The bio-input is produced from ingredients like pine extract, oregano, rosemary, cloves, and ginger.
As consumer demand for healthier and more sustainably sourced food grows, the agricultural sector has begun shifting away from chemical inputs like antibiotics, many of which are already banned in European markets. Spotting an opportunity, 88 Agro Vetech developed a bio-input capable of replacing antibiotics used in poultry and swine farming.
The company’s natural compound, TechFeed, includes ingredients like pine extract, oregano, rosemary, cloves, and ginger. 88 Agro Vetech invested R$ 5 million over two years to research and develop the product. Tests conducted by the Federal University of Lavras (Ufla) in Minas Gerais confirmed its effectiveness, showing it can replace traditional antibiotics and antimicrobials used to maintain gastrointestinal health in animals.
In commercial farming, antimicrobials such as antibiotics are commonly used to prevent infections and promote growth in animals. However, concerns over potential health risks associated with antibiotic use have driven the search for alternative solutions.
Performance
According to researcher Antônio Bertechini from Ufla, trials of TechFeed with 1,000 male broiler chickens in 2023 demonstrated an improvement in digestive health, which led to weight gain without altering the sensory qualities—such as taste or aroma—of the meat and eggs.
More recently, in August 2023, TechFeed was tested on 288 piglets at Granja Folhados in Patrocínio, MG, aiming to replace zinc oxide, a compound facing restrictions due to its environmental impact, particularly in Europe. While still permitted in Brazil, the potential for future regulations has encouraged alternatives.
Cost Savings and Approval
Veterinarian and scientist Eduardo Raele, through the InsideSui Project, introduced TechFeed at Granja Folhados as a partial or complete replacement for zinc oxide, typically used to prevent diarrhea during the weaning period. The results were positive, yielding health, production, and even financial benefits, with an estimated cost reduction of R$ 38 per treated ton of feed.
Approved by Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture in September, 88 Agro Vetech is set to produce 200 to 300 tons of TechFeed per month, with only 300 grams needed to treat one ton of feed. This product, without competitors in Brazil, is now attracting interest from international buyers.
“We are finalizing deals with countries in Europe, Latin America, and the United States. Certification for exports is in progress,” Zanardo noted.
