Multi-Feed Enzyme: Efficient Solution to Replace Antibiotics

In the feed industry, cost efficiency and livestock performance are non-negotiable. Multi-functional feed enzymes emerge as an innovative solution capable of replacing antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) and probiotics, with lower cost advantages. This article presents a cost comparison between multi-feed enzymes (cellulase, protease, amylase) and antibiotics and probiotics, based on technical data and field practices.

Role of Multi-Feed Enzymes in Animal Nutrition

Multi-feed enzymes are a combination of enzymes designed to break down hard-to-digest feed components such as crude fiber (cellulose), complex proteins, and starch. By breaking down these compounds, enzymes increase nutrient availability for livestock, making feed more efficient. The enzyme formula from Aspergillus oryzae, for example, produces cellulase, protease, amylase, and lipase. These enzymes work synergistically: cellulase breaks down plant cell walls, protease digests proteins into peptides and amino acids, amylase breaks down starch into simple sugars, and lipase aids fat digestion.

The main advantage of multi-feed enzymes is their ability to enhance the nutritional value of cheap alternative feedstuffs such as rice bran, palm kernel meal, or cassava pulp. Thus, feed mills can reduce dependence on expensive imported raw materials like corn and soybean meal. Data show that enzyme use can improve feed conversion ratio (FCR) by 5–10%, translating to feed cost savings per kilogram of meat or eggs.

Cost Comparison: Enzymes vs Antibiotics vs Probiotics

Antibiotic Growth Promoters (AGPs)

Antibiotics such as bacitracin or colistin were widely used to promote growth and prevent disease. However, antibiotic costs per ton of feed range from IDR 50,000–150,000, depending on type and dosage. Moreover, antibiotic residues in animal products and the risk of antibiotic resistance have led to bans in many countries. Since 2018, Indonesia has also banned AGPs in feed, forcing feed mills to seek alternatives.

Probiotics

Probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bacillus are added to balance gut microflora. Probiotic costs per ton of feed are around IDR 80,000–200,000, depending on strain and concentration. Probiotics are effective for maintaining digestive health but do not directly improve feed digestibility. Their effects are more preventive and take time to manifest. Additionally, probiotics are sensitive to pelleting temperatures and storage.

Multi-Feed Enzymes

Multi-feed enzymes like the Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula from Aspergillus oryzae cost around IDR 30,000–60,000 per ton of feed, cheaper than antibiotics and probiotics. At a dosage of 0.5–1 kg per ton, enzymes directly improve feed digestibility, increasing feed efficiency by 5–10%. This means for every ton of feed, farmers can save 50–100 kg of feed due to better FCR. Moreover, enzymes leave no residue and are safe for all livestock species. With rising feed prices, these savings are significant.

Mechanism of Multi-Functional Enzymes in Feed

Multi-functional enzymes work by breaking down chemical bonds in feed that animals cannot digest themselves. Aspergillus oryzae produces extracellular enzymes active at the pH and temperature of the digestive tract. Cellulase breaks down cellulose into glucose, turning previously useless crude fiber into an energy source. Protease breaks down complex proteins into more easily absorbed peptides and amino acids, reducing the need for crude protein in the ration. Amylase breaks down starch into maltose and glucose, increasing available energy. Lipase aids fat digestion, especially in high-fat feeds.

Through this mechanism, enzymes not only improve digestibility but also reduce digesta viscosity, leading to better nutrient absorption. This results in lower FCR and higher daily weight gain. Additionally, enzymes reduce excretion of undigested nutrients, thus lowering nitrogen and phosphorus waste into the environment.

Technical Data of Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula

The Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula from Biosolution contains Aspergillus oryzae producing cellulase, protease, amylase, and lipase. Recommended dosage is 0.5–1 kg per ton of feed, mixed during feed mixing. This product can be applied to all types of livestock (poultry, swine, ruminants, aquaculture). Measurable benefits include:

• Feed efficiency increase of 5–10%
• Allows greater use of alternative feedstuffs (rice bran, palm kernel meal, cassava pulp) up to 15–20% without performance loss
• Reduces total feed cost by 8–12%
• Safe with no withdrawal period

Unlike probiotics, enzymes do not require special conditions to survive. Enzymes are stable in dry form and resistant to pelleting at moderate temperatures. This advantage makes enzymes a more practical and economical solution.

Case Study: Cost Comparison at a Feed Mill

A medium-scale feed mill in West Java replaced antibiotics (cost IDR 100,000/ton) with the Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula (cost IDR 50,000/ton) in broiler feed. Results after 3 cycles:

• FCR decreased from 1.60 to 1.52 (5% reduction)
• Feed cost per kg body weight decreased by 8%
• Mortality remained unchanged (no increase)
• No antibiotic residues in meat

Meanwhile, another feed mill using probiotics (cost IDR 150,000/ton) only experienced a 2% FCR reduction and a 3% decrease in feed cost per kg body weight. This comparison shows that enzymes provide better ROI.

Conclusion

Multi-functional feed enzymes offer a cheaper and more effective solution compared to antibiotics and probiotics. With lower cost per ton, enzymes directly improve feed efficiency, reduce production costs, and are safe for livestock and consumers. For B2B feed mills, switching to enzymes is a strategic step to remain competitive amid rising feed prices. If you are interested in testing the Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula at your feed mill, the Biosolution team is ready to provide technical consultation and trials. Contact us via WhatsApp for more information.

FAQ

1. What is the main difference between multi-feed enzymes and probiotics?

Enzymes work directly to break down feed components (cellulose, protein, starch) making nutrients more available, while probiotics work by modulating gut microflora. Enzymes provide an immediate effect on feed digestibility, while probiotics take time to influence gut health. In terms of cost, enzymes are generally cheaper and more stable in storage.

2. Can multi-feed enzymes be used together with antibiotics?

It is best not to, as antibiotic use as growth promoters is already banned. Enzymes can be used as a replacement for antibiotics. If forced to use together (e.g., for treatment), enzymes remain active because they work chemically, not biologically. However, for cost efficiency, using enzymes alone is sufficient.

3. How to determine the correct enzyme dosage?

Dosage depends on feed type and efficiency target. For the Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula, the recommended dosage is 0.5–1 kg per ton of feed. It is advisable to conduct trials with graded doses (e.g., 0.5; 0.75; 1 kg/ton) and monitor FCR and body weight to determine the optimal dosage.

4. Are enzymes resistant to pelleting?

Dry enzymes are generally stable at normal pelleting temperatures (70–85°C). However, for high temperatures above 90°C, it is recommended to use coated enzymes or add them after pelleting. The Multi-Functional Feed Enzyme Formula has been tested for stability at standard pelleting temperatures.

5. How long does it take to see enzyme effects on livestock performance?

Enzyme effects are usually visible within 1–2 weeks of use. Improvements in FCR and daily weight gain can be observed in the first cycle. For maximum results, use enzymes consistently in every feed batch.