EP199 helped turn around a Streptococcus challenge in weaned piglets

Spring 2025 was a challenging period for Henning Jakobsen’s pig farm near Haderslev, Denmark. Streptococcus infections among the weaned piglets led to increased mortality and reduced growth rates. Today, farm manager Henrik L. Juhl reports more robust piglets, lower mortality and a significantly easier day-to-day operation.

The problems began when piglets started showing signs of streptococcal meningitis. During March and April 2025, mortality increased from just under 1.9% to 2.5%, while average daily gain dropped from 503 g to 363 g. It was clear that action was needed.

The herd veterinarian, Kristian Havn from Porcus, contacted European Protein, and together they decided to evaluate EP199 as part of a broader strategy to improve piglet robustness. The work was carried out within the SMARTTANG project, supported by the Green Development and Demonstration Programme (GUDP).

Focus on Gut Health

Weaning is a stressful period that can challenge gut function and increase the risk of health issues. EP199 is a lactic acid bacteria fermented ingredient based on rapeseed meal and seaweed, developed to support a balanced and diverse gut microbiota.

A healthy gut contributes to efficient nutrient utilisation and helps piglets maintain performance during challenging periods. EP199 is a feed ingredient, not a veterinary medicinal product, and is not intended to prevent, treat or cure disease.

Results Within Weeks

Only a few weeks after EP199 was introduced into the piglets’ diets, the farm began to observe clear improvements.

The number of piglets showing meningitis-like symptoms fell from approximately 25-27 animals per day to just 5-7 animals per week. Mortality among piglets decreased by 38% shortly after implementation.

From May 2025 through February 2026, average daily gain stabilised at 525 g, exceeding the farm’s performance before the Streptococcus challenge. Mortality fell to 1.16%, less than half the level recorded during the outbreak.

EP199 was included at 8% in the first two feed formulations. Overall, the initiative generated an estimated additional contribution margin of €0.34 per piglet.

Improved Response to Treatment

One of the most notable observations on the farm was that piglets requiring veterinary treatment appeared to recover more quickly.

"We're seeing fewer treatments, and the treatments are easier. The pigs respond much better," says Henrik L. Juhl.

According to Henrik, piglets showing meningitis-like symptoms in the morning were often back on their feet later the same day after treatment.

While EP199 does not replace veterinary treatment, healthier and more resilient piglets may be better equipped to respond to the treatment prescribed by the veterinarian. Nutritional management and veterinary treatment are complementary tools that address different aspects of herd health.

An Easier Working Day

The benefits were not only reflected in the production figures.

"The pigs are simply much easier to manage. It makes everyday work easier and less demanding. And it's rewarding to come to work and see that what you're doing actually makes a difference," says Henrik.

The improved robustness has also been noticed by customers. According to Henrik, buyers actively request piglets from the farm.

Economic Impact

The combination of lower mortality, improved growth and better overall performance translated into improved financial results. According to the farm, these benefits more than compensated for the additional feed costs associated with including EP199.

"I would definitely recommend EP199 for weaned piglets. We've seen a really positive effect here," says Henrik.

See the Results in Practice

Watch the video featuring Henrik L. Juhl and veterinarian Kristian Havn from Porcus, who discuss the challenges, implementation and results achieved with EP199 on the farm: https://europeanprotein.com/ep199-helped-turn-around-a-streptococcus-challenge-in-weaned-piglets/ 

Disclaimer: EP199 is not a veterinary medicinal product.