Probiotics (live microbial feed supplements) and the probiotic concept (manipulation of an animal's natural gut flora for the benefit of the animal) have been studied for many years, but this is the first book which reviews the scientific concepts and results achievable in this subject. The editor of the book, Roy Fuller has drawn together a list of international contributors who review the current scientific concepts and research work which has been carried out, including bacterial and metabolic interactions in the gut, gut flora and disease resistance, immunology and genetic manipulation of gut microorganisms. Probiotics also includes chapters on the current use of probiotics for chickens, pigs, ruminants and humans. The use of probiotics and the probiotic industry are increasing in importance and this book points a source of reference to current knowledge on the subject. The book should be of use for food and feed scientists, agricultural and animal scientists, veterinary surgeons, gastroenterologists and microbiologists.