O USO DE PROBIÓTICOS NA PECUÁRIA LEITEIRA: EFEITOS NA SAÚDE ANIMAL E PRODUTIVIDADE

Abstract

Dairy farming is an activity of great economic and social importance, especially in countries such as Brazil, where family farming predominates. However, challenges related to herd health and productivity demand innovative and sustainable nutritional strategies. In this context, probiotics have emerged as promising alternatives due to their ability to modulate the ruminal microbiota, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and optimize digestive processes. The objective of this study was to understand the effects of probiotic supplementation in dairy farming through the analysis of scientific publications addressing their impact on ruminal microbiota, animal health, milk production, and milk quality. This is a literature review that investigated publications from 2000 to 2025 in national and international scientific databases, selected based on their relevance and timeliness. The results show that microorganisms such as Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., Bacillus spp., Megasphaera elsdenii, Enterococcus spp., and Saccharomyces cerevisiae contribute to the balance of the ruminal microbiota, improve fiber digestibility, reduce the occurrence of metabolic disorders such as ruminal acidosis, and promote significant increases in milk production and quality. Furthermore, studies indicate immunomodulatory effects and the prevention of diseases such as mastitis and reproductive disorders. Therefore, probiotic supplementation represents a strategic tool to improve production efficiency, animal welfare, and the sustainability of dairy farming.