Effect of Benzoic Acid on Nutrient Digestibility and Rectal Microbiota of Weaned Holstein Dairy Calves.

ABSTRACT: Our previous study has shown that supplementation of 0.50% benzoic acid (BA) increased growth performance, promoted rumen fermentation, and improved the composition and function of rumen microbiota. This research was designed to conduct a deeper exploration of the impacts of dietary supplementation with BA on the apparent digestibility of nutrients and the composition of rectal microbiota in weaned Holstein dairy calves. Sixteen Holstein heifer calves with similar body weights (91.2 ± 0.7 kg) were selected and randomly allocated into two groups, each comprising eight calves. Calves in the control group (CON group) were fed with a basal diet, while those in the benzoic acid group (BA group) were fed with the basal diet supplemented with 0.50% benzoic acid (on a dry matter basis). The experi

SUBMITTER: Dai H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12291731 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature