Saccharomyces yeast and its derivatives have been widely used in livestock and poultry feed because of their potential positive impact on growth, performance, and overall health.
Originally included in animal diets as a source of protein, yeasts can also offer a wide range of interesting by-products as bioactive compounds that could confer uses beyond nutrition.
The objective of this review, conducted by international researchers in 2023, is to provide an overview of theuse of Saccharomyces and/or its derivatives as a functional ingredient in pet foods, discussing their possible general modes of action with a specific focus on in vivo studies in companion animals.
Although its incorporation in livestock, poultry, and even humans is well documented, the available literature on the use of yeast and its derivatives in the feeding of companion animals, especially dogs and cats, is still developing.
Despite this, modulation of the gut microbiota, enhancement of the immune system or reduction of potentially pathogenic microorganisms have been reported in companion animals, highlighting their possible role as probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics.
The humanization of pets has led to an increased demand for functional ingredients in the pet food industry. Owners are more concerned about the health and well-being of pets and are willing to invest in diets with superior properties even if it means they are more expensive, as long as their dogs and cats are healthier.
While the gut will likely remain the focus of research, new clinical applications will continue to expand into other areas of research, including the immune system, skin, nervous system, oral cavity, kidney, respiratory system, and the field of weight management.
Reference
Maturana M, Castillejos L, Martin-Orue SM, Minel A, Chetty O, Felix AP and Adib Lesaux A (2023) Potential benefits of yeast Saccharomyces and their derivatives in dogs and cats: a review. Front. Vet. Sci. 10:1279506. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1279506
