As global animal production has rapidly shifted towards reduced Antibiotic-free, “gut health” has become a popular expression and all-encompassing concept in the scientific community. The gastrointestinal tract must provide a barrier function protecting against harmful environmental elements (e.g. toxins and pathogenic microbes), while simultaneously permitting appropriate nutrient absorption. Successful animal performance depends on the interplay between the intestine, microbiota, diet, and a multitude of environmental factors.
