KALRO developed probiotic increases milk, meat production
The probiotics also helps in mitigating emission of methane gas in dairy cattle
By Jackson Okata
An improved probiotic developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) is helping enhance livestock production in the country.
The KALRO Probiotics (KALPRO) increases livestock production by up to 30 per cent, improves animal health, and reduces antibiotics reliance.
According to KALRO researcher Willis Adero, the new Probiotics also helps in mitigating emission of methane gas in dairy cattle.
“In preliminary KALRO trials in Naivasha we have observed a 20-33 per cent milk increase in cattle where KALPRO was introduced to their diets depending on the cow’s breed”.
“Commercial beef producers in Oljororok and pig farmers in Kikuyu observed a similar percentage increase in weight with swine attaining weight in 75 per cent of the required time,” said Adero who is the project’s principal investigator.
Probiotics are made of beneficial live bacteria or yeasts that naturally live in bodies.
Adero adds that using probiotics enhances growth, reduces mortality, and improves feed conversion efficiency.
KALPRO improves animal production by enhancing the breakdown of vitamins, minerals, and ammino acids and their absorption through intestinal walls.
Adero explains that KALPRO probiotics also reduces overreliance on antibiotics which he says is the biggest challenge for both food systems and public health.
“Probiotics boost the immune system enabling animals better counteract diseases and pests,” he said.
KALRO says that the liquid probiotic is administered orally through drenching, drinking water, or feed.
Farmers are advised to add KALPRO to water as it is the most efficient and effective method of administration.
KALRO research assistant Ian Alusa says 30 milliliters of the supplement should be given weekly per animal.
“Dairy cows and bulls ought to consume 15ml twice a week; heifers, hogs, and swine should be given 10ml and piglets 5ml,” Alusa said.
Alusa added that farmers should use KALPRO consistently to realize its promised benefits.
“Given that probiotics are naturally occurring, overfeeding has no negative consequences and can also be fed at any stage of the animal’s life,” Alusa explained.
KALPRO reduces methane gas emissions by about 25-30 per cent per individual cattle by breaking down the harmful gas into water and carbon dioxide (CO2).
“Although, we have not yet published a full report on the impact of KALPRO on livestock, the preliminary findings have been positive, a sentiment shared by the farmers we are working with across Kenya,” said Adero.