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Early weaning in intensive pig production systems causes stress and compromises gut health, partly due to the immature digestive capacity of young piglets. One of the most direct consequences of weaning, which can impact growth potential and increase the risk of diarrhea, is the loss of digestive enzyme activity, particularly for fats. Therefore, a widely used strategy is the inclusion of emulsifiers in the diet to improve fat digestion and reduce the likelihood of diarrhoea.
Objective: In this study, we evaluated the effects of glyceryl polyethylene glycol ricinoleate (GPGR) on intestinal health in weaned piglets raised under commercial farm conditions.
Methods: A total of 380 piglets, weaned at 21 days of age, were divided into two groups: one receiving a standard diet and the other the same diet supplemented with GPGR. Blood samples were taken at specific time points, and intestinal tissues were collected 15 days after weaning to assess gut health indicators, including plasma biomarkers, intestinal structure, mucus quality, digestive enzyme activity, short-chain fatty acids, and microbiota composition.
Results: Piglets supplemented with GPGR showed improved intestinal morphology, with longer villi, better villus-to-crypt ratios, and a greater absorption area. They also displayed higher digestive enzyme activity and increased levels of citrulline, suggesting better intestinal functionality. Although mucus quality and goblet cell numbers were not affected, GPGR supplementation led to a healthier gut microbiota profile, characterized by an increase in beneficial bacterial groups and a reduction in potentially harmful bacteria.
Conclusion: Overall, adding GPGR to the diet supported gut development and microbiota balance, offering a valuable nutritional strategy to help piglets adapt successfully during the early post-weaning period.
Decundo JM, Dieguez SN, Martínez G, Amanto FA, Maté ML, Lirón JP, Pérez Gaudio DS, Bianchi CP, Montagnon A, Soraci AL. Dietary Glyceryl Polyethylene Glycol Ricinoleate as an Additive to Improve Intestinal Health in Post-Weaning Piglets. Animals. 2025; 15(7): 983. 10.3390/ani15070983.