The benefits of β-glucan, quercetin powder, and malt extract for pig feed

We know that there are many plant raw materials ingredients that can be used in pig feed. As a manufacturer of plant-based feed and additives, we supply these ingredients often incorporated into pig feed due to their health-promoting and performance-enhancing properties. In this blog post, we will learn more about what β-glucan, quercetin powder and malt extract are, how they are produced, their efficacy and how to judge their quality. Then, let’s break down each part:

What is β-glucan/ Quercetin Powder/ Malt Extract?

β-glucan is a polysaccharide made up of glucose molecules linked by β-glycosidic bonds. It is naturally found in the cell walls of cereals (especially oats and barley), yeast, and certain fungi.
Quercetin is a flavonoid, a type of plant antioxidant found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains (especially apples, onions, and citrus). As a powder, it’s often standardized for use in pig feed.
Malt extract is a natural product derived from barley that has been malted (soaked, germinated, and dried). It is rich in fermentable sugars and other nutrients.

Production Process:

β-glucan is typically extracted from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) or barley. For yeast-based β-glucans, the process involves fermentation to grow the yeast, followed by cell wall extraction using enzymatic or physical methods to release the β-glucan. Barley-derived β-glucan is extracted through a series of steps including milling, extraction with hot water, and filtration.
Quercetin is typically extracted from plant sources, such as onion skins, apples, or buckwheat, using solvent extraction methods (usually alcohol or water-based) followed by concentration and drying to produce the powder.
Malting Process: Barley grains are soaked in water, germinated to produce enzymes, and then dried to stop the germination. This results in the production of maltose and other sugars that can be further concentrated. Extraction: The malted barley is then mashed and boiled, and the liquid extract is concentrated into a syrup or powder.

Nutritional Components for Pig Feed:

β-glucan

Carbohydrates (Beta-glucans): As a soluble fiber, it doesn’t provide significant calories but contributes to gut health.
Limited Protein & Fat: Depending on the source, β-glucan might also contain small amounts of proteins and fats, but these are generally minimal.

β-glucan types

β-glucans form a natural component of the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeast, and cereals such as oat and barley. Each type of beta-glucan comprises a different molecular backbone, level of branching, and molecular weight which affects its solubility and physiological impact. One of the most common sources of β(1,3)D-glucan for supplement use is derived from the cell wall of baker’s yeast. β-glucans found in the cell walls of yeast contain a 1,3 glucose backbone with elongated 1,6 glucose branches. Other sources include seaweed, and various mushrooms, such as lingzhi, shiitake, chaga, and maitake, which are under preliminary research for their potential immune effects.

Quercetin Powder

Flavonoids: The primary bioactive compound in quercetin, which exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Vitamins and Minerals: Quercetin-rich plants often contain trace amounts of vitamins (like Vitamin C) and minerals, though these are secondary to its flavonoid content.

Malt Extract

Carbohydrates: Predominantly composed of maltose (a disaccharide), glucose, and other sugars that provide a quick energy source.
Proteins: Malt extract contains some protein, including amino acids, but is not a primary protein source.
Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in B-vitamins (such as thiamine and niacin) and trace minerals, though these are not typically in high quantities.

Functions in Pig Feed:

As a pig feed ingredients manufacturer, we are well aware of the efficacy of these ingredients and their role in helping and improving the physical performance of pigs。

Immune System Boost: β-glucan and Quercetin Powder are known to stimulate the immune system by activating macrophages and enhancing white blood cell function.
Anti-inflammatory: β-glucan and Quercetin Powder can reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial during stress or post-infection.
Digestive Health: β-glucan improves intestinal motility and overall digestive function by increasing gut viscosity and binding toxins. Malt Extract sugars in malt extract act as prebiotics, promoting beneficial gut bacteria and improving overall digestion.

Summary of Nutritional Functions and Quality Judgment

β-Glucan: Supports immunity and gut health. To judge quality, check for purity and molecular weight.
Quercetin Powder: Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Look for purity (95%+) and check for bioavailability.
Malt Extract: Enhances energy, palatability, and digestion. Quality is judged by sugar content, moisture level, and purity.

Where to Buy Botanical Feed Ingredients

GREEN AGRI is botanical feed ingredients manufacturer with 20 years of experience. We specialize in producing high-quality botanical feed ingredients for sale. Just send an email to info@greenagribio.com to get bulk β-Glucan, quercetin powder, and malt Extract.

Reference：
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beta-glucan
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4231372/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malt#Malt_extract