What is a common feed additive used to promote growth in livestock?

Antibiotics are commonly used as feed additives in livestock production to promote growth. They work by preventing or treating bacterial infections, which can reduce stress on the animals and improve overall health. When the animals are healthy, they can utilize feed more efficiently, leading to better growth rates and feed conversion ratios.

Using antibiotics in this way has been a typical practice in the livestock industry, as it can help farmers achieve more robust weight gains in their animals in a shorter amount of time. It's important to note, however, that the use of antibiotics in livestock has raised concerns regarding antibiotic resistance, prompting changes in practices and regulations in some regions.

Although minerals, probiotics, and enzymes also play crucial roles in animal nutrition and health, they do not primarily serve the specific function of promoting growth in the same way that antibiotics do. Minerals are essential for various bodily functions, probiotics support gut health, and enzymes help with digestion, but none of these additives directly focus on growth promotion as antibiotics do.