Dose-Dependent Responses of Weaned Piglets to Multi-Species Solid-State Fermented Apple Pomace: Enhanced Growth Performance, Intestinal Health, and Gut Microbiota Modulation.

ABSTRACT:

Background/objectives

Apple pomace, a major by-product of juice production, represents both an environmental burden and an underutilized resource. This study aimed to enhance the nutritional value of apple pomace via solid-state fermentation (SSF) to develop a functional feed ingredient and systematically evaluate its effects on growth, metabolism, and intestinal health in weaned piglets.

Methods

Apple pomace was fermented using a multi-species consortium (Geotrichum candidum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rhizopus oryzae, Bacillus subtilis, and Trichoderma viride). A total of 180 weaned piglets were fed iso-nitrogenous diets containing 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10% fermented apple pomace for 35 days. Growth performance, serum biochemical and immuno-an

SUBMITTER: He J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12837632 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature