Live Culture of Useful Bacteria in Animal Feed

Correct Answer: Probiotics

Probiotics are defined as live cultures of beneficial (useful) bacteria that, when fed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Common probiotic strains used in poultry are Lactobacillus and Streptococcus species.

Probiotics vs. Prebiotics vs. Antibiotics

Benefits of Probiotics in Poultry

• Competitive exclusion of pathogenic bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter).
• Improved intestinal villi height and nutrient absorption.
• Enhanced immune response.
• Reduced need for antibiotic growth promoters.

Why Other Options Are Wrong

• Antibiotics → kill/inhibit bacteria; they are not live cultures themselves.
• Enzymes → biological catalysts (e.g., beta-glucanase, phytase); not live bacteria.
• Prebiotics → non-digestible carbohydrates that feed beneficial bacteria; not themselves live cultures.