New grouse grit launched
Owens Nutrition has launched Sustain Grouse Grit; an effective non-medicated grit that can be used all year round and has been shown in trials to reduce worm burdens. “This is a significant breakthrough for the grouse sector. Sustain Grouse Grit supports gut health and integrity during periods of internal worm challenge, particularly in older birds which typically carry a higher worm burden,” says Owens’s Sophie Thorpe. “It also has the benefit of not adding to the concerns of drug resistance. This means it can be used to combat worm burdens during withdrawal periods, but it is vital gamekeepers know what levels of worms are present in grouse,” she adds. Sustain Grouse Grit has been developed as a practical and flexible alternative for managing grouse worm burdens. The innovative formulation supports bird health and productivity and complements the strategic use of medicated grit where necessary, based on caecal egg count thresholds. “Sustain was trialled at sites in Cumbia, County Durham and the Scottish Highlands. The number of birds with high worm burdens, measured by >1,200 worms per bird, halved. This showed the efficacy of Sustain and how important the product is going to be for controlling red grouse worm burdens in the future,” she says. The new Sustain product combines a unique blend of ingredients to provide improved nutritional performance and a physical action against parasites, as well as a waterproof coating to improve durability in the field. “Gamekeepers using the product as part of the trial suggested that the grit retained its waterproof coating, even in very wet weather conditions, proving the product’s durability in the field. They also reported the grit was readily consumed,” says Sophie.
With greater emphasis on the risk of drug resistance and regulatory restrictions, the launch of Sustain Grouse Grit has come at an opportune time. With trial evidence to support its efficacy, the new product will be a valuable additional year-round option.
Source: industry press release.