative correlations between polyunsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol content were found in the longissimus muscle of red deer and cattle, whereas these correlations in goose breast and horse meat were positive.

Effects of dietary supplementation with herbal extract mixture on growth performance, organ weight and intestinal morphology in weaning piglets

BACKGROUND

Many countries are increasingly prohibiting the addition of antibiotics in livestock diets. Therefore, herb extracts have gradually drawn attention to substitute antibiotics. Our present study aimed to determine the effects of herbal extract mixture (HEM) in dietary on growth performance, organ weight, intestinal morphology and intestinal nutrient transporters in weaned pigs.

METHODS

27 piglets (Duroc × [Landrace × Yorkshire]; Body Weight (BW) = 5.99 ± 0.13 kg) were weaned at day 21 and randomly divided into three groups (n = 9 piglets/group). All piglets received a basal diet containing similar amounts of nutrients for 14 days. The three groups were the control (no additive), the antibiotics (375 mg/kg chlortetracycline, 20%, 500 mg/kg enramycin, 4%, 1,500 mg/kg oxytetracycline calcium, 50%) and the HEM group (1000 mg/kg extract mixture of golden-and-silver honeysuckle, huangqi, duzhong leaves and dangshen). After 14 d of treatment, we collected tissue samples to measure organ weight, intestinal parameters, intestinal morphology, digestive enzyme activities and intestinal mRNA expression of nutrient transporters.

RESULTS

The HEM group had no effects on growth performance and organ weight of weaned pigs. But compared with the control group, both HEM and antibiotics improved intestinal morphology, and HEM elevated the expression of nutrient transporters in ileum (SLC6A9, SLC15A1, and SLC5A1). HEM significantly decreased the activities of maltase in ileum and the ratio of small intestinal weight to BW than control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate benefit effects of the supplementation of HEM in diet, including modulating intestinal morphology and increasing the mRNA expression of nutrients transporters. These findings suggest that HEM provides novel insights into a variety of herbal extract mixtures to replace antibiotics in animal production.

Addition of a Mixture of Plant Extracts to Diets for Growing-Finishing Pigs on Growth Performance, Blood Metabolites, Carcass Traits, Organ Weight as a Percentage of Live Weight, Quality and Sensorial Analysis of Meat

The effect of plant extracts (PE; artichoke, celery, beet, onion, garlic, spinach, avocado, oats, and parsley) in the diet of growing pigs under heat stress was investigated. Parameters included growth performance, blood constituents, carcass characteristics, organ percentage, quality and sensory appraisal of the pork. The study was performed during the Mexican summer, using 60 pigs. Treatments included the control, to which 0.1% PE, and 0.15% PE were added. The use of PE (0.1 and 0.15%) generated an increase in the average daily gain (ADG, by 10.0% for both treatments), and final live weight (LW, by 6.3% and 6.8%) (p < 0.05). The level of blood albumin at 95 kg was higher when supplementing with 0.1% PE (p < 0.05). At 120 kg LW, creatine kinase values showed a tendency to be different (p = 0.07). Carcass weight increased (p < 0.05) when adding PE. Supplementation with 0.1% PE decreased (p < 0.05) the red/green (a *) hue of the meat, whereas supplementation with 0.1% and 0.15% PE increased the yellow/blue (b *) hue (p < 0.05). The addition of PE improves pig growth performance, and carcass weight by reducing the negative effects of heat stress, without markedly modifying blood constituents, meat quality, and sensory attributes of the pork.

Nutritional Composition of Salmonidae and Acipenseridae Fish Eggs

Analysis of the physicochemical properties of fresh eggs (raw material for caviar production) of the Salmonidae [sea trout (Salmo trutta L. 1758) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792)] and the acipenseridae [siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baeri Brandt, 1869)], as well as sturgeon hybrids (Acipenser baeri Brandt, 1869 × Acipenser gueldenstaedti Brandt & Ratzeburg, 1833), included determination of basic physicochemical parameters (pH, dry weight, content of protein, fat, fiber and ash), amino acid composition and fatty acid profile. Compared to the Acipenseridae, Salmonidae eggs yielded a 22.5% higher total protein content, a 40.0% higher level of essential amino acids (EAA) and a 57.5% lower crude fat content. The sea trout eggs showed also a completely different fatty acids profile and hence values of lipid indices (lowest PUFA value – 11.72%, highest SFA value – 39.86%). The rainbow trout and sturgeon eggs had a similar fatty acid profile, and were characterized by a high nutritional and dietary value.

Quality characteristics, fatty acid profiles, flavor compounds and eating quality of cull sow meat in comparison with commercial pork

Objective

Although the slaughter of cull sows (CS) for human consumption and meat products processing appears quite common throughout the world, relatively limited scientific information regarding the meat quality parameters of this pork type is available. The present study aimed at providing the technological quality characteristics and eating quality of CS meat, and comparing with those of commercial pork.

Methods

Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle samples of CS and finisher pigs (FP) at 24 h postmortem were collected and used for investigation of the meat quality traits (pH, color, shear force, cooking loss, water holding capacity), fatty acids, flavor compounds and sensory characteristics.

Results

The CS meat had significantly higher moisture content (p = 0.0312) and water holding capacity (p = 0.0213) together with lower cooking loss (p = 0.0366) compared to the FP meat. The CS meat also exhibited higher (p = 0.0409) contents of unsaturated fatty acids, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, p = 0.0213) and more desirable PUFA/total saturated fatty acids ratio (p = 0.0438) compared to the FP meat. A total of 56 flavor compounds were identified, amongst the amount of 16 compounds differed significantly between the two pork groups. Most of the PUFA-derived flavor compounds (e.g., hexanal, benzaldehyde, and hydrocarbons) showed higher amounts in the CS meat. While, 3-(methylthio)-propanal and 4-methylthiazole associated with pleasant aromas (meaty and roast odor notes) were only found in the FP meat. Furthermore, no differences were reported by panelists for flavor, juiciness, tenderness, and acceptability scores between the two pork groups studied.

Conclusion

The sow meat exhibited better technological quality and its eating quality could be comparable to the commercial pork. This study provides meat processors and traders with valuably scientific information which may help to improve the utilization and consumption level of sow meat.

Ethanol extract of mango seed is a suitable plant-based replacement for synthetic antioxidants in pig grower–finisher diets

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the inclusion of ethanol extracts of mango seed (EEMS) in growing–finishing pig diets on lipid stability and antioxidant potential of feed, animal performance, carcass traits as well as haematological and biochemical parameters in the serum. Thirty-two barrows that were 60 days old and weighed 20.20 ± 1.34 kg were used in a randomised-block design with four treatments and eight replicates. The treatments consisted of the following: diet without antioxidant addition (negative control); diet with 200 mg of butylate hydroxytoluene/kg (positive control); diet with 200 mg EEMS/kg (EEMS200); and diet with 400 mg EEMS/kg (EEMS400). Diet with synthetic (butylate hydroxytoluene) and natural antioxidants presented better oxidative stability and antioxidant potential than did the negative control. Animals fed 400 mg EEMS/kg presented greater weight gain up to 110 days (P &lt; 0.05). Pigs fed diet containing 200 mg EEMS/kg showed a decrease in red blood cells (P &lt; 0.001) and a higher average corpuscular volume (P &lt; 0.0001), whereas pigs fed control diet had lower average corpuscular haemoglobin concentration than did those in other treatments (P &lt; 0.01). At 140 days of age, dietary addition of 400 mg EEMS/kg decreased malondialdehyde and increased antioxidant potential (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl method) in serum, with the highest phenolic compound concentration found in the serum of pigs fed diet with 200 mg EEMS/kg. The total antioxidant activity in the serum was not influenced by the treatments (P &gt; 0.05). Ethanol mango extracts can be used as an antioxidant in growing–finishing pig diets at levels of 200 and 400 mg/kg without impairment of performance, carcass traits, serum and biochemical parameters. The dietary addition of EEMS at 400 mg/kg improves the performance of pigs at growing phase and contributes to an increase in circulating phenolic compounds, improving the lipid stability and the antioxidant potential of the serum.

Effects of dietary ramie powder at various levels on growth performance, antioxidative capacity and fatty acid profile of finishing pigs

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of ramie (Boehmeria nivea, previously known as a fibre crop and also called "China grass") included in diets on growth performance, antioxidative capacity and muscular fatty acid profile of finishing pigs. A total of 180 Xiangcun Black pigs (initial body weight =70.71 ± 1.21 kg) were randomly allotted to 1 of 5 dietary treatments with six pens of six pigs per pen. The pigs were provided a basal diet or a diet contained 3%, 6%, 9% or 12% of ramie powder during a 50-day experiment period. The results showed that the inclusion of ramie increased (quadratic, p < 0.05) the average daily gain (ADG) and gain:feed ratio (G:F) with the highest value of ADG and G:F in 3% ramie group, but ramie content in the diet up to 9% reduced the growth performance of the pigs compared with that of 3% ramie group. The activity of serum total superoxide dismutase (SOD) was increased (linear, p < 0.05) by ramie, while content of malondialdehyde was decreased (linear, p < 0.05). As increasing the dietary ramie level, the mRNA expression level of SOD1 was increased quadratically (p < 0.05) in muscle tissues. Moreover, the addition of ramie linearly increased (p < 0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids content, whereas it linearly reduced (p < 0.05) the lipid indices of atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity (TI) in muscle tissues, and lower values of AI and TI reflect a "healthier" fat composition. The results indicated that ramie in a diet not more than 9% may improve antioxidative capacity with no detrimental impact on growth performance of Chinese native finishing pigs; meanwhile, it could beneficially change the pork fatty acid pattern which has a positive impact on consumer's health.

Effects of dried citrus pulp and fermented medicinal plants on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, and meat quality in growing–finishing pigs

The present experiment was conducted to determine the effects of dried citrus pulp and fermented medicinal plants in growing–finishing pigs. A total of 96 pigs (62.34 ± 1.96 kg body weight) were randomly allotted into three dietary treatments: (1) control, basal diet (CON); (2) diet containing 10% dried citrus pulp (DCP); (3) diet containing 10% dried citrus pulp supplemented with 0.1% fermented medicinal plants (DCPFMP). From weeks 0 to 5 and 0 to 10, pigs fed the DCPFMP diet had significantly decreased (P < 0.05) average daily feed intake and increased (P < 0.05) gain:feed ratio compared with those fed the CON diet. The apparent total tract digestibility of gross energy was greater (P < 0.05), and serum total cholesterol concentration was decreased (P < 0.05) for pigs fed the DCPFMP diet compared with those fed the DCP diet in week 10. In addition, an increase (P < 0.05) in Longissimus muscle area was observed for pigs fed the DCPFMP diet compared with those fed the CON diet. In conclusion, supplementation with fermented medicinal plants in a diet containing 10% dried citrus pulp improved growth performance and Longissimus muscle area and lowered serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol concentrations.

The Effect of Amaranth Seeds, Sea Buckthorn Pomace and Black Chokeberry Pomace in Feed Mixtures for Broiler Chickens on Productive Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Selected Indicators of Meat Quality

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of amaranth seeds, dried sea buckthorn pomace and dried chokeberry pomace on the growth performance of broiler chickens and on the fatty acid profile and oxidative stability of meat lipids. The study was conducted on 480 Ross 308 chickens assigned in the second production phase to 4 experimental groups. The birds from the control group received 3% flax oil, while the chickens from the experimental groups were fed with mixtures containing: 3% flax oil and 8% amaranth seeds (group II), 3% flax oil and 3% dried sea buckthorn pomace (group III), and 3% flax oil and 3% dried chokeberry pomace (group IV). Basic production parameters were evaluated for each feeding period. At 42 days of age, 8 birds with body weight close to the average from each group were slaughtered. A simplified analysis of the chicken carcasses was conducted and samples of the breast muscles were collected for further analysis. The addition of 8% amaranth seeds into the feed mixtures in the second feeding phase decreased body weight gains (P<0.05) and increased the feed conversion ratio compared with groups receiving sea buckthorn or chokeberry pomace. However, the addition of amaranth seeds into the feed mixtures increased breast muscle yield (P<0.05) and decreased fat content in comparison to the other experimental groups. Moreover, sensory analysis of the breast muscles from chickens fed the diet with amaranth seeds revealed that they were characterised by a better aroma (P<0.05) and flavour. The studied feed additives did not significantly affect the physicochemical properties of the breast muscles. Sea buckthorn pomace efficiently slowed down lipid oxidation in the breast muscles. The obtained results indicate that using tested plant additives in feed mixture may be an effective way to improved production parameters of broiler chicken and effectively enriched meat in n-3 fatty acid and protect against excessive oxidation of lipids.

Effects of antioxidant mixtures in the diet of finishing pigs on the oxidative status and shelf life of longissimus dorsi muscle packaged under modified atmosphere

The effect of pig dietary supplementation with an antioxidant mixture (AOX), containing vitamin E and verbascoside, on animal oxidative status, meat quality parameters, and shelf life of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle was examined. Seventy pigs with an average live weight of 95.2 ± 1.2 kg were selected and assigned to 2 dietary treatments. The control (CTR) group was fed a commercial diet, and the AOX group was fed the same diet supplemented with the AOX, containing vitamin E and verbascoside from Verbenaceae extract, for 45 d before slaughter. At the beginning and at the end of the trial, blood samples were collected to determine oxidative status, using the Kit Radicaux Libres test. At slaughter, carcass weight was recorded and LD muscles from 10 pigs per treatment were sampled. Physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory parameters and oxidative stability of LD muscle were assessed for up to 21 d of storage at 4°C under modified atmosphere packaging. Dietary AOX positively affected ( < 0.05) oxidative status and carcass dressing percentage. The oxidative and color stability of the LD muscle were improved ( < 0.05) in the AOX group compared with the control. The sensory shelf life revealed that at 15 d of storage, meat from the AOX group was comparable ( < 0.05) to the fresh meat in appearance and aroma. A lower ( < 0.05) spp. load was observed in the AOX samples than in the control samples. No other microbiological parameters were affected by dietary treatment. Overall, the present data showed that dietary AOX supplementation in pigs improved in vivo antioxidant status and exerted antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, thus enhancing the shelf life of raw pork under commercial conditions.

Dietary supplementation of Lonicera macranthoides leaf powder improves amino acid profiles in serum and longissimus thoracis muscle of growing-finishing pigs

A 60-days feeding trial was conducted to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of Lonicera macranthoides leaf (LML) on growth performance, meat quality, and free amino acid profiles in growing-finishing pigs. L. macranthoides leaves were harvested, air-dried and milled to powder. A total of 288 crossbred barrows (Large White × Landrace) with an average initial BW of 54.0 ± 3.4 kg were randomly allocated to 3 treatment groups and fed either a basal diet or a diet supplemented with 0.5% or 1.0% LML powder. Results showed that diet supplemented with LML powder did not affect average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed: gain ratio (P > 0.05) in growing-finishing pigs. Moreover, diet supplemented with LML powder showed no significant effects on carcass traits (P > 0.05) including dressing percentage, backfat thickness and loin muscle area, and meat quality traits (P > 0.05) including meat color, intramuscular fat and cooking loss. However, diet supplemented with LML powder significantly improved free amino acid profiles in serum and longissimus thoracis muscle in growing-finishing pigs. Most importantly, dietary LML powder increased total free amino acids content (P < 0.001) and essential free amino acid content (P < 0.001) in longissimus thoracis muscle. These results indicate that LML has the potential to improve the nutritional value of meat through improving free amino acid profiles.