June 5, 2026

 

ADDCON's pwrPlanz^® EMC gains global traction as multi-species solution for antibiotic reduction

 

ADDCON GmbH is positioning its feed additive pwrPlanz^® EMC as a broad-spectrum, nutrition-based solution for improving animal health and reducing reliance on antibiotics across multiple livestock sectors.

 

Speaking about the product's development and expanding global relevance, Dr. Christian Lückstädt, Technical Director at ADDCON, described it as a departure from conventional single-principle additives.

 

According to Dr. Lückstädt, pwrPlanz^® EMC distinguishes itself through its formulation, which combines medium chain fatty acids with macro molecules, placing particular emphasis on uneven medium chain fatty acids. This approach delivers what he describes as an "exceptionally broad antibacterial spectrum".

 

Rather than relying on one active component, the product is designed around the synergistic interaction of several elements, creating a more robust and versatile tool for what he terms "nutritional biosecurity".

 

He noted that, to his knowledge, this is the first feed additive concept to systematically utilise uneven medium chain fatty acids in this way. These fatty acids, characterised by an odd number of carbon atoms, are relatively rare in nature and follow distinct metabolic pathways in both monogastric and ruminant animals. Their unique metabolic behaviour contributes significantly to their antimicrobial properties, offering mechanisms that differ from conventional organic acids or standard medium chain fatty acids.

 

Originally developed in 2024 with a clear focus on pig production, particularly post-weaning piglets, pwrPlanz^® EMC has since demonstrated a much wider application. Lückstädt explained that early adoption targeted piglets because of the acute gut health challenges and antimicrobial pressures typical at that stage of production. However, subsequent field experience and trial data showed that the product's mode of action is not species-specific.

"As a result, the product has since been successfully applied in poultry, dairy cows, beef cattle, calves and, most recently, aquaculture," he said. This cross-species applicability has increased the product's relevance, particularly as livestock producers worldwide face mounting pressure to reduce antibiotic use.

The shift aligns closely with global antibiotic reduction strategies, including those promoted under the WHO and EU One Health framework, which seek to limit the use of medically important antimicrobials while safeguarding both animal and public health. In this context, feed additives that support gut health, microbial stability and consistent performance are gaining importance. Lückstädt positioned pwrPlanz^® EMC as a response to this demand, offering a solution that balances productivity with responsible antimicrobial stewardship.

 

Despite its use across a wide range of species, ADDCON has not developed separate formulations for different animals. Dr. Lückstädt emphasised that pwrPlanz^® EMC is applied as a single, unified product. Results from both monogastric and ruminant systems have not indicated any need for species-specific adjustments, which simplifies its use for feed manufacturers and allows for a consistent biosecurity strategy across mixed farming operations.

 

The company is also actively promoting the product in Asia, where livestock industries face a complex mix of biosecurity challenges, regulatory pressures and performance demands. At the recent Asia Agri-Tech Expo & Forum in Taiwan, ADDCON presented two scientific papers. One focused on poultry nutrition, exploring the "synergistic effects of organic acids and plant essential oils" as a strategy to improve growth performance and gut health. The second presentation centred on pwrPlanz^® EMC, highlighting its role in "nutritional biosecurity with fatty acids" and its application in antibiotic reduction strategies.

 

These presentations are intended to address key regional concerns, including maintaining performance under diverse production conditions while reducing reliance on antibiotics. Dr. Lückstädt indicated that such issues are particularly relevant in Asia, where production systems can vary widely and disease pressure remains a persistent challenge.

 

Since its launch at EuroTier in Hannover in 2024, pwrPlanz^® EMC has gained traction in several global markets. In 2025, ADDCON focused on expansion into the Americas, securing approvals in major markets such as the United States and Brazil, as well as Colombia. The product also received the VICTAM Latin America Innovation Award in the Feed Formulation category that year.

 

In the Asia-Pacific region, the registration process began in 2025. So far, approvals have been granted in Australia and Taiwan. Registrations in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines are currently underway and expected to be completed soon, while discussions regarding approval in Japan remain at an early stage.

 

Market demand for pwrPlanz^® EMC has grown rapidly since its introduction. Within two years, ADDCON doubled its production capacity, reflecting strong uptake and confidence in the product's underlying concept.

 

Looking ahead, the company plans to build on this momentum by further developing its feed additive portfolio, including products based on its patented diformate technology.

 

At the same time, ADDCON is seeking to strengthen its presence in Asia's ruminant sector through its established KOFASIL silage additive range.

Ongoing discussions with potential regional partners are expected to support this expansion, as the company continues to position itself as a provider of integrated, nutrition-based solutions for modern livestock production.

 

- eFeedLink