A microbiome scientist, Paul Oladele, has developed an innovative in-feed Fecal Microbiota Transplantation method aimed at reducing antibiotic dependence in livestock.
Oladele, who was recently recognized by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research for his pioneering work in combating antibiotic resistance in animal agriculture, said the research aims at revolutionizing livestock farming by enhancing animal health naturally.
“The use of FMT can transform livestock production by reducing dependence on antibiotics while enhancing animal health,” he stated.
For decades, antibiotics have been widely used in animal farming to promote growth and prevent disease.
However, this practice has contributed to antimicrobial resistance – a growing global health crisis.
According to the World Health Organization, antimicrobial resistance is linked to nearly five million deaths annually, with livestock playing a significant role in spreading resistant bacteria through food chains and the environment.
In response, regulatory bodies like the European Union and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have imposed strict restrictions on antibiotic use in animal feed, prompting researchers to explore sustainable alternatives.
Oladele’s research focuses on harnessing the microbiome—the community of beneficial gut bacteria—to improve animal health and reduce the need for antibiotics.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation involves transferring beneficial gut microbes from a healthy donor animal to another, restoring microbial balance.
Traditionally, FMT has been administered through oral gavage or rectal enema, making it difficult for large-scale use.
Oladele’s in-feed FMT innovation integrates this process directly into livestock feed, making it cost-effective and scalable.
His research shows that in-feed FMT improves gut microbial diversity, enhances nutrient absorption, boosts immune function, reduces post-weaning diarrhoea in piglets, and lowers dependence on antibiotics.
With antibiotic resistance projected to cost $100 trillion by 2050, the agricultural industry is under pressure to find sustainable solutions.
Oladele’s in-feed FMT presents a viable alternative, seamlessly integrating into standard feeding practices and offering a safe and effective way to enhance animal health.
His research is at the forefront of microbiome science, providing practical and scalable solutions to one of the most pressing challenges in global agriculture.
