ข่าวเด่น

Researchers at Walailak University have developed a lactic acid bacteria–fermented noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) extract as a biological supplement to replace antibiotics in livestock production. The innovation helps improve gut health and enhance the productivity of native chickens. The research team will also share their knowledge with farmers during the Walailak University Agriculture Fair 2026, to be held from March 14-23, 2026.

On March 6, 2026, Assistant Professor Dr. Prawit Rodjan, a lecturer and researcher at the School of Agricultural Technology and Food Industry, Walailak University, revealed that livestock production is currently facing increasing restrictions on antibiotic use due to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. Meanwhile, gut health plays a crucial role in animal growth and production efficiency.

To address this challenge, the research team developed fermented noni extract using lactic acid bacteria as a biological feed additive to support digestive health in native chickens. The research project was supported by funding from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).

Using the response surface methodology, the study identified the optimal conditions for producing the fermented noni extract: a starter culture concentration of 9×10⁸ CFU/ml, fermentation at 25°C, and a duration of 17.9 days. Laboratory tests confirmed that the fermented extract is safe for cells and meets both biological and chemical standards under the Thai Community Product Standard for Plant Fermented Extract.

The extract also demonstrated antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria in the poultry digestive system, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Importantly, it did not inhibit lactic acid bacteria, which are beneficial microorganisms. This indicates that the fermented extract can selectively suppress harmful pathogens while maintaining a healthy balance of gut microbiota.

Assistant Professor Dr. Prawit added that the team further tested the fermented noni extract by mixing it into drinking water for Surat Thani red native chickens. The optimal ratio was found to be 10 milliliters per liter of drinking water, which significantly improved body weight gain, feed efficiency, and gut health compared with chickens that did not receive the supplement.

The innovation was also tested on local farms in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, where the results were consistent with the experimental findings. This demonstrates the potential for practical application of the innovation in commercial poultry farming systems.

Walailak University will showcase the research findings and prototype product while sharing knowledge with farmers, entrepreneurs, and interested members of the public during Walailak University Agriculture Fair 2026, scheduled for March 14-23, 2026, at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat.