Application and Future Prospective of Lactic Acid Bacteria as Natural Additives for Silage Production—A Review

Abstract

Ensiling is one of the essential processes to preserve fodder with high nutrients and microbiological quality. The forages before ensiling have a limited number of bacteria associated with the controlled fermentation process. Undesirable microbes can grow in silages when there is not efficient fermentation. Such kinds of microbes might cause pathogenic or toxic compounds that affect animal and human health. Therefore, it is necessary to inoculate potent starter cultures. Lactic acid bacteria’s (LABs) have been considered the most prominent microbial additives used to improve the quality of silage. Currently, LABs have been used in modern and sustainable agriculture systems due to their biological potential. Recently, many scientists have increased their focus on developing nutrient-rich animal feed from forages with LAB. This current review focuses on issues related to forage preservation in the form of silages, how undesirable microbes affect the fermentation process, the critical role of LAB in silage production, and the selection of potent LABs to effectively control unwanted microbial growth and promote those which favor animal growth.

Keywords

• ensiling
• forages
• fermentation
• LAB
• animal and human health