WO2009070291A1

WO2009070291A1 - Animal feed composition with enhanced nutritional characteristics

Info

Publication number: WO2009070291A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/013123
Authority: WO
Inventors: Guillermo Schroeder; Ignacio R. Ipharraguerre; Michael A. Messman; Kevin J. Touchette; Jason L. Shelton
Original assignee: Cargill, Incorporated
Priority date: 2007-11-28
Filing date: 2008-11-25
Publication date: 2009-06-04

Abstract

The use of animal feeds which include pectin as a prebiotic compound in diets for growing farm animals is provided. The feeds commonly include at least about 20 wt.% of a protein source and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. Methods of enhancing the gut health in a young mammal are also provided. The methods include feeding the young mammal an animal feed, such as a start feed or a liquid milk replacer, which includes a prebiotically effective amount of pectin and a protein source.

Description

ANIMAL FEED COMPOSITION WITH ENHANCED NUTRITIONAL CHARACTERISTICS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/004,473 filed November 28, 2007 entitled ANIMAL FEED COMPOSITION WITH ENHANCED NUTRITIONAL CHARACTERISTICS, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] During the first weeks of life, the newborn farm animals often experience an enhanced susceptibility to infectious diseases. Developmental immaturity of the neonatal immune system, suboptimal nutrition, and environmental stressors (e.g., temperature, microbial load, etc.) are considered major contributors to a newborn's susceptibility to infections and suboptimal performance. In the dairy industry, for instance, data collected between 1992 and 2002 by the National Health Monitoring Service (NAHMS) reported that the average mortality rate for pre- weaned calves in the USA ranges from 8 to 11%. In a previous report, the NAHMS estimated that the morbidity rate for pre-weaned calves is about 37%. Collectively, this implies that a large proportion of dairy calves are either ill or die before weaning. It should not be surprising therefore that over 50% of the milk replacers used in the United States are medicated (i.e., contain antibiotics) and that the on-farm costs associated with calfhood infectious diseases are estimated to $100 million dollars per year or more.

[0003] Antibiotics are commonly given by mouth for prophylaxis and growth promotion. However, the widespread use of antibiotics to treat calf scours and improve performance is being discouraged or banned in many countries to avoid potential resistance of human pathogens. In addition, researchers suggest that the overall effect of oral antibiotics can be detrimental to calves' health. Common diarrhea agents are either not affected by antibiotics or are highly resistant. Moreover, antibiotics given orally can alter the normal population of organisms in the gut and may sometimes predispose the calf to super infections or fungal infections. Some antibiotics used for scours can actually inhibit glucose absorption and alter the cells that line the gut wall. In such cases, the continuing use of antibiotics can prolong diarrhea. During recent years, the impact that complex carbohydrates have on the intestinal function and gastrointestinal microflora in humans and non-ruminant animals has received considerable attention.

[0004] Optimizing the function of the immune system of neonatal animals using nutritional approaches has the potential to increase resistance to infectious diseases and improve animal performance during this critical period. Moreover, optimal nutrition during the neonatal period may promote development of a more productive and immunologically robust adult.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present application is directed to the use of animal feeds and animal feed supplements, which include pectin as a prebiotic compound in diets for growing farm animals. Pectin can be used to reduce scours in neonatal growing ruminants and pigs with potential positive effects on overall animal performance. In growing poultry, such as broilers, pectin can be effective in reducing cholesterol levels in plasma, but may reduce animal growth in some instances. In most the animal species, doses of pectin between about 1 to 5% of the total diet are typically quite suitable. The pectin can either be mixed with solid feed (e.g. pellets, starters, etc) or incorporated into a liquid feed (e.g., a liquid milk replacer).

[0006] The pectin included in the present feed compositions and supplements may act as a prebiotic in the diet of neonatal animals to improve gut health (e.g., reduce fecal scours). In some instances, the inclusion of pectin as a prebiotic in the diet of neonatal animals may reduce cholesterol levels as well as increase animal growth.

[0007] The present feed compositions and supplements may be particularly beneficial when fed to young animals. Examples would include but are not limited to growing ruminants before their rumen is functionally developed (typically the first four weeks of age), neonatal mammals receiving supplemental milk or feed, young animals experiencing a food transition from liquid to solid, and others. For example, pectin can be mixed into a milk replacer and/or a solid feed (e.g., a starter feed). The pectin to be included in milk replacer may desirably be a low calcium form, which typically has a higher solubility in water than higher calcium forms.

[0008] Pectin is a polymer of methyl D-galacturonate and is found in plant cell walls, e.g., in the cell walls in citrus peel. Natural biological complex oligosaccharides of these types may be difficult to digest in the upper gastrointestinal tract (upper GIT) and are mostly fermented in the lower GIT. Due to the type and site of fermentation of pectin in the gastrointestinal tract, its supplementation in the diet can alter and potentially improve the balance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria population in the GIT. Such a change in the gastrointestinal bacteria population can result in improved gut health and overall animal performance. In addition, pectin may alter the viscosity and flow of digesta through the intestine which may help to reduce the absorption of cholesterol, thereby reducing the plasma level of that compound.

[0009] One embodiment of the present feed composition is a starter feed for young animals, which includes (a) a protein-based component; and (b) pectin. Such feeds may include a non- fiber carbohydrate source, such as corn, and/or an essential amino acid supplement. Other additives may be included in the feed composition as well. For example, the feed composition may also include other nutrient additives, such as fat, a calcium source, vitamin(s) supplements and/or mineral sources.

[00010] In one embodiment, the present feed composition includes at least about 20 wt.% of a protein source and pectin. Typically, the feed composition is substantially free of egg product, e.g., contains no more than about 0.5 wt.% egg product. The protein source commonly includes a substantial amount of a dairy-based protein source, such as milk-protein or whey- protein (e.g., in the form of dried whey and/or whey protein concentrate), protein derived from an oilseed, such as soybean and/or sunflower, protein derived from cereals, such as wheat, and/or protein derived from animal source(s).

[00011] The pectin employed in producing the present feed compositions commonly has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.% and a degree of esterification (DE) of at least about 50 %. The pectin may be modified, e.g., through derivatization by reaction with a modifying agent such as an amine. For example, pectin may be treated with ammonia to convert at least a portion of the ester group into amide groups. Suitably, the pectins used in the present compositions have a degree of amidation of no more than about 50 % and more commonly, have a very low degree of amidation, e.g., a degree of amidation of no more than about 5 %.

[00012] In some embodiments, the pectin employed in the present feed compositions has a low calcium sensitivity and a low calcium content, e.g., includes no more than about 10,000 ppm calcium and more desirably, no more than about 5,000 ppm calcium. The pectin may be a rapid setting pectin and suitably may be derived from a fruit source, e.g., citrus pectin and/or apple pectin. Pectins derived from sugar beet may also suitably be employed in the present feed compositions. The pectins employed in the present feeds may have a gel strength of at least about 150 SAG. A 1 wt.% solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C commonly has a viscosity of at least 15 cPs and, often, about 30 cPs or higher.

[00013] Methods of enhancing the gut health in a young mammal are also provided herein. The methods include feeding the young mammal an animal feed which includes a prebiotically effective amount of pectin and a protein source. The feed generally includes about 1 to 5 wt.% pectin, such as a rapid setting low calcium pectin which has a degree of esterification of at least about 50% and a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%. The feed typically includes at least about 20 wt.% and, often, 40 wt.% or more of the protein source. The protein source commonly includes a dairy protein source, e.g., milk protein and/or whey protein. Other protein sources that may be suitably employed include protein materials derived from oilseeds and/or cereals, such as protein-enriched materials derived from soy, sunflower and/or wheat.

[00014] Another embodiment provides an animal feed supplement, e.g., a supplement which is capable of use as a milk extender. The supplement may include at least about 20 wt.% (solids basis) of a protein source; a fat source; lactose; an essential amino acid additive; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. Such supplements typically contain about 20 to 30 wt.% (solids basis) of the protein source and about 3 to 7 wt.% (solids basis) fat.

[00015] Another embodiment provides an electrolyte supplement, e.g., a supplement which may be used to treat non-ruminating calves suffering from scours. The supplement suitably includes sodium salt, a potassium salt, a calcium salt, glycine; dextrose; a magnesium salt; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. Typically, the electrolyte supplement contains about 2 to 10 wt.% (solids basis) of the pectin.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[00016] FIG. 1 is a graph showing the evolution of body weight during the first six weeks of age of neonatal dairy calves fed the diets described in Example 1.

[00017] FIG. 2 is a graph showing the total bacteria count in feces from neonatal dairy calves fed the diets described in Example 1. [00018] FIG. 3 is a graph showing the concentration of Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus,

Bifidobacter, and total anaerobic bacteria in feces from neonatal dairy calves fed the diets described in Example 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00019] One embodiment of the present method relates to feeding pectin, a polymer comprising a substantial percentage of methyl D-galacturonate, to neonatal animals as a prebiotic. The inclusion of pectin in such feeds is believed to be associated with an improved gut health (e.g., reduced fecal scours) as well as enhanced animal growth. Due to the type (fiber-like compounds) and site of fermentation of pectin in the gastrointestinal tract (mostly colon), supplementation of feeds with pectin potentially may have one or more of the following effects on neonatal animals consuming such a pectin containing feed:

1 ) Increasing the viscosity of intestinal digesta;

2) Reduce adhesion of certain bacterial species to the intestinal epithelium (i.e. Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp.);

3) Increase the growth of beneficial groups of bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium);

4) Absorption of toxins and associated enhanced clearance toxins from the intestinal tract;

5) Increase fecal bulking, VFA production in the hindgut, and intestinal growth;

6) Reduced absorption of cholesterol in the lower GI tract.

[00020] These effects on the gastrointestinal tract can be associated with improvements in feed intake and growth during the early stages of an animal's life and consequently may promote development of a more productive and immunologically robust adult animal.

[00021] Pectin having a degree of esterification ("DE") of at least about 50, more suitably at least about 60, and more desirably at least about 65 are particularly suitable for use in the present feed compositions. High molecular weight pectins with a DE of about 65 to 75 are commonly used in the present feed compositions. Such pectins are desirably not highly modified, e.g., may be pectins with a relatively high molecular weight and have a degree of amidation (DA) which is quite low, e.g., no more than about 5% and, more suitably, no more than about 1 %. One type of particularly suitable pectin is pectin from a citrus source, e.g., orange, grapefruit, lime and/or lemon. Other suitable sources of pectin include apple pectin and pectin derived from sugar beets. The pectin employed in the present compositions is preferably a low calcium sensitivity pectin. The pectin also preferably has a low calcium content, e.g., a pectin having a calcium content of no more than about 10,000 ppm, suitably no more than about 5,000 ppm, desirably no more than about 2,500 ppm and, in some instances, has a calcium content of about 1 ,000 ppm or lower.

[00022] The pectin employed in the present compositions generally has a relatively high galacturonic acid content. Materials with a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.% are suitable for use in the present compositions. The pectin may have galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.% and, in some instances, pectins with a galacturonic acid content of about 80 wt.% or higher may be employed.

[00023] The pectin employed in the present feeds may have a viscosity of at least about

15 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C. Commonly, pectins with a viscosity at least about 20 cPs, desirably at least about 25 cPs, and in some embodiments about 30 to 50 cPs (as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C) may be employed in the present feeds. In some embodiments, a pectin with a viscosity at least about 100 cPs (e.g., about 130 to 140 cPs) as determined from a 1.8 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C, may be employed.

[00024] The pectin employed in the present feeds may be chemically modified to include amide functional groups in place of a portion of the galacturonic ester groups, which are naturally present (e.g., by reacting the pectin material with ammonia). Such pectins desirably have a degree of amidation of no more than about 50 %. More commonly, pectins with a substantially lower degree of amidation, e.g., a degree of amidation of no more than about 5 %, are employed in the present feeds. In some embodiments, the pectin is substantially unmodified to include such amide groups, e.g., pectins with a degree of amidation of no more than about 1 %.

[00025] The present feed compositions may include other nutrient additives, such as essential amino acid(s); a calcium source; vitamin and/or mineral sources; and/or a non-fiber carbohydrate source(s). For example, the feed composition may include an essential amino acid(s) additive, which includes one or more of isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, histidine, valine and phenylalanine. Examples of suitable calcium sources include calcium carbonate and/or dicalcium phosphate. Examples of suitable non-fiber carbohydrate sources include corn starch, cereal grains, molasses, dextrose, lactose and/or glycerol. Examples of suitable vitamin(s) include of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and/or vitamin B complex. Examples of suitable mineral supplement(s) include NaCl and/or sources of Mn, Fe, Mg, Cu, Zn, iodine, selenium, and/or cobalt (Co).

Illustrative Embodiments

[00026] Reference is made in the following to a number of illustrative embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The following embodiments describe illustrative embodiments that may include one or more of the various features, characteristics, and advantages of the subject matter as presently described. Accordingly, the following embodiments should not be considered as being comprehensive of all of the possible embodiments or otherwise limit the scope of the methods and compositions described herein.

[00027] In one embodiment, the present animal feed may be a starter feed, e.g., for use in feeding neonatal animals, such as neonatal ruminants and pigs. The starter feed may include at least about 20 wt.% of a protein source and at least about 1 wt.% pectin. For example, such an animal feed may include a protein source which includes a dairy-based protein source (e.g., dried whey and/or whey protein concentrate), cereal-based protein source (e.g., a wheat protein source), oilseed-based protein source (e.g., soybean meal and/or soy protein concentrate) and/or protein derived from an animal source. The animal feed may also include a non-fiber carbohydrate source, such as corn, and/or an essential amino acid supplement. Other nutrient additives, such as fat, a calcium source, vitamin(s) supplements and/or mineral sources, may be included in the feed composition as well.

[00028] The pectins employed in the present feed compositions may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 50 % and a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of said liquid milk replacer in distilled water at 25⁰C. Such pectins may desirably have a calcium content of no more than about 5,000 ppm. The pectins may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 60 % and a viscosity of at least about 20 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of said liquid milk replacer in distilled water at 25°C. In some instances, the pectins employed in the present feed compositions may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 65 to 75% and a viscosity of at least about 30 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of said liquid milk replacer in distilled water at 25°C.

[00029] The present animal feed may be a liquid milk replacer which comprises (a) a dairy-based protein component; and (b) a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. The pectin may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%; a calcium content of no more than about 10,000 ppm; a degree of esterification of at least about 50 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25⁰C has a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs.

[00030] Another embodiment of the present feed composition is directed to a liquid milk replacer, which may include at least about 20 wt.% dairy-based protein component; and at least about 1 wt.% pectin. The pectin may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 50 % and a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C.

[00031 ] Another embodiment provides an animal feed for young mammals comprising a dairy-based protein source; and pectin; wherein the animal feed is substantially free of egg product.

[00032] Another embodiment provides a liquid milk replacer for young mammals comprising a dairy-based protein component; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin; wherein the liquid milk replacer is substantially free of egg product.

[00033] Another embodiment provides an animal feed for young mammals comprising at least about 20 wt.% of a protein source; an essential amino acid(s) supplement; a calcium source; a non-fiber carbohydrate source; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. For example, the animal feed may include about 1 to 5 wt.% of the pectin.

[00034] In another embodiment, the present animal feed may be a liquid milk replacer comprising at least about 20 wt.% dairy-based protein component; and at least about 1 wt.% pectin. The pectin may have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 50 % and a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C. [00035] A method of enhancing gut health in a young mammal is also provided herein.

The method includes feeding the young mammal an animal feed, which comprises pectin and a protein source. The animal feed may be substantially free of egg product.

[00036] Another embodiment provides an animal feed supplement, which is capable of use as a milk extender. The supplement may be in dry solid form or in aqueous liquid. The supplement includes at least about 20 wt.% (solids basis) of a protein source (typically about 20 to 30 wt.%); about 3 to 7 wt.% (solids basis) fat; lactose; an essential amino acid additive; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. The animal feed supplement commonly contains about 2 to 10 wt.% (solids basis) of the pectin. The essential amino acid additive commonly includes lysine and/or methionine. The animal feed supplement may also include a vitamin additive, which includes one or more of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin B complex. The pectin desirably has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a degree of esterifϊ cation of at least about 65 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs. The protein source may include powdered skim milk, casein, dried whey and/or whey protein concentrate.

[00037] The animal feed supplement may also include propionic acid, acetic acid and/or citric acid, which may be present in acid and/or salt form. Typically, the organic acid(s) is present as a mixture of acid and salt forms so as to buffer an aqueous liquid form of the supplement at a pH of about 3.5 to 5.5. The supplement suitably has a minimum sodium content of at least about 5.5 wt.%, a minimum potassium content of at least about 0.3 wt.%, a calcium content of about 0.1 to 0.3 wt.%, a minimum magnesium content of at least about 0.05 wt.%. The supplement may also contain lactic acid bacteria, e.g., about 3 to 10 mill cfu / gram of such bacteria.

[00038] Another embodiment provides an electrolyte supplement, e.g., a supplement which may be used to treat non-ruminating calves suffering from scours. The supplement suitably includes sodium chloride and/or monosodium phosphate; potassium chloride and/or monopotassium phosphate; calcium chloride; glycine; dextrose; a magnesium salt; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin. The supplement suitably has a sodium content of about 4 to 5.5 wt.% and a potassium content of about 1 to 2 wt.%. Typically, the electrolyte supplement contains about 2 to 10 wt.% (solids basis) of the pectin. The pectin may desirably have a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a degree of esterification of at least about 65 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs.

Examples

[00039] The following examples are presented to illustrate the present invention and to assist one of ordinary skill in making and using the same. The examples are not intended in any way to otherwise limit the scope of the invention.

Example 1 - Feed For Neonatal Calves

Feed Composition With Pectin As Prebiotic For Neonatal Calves.

[00040] The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementing pectin to neonatal dairy calves compared with a negative control (non-medicated milk replacer) and with two other potential sources of prebiotic (Actistar™ and β-Glucan). Fifty calves were randomly assigned to one of five dietary treatments from birth to 14 weeks of age. The 5 treatments were:

1. Control (non-medicated milk replacer)

2. Pectin (control milk replacer + 10 g/d of pectin)

3. Actistar™ (control milk replacer + 10 g/d of Actistar™)

4. Mix (control milk replacer + 5 g/d of pectin + 5 g/d of Actistar )

5. Glucan (control milk replacer + 2.0 g/d of β-glucan)

[00041] Pectin was the most effective supplement for increasing daily gain during the first weeks of age (see results summarized in Table 1). Calves receiving pectin not only gain more, but also were weaned 4 days earlier (13% earlier than control), reducing feeding costs significantly. Intake of solid feed (starter) was significantly greater in calves supplemented with pectin compared with those receiving control (P = 0.03) or glucan treatments (P= 0.08). Thus, the improved body weight gain was explained by a greater dry matter intake, maintaining a similar gain to feed ratio. The parameters of calves' structural growth were numerically greater in those treatments that presented the greatest body weight gain (see Table 2). Fecal samples taken at 3 days (no effects of treatments) and 4 week after calving (maximum differences in body weight; Figure 1) were analyzed for bacteria account. The first determination was used as covariable to analyze the bacteria concentration at 4 week of age. Total bacteria count in feces was lower in those calves receiving pectin, Actistar or the mix of both (see Table 3).

Particularly interesting are the results of lower E. coli (Escherichia coli) concentrations in those treatments that presented the greater body weight gain (pectin and Actistar™), which also agreed with improved overall fecal scores in those treatments. E coli is the single most common bacteria associated with calf scours and reduced performance, so any possible reduction of this bacteria in the gut of neonatal animals may improve health and growth. Based on those results, we concluded that pectin is an natural alternative to improve body weight gain during the first 3 weeks of age (148% improvement respect to control), increase solid (starter) intake (38% improvement), allowing accelerating weaning (13% improvement), without affecting gain to feed ratio and helping to maintain a better fecal score (appearance and odor), which agreed with a lower E. coli concentration.

Table 1. Body Weight Gain, Days To Wean, And Starter Intake In Neonatal Dairy Calves.

1 -Adjusted by weight at birth as covaπable

2- Considering only starter intake (milk replacer intake was similar among treatments) Table 2. Structural Growth Measurements In Neonatal Dairy Calves

1 - Adjusted by weight at birth as covariable

Table 3.

Fecal And Respiratory Scores Between Week 1 And 4 Of Age In Neonatal Dairy Calves

1- Appearance: 1= Hard, 2=Normal, 3= Soft, 4=Runny, and 5= Watery.

2- Color: 1= White or yellow- white, 2- Gray, 3= Yellow, 4= Brown, 5= Red or pink,

6= Green or dark green, and 7= Very dark-black.

3- Consistency: 1= Normal, 2= Foamy, 3= Mucous, 4= Sticky, and 5= Constipated hard.

4- Odor: 1= Normal, 2= Slightly foul, and 3= Very foul.

5- Respiratory: 1= Normal, 2= Runny nose, 3= Heavy breathing, 4= Cough, and 5= Cough frequently. Example 2. Feed with Pectin to Lower Cholesterol in Growing Broilers.

[00042] The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pectin feeding on cholesterol levels in broilers. A total of 486 male broilers of the Ross 308 strain (WeIp Hatchery, Bancroft, IA) were used for a 9-treatment study. The diets were formulated to be adequate in all nutrients. The positive control (PC) diet contained 1% cholesterol. The test ingredients included different pectin sources and cellulose as another control. The different pectin sources included in this trial were from apple (DE 70 and DE 35) and citrus (DE 70, DE 35, and DE 0) and a low molecular weight pectin. Following the standardization period (3 days in which all broilers received a standard cholesterol free broiler ration), a 4 days loading period in which appropriate diets containing no cholesterol or 1% cholesterol was fed to broilers. The test ingredients were then fed for the remainder of the experimental period (7 to 35 d). The inclusion rates of the cholesterol and test ingredients were 1% for cholesterol, 3% for the cellulose, and 3% for all pectin products.

[00043] Chicks fed the diets with citrus pectin or apple pectin (DE 70) or with apple pectin (DE 35) had a reduced (P < 0.05) ADG relative to those fed any other dietary treatment. This reduction in ADG was mainly due to a reduction in feed intake but there also was a reduction (P < 0.05) in gain:feed in those chicks fed the diets with citrus pectin or apple pectin (DE 70) or with apple pectin (DE 35). The goal in this trial was to feed a high enough level to affect cholesterol without affecting performance. This data indicated the addition of 3% of these pectin types was too high to obtain optimal growth performance. Chicks fed the citrus pectin (DE 70), apple pectin (DE 70), apple pectin (DE 35), or citrus pectin (DE 0) had a reduced (P < 0.05) serum cholesterol concentration on d 21 and on d 35 relative to those fed the PC diet. Chicks fed citrus pectin (DE 35) or the low MW pectin had a reduced (P < 0.05) serum cholesterol concentration on d 21 but equal serum cholesterol levels on d 35 relative to chicks fed the PC diet. These results suggested that pectin supplementation may be a suitable alternative to reduce cholesterol levels. However, the effective cholesterol lowering dosage level for chickens may have a negative effect on growth performance.

Example 3. Feed containing Pectin as Prebiotic for Neonatal Pigs.

[00044] Experiments conducted to examine whether or not feeding diets containing pectin or resistant starch (Actistar™) contributed to reduce scours in pigs that were challenged with polyols (sorbitol), which is known to have laxative effects. Because estimation of effects on animal performance was not the primary objective of those studies, growth of the pigs was not measured. However, positive results were observed for both products with respect to diarrhea prevention in the neonatal pigs, with pectin being more successful in reducing diarrhea compared to Actistar™. The pectin used in this study was HM Pectin, similar to that described in Example 9 below. It is reasonable to speculate that the positive results observed on diarrhea prevention would also be associated with a better animal growth similar to that demonstrated in neonatal dairy calves.

Example 4. Exemplary Feed Formulation for Baby Pigs

[00045] A feed ration suitable for use in young swine may be formulated using the ingredient listed below in Table 4 with 1.0 wt.% to 5.0 wt.% added pectin material. An exemplary formulation for a baby swine ration is (Ingredient Percent (w/w) of Formulation):

Table 4.

Ground Corn 40.6

Dried Whey 25

Soy Bean Meal 22

Salt 0.05

Fat 5

Calcium Carbonate 0.2

Dicalcium Phosphate 0.9

Animal Protein 5.5

Misc. Vitamins/Minerals 0.7

Example 5. Exemplary Milk Replacer Formulations

[00046] A feed ration suitable for use in neonatal calves and pigs may be formulated using the ingredients listed below together with 1.0 wt.% to 5.0 wt.% added pectin material. Exemplary formulations for calf milk replacers with ranges of primary ingredients are shown in Table 5 below. These formulations will typically be milk and/or wheat based. Table 5.

1 - May include whey protein concentrate, dried whey, dry fat (7.7% crude protein/60.3% crude fat)

2 - May include wheat protein, soybean protein, egg proteins, plasma

3 - Including one of all of the following: isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, histidine, valine and phenylalanine.

Example 6. Exemplary dry starter feed for calves

[00047] A feed ration suitable for use in neonatal calves may be formulated using the ingredient listed below including 1.0 wt.% to 5.0 wt.% added pectin material. Exemplary formulations for calf dry starter feeds with ranges of primary ingredients are shown in Table 6 below. These formulations will typically be milk and/or wheat based. Table 6.

1- Including one of all of the following isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, histidine, valine and phenylalanine

2- Including one of all of the following vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E, NaCl, Mn,

Fe, Mg, Cu, Zn, I, selenium, and Co, ionophores, super-bind (pellet binder)

3- May include corn starch, cereal grains, molasses, glycerol/glyceπn

Example 7 Exemplary Feed Formulation for Baby Pigs

[00048] A feed ration suitable for use in young swine may be formulated using the ingredient listed below in Table 7 Other variations with similar nutrient profiles will be suitable as well An exemplary formulation for a baby swine ration is (Ingredient Percent (w/w) of Formulation, as-is basis) Table 7.

Ground Corn O to 50

Dried Whey 5 to 40

Vegetable Protein 5 to 30

Salt 0.05

Fat 1 to 10

Calcium Carbonate O to 1

Dicalcium Phosphate O to 1

Animal Protein O to 15

Misc. Vitamins/Minerals O to 2

Pectin 1 to 5

Example 8. Exemplary Milk Replacer for Calves and Pigs

[00049] An exemplary formulation for a feed ration suitable for use as a milk replacer for calves and pigs is shown in Table 8 below.

Table 8.

Ingredient Percent (as-is) of Formulation

Whey Protein Concentrate 33

Dried Whey 31

Dry Fat 29

(7.7% crude protein/60.3% crude fat)

Calcium Carbonate 0.5

Dicalcium Phosphate 0.5

Misc. Vitamins, Minerals, 2

Essential Amino Acids 1

Pectin 3

Example 9. Exemplary Pectin Material for Use in Present Feeds

[00050] The physical characteristics of an exemplary pectin material, which is suitable for use in the present feed formulations, are summarized in Table 9. The material is a low calcium, rapid setting citrus pectin with a relatively high degree of esterification (DE) and galacturonic acid content (GaIA).

Table 9.

Example 10. Exemplary Starter Feed for Young Swine

[00051] An exemplary formulation for a feed ration suitable for use as a feed for young swine is shown in Table 10 below.

Table 10.

Ingredient Wt . % (as-is) of Formulation

Dried Whey 15

Whey Protein Concentrate 14

Ground Corn 35

Soy Bean Meal 22

Fat 8

Salt 0.05

Calcium Carbonate 0.4

Dicalcium Phosphate 0.9

Misc. Vitamins, Minerals, 0.7

Essential Amino Acids 1

Pectin 3 [00052] The invention has been described with reference to various specific and illustrative embodiments and techniques. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[00053] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of

Markush groups or other grouping of alternatives, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group or other group.

[00054] Unless indicated to the contrary, where various numerical values are provided for embodiments, additional embodiments are contemplated by taking any two different values as the endpoints of a range. Such ranges are also within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An animal feed for young mammals comprising: a dairy-based protein source; and pectin; wherein the animal feed is substantially free of egg product.

2. The animal feed of claim 1 wherein said feed is a liquid milk replacer.

3. The animal feed of Claim 1, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%.

4. The animal feed of Claim 1, wherein the pectin has a calcium content of no more than about 10,000 ppm.

5. The animal feed of Claim 1 , wherein the pectin has a gel strength of at least about 150 SAG.

6. The animal feed of Claim 1, wherein the pectin has a degree of esterification (DE) of at least about 50 %.

7. The animal feed of Claim 1 , wherein a 1 wt.% solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25⁰C has a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs.

8. The animal feed of Claim 1, wherein the pectin has a degree of amidation (DA) of no more than about 5.

9. An animal feed for young mammals comprising: at least about 10 wt.% of a protein source; an essential amino acid(s) supplement; a calcium source; a non-fiber carbohydrate source; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin.

10. The animal feed of Claim 9, wherein the protein source comprises a dairy based protein source.

1 1. The animal feed of Claim 10, wherein the dairy based protein source comprises dried whey, whey protein concentrate, milk-derived dry fat or a mixture thereof.

12. The animal feed of Claim 9, containing at least about 20 wt.% of the protein source.

13. The animal feed of Claim 9, wherein the protein source comprises a protein source derived from oilseed.

14. The animal feed of Claim 9, wherein the pectin comprises citrus pectin, apple pectin, sugar beet pectin or a mixture thereof.

15. The animal feed of Claim 9, comprising about 1 to 5 wt.% of the pectin.

16. The animal feed of Claim 9, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a calcium content of no more than about 5,000 ppm; a degree of esterifi cation of at least about 65 %; a degree of amidation of no more than about 5 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs.

17. The animal feed of Claim 9, wherein the animal feed is substantially free of egg product.

18. A liquid milk replacer for young mammals comprising a dairy-based protein component; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin; wherein the liquid milk replacer is substantially free of egg product.

19. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 18, containing no more than about 0.5 wt.% egg products.

20. A method of enhancing gut health in a young mammal comprising; feeding the young mammal an animal feed, which comprises pectin and a protein source; wherein the animal feed is substantially free of egg product.

21. The method of Claim 20, wherein the pectin comprises at least about 65 wt.% polyglacturonic acid.

22. The method of Claim 20, wherein the pectin has a gel strength of about 150 SAG.

23. The method of Claim 20, wherein a 1 wt.% solution of the pectin in distilled water has a viscosity of at least about 20 cps at 25°C.

24. The method of Claim 20, wherein feed composition comprises about 1 to 5 wt.% of the pectin (as calculated on a total feed basis).

25. The method of Claim 20, wherein feed composition is a liquid milk replacer.

26. The method of Claim 20, wherein the pectin contains no more than about 10,000 ppm calcium.

27. The method of Claim 20, wherein the pectin has a degree of esterification of at least about 50.

28. The method of Claim 20, wherein the animal feed further comprises a non-fiber carbohydrate source.

29. The method of Claim 28, wherein the non-fiber carbohydrate source comprises corn starch, cereal grain, molasses, glycerol/glycerin or a mixture thereof.

30. A liquid milk replacer comprising; at least about 20 wt.% dairy-based protein component; and at least about 1 wt.% pectin; wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%, a degree of esterification of at least about 50 % and a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs, as determined from a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C.

31. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%.

32. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein a 1 wt.% solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least 30 cPs.

33. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein the pectin has a degree of esterification of at least about 65 %.

34. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein the liquid milk replacer is substantially free of egg product.

35. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein the pectin has a galacruronic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%; a calcium content of no more than about 10,000 ppm; a degree of esterification of at least about 50 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs.

36. The liquid milk replacer of Claim 30, wherein the pectin has a galacruronic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a calcium content of no more than about 5,000 ppm; a degree of esterification of at least about 65 %; a degree of amidation of no more than about 5 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs.

37. An animal feed for young mammals comprising: at least about 20 wt.% of a protein source; a calcium source; fat; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin.

38. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 65 wt.%.

39. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the pectin has a calcium content of no more than about 10,000 ppm.

40. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the pectin has a gel strength of at least about 150 SAG.

41. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the pectin has a degree of esterification

(DE) of at least about 50 %.

42. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein a 1 wt.% solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25⁰C has a viscosity of at least about 15 cPs.

43. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the pectin has a degree of amidation (DA) of no more than about 5.

44. The animal feed of Claim 37, further comprising a non-fiber carbohydrate source.

45. The animal feed of Claim 37, wherein the non-fiber carbohydrate source comprises corn starch, cereal grain, molasses, glycerol or a mixture thereof.

46. The animal feed of Claim 37, further comprising ground corn.

47. The animal feed of Claim 37, containing about 1 to 5 wt.% of the pectin.

48. The animal feed of Claim 37, further comprising an essential amino acid supplement.

49. An animal feed supplement capable of use as a milk extender comprising: at least about 20 wt.% (solids basis) of a protein source; lactose; an essential amino acid additive; about 3 to 7 wt.% (solids basis) fat; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin.

50. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49, wherein the essential amino acid additive includes lysine and methionine.

51. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49, further comprising a vitamin additive which includes at least one of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin B complex.

52. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49 containing about 2 to 10 wt.% (solids basis) of the pectin.

53. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a degree of esterification of at least about 65 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs.

54. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49 containing about 20 to 30 wt.% (solids basis) of the protein source.

55. The animal feed supplement of Claim 54 wherein the protein source comprises powdered skim milk, casein, dried whey and whey protein concentrate.

56. The animal feed supplement of Claim 49, further comprising propionic acid, acetic acid and/or citric acid, in acid and/or salt form.

57. An electrolyte supplement for non-ruminating calves comprising: sodium chloride and/or monosodium phosphate; potassium chloride and/or monopotassium phosphate; calcium chloride; glycine; dextrose; a magnesium salt; and a prebiotically effective amount of pectin; wherein the supplement has a sodium content of about 4 to 5.5 wt.% and a potassium content of about 1 to 2 wt.%.

58. The electrolyte supplement of Claim 57 containing about 2 to 10 wt.% (solids basis) of the pectin.

59. The electrolyte supplement of Claim 57, wherein the pectin has a galacturonic acid content of at least about 75 wt.%; a degree of esterification of at least about 65 %; and a 1 wt.% aqueous solution of the pectin in distilled water at 25°C has a viscosity of at least about 25 cPs.