Kemin has expanded the toolbox for feed safety with the launch of a new feed decontaminant at a special event ahead of VIV Asia 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. The new product, named Prosidium, aims to fill a significant gap in the market.
Historically, formaldehyde was the benchmark for feed decontamination across livestock, including pigs, poultry, and dairy cows. However, its ban in Europe since 2018, due to its carcinogenic properties, has challenged the industry to seek effective alternatives.
Challenges in Feed Decontamination
Dr. Jatuporn Salaklang, Kemin’s lead researcher, underscored the complexities in finding a replacement for formaldehyde. Heat treatment is often less effective, failing to prevent recontamination and potentially degrading nutrient quality. Alternative non-formaldehyde solutions, like organic acids, tend to exhibit lower antimicrobial activity.
Kemin’s research team, therefore, focused on developing ‘peroxypropionic acid,’ a highly effective compound that safely degrades into water and acids, making it non-toxic to humans.
Innovative Formulation
The development of Prosidium revolves around creating a ‘unique’ peroxyacid formulation that meets various requirements, including stability, safety, and compatibility with feed mill operations. Notably, it does not compromise the integrity of feed ingredients or vitamins.
The organic peroxypropionic acid operates by disrupting the membranes of bacterial and viral pathogens, leading to cell death—a mechanism different from traditional organic acids. Dr. Jatuporn noted the rapid action of the product, which can be effective within just 30 minutes, surpassing the slower reactions associated with formaldehyde.
Feeding Trials and Approvals
Significantly, the new compound has not adversely impacted feed consumption. A palatability study conducted in Brazil revealed that piglets, which typically exhibit sensitivity to flavors, accepted feed treated with Prosidium without issue.
Prosidium has already gained approval for use in Brazil, South Africa, and Southeast Asia, with further approvals expected in Thailand by Q3 2025 and in additional global markets thereafter.
The Bangkok event gathered notable speakers, including Kemin’s Dr. Jatuporn, veterinary expert Bret Rings from Cobb, and Prof. Dr. Filip van Immerseel from Ghent University, Belgium, contributing to insightful discussions surrounding feed safety and innovation.
