R&D LifeSciences LLC has received a patent for its novel liquid whole-egg protein supplement, Protemace Liquid. As a result, Protemace is the only patented whole-egg protein supplement stable at room temperature in a liquid form that can be directly added to drinking water or rations of poultry and livestock. Protemace provides an antibiotic-free, all-natural source of immunoglobulins (IgY) which are critical in supporting the immune system, especially in challenging environments.
The patent for the liquid formulation sets Protemace apart from its competitors. Similar whole-egg supplements on the market are only available as powder formulations, but the liquid Protemace formulation allows administration through water medicators and the preservation of antibodies in the supplement. According to David Zehendner, President/CEO at R&D LifeSciences, "Protemace stabilized liquid technology is superior to other available IgY formulations because egg antibodies are not denatured during the Protemace manufacturing process. Other products are in powdered form due to spray-drying or freeze-drying processes that also inadvertently denature antibodies." This distinction is said to benefit chickens by providing transfer of passive immunity via antibodies contained in Protemace.
Protemace is especially beneficial for production animals during times of stress or transitional periods, as inclusion of egg proteins in specific feeding situations has been shown to help maintain proper digestive function and feed efficiency. The specific IgY antibodies in Protemace help support passive immunity against some major disease pathogens. The stabilized liquid supplement can be delivered through watering systems, bottles, buckets, and automatic milk feeders, or added to solid feed. Protemace is classified as generally recognized as safe for use in animal feeds.
In addition, a recently completed research study at the University of Arkansas demonstrated the efficacy of Protemace for improving gut health of broiler chickens. The trial involved 1,400 broiler chicks placed for grow-out while receiving several different Protemace regimens via the drinking water. Results indicated that birds given Protemace experienced better gut health as evidenced by significantly increased villus height and crypt depth in the ileum and duodenum compared to non-supplemented controls. In addition, rates of mortality and clostridial isolation were reduced in birds provided Protemace in the drinking water (0 percent Protemace birds Clostridia-positive vs. 77 percent control birds Clostridia-positive). Findings suggest that Protemace offers a non-antibiotic alternative for improving gut health of commercial broilers when no antibiotics or coccidiostats are administered in the feed.
Results from the research study will be presented by the University of Arkansas at the Symposium on Gut Health, November 11-13, 2013, in Kansas City, Mo., and at the International Poultry Scientific Forum, January 27-28, 2014, in Atlanta, Ga.
