The role of probiotics in animal nutrition and health

The purpose of this review article is to discuss the role of probiotics in animal nutrition and health. In the last 15 years, probiotics have become increasingly popular in many animal production systems. Inadequate scientifically-based, all-encompassing, and unified data on the effects of probiotics in monogastric and ruminant animals prompted the current review. Feed supplements containing live microorganisms, known as probiotics, are shown to improve intestinal balance and overall health when given on a consistent and adequate schedule. Probiotics are a type of live microorganism that can be added to animal feed to help improve the health and productivity of cattle by balancing the microbes in the animals' digestive systems. This article summarizes the literature on the effects of yeast and bacterial probiotics on the gut microbiome of ruminants and monogastric animals and the implications of these findings for animal nutrition and health. Lastly, the positive effects of probiotics are outlined, including increased animal growth, decreased mortality, and enhanced feed conversion efficiency.