ISOThrive LLC, a Manassas, Va.-based developer of a concentrated prebiotic soluble fiber derived through a natural fermentation process, announced that research studies performed at the University of Georgia, Athens, Ga.; Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, La.; and the USDA Agricultural Research Center showed ISOThrive supplementation effectively reduced antibiotic-resistant salmonella in chickens by 99%.  

Designed to feed the gut’s beneficial bacteria to support digestive function and immune support, ISOThrive prebiotic also acts as a natural and simple way to protect commercially raised chickens from key antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Research was conducted to determine if its properties would benefit humans by helping protect farm animals.

The threat is real. A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that the routine use of antibiotics in food animals such as cows and chickens plays a major role in the development of drug-resistant bacteria. In fact, 80% of all antibiotics manufactured in the United States are consumed by farm animals. Each year in the United States, at least 2 million people become infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and at least 23,000 people die as a result of these infections.

Research shows significant decrease in salmonella. Research was conducted using young broiler chickens, comparing standard chicken feed with ISOThrive-supplemented feed. The results showed a significantly higher level of healthful gut bacteria and a reduction of antibiotic resistant salmonella by 99% in the chickens fed with ISOThrive.

Reduces risk of food recalls. Feed supplemented with ISOThrive could reduce the loss of livestock for farmers, and chicken processors could decrease the risk of recalls due to foodborne pathogens and cross-contamination while providing a safer environment for their workers.

“A much greater awareness about the food supply is growing across America, and consumers are demanding cleaner, safer and more natural and humane versions of their favorite foods,” says Jack Oswald, chief executive officer of ISOThrive. “As a biotech company, we are interested in every application for our product that can improve health. This research demonstrates that ISOThrive prebiotic nectar is beneficial to chickens as well as humans. We are happy to be a link in that chain of nutrition awareness.”

“This research has shown that we may be able to protect commercially raised chickens from transmitting harmful pathogens, and especially antibiotic-resistant pathogens, into the food supply,” adds Peter Swann, chief medical officer, ISOThrive. “There are numerous health and economic benefits that can result from these findings—healthier food, lower cost of production, reduced risk of foodborne pathogens and decreased risk of recalls that lead to food scarcity.”