Hy-D receives EU authorization for ruminants, renewal in poultry, pigs

Apr 15, 2024

dsm-firmenich has received a renewal of the European Union authorization for 25OHD3 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae CBS 146008 in poultry and pigs and extension for its use in ruminants, based on its Hy-D scientific dossier submitted to the European Food Safety Authority. 25OHD3 (Hy-D, the unique form from dsm-firmenich) is the main circulating form of vitamin D3 in humans and animals, and sufficient levels are associated with improvements in animal health and performance.

Benefits for ruminants
With this latest EU authorization for ruminants, farmers will be able to optimize animal lifetime performance for more sustainable farming. Hy-D enhances intestinal calcium/phosphorus absorption, critical to avoid complications during the transition period. Its role on improving Ca/P metabolism results in higher Ca/P retention throughout lactation to ensure females arrive stronger to next calving that also promotes yield increase in milk. Furthermore, Hy-D strengthens immune capacity beyond the other existing sources of vitamin D, reducing the risk of infectious diseases and metabolic disorders, thereby reducing the need for medications and promoting resilience of ruminants.

Benefits for swine and poultry
Hy-D offers significant benefits for both swine and poultry, including improved bone strength, optimized health, increased meat and egg yield, and enhanced overall quality. Proper usage of Hy-D can positively impact animal well-being and productivity.

‘We are excited about gaining authorization in the EU for Hy-D in ruminants and renewal for its use in poultry and pigs," said Emrah Mazi, head of product management special nutrients at dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health. "This milestone demonstrates the global relevance and potential of Hy-D. I am thrilled about the positive impact this approval will have in fostering animal well-being, enhanced productivity and improved sustainability."

EU feed additives, such as 25OHD3, need to be reviewed by the EU authorities every 10 years to guarantee their safety and efficacy in the feed and food chain. As done in the past, dsm-firmenich generated and now updated the scientific information to support the renewal of the registration of 25OHD3 in animal nutrition for poultry, swine and ruminants for more efficient and sustainable farming. In contrast to the previous EU registration of 25OHD3, this current renewal for poultry and pigs and the authorization of its use in ruminants are only valid for 25OHD3 produced from Saccharomyces cerevisiae CBS 146008.

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Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.