Feed and ag supplier Alltech revealed Olerix, a proprietary phytogenic blend for swine, designed to promote animal growth and improve feed efficiency at an economical price point for producers.
Scientific literature has shown that livestock consumption of essential oils enhances nutrient utilization, thus improving feed efficiency, Jose Soto, monogastric research and technical lead at Alltech, told AgNavigator.
This feed additive was designed to target two key stages in swine production: nursery pigs and finishing pigs, Soto shared. By focusing on these two stages, Alltech can make the product economical for swine producers, he added.
“In both phases of production, we have seen somewhat similar outcomes. So, we have a technology that also delivers when it matters the most. The amount of feed that the pigs consume in finishing is quite large, so [by making] that pig more efficient in that phase — economically — it pays for itself,” Soto elaborated.
Alltech is producing the feed additive in the U.S. and will conclude 10 large-scale swine trials of Olerix by the end of the third quarter, with more large-scale tests expected beyond that point, Soto explained. The product was also featured at the Alltech booth at the 2026 World Pork Expo, June 3-4 in Des Moines, Iowa.
Olerix combines several of Alltech’s technologies, including a proprietary coating technology that encapsulates the bioactive blend of phytogenic compounds, ensuring the blend remains intact through manufacturing.
Looking ahead, the feed supplier is evaluating Olerix for use in poultry, with preliminary research showing similar results to swine, though further studies will determine the product’s dosage, Soto explained.
Alltech will continue to explore ways to combine its technologies to develop new products for its portfolio of livestock feeds and additives, which include enzymes, probiotics, minerals, and mycotoxin binders.
“When we use certain technologies in combination, we learn that there are antagonisms, so we know what technologies play well in combination versus what doesn’t,” Soto added.
