Bioactive Compounds for Sustainable Animal Welfare and Robust Livestock Health

We aim to explore the potential of fungal and plant-derived bioactive compounds to support animal health and welfare, with a focus on two keystone groups in European agriculture: honeybees and dairy. Applications may also be made for other groups of livestock.

Both are increasingly affected by environmental stress, pathogenic threats, and the consequences of over-reliance on antibiotics. Honeybee colonies are under pressure from pests like American Foulbrood, viral infections, and exposure to agrochemicals, while cattle suffer from conditions such as mastitis, metabolic imbalance, and digestive disorders—often treated with antibiotics, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Fungal and plant bioactives offer a nature-based, multi-target alternative. Many of these compounds show antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and microbiota-regulating properties. Based on our previous commercialisation experience, we are constantly developing new advanced, multidirectional strategies to discover and evaluate novel substances with potential use in functional feeds, hive health products, and veterinary supplements.

Our focus is on bioactives that are effective, safe, and compatible with organic and climate-resilient farming systems. These interventions can enhance animal robustness, reduce infection risk, and support overall well-being in both intensive and ecological production systems. This approach aligns with the objectives of the EU Animal Health & Welfare Partnership and contributes to breeding and management strategies for improved resilience.

By linking biodiversity, sustainable bioeconomy, and animal care, we aim to deliver nature-based innovations that promote animal health and reduce reliance on synthetic pharmaceuticals.