New research led by the University of Guelph is advancing antibiotic-free strategies to combat post-weaning diarrhea (PWD), one of the most costly and persistent health challenges facing the swine industry.
Supported through Swine Innovation Porc, the project is examining how genetics, disease-causing strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli), and the pig’s gut microbiome can work together to reduce reliance on antimicrobials while improving pig health and performance.
Post-weaning diarrhea is estimated to cost the Canadian pork industry approximately $100 million annually through treatment costs, mortality, reduced growth performance, and production losses. The condition is also a leading reason for antimicrobial use in nursery pigs, making it an important focus as the industry works to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Dr. Vahab Farzan, Research Scientist and Adjunct Professor at the University of Guelph, said the project is focused on answering three key questions that could reshape how producers manage the disease.
The first objective is identifying which strains of E. coli are responsible for post-weaning diarrhea on Canadian farms. Understanding the dominant strains could support the development of more effective vaccines tailored to the pathogens most commonly affecting Canadian herds.
The second area of research examines the genetic susceptibility of pigs to ETEC F4 and F18, two of the primary E. coli strains associated with post-weaning diarrhea. Researchers believe this information could help breeding programs select animals with greater natural resistance, reducing the incidence of disease over time.
The third component focuses on the gut microbiome. By identifying beneficial bacteria that naturally support intestinal health, researchers hope to develop targeted probiotic solutions that strengthen the gut and improve pigs’ resistance to E. coli infection.
According to Dr. Farzan, each of these approaches shares a common goal: reducing dependence on antibiotics through prevention rather than treatment.
“Whether it’s improved vaccines, genetic selection, or probiotics, these are all strategies that minimize antimicrobial use while improving animal health,” he explained during a recent Swine Innovation Porc webinar.
As consumer expectations and antimicrobial stewardship continue to influence pork production worldwide, research into alternative disease-control strategies is becoming increasingly important. Projects such as this aim to provide producers with practical tools that improve pig health while supporting long-term sustainability and responsible antimicrobial use.
The research findings were presented during a recent Swine Innovation Porc webinar focused on disease risk and antimicrobial use in swine.
Source : Swine Web