Biofilm Formation in Pig Farming: A Hidden Threat

Biofilm, a protective mucous layer produced by bacteria, poses a significant challenge in pig farming. Whether inside the animal or in its environment, biofilm serves as a fortress for bacteria, rendering them resistant to antibiotics, disinfectants, and the animal’s immune system. This resilience makes combating biofilms a challenging task. However as leaders in the field of quorum-sensing-powered animal health solutions, we at AHV are able to block communication between bacteria and influence their behaviour. Curious to know why this expertise is a game changer for your pig farming operation? Then read on.

Why is biofilm dangerous?

Biofilm formation is a highly effective microbial defence mechanism. Rendering bacteria up to 100-1,000 times less sensitive to antibiotics and 10-1,000 times more antibiotic resistant compared to free-living bacteria of the same strain (Donlan, 2000). Once formed, biofilms are stubborn and can severely compromise the animal’s health, particularly during stress periods such as weaning or heat stress.

Biofilm prevention and removal strategies

Biofilm formation can occur rapidly, within just 24 hours, both within the animal and in its immediate environment. Recurring or chronic health challenges often indicate biofilm presence, where bacteria hide and remain inaccessible to immune cells and antibiotics (M.B. Melchior et al., 2006). Traditional approaches focusing on symptom control without addressing the root cause, the biofilm, can be frustrating and ineffective.

AHV innovation in biofilm

AHV offers targeted solutions to address biofilm challenges. Products such as AHV Qure Liquid, AHV HiQure Liquid, and AHV Qure Protect prevent biofilm formation and break open existing biofilms. These products not only tackle the issue at its source but also activate the immune system to remove the released bacteria.

Biofilm in Pig Water Pipes

The importance of clean water in pig farming cannot be underestimated, as it is essential for well-being and normal metabolism. Water is the nutrient most consumed by the pig and is responsible for regulating body temperature, excreting waste products, producing digestive juices and it is necessary to maximise feed intake.

However, biofilm formation in water pipes poses a threat to water quality, as the water that flows past it is continuously contaminated with germs from the biofilm (McAllister & Topp, 2012).

Contaminated water can potentially lead to low feed intake and ill health. An additional advantage of the AHV Qure Liquid & HiQure Liquid is that these products can be connected to the water pipe where they break down the biofilm and prevent its formation. With AHV Qure Liquid & HiQure Liquid you not only keep your animals healthy, but also your water pipes clean!

Biofilm in the Pig Environment

Biofilm formation isn’t limited to the animal or its water source; it can also occur in the animal’s immediate environment. Even after thorough cleaning, surfaces in pig housing can harbour bacteria, leading to biofilm formation. The pits, grooves and irregularities of rougher surfaces protect the bacteria from various cleaning methods (Brajkovic et al., 2014).

In addition, recent studies show that pig farming-related bacteria can develop resistance to disinfectants (Thomson et al., n.d.). In order to keep the infection pressure on a company as low as possible, it is very important to remove this threat. 

Especially for this purpose, AHV ProLife-S offers an innovative, environmentally friendly solution, effectively removing biofilms and promoting a healthy environment. The product is full of good bacteria and is free of chemicals. The microorganisms in AHV ProLife-S penetrate places where other conventional cleaning agents fail. The enzymes in the product clean and remove cellular material such as biofilm, urine and faeces. The microbial competition promotes a healthy environment and reduces the risk of re-infection.

Conclusion

Combating biofilm is crucial for maintaining animal health and ensuring a successful pig farming operation. AHV’s range of products provides effective solutions to prevent and remove biofilm formation, safeguarding both animal well-being and farm hygiene.

Reach out to AHV to learn more about how biofilm management can improve the health, sustainability and profitability of your swine farm or see the results from our UK trials here.

Sources:

Donlan, R. M. (2000). Role of biofilms in antimicrobial resistance. ASAIO journal, 46(6), S47-S52

Melchior, M. B., Vaarkamp, H., & Fink-Gremmels, J. (2006). Biofilms: a role in recurrent mastitis infections?. The Veterinary Journal, 171(3), 398-407. 

Nakanishi, E. Y., Palacios, J. H., Godbout, S., & Fournel, S. (2021). Interaction between biofilm formation, surface material and cleanability considering different materials used in pig facilities—an overview. Sustainability, 13(11), 5836. 

McAllister, T. A., & Topp, E. (2012). Role of livestock in microbiological contamination of water: commonly the blame, but not always the source. Animal Frontiers, 2(2), 17-27. 

Brajkovic, D., Antonijevic, D., Milovanovic, P., Kisic, D., Zelic, K., Djuric, M., & Rakocevic, Z. (2014). Surface characterization of the cement for retention of implant supported dental prostheses: In vitro evaluation of cement roughness and surface free energy. Applied surface science, 311, 131-138. 

Thompson, D., Ferry, E., Turner, K., d. Disinfectant Strategies for Swine Facilities https:// www.canr.msu.edu/news/disinfectant-strategies-for-swine-facilities