Alternatives to the use of antibiotics as growth promoters for monogastric animals.

Recently, more and more is becoming known about the mode of action of antibiotics as growth promoters (AMGP), particularly in relation to the development of microbial resistance. Consequently, the use of these AMGP is already restricted or forbidden in many countries. Therefore, to compensate for the possible decrease in production, a lot of work is now being done to investigate possible alternatives. Suitable alternatives must be both proven and cost-effective, for the conditions and diets as used at the farm level.