Compositions and methods for improving calf growth and reducing diarrhea incidence

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to compositions comprising capsicum, functional mineral complexes, and yeast cell walls. In addition, methods of feeding an animal, such as a bovine animal, with the composition are also provided to confirm beneficial effects on the animal. The compositions and methods described herein may benefit overall animal health and future productivity, particularly in young animals.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 347,627, filed on June 1, 2022, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure relates to compositions comprising capsicum, functional mineral complexes and yeast cell walls. In addition, methods of feeding the compositions to animals, such as bovines, are provided to demonstrate beneficial effects on the animals. The compositions and methods described herein, especially in younger animals, can benefit overall animal health and future productivity.

[0004] background

[0005] The control of animal diseases is an important consideration in the agriculture and food production industries. In modern commercial operations, steps can be taken to protect animals of every age in order to avoid disease outbreaks and promote the overall health of the animal population.

[0006] For example, in commercial dairy farming in the United States, dairy calves are generally separated from cows and the calves are raised in individual or group housing systems to minimize or prevent disease transmission from cows to calves early in the calf's life. During this stressful life stage, being able to maintain healthy calves with better growth performance is generally beneficial to overall animal health and future productivity. Therefore, new compositions and methods are needed to assist in the management of young animals in order to promote development and prevent the occurrence of disease.

[0007] Overview

[0008] The present disclosure provides compositions comprising capsicum, functional mineral complexes and yeast cell walls and related methods. The compositions and methods of the present disclosure surprisingly lead to sustained improvement in growth measurements and a reduction in the incidence of gastrointestinal diseases in animals such as young calves. The present disclosure describes compositions comprising capsicum, functional mineral complexes such as bentonite and yeast cell walls (i.e., C+FMC+YCW), which can improve growth performance and reduce diarrhea events when fed to cattle. In contrast, it is ineffective to combine two of the ingredients (i.e., two of capsicum, functional mineral complexes or yeast cell walls) compared to compositions comprising capsicum, functional mineral complexes such as bentonite and yeast cell walls.

[0009]

[0013] Additional features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the illustrative embodiments illustrating the best mode presently discovered of carrying out the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The detailed description makes particular reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 Shown are the average daily gain (ADG) from arrival until weaning in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure. Values ​​a, b with different superscripts differ by P<0.05.

[0013] Figure 2 Shown is the weight gain (BW) per week in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure. Values ​​a, b with different superscripts differ by P<0.05.

[0014] Figure 3 Shown is the distribution of TNF-α (log10) plasma concentrations by dietary treatment group and diarrhea events in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure. (0 = no diarrhea event; 1 = diarrhea event).

[0015] Figure 4 Shown are the average daily starter intake by week in calves fed the compositions of the disclosure.

[0016] Figure 5 Shown are the average daily gain (ADG) over two weighing intervals in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 6 Shown is the weekly body weight (BW) gain in calves fed the composition of the disclosure.

[0018] Figure 7 Shown are the average daily gains (ADG) at four different weeks of age in calves fed the compositions of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 8 Shown is the increase in body weight (BW) at five different weeks of age in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 9 Shown is the increase in dry feed intake at different ages in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure. Values ​​a, b with different superscripts differ by P<0.05.

[0021] Fig.10 The incidence of diarrhea in calves fed the composition of the present disclosure is shown. Values ​​a, b with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0022] Details

[0023] In one illustrative aspect, a composition comprising pepper, a functional mineral complex and a yeast cell wall is provided. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex comprises aluminum phyllosilicate clay. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is substantially composed of aluminum phyllosilicate clay (e.g., greater than 95% by weight or even greater than 99% by weight). In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is composed of aluminum phyllosilicate clay. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex comprises bentonite. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is substantially composed of bentonite. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is composed of bentonite. Aluminum phyllosilicate clay and bentonite include, for example, those described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0095508, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0338504 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0142204, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0024] In one embodiment, about 1 mg to about 1000 mg of pepper is present in the composition. In one embodiment, about 50 mg to about 750 mg of pepper is present in the composition. In one embodiment, about 100 mg to about 500 mg of pepper is present in the composition. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 100 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 200 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 300 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 400 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 500 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 600 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 700 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 800 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 900 mg. In one embodiment, pepper is present in the composition at about 1000 mg.

[0025] In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 1 mg / day / animal to about 1000 mg / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 50 mg / day / animal to about 750 mg / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 100 mg / day / animal to about 500 mg / day / animal.

[0026] In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 1 mg / day / animal to about 1000 mg / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 50 mg / day / animal to about 750 mg / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of capsicum administered is from about 100 mg / day / animal to about 500 mg / day / animal.

[0027] In one embodiment, about 1g to about 10g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition. In one embodiment, about 1g to about 5g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 1g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 2g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 3g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 4g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 5g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 6g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 7g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 8g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 9g. In one embodiment, the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 10g.

[0028] In one embodiment, the amount of the functional mineral complex administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of the functional mineral complex administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal.

[0029] In one embodiment, about 1 g to about 10 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition. In one embodiment, about 1 g to about 5 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 1 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 2 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 3 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 4 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 5 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 6 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 7 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 8 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 9 g. In one embodiment, yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 10 g.

[0030] In one embodiment, the amount of yeast cell walls administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal. In one embodiment, the amount of yeast cell walls administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal.

[0031] As used herein, pepper can be added to the feed at a concentration of about 0.01 lb / ton feed or higher, about 0.05 lb / ton feed or higher, about 0.1 lb / ton feed or higher, about 0.2 lb / ton feed or higher, about 0.3 lb / ton feed or higher, about 0.4 lb / ton feed or higher, or about 0.5 lb / ton feed or higher. For example, the pepper concentration can be about 0.01 lb / ton to about 1 lb / ton feed, about 0.1 lb / ton to about 1 lb / ton feed, or about 0.1 lb / ton to about 0.5 lb / ton feed. Pepper can be selected from capsaicinoid compounds (capsaicinoid), vanilloid compounds (vanilloid), pepper, dipped sharp pepper, sharp pepper powder, sharp pepper extract, plant materials containing capsaicin, encapsulated ground peppers (encapsulated ground peppers), coated capsaicin products (coated capsaicin product) and any combination thereof. In one embodiment, pepper is encapsulated ground pepper. The chili pepper comprises from about 45% to about 55% chili powder and / or comprises from about 0.4% to about 0.6% capsaicinoids.

[0032] The yeast cell wall can include yeast cell wall-derived components such as β-glucan, arabinoxylan, isomaltose, agarooligosaccharide, lactosucrose, cyclodextrin, lactose, fructooligosaccharide, laminariin, lactulose, β-galacto-oligosaccharide, manno-oligosaccharide, raffinose, stachyose, fructooligosaccharide, glucosylsucrose, sucrose thermo-oligosaccharide, isomaltose, caramel, inulin and xylo-oligosaccharide. Sources of yeast cell wall derived components include Saccharomyces bisporus, Saccharomyces boulardii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomyces capsularis, Saccharomyces delbrueckii, Saccharomyces fermentati, Saccharomyces lugwigii, Saccharomyces microellipsoides, Saccharomyces pastorianus, Saccharomyces rosei, Candida albicans, Candida cloaceae, Candida tropicalis, Candida utilis, Geotrichum candidum, Hansenula americana, Hansenula anomala, Hansenula vincifolia, and Hansenula spp. wingei) and Aspergillus oryzae.

[0033] In one embodiment, the pepper, functional mineral complex and yeast cell wall are present in a weight ratio of C: FMC: YCW. In one embodiment, the weight ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 1-1000 mg: 1-10 g: 1-10 g, 100-1000 mg: 1-10 g: 1-10 g, or 100-500 mg: 1-10 g: 1-10 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 100 mg: 5 g: 2 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 300 mg: 5 g: 2 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 500 mg: 5 g: 2 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 100 mg: 3 g: 2 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C: FMC: YCW is 300 mg: 3 g: 2 g. In one embodiment, the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 500 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0034] In one illustrative aspect, a formulation is provided. The formulation comprises i) a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and yeast cell walls and ii) an animal feed. In one embodiment, the animal feed is a dry animal feed. In one embodiment, the dry animal feed is a starter grain. In one embodiment, the dry animal feed is a texturized animal feed. In one embodiment, the dry animal feed is a calf starter animal feed. In one embodiment, the dry animal feed is a texturized calf starter animal feed. Such dry animal feeds are well known to technicians. In one embodiment, the animal feed is a liquid animal feed. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is milk. The embodiments of the compositions described previously are also applicable to the embodiments of the formulations described herein.

[0035] In one embodiment, about 0.5 pounds to about 5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 0.5 pounds to about 3 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 0.5 pounds to about 1 pound of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 1 pound to about 1.5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 1.5 pounds to about 2 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 2 pounds to about 2.5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 2.5 pounds to about 3 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 3 pounds to about 3.5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 3.5 pounds to about 4 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 4 pounds to about 4.5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation. In one embodiment, about 4.5 pounds to about 5 pounds of dry animal feed are present in the preparation.

[0036] In one embodiment, about 1 quart to about 5 quarts of liquid animal feed is present in the formulation. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 1 quart. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 1.5 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 2 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 2.5 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 3 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 3.5 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 4 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 4.5 quarts. In one embodiment, the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 5 quarts.

[0037] In one illustrative aspect, a method for improving the gastrointestinal health of an animal is provided. The method includes the step of feeding an animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition improves the gastrointestinal health of the animal. The embodiments of the compositions described previously are also applicable to the methods for improving the gastrointestinal health of an animal described herein. For example, the composition utilized by the method can be any composition described herein. In addition, the composition utilized by the method can be included in any formulation described herein.

[0038] In one embodiment, improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in the frequency of diarrheal events in an animal. In one embodiment, improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in medical intervention for diarrheal events in an animal. Diarrhea events, also known as diarrhea, are well known in the art, such as diarrhea in animals such as young animals (e.g., calves).

[0039] In one embodiment, improving gastrointestinal health comprises reducing the concentration of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the animal's plasma. In one embodiment, improving gastrointestinal health comprises improving the innate immune response in the animal.

[0040] In one embodiment, the animal is a ruminant. In one embodiment, the ruminant is selected from cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, American bison, European bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeests, antelopes, pronghorns and blue wildebeests. In one embodiment, ruminants are raised for meat production. In one embodiment, ruminants are raised for dairy production. In one embodiment, ruminants are selected from cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats. In one embodiment, ruminants are bovines. In one embodiment, ruminants are buffaloes. In one embodiment, ruminants are sheep. In one embodiment, ruminants are goats. In one embodiment, ruminants are beef cattle. In one embodiment, ruminants are dairy cows. In one embodiment, ruminants are calves. In one embodiment, calves are calves before weaning. In one embodiment, ruminants are males. In one embodiment, ruminants are females.

[0041] In one embodiment, the composition is administered to the animal once a day. In one embodiment, the composition is administered to the animal twice a day. In one embodiment, the composition is administered to the animal three times a day.

[0042] In one illustrative aspect, a method of increasing the growth performance of an animal is provided. The method includes the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases the growth performance of the animal. The embodiments of the composition described previously are also applicable to the method of increasing the growth performance of an animal described herein.

[0043] In one embodiment, increasing growth performance comprises an increase in the average daily gain (ADG) of an animal. Methods for calculating the ADG of an animal are well known to the skilled person. In one embodiment, the ADG increase of an animal is assessed when the animal is weaned. In one embodiment, the ADG increase of an animal is assessed after the animal is weaned.

[0044] In one illustrative aspect, a method of increasing the weight of an animal is provided. The method comprises the step of feeding an animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases the weight of the animal. The embodiments of the compositions previously described are also applicable to the methods of increasing the weight of an animal described herein. In one embodiment, the increase in the weight of the animal is assessed when the animal is weaned. In one embodiment, the increase in the weight of the animal is assessed after the animal is weaned. Methods for calculating the weight of an animal are well known to the skilled person.

[0045] In one illustrative aspect, a method for improving feed intake of an animal is provided. The method comprises the step of feeding an animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition improves feed intake of the animal. The embodiments of the compositions previously described are also applicable to the methods described herein for improving feed intake by an animal. In one embodiment, the feed is a dry feed. In one embodiment, the dry feed is a starter grain. In one embodiment, the dry feed is a palatable animal feed. In one embodiment, the dry feed is a calf starter animal feed. In one embodiment, the dry feed is a palatable calf starter animal feed. In one embodiment, the feed is a liquid feed. In one embodiment, the liquid feed is milk.

[0046] The following numbered embodiments are contemplated and are non-limiting:

[0047] 1. A composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and yeast cell walls.

[0048] 2. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite comprises an aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0049] 3. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite consists essentially of aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0050] 4. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite consists of aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0051] 5. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite comprises bentonite.

[0052] 6. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite consists essentially of bentonite.

[0053] 7. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex consists of bentonite.

[0054] 8. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 mg to about 1000 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0055] 9. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 50 mg to about 750 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0056] 10. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 100 mg to about 500 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0057] 11. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 100 mg.

[0058] 12. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 200 mg.

[0059] 13. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 300 mg.

[0060] 14. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 400 mg.

[0061] 15. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 500 mg.

[0062] 16. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 600 mg.

[0063] 17. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 700 mg.

[0064] 18. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 800 mg.

[0065] 19. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 900 mg.

[0066] 20. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 1000 mg.

[0067] 21. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

[0068] 22. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 5 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

[0069] 23. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 1 g.

[0070] 24. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 2 g.

[0071] 25. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 3 g.

[0072] 26. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 4 g.

[0073] 27. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 5 g.

[0074] 28. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 6 g.

[0075] 29. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 7 g.

[0076] 30. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 8 g.

[0077] 31. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 9 g.

[0078] 32. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 10 g.

[0079] 33. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

[0080] 34. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 5 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

[0081] 35. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell wall is present in the composition at about 1 g.

[0082] 36. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 2 g.

[0083] 37. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 3 g.

[0084] 38. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 4 g.

[0085] 39. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 5 g.

[0086] 40. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 6 g.

[0087] 41. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 7 g.

[0088] 42. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 8 g.

[0089] 43. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 9 g.

[0090] 44. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 10 g.

[0091] 45. The composition of item 1, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum, functional mineral complex and yeast cell wall are present in a ratio of C:FMC:YCW.

[0092] 46. ​​The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 1-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, 100-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, or 100-500 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g.

[0093] 47. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 100 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0094] 48. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 300 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0095] 49. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 500 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0096] 50. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 100 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0097] 51. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 300 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0098] 52. The composition of item 45, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 500 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0099] 53. A formulation comprising i) a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and yeast cell walls and ii) an animal feed.

[0100] 54. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite comprises an aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0101] 55. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite consists essentially of aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0102] 56. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral composite consists of aluminum layered silicate clay.

[0103] 57. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex comprises bentonite.

[0104] 58. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex consists essentially of bentonite.

[0105] 59. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex consists of bentonite.

[0106] 60. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal feed is a dry animal feed.

[0107] 61. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry animal feed is a starter grain.

[0108] 62. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry animal feed is a mouth-textured animal feed.

[0109] 63. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry animal feed is a calf starter animal feed.

[0110] 64. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry animal feed is a mouth-textured calf starter animal feed.

[0111] 65. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 0.5 pounds to about 5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0112] 66. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 0.5 pounds to about 3 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0113] 67. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 0.5 lbs to about 1 lb of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0114] 68. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 pound to about 1.5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0115] 69. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1.5 pounds to about 2 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0116] 70. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 2 pounds to about 2.5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0117] 71. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 2.5 pounds to about 3 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0118] 72. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 3 pounds to about 3.5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0119] 73. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 3.5 pounds to about 4 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0120] 74. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 4 pounds to about 4.5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0121] 75. The formulation of item 60, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 4.5 pounds to about 5 pounds of dry animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0122] 76. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal feed is a liquid animal feed.

[0123] 77. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is milk.

[0124] 78. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 quart to about 5 quarts of liquid animal feed is present in the formulation.

[0125] 79. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation in about 1 quart.

[0126] 80. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 1.5 quarts.

[0127] 81. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation in about 2 quarts.

[0128] 82. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 2.5 quarts.

[0129] 83. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation in about 3 quarts.

[0130] 84. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 3.5 quarts.

[0131] 85. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation in about 4 quarts.

[0132] 86. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation at about 4.5 quarts.

[0133] 87. The formulation of item 76, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid animal feed is present in the formulation in about 5 quarts.

[0134] 88. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 mg to about 1000 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0135] 89. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 50 mg to about 750 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0136] 90. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 100 mg to about 500 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

[0137] 91. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 100 mg.

[0138] 92. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 200 mg.

[0139] 93. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 300 mg.

[0140] 94. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 400 mg.

[0141] 95. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 500 mg.

[0142] 96. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 600 mg.

[0143] 97. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 700 mg.

[0144] 98. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 800 mg.

[0145] 99. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 900 mg.

[0146] 100. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum is present in the composition at about 1000 mg.

[0147] 101. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

[0148] 102. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 5 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

[0149] 103. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition in about 1 g.

[0150] 104. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 2 g.

[0151] 105. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 3 g.

[0152] 106. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 4 g.

[0153] 107. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 5 g.

[0154] 108. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 6 g.

[0155] 109. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 7 g.

[0156] 110. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 8 g.

[0157] 111. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 9 g.

[0158] 112. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the functional mineral complex is present in the composition at about 10 g.

[0159] 113. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

[0160] 114. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein about 1 g to about 5 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

[0161] 115. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 1 g.

[0162] 116. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 2 g.

[0163] 117. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 3 g.

[0164] 118. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 4 g.

[0165] 119. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 5 g.

[0166] 120. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 6 g.

[0167] 121. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 7 g.

[0168] 122. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 8 g.

[0169] 123. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 9 g.

[0170] 124. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the yeast cell walls are present in the composition at about 10 g.

[0171] 125. The formulation of item 53, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the capsicum, functional mineral complex and yeast cell wall are present in a ratio of C:FMC:YCW.

[0172] 126. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 1-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, 100-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, or 100-500 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g.

[0173] 127. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 100 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0174] 128. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 300 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0175] 129. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 500 mg:5 g:2 g.

[0176] 130. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 100 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0177] 131. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 300 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0178] 132. The formulation of item 125, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 500 mg:3 g:2 g.

[0179] 133. A method for improving gastrointestinal health of an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and yeast cell walls, wherein the composition improves the gastrointestinal health of the animal.

[0180] 134. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in the frequency of diarrheal episodes in the animal.

[0181] 135. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of the suitable items, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in medical interventions for diarrheal episodes in the animal.

[0182] 136. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in TNF-α concentration in the animal's plasma.

[0183] 137. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises improving the innate immune response in the animal.

[0184] 138. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0185] 139. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeests, antelopes, pronghorns and blue wildebeests.

[0186] 140. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for meat production.

[0187] 141. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for dairy product production.

[0188] 142. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats.

[0189] 143. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0190] 144. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a buffalo.

[0191] 145. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0192] 146. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0193] 147. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0194] 148. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0195] 149. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0196] 150. The method of item 149, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the calf is a pre-weaned calf.

[0197] 151. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is male.

[0198] 152. The method of item 138, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is female.

[0199] 153. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is the composition of any one of items 1-52.

[0200] 154. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is comprised in the formulation of any one of items 53-132.

[0201] 155. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal once daily.

[0202] 156. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal twice daily.

[0203] 157. The method of item 133, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal three times daily.

[0204] 158. A method of increasing the growth performance of an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases the growth performance of the animal.

[0205] 159. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein increasing growth performance comprises increasing the average daily gain (ADG) of the animal.

[0206] 160. The method of item 159, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is assessed for ADG increase at weaning.

[0207] 161. The method of item 159, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is assessed for ADG increase after weaning of the animal.

[0208] 162. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0209] 163. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeests, antelopes, pronghorns, and blue wildebeests.

[0210] 164. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for meat production.

[0211] 165. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for dairy product production.

[0212] 166. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats.

[0213] 167. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0214] 168. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a buffalo.

[0215] 169. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0216] 170. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0217] 171. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0218] 172. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0219] 173. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0220] 174. The method of item 173, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the calf is a pre-weaned calf.

[0221] 175. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is male.

[0222] 176. The method of item 162, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is female.

[0223] 177. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is the composition of any one of items 1-52.

[0224] 178. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is comprised in the formulation of any one of items 53-132.

[0225] 179. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal once daily.

[0226] 180. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal twice daily.

[0227] 181. The method of item 158, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal three times daily.

[0228] 182. A method of increasing body weight in an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases body weight in the animal.

[0229] 183. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the weight gain of the animal is assessed at weaning of the animal.

[0230] 184. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is assessed for weight gain after weaning the animal.

[0231] 185. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0232] 186. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeests, antelopes, pronghorns and blue wildebeests.

[0233] 187. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for meat production.

[0234] 188. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for dairy product production.

[0235] 189. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats.

[0236] 190. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0237] 191. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a buffalo.

[0238] 192. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0239] 193. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0240] 194. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0241] 195. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0242] 196. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0243] 197. The method of item 196, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the calf is a pre-weaned calf.

[0244] 198. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is male.

[0245] 199. The method of item 185, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is female.

[0246] 200. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is the composition of any one of items 1-52.

[0247] 201. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is comprised in the formulation of any one of items 53-132.

[0248] 202. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal once daily.

[0249] 203. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal twice daily.

[0250] 204. The method of item 182, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal three times daily.

[0251] 205. A method of improving feed intake in an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition improves feed intake in the animal.

[0252] 206. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the feed is a dry feed.

[0253] 207. The method of item 206, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry feed is a starter grain.

[0254] 208. The method of item 206, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry feed is a textured animal feed.

[0255] 209. The method of item 206, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry feed is a calf starter animal feed.

[0256] 210. The method of item 206, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the dry feed is a textured calf starter animal feed.

[0257] 211. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the feed is a liquid feed.

[0258] 212. The method of item 211, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the liquid feed is milk.

[0259] 213. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0260] 214. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeests, antelopes, pronghorns and blue wildebeests.

[0261] 215. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for meat production.

[0262] 216. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is raised for dairy product production.

[0263] 217. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats.

[0264] 218. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0265] 219. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a buffalo.

[0266] 220. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0267] 221. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0268] 222. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0269] 223. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0270] 224. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0271] 225. The method of item 224, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the calf is a pre-weaned calf.

[0272] 226. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is male.

[0273] 227. The method of item 213, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the ruminant is female.

[0274] 228. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is the composition of any one of items 1-52.

[0275] 229. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is comprised in the formulation of any one of items 53-132.

[0276] 230. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal once daily.

[0277] 231. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal twice daily.

[0278] 232. The method of item 205, any other suitable item, or any combination of suitable items, wherein the composition is administered to the animal three times daily.

[0279] 233. The method of any one of items 133 to 232, wherein the amount of capsicum administered is from about 1 mg / day / animal to about 1000 mg / day / animal, from about 50 mg / day / animal to about 750 mg / day / animal, or from about 100 mg / day / animal to about 500 mg / day / animal.

[0280] 234. The method of any one of items 133 to 233, wherein the amount of the functional mineral complex administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal or from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal.

[0281] 235. The method according to any one of items 133 to 233, wherein the amount of yeast cell wall administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal or from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal. Example

[0282] Example 1

[0283] Efficacy of C+FMC+YCW Combination Relative to Comparative C+FMC Product

[0284] A total of 150 female calves were used in this example. Calves were weighed upon arrival at the calf facility and housed in 3 rows of individual calf pens. Each row of calf pens was randomly assigned to one of the 3 dietary treatment groups in a completely randomized design, resulting in 50 calves / treatment group (Table 1).

[0285] Table 1. Dietary treatment groups

[0286]

[0287]

[0288] This example was evaluated over 54 days. Calves arrived at the facility at 1-2 days of age and were weaned from milk feeding at 54 days of age. The composition for each treatment group was combined with milk and fed to the calves according to the schedule in Table 2. In addition to milk, calves had ad libitum access to 19% crude protein palatable calf starter and water throughout the trial.

[0289] Table 2. Milk feeding schedule

[0290] Calf age, days Quantity, Quart Times / day Solids, lb / day 1-3 2.60 2 1.52 4-16 3.00 2 1.76 17-45 3.75 2 2.19 46-48 3.00 2 1.76 49-51 2.60 2 1.52 52-54 2.60 1 0.76

[0291] Calves were weighed upon arrival and at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks of life. These data were used to calculate average daily gain (ADG). Fecal scores were recorded weekly by 2 independent scorers starting from weeks 1-4. For fecal scores, 0 = normal consistency and 3 = watery feces.

[0292] Plasma samples were collected from 24 calves randomly selected for the control group and the C+FMC+YCW treatment group at arrival and weaning (day 54). Plasma samples were stored at -20°C until analysis was performed. The calves consumed 100% of the milk supplied. The intake of palatable calf starter was measured once a week. These data were used to calculate the average daily feed intake (ADFI). The incidence of diarrhea requiring medical treatment was recorded daily by the person caring for the calves.

[0293] Initial body weight (BW) assessments were similar for all 3 treatment groups (see Figure 2 However, when animals were fed a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW, ADG increased by 0.1 lb / day in calves from arrival until weaning ( Figure 1 ). For calves fed the comparative combination of C+FMC, ADG was the same as controls during this period. For calves fed C+FMC+YCW, the increase in ADG from arrival until weaning resulted in a 5-pound greater BW at weaning than controls or calves fed C+FMC (P<0.05; Figure 2 ).

[0294] Fecal scores and the percentage of calves receiving treatment for diarrhea were reduced for calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YWC compared to calves fed the control and comparative compositions of C+FMC. Fecal scores and diarrhea treatment are indicators of gastrointestinal health (Table 3).

[0295] Table 3. Health parameters treated by diet

[0296]

[0297]

[0298] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0299] TNF-α is a proinflammatory cytokine that is activated by the innate immune system in response to pathogens. When animals were fed a composition comprising C+FMC+YWC, lower plasma TNF-α concentrations were observed compared to controls (Table 4). Lower circulating TNF-α concentrations indicate that the composition comprising C+FMC+YWC has a positive effect on the innate immune system.

[0300] The TNF-α profile was also narrower for calves with diarrheal episodes and fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YWC compared to calves with diarrheal episodes and fed the control treatment ( Figure 3 ), which provides supporting evidence for the improved innate immune response when the composition comprising C+FMC+YWC is fed to animals. In a separate experiment, when capsicum alone was fed to calves at 100 mg / calf / day, there was no effect on plasma TNF-α concentrations (Table 4).

[0301] Table 4. TNF-α by Dietary Treatment in Two Separate Trials

[0302] Test 1 Comparison C+FCM+YCW SE P Initial TNF-α, pg / mL 189.73 167.26 15.03 N / A TNF-α, pg / mL 43.19(a) 9.89(b) 8.67 0.0002 Test 2 Comparison 2 Single pepper Initial TNF-α, pg / mL 81.07 33.31 13.13 N / A TNF-α, pg / mL 10.17 7.45 2.40 0.45

[0303] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0304] Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), and glucose are metabolites that indicate dietary energy utilization and intake in the form of fat and carbohydrates. Circulating NEFA and glucose concentrations increased with feeding of a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW compared to controls (P<0.05) (Table 5). Further, plasma BHBA concentrations decreased by 9.68% with feeding of a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW compared to controls (Table 5). In separate experiments, when the functional mineral complex and pepper were fed individually to calves, there was no effect on circulating NEFA concentrations (Table 6).

[0305] In addition, glucose and BHBA were both reduced by feeding the functional mineral complex and capsicum individually compared to the control (Table 6). Feed intake was also increased by 8.8% for calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW compared to calves fed the control and calves fed the comparative composition of C+FMC (Table 6). Figure 4 ).

[0306] In summary, these data show improved energy balance during the weaning process for calves fed a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW from birth to weaning (Table 5).

[0307] Table 5. Plasma non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, and glucose concentrations in calves fed control and C+FMC+YCW

[0308] project Comparison C+FMC+YCW SE P Initial NEFA, mEq / L 343.69 347.52 18.31 NA NEFA, mEq / L 116.81(b) 162.75(a) 5.03 <0.001 Initial BHBA, μM 81.511 70.369 6.84 NA BHBA, μM 124.622 112.304 7.16 0.593 Initial glucose, mg / dL 98.78 106.56 3.47 NA Glucose, mg / dL 93.75(b) 112.93(a) 4.18 0.0017

[0309] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0310] Table 6. Plasma non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, and glucose concentrations in calves fed FMC and C relative to controls

[0311] project Comparison FMC C SE P Initial NEFA, mEq / L 140.31 122.35 131.69 12.85 NA NEFA, mEq / L 130.92 117.24 131.02 10.12 0.55 Initial BHBA, μM 102.72 68.44 103.26 9.51 NA BHBA, μM 393.59(a) 151.19(b) 301.19(b) 22.01 <0.0001 Initial glucose, mg / dL 101.64 157.62 166.42 5.36 NA Glucose, mg / dL 150.47(a) 106.54(b) 114.98(b) 8.19 0.001

[0312] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0313] Example 2

[0314] Efficacy of C+FMC+YCW Combination Relative to Comparative YCW+FMC Product

[0315] A total of 250 female calves were used in this example. Calves were weighed upon arrival at the calf facility and housed in 5 rows of individual calf pens. Each row of calf pens was randomly assigned to one of 5 dietary treatment groups in a randomized design, resulting in 50 calves / treatment (Table 7).

[0316] Table 7. Diet treatment groups

[0317]

[0318]

[0319] The dietary treatment groups were fed milk for 54 days according to Table 7. Calves arrived at the calf facility at 1-2 days of age, and milk feeding was stopped at 54 days of age. The composition of each treatment group was combined with milk fed to calves according to the schedule of Table 8. In addition to milk, calves had ad libitum access to 19% crude protein palatable calf starter and water throughout the trial.

[0320] Table 8. Milk feeding schedule

[0321] age Quantity (quart) frequency Solid / day 1-3 2.6 2 1.52 4-16 3 2 1.76 17-45 3.75 2 2.19 46-48 3 2 1.76 49-51 2.6 2 1.52 52-54 2.6 1 0.76

[0322] Calves were weighed upon arrival and at 2, 4, 6, 8, 9 and 12 weeks of life. Calves consumed 100% of the milk supplied. The data collected were used to calculate ADG. The incidence of diarrhea requiring medical treatment was recorded daily by the person caring for the calves.

[0323] Average daily gain (ADG) for weighing intervals between 42 and 56 days of age and between 68 and 81 days of age was greater for calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW compared to calves fed the control and FMC+YCW compositions ( Figure 5 This improvement in ADG before and after weaning resulted in increased body weight (BW) in calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW compared to calves fed the control and FMC+YCW compositions (Tables 9 and Figure 6 ; P<0.05).

[0324] Weaning is a stressful event for calves as they switch from a milk-based diet to a solid feed diet. Transferring to a group stall after weaning is an additional stressful event for calves. These two stressful events are closely linked and often result in growth loss or growth stagnation. However, this example demonstrates that feeding a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW increases the growth of calves during these stressful periods.

[0325] Table 9. Weight (lbs) Treated by Diet

[0326]

[0327]

[0328] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0329] Example 3

[0330] Efficacy of C+FMC+YCW composition combined with animal feed improves growth performance and calf health

[0331] A total of 300 female calves were utilized in this example. Calves were weighed upon arrival at the calf facility and housed in 6 rows of 50 individual calf pens. Two rows of calf pens were randomly assigned to one of the 3 dietary treatment groups in a randomized design, resulting in 100 calves / treatment (Table 10).

[0332] Table 10. Dietary treatment groups

[0333]

[0334] The dietary treatment groups were fed milk or supplemented with a textured calf starter from arrival to 84 days. Calves arrived at the calf facility at 1-2 days of age, and milk feeding was stopped at 52 days of age. All calves received a common milk feeding schedule (Table 11), and all calves had ad libitum access to a 19% crude protein textured calf starter and water throughout the trial.

[0335] Table 11. Milk feeding schedule

[0336] age Quantity (quart) frequency Solids, lb / day 1-14 2.9 2 1.63 15-26 3.3 2 1.86 27-36 2.9 2 1.63 37-44 2.5 2 1.41 45-52 2.5 1 0.70

[0337] For calves receiving the composition comprising C+FCM+YCW via milk, the composition was combined with milk at the time of delivery. For calves receiving the composition comprising C+FCM+YCW via dry feed, the composition was provided on top of the palatable calf starter for calves on dry feed treatment after the feed was delivered into the bucket. After weaning, all calves fed the composition comprising C+FCM+YCW continued to receive the composition via dry feed both in individual calf houses and when they were transferred to collective housing (Table 12). The incidence of diarrhea requiring medical treatment was recorded daily by the person caring for the calves.

[0338] Table 12. Delivery of Dietary Treatment Groups by Age

[0339]

[0340] Calves were weighed upon arrival and at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks of life. Fecal scores were recorded weekly by 2 independent scorers starting from weeks 1-4. For fecal scores, 0 = normal consistency and 3 = watery feces. Calves consumed 100% of the milk provided. The intake of palatable calf starter was measured once a week. The collected data was used to calculate ADG and ADFI (Table 13). The incidence of diarrhea was recorded daily by the person caring for the calves.

[0341] Table 13. Body weight, ADG, starter feed intake, and diarrhea incidence in the three dietary treatment groups

[0342]

[0343] a, b Values ​​with different superscripts differ by P < 0.05.

[0344] From weeks 4-12, calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW via both milk and dry feed demonstrated increased ADG ( Figure 7 Improvements in ADG resulted in heavier calves at and after weaning ( Figure 8Dry feed intake was also improved for calves fed the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW via both milk and dry feed compared to calves fed the control ( Fig. 9 ). After weaning, the health and growth of calves is thought to be dependent on dry feed consumption. Calves with increased consumption of dry feed prior to weaning are better prepared for the weaning transition.

[0345] When the composition comprising C+FMC+YCW was fed to calves via both milk and dry feed, the overall incidence of diarrhea was reduced ( Fig.10 Scouring or diarrhea is a response to stress and / or exposure to gastrointestinal pathogens. Therefore, feeding a composition comprising C+FMC+YCW via milk or dry feed early in life appears to improve the intestinal health of calves by reducing the incidence of loose and watery stools that may require medical intervention and treatment.

Claims

1. A composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and yeast cell walls.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the functional mineral composite comprises aluminum layered silicate clay.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the functional mineral complex comprises bentonite.

4. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein from about 1 mg to about 1000 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

5. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein about 100 mg to about 500 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

6. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein from about 1 g to about 10 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein from about 1 g to about 5 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

8. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

9. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein about 1 g to about 5 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

10. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the capsicum, functional mineral complex and yeast cell wall are present in a ratio of C:FMC:YCW, and wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 1-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, 100-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g, or 100-500 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g.

11. A formulation comprising i) a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and yeast cell walls and ii) an animal feed.

12. The formulation of claim 11, wherein the functional mineral composite comprises an aluminum layered silicate clay.

13. The formulation according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the functional mineral complex comprises bentonite.

14. The formulation according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the animal feed is a dry animal feed.

15. The formulation of claim 14, wherein the dry animal feed is starter grain.

16. The formulation of claim 14, wherein the dry animal feed is a mouth-textured animal feed.

17. The formulation of claim 14, wherein the dry animal feed is a calf starter animal feed.

18. The formulation of claim 14, wherein the dry animal feed is a mouth-textured calf starter animal feed.

19. The formulation of claim 11, wherein the animal feed is a liquid animal feed.

20. The formulation of claim 19, wherein the liquid animal feed is milk.

21. The formulation of claim 19, wherein from about 1 quart to about 5 quarts of liquid animal feed is present in the formulation.

22. The formulation of any one of claims 11 to 21, wherein from about 1 mg to about 1000 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

23. The formulation of any one of claims 11 to 22, wherein about 100 mg to about 500 mg of capsicum is present in the composition.

24. The formulation of any one of claims 11 to 23, wherein from about 1 g to about 10 g of the functional mineral complex is present in the composition.

25. The formulation of any one of claims 11 to 24, wherein about 1 g to about 10 g of yeast cell walls are present in the composition.

26. The formulation of any one of claims 11 to 25, wherein the capsicum, functional mineral complex and yeast cell wall are present in a ratio of C:FMC:YCW, and wherein the ratio of C:FMC:YCW is 1-1000 mg:1-10 g:1-10 g.

27. A method for improving gastrointestinal health of an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition improves the gastrointestinal health of the animal.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in the frequency of diarrheal episodes in the animal.

29. The method of claim 27 or 28, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in medical intervention for diarrheal episodes in the animal.

30. The method of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises a reduction in TNF-α concentration in the animal's plasma.

31. The method of any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein improving gastrointestinal health comprises improving the innate immune response in the animal.

32. A method of increasing the growth performance of an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases the growth performance of the animal.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein increasing growth performance comprises increasing the average daily gain (ADG) of the animal.

34. The method of claim 32 or 33, wherein the animal is assessed for increase in ADG when the animal is weaned.

35. The method of any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the animal is assessed for ADG increase after weaning.

36. A method of increasing body weight in an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition increases body weight in the animal.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the animal's weight gain is assessed when the animal is weaned.

38. The method of claim 36 or 37, wherein the animal is assessed for weight gain after weaning.

39. A method of improving feed intake of an animal, the method comprising the step of feeding the animal a composition comprising capsicum, a functional mineral complex, and a yeast cell wall product, wherein the composition improves feed intake of the animal.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the feed is a dry feed.

41. The method of claim 39, wherein the feed is a liquid feed.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the liquid feed is milk.

43. The method of any one of claims 27-42, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the ruminant is raised for meat production.

45. The method of claim 43, wherein the ruminant is raised for dairy production.

46. ​​The method of claim 43, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

47. The method of claim 43, wherein the ruminant is a dairy cow.

48. The method of claim 43, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the calf is a pre-weaned calf.

50. The method of any one of claims 27 to 49, wherein the amount of capsicum administered is from about 1 mg / day / animal to about 1000 mg / day / animal, from about 50 mg / day / animal to about 750 mg / day / animal, or from about 100 mg / day / animal to about 500 mg / day / animal.

51. The method of any one of claims 27 to 50, wherein the amount of the functional mineral complex administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal or from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal.

52. The method of any one of claims 27 to 51, wherein the amount of yeast cell wall administered is from about 1 g / day / animal to about 10 g / day / animal or from about 1 g / day / animal to about 5 g / day / animal.

53. The method of any one of claims 27 to 51, wherein the composition comprises a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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