DFM dramatically reduces E. coli 0157:H7

In 2009, Kansas State University conducted a two week trial at Midwest Veterinary Services (Oakland, NE) where a DFM (MSE), was fed. This product contained four strains of microorganisms (L. acidophilis, L. casei, Streptococcus faecium, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae)

Two hundred head of cattle were screened for EC one week before the start of the trial. Ninety six head tested positive and were allotted to 16 pens, 6 head/pen (48 head/treatment, average initial wt.1000 lb.). Eight pens received the basal distiller’s grain/corn diet (Control), and eight pens received the basal diet plus the DFM (Probiotic).

The trial began approximately two weeks before slaughter (day 0). Steers on the probiotic treatment were given a dose of MSE Drench while in the chute (day 0 only). MSE Dry Microbial Concentrate was top-dressed daily. All fecal samples were collected rectally, and taken to Kansas State University the same day. Samples were collected on day 0, 7, and 15.

Results of the experiment show that MSE reduced EC prevalence by 54 and 80% on days 7 and 15, respectively.

Samples collected on day 15 were also analyzed by semi-quantitative means. Three “super shedders” were identified from the control cattle, but none were found in samples from animals that had been fed the DFM. According to Megan Jacob, doctoral student at Kansas State University, Dept. of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, “…previous reports have suggested that high shedders are responsible for increased transmission of E. coli O157:H7 within a cohort, including feedlots.

Although this experiment lasted only two weeks, there was a clear response to the DFM. The trial may indicate that minimal changes to the diet can be made and still reduce E. coli 0157:H7 shedding within a few weeks prior to slaughter.