The Mode of Action of Chicory Roots on Skatole Production in Entire Male Pigs Is neither via Reducing the Population of Skatole-Producing Bacteria nor via Increased Butyrate Production in the Hindgut

Abstract

Castration is practiced to avoid the development of boar taint, which negatively affects the taste and odor of pork, and undesirable aggressive behavior. Due to animal welfare issues, alternatives to surgical castration are sought, though. Boar taint is a result of high concentrations of skatole and androstenone in back fat. Skatole is produced by microbial fermentation in the large intestine, and therefore, its production can be influenced by manipulation of the microbiota. Highly fermentable dietary fiber reduces skatole production. However, various theories have been proposed to explain the mode of action. In order to search for other alternatives, more efficient or less expensive, to reduce skatole via feeding, it is important to elucidate the mechanism behind the observed effect of highly fermentable dietary fiber on skatole. Our results indicate that highly fermentable dietary fiber does not affect skatole production by reducing the number of skatole-producing bacteria or stimulating butyrate production in the large intestine.