Probiotics to control avian intestinal spirochaetosis

Brachyspira is a bacterium that causes a disease known as avian intestinal spirochaetosis in poultry, primarily in laying hens and broiler breeders. A study showed that Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus salivarius, were able to inhibit Brachyspira in several different ways. Avian intestinal spirochaetosis (AIS) is a gastrointestinal disease which is estimated to cost the UK laying industry £18 million a year, resulting from reduced egg production and poor egg quality. Brachyspira is pres