A study confirms the presence of bioactive peptides that modulate the immune system and metabolism in Palbio®, our hydrolyzed protein for animal nutrition

Building on previous evidence of the ingredient's benefits for animal health and performance, the newly commissioned research validates the hypothesis that bioactive peptides in Palbio® have specific biological functions, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytokine/growth factor-like, and immunomodulatory activities.

This new research, featured in a scientific article in the  International Journal of Molecular Sciences, distinguishes Palbio® as a high-protein functional ingredient with scientific backing and tangible benefits for key growth indicators, helping pet food, livestock, and aquaculture producers improve animal health and nutrition.

Benefits of the Palbio® range for animal nutrition

For over 25 years, our scientific researchers have continuously worked to define and refine the benefits of the Palbio® range for animal nutrition, which consists of Palbio® HP and Palbio® 50 products.

Palbio® is developed from porcine protein obtained through enzymatic hydrolysis in a circular economy model as a co-product of APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients). Initial research demonstrated that the ingredient is a palatable and highly bioavailable source of amino acids that supports metabolism, promotes feed intake, and generally stimulates growth in swine, poultry, and pets.

Through subsequent studies, it was discovered that Palbio® influences intestinal cell morphology, selectively promoting their growth over that of other tissues such as lung, liver, and kidney. Later, it was also discovered that the ingredient stimulates metabolic regulators in intestinal cells, particularly those involved in key physiological functions.

Palbio®, rich in free amino acids and bioactive peptides

Backed by this solid body of evidence, our researchers set out to confirm that Palbio® is rich in free amino acids and contains bioactive peptides with specific biological activities. The new study featured in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences supports this hypothesis, with animals supplemented with Palbio® showing evidence of contribution to growth, intestinal integrity, and immune modulation (1).

"This milestone is the culmination of decades of research and trials investigating Palbio®, potential, to demonstrate why it can be trusted to deliver results for our customers," explains Xavier Garcia, Director of the Animal and Plant Health Business Unit at Bioiberica.

"Palbio® is not just a high-performance functional ingredient with a long-standing reputation for quality, but is now scientifically validated as a source of free amino acids and bioactive peptides that promote animal health. Research like this exemplifies how we have approached innovation at Bioiberica for over 50 years: with scientific rigor, complete transparency, and insatiable curiosity," concludes Xavier Garcia.
 

(1) Segarra S, de la Torre C, Bech-Serra JJ, Cucurull B, Marazuela-Duque A, Vaquero A, Martínez-Puig D, Velasco-Alvarez J. The Discovery, Characterization, and Quantification of Bioactive Peptides Contained in Palbio Porcine Intestinal Mucosa Hydrolysate Products. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2025; 26(14):6656. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146656

These statements have not been evaluated by the competent authorities in animal feed. The product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is for business-to-business (B2B) use only.