Polyphenols from Brown Seaweeds as a Potential Antimicrobial Agent in Animal Fees

This study investigates the antimicrobial properties of phlorotannin extracts derived from brown seaweeds, with a focus on their application as alternatives to antibiotics in animal feed. Extracts from Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus serratus were tested against major livestock pathogens including E. coli O157, Salmonella agona, and Streptococcus suis.
The results demonstrate that these seaweed-derived polyphenols can effectively inhibit bacterial growth by disrupting cell membranes and reducing intracellular ATP levels. Among the species tested, A. nodosum showed stronger antimicrobial activity, likely due to differences in the structure and bonding of its phlorotannins.
Importantly, the extracts did not negatively affect intestinal cell viability, highlighting their safety for use in feed. The study concludes that seaweed polyphenols offer a promising natural solution for pathogen control, though variability in composition and challenges in standardization must be addressed before large-scale adoption.