| abstract |
Anaerobic bacteria are incorporated in a feed such that they provide a benefit to the consuming animal. Anaerobic bacteria can be viable and colonize the gut to provide this benefit by displacing harmful bacteria, secreting a particular agent (e.g., enzyme, antibiotic or bioactive compound), binding or sequestering harmful organisms or compounds, or providing a beneficial physical effect. Anaerobic bacteria can also be added n a non-viable form wherein the added bacteria provide a benefit to the consuming organism by delivering preformed compounds such as enzymes, bioactive agents, or polymers. Recombinant anaerobes can be utilized for any of the above purposes. Feeds can contain naked bacteria, spores, treated bacteria such as encapsulated, coated or freeze dried bacteria, in order to maintain either viability or stability of the active function. |