The effect of different dietary fibres on microbial population and short-chain fatty acid concentration in the caecum of pigs

Abstract

The effects of different dietary fibre (Arbocel R, Vitacel AF, guar gum) on caecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations, caecal total weight, pH and bacterial populations were evaluated on 24 growing-finishing pigs. The concentrations of acetic, propionic, butyric acid and total SCFA were significantly (P≤0.05) higher in the guar gum group compared with the other groups. Caecal tissue weight increased with the guar gum diet.