January 22, 2016
Amlan launches AGP alternative for poultry

Amlan International has launched Varium™, a new non-antibiotic formulated product that acts like an antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) for poultry.
In clinical studies Varium promotes broiler growth equivalent to antibiotics by reducing the level of pathogens and harmful biotoxins that damage the intestinal lining, stimulating early immune function, and strengthening the intestinal barrier function.
"Research studies conducted with leading poultry collaborators in the US showed that Varium consistently achieved growth performance equivalent to commercial AGPs and also reduced the effects of bacteria-associated enteric disease," said Dr. Ron Cravens, president of Amlan International.
As the global poultry production community continues to shift to a "no antibiotics ever" approach in light of consumer and regulatory pressures, such as the FDA's Veterinary Feed Directive, interest in AGP alternatives that address bird intestinal health while enhancing performance is growing, the company said.
Biotoxins produced by microorganisms such as Clostridium perfringens, E. coli, and Salmonella sp. damage the intestinal barrier, which reduces overall gut health and function thereby diverting energy from weight gain. Decreased gut function can also cause birds to suffer from lower feed conversion and increased mortality. By focusing on maintaining a healthy intestinal environment, producers are able to maximise the efficiency of their nutritional programme.
"Varium has been shown to lower Clostridium perfringens-induced Necrotic Enteritis lesion scores, improve feed conversion, reduce mortality and support weight gain," said Cravens. "In fact, in clinical trials, Varium provided a ROI of 3:1 or higher by improving feed conversion and decreasing mortality."
Varium is currently approved for use in Bolivia, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines and Thailand, and is awaiting registration approval in several other countries in South America, the Middle East and the Asia‐Pacific region.