Sonac from the Netherlands has launched MucoPro, a new natural animal protein that is basically hydrolysed porcine mucosal tissue. 

 

In dedicated European slaughterhouses, the mucosal tissue of intestines is separated from the outer lining, which is used in sausage production. Through enzymatic hydrolysis, pharmaceutical heparin is produced from this mucosa.

 

The hydrolyzed mucosal soup is processed in an ultra filtration unit to block particles > 10,000 Dalton. Subsequently, the product is gently concentrated and dried to create a usable and storable product.

 

This production process creates a product high in free amino acids as well as di- tri- and tetra-peptides. All these fractions are easily digested by young animals and fish.

 

According to EU Feed Law, MucoPro is permitted for use for all animal species. No limitations are imposed on production facilities, transport systems or use at farm level. No additional labelling texts are required, making MucoPro suitable for all feed mills, whether they have separate lines for ruminants and non-ruminants or not.

 

The product is free of viruses or prions and all raw material originates from dedicated pig slaughterhouses. Periodical screening using PCR techniques is applied to check for ruminant protein.

 

Since it is a well predigested source of protein, MucoPro has many benefits for young animals in particular; e.g. piglets around weaning.

 

Its origin and the hydrolysation process also make MucoPro a highly palatable ingredient.

 

As the hydrolysed mucosa consists of small peptides and free amino acids it is rapidly absorbed in the gut. This means that the animal and the intestinal cells are nourished quickly and efficiently.

 

MucoPro is recommended for use in (first phase) weaner diets for piglets at an inclusion level of 2-3 percent.