Elogium is pioneering a breakthrough in poultry farming – combatting Campylobacter with cutting-edge probiotics to ensure safer food and sustainable farming.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to global health, with a major impact on both human and animal populations. One of the most widespread foodborne pathogens, Campylobacter, affects 10% of the global population annually, with poultry being the primary carrier. Current solutions, including biosecurity measures and antibiotics, are no longer sufficient, especially as regulatory standards tighten. Elogium, a biotechnology company, is addressing this challenge with EloSafe+, a revolutionary probiotic feed additive designed to reduce Campylobacter colonisation in poultry.
A breakthrough in probiotics
EloSafe+ is based on a unique, naturally occurring strain of Bacillus subtilis PS-216, originally isolated from riverbank soil in Slovenia. Extensive research and in-vitro testing have demonstrated its ability to significantly reduce Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Listeria in poultry, without the use of antibiotics. Unlike existing probiotics, EloSafe+ has a strong counter effect against antibiotic-resistant Campylobacter strains, a feature rarely observed outside of laboratory settings.
An in-vivo challenge study conducted with broiler chickens showed a significant reduction in Campylobacter levels in the cecum, with a 1.4-log decrease when administered continuously through drinking water. Additionally, studies indicate an improvement in feed conversion rates (FCR) by up to 2.6%, enhancing sustainability by reducing feed consumption.
The need for innovation
The increasing regulatory restrictions on antibiotics in animal farming have left producers searching for effective alternatives. Traditional biosecurity measures alone are insufficient in tackling foodborne pathogens at scale, and with Campylobacter being the number one cause of foodborne illness worldwide, the demand for an effective and natural intervention is critical. Elogium’s cutting-edge probiotics are poised to fill this gap, providing a scientifically validated, antibiotic-free solution that benefits both poultry farmers and consumers.
Expanding EloSafe+ applications beyond poultry
While EloSafe+ is primarily aimed at reducing Campylobacter in poultry, Elogium is leveraging its proprietary Bacillus subtilis PS-216 strain to develop probiotics for additional livestock applications. Research is underway to extend the benefits of this strain to swine, cattle, and aquaculture, with early trials indicating promising effects on gut health and disease resistance in multiple species.
Industry recognition and support
Elogium has been widely recognised for its innovative approach. The company was created in the Commercialisation Reactor venture building programme and has since gained significant recognition in leading European incubators. The company was awarded Best Team in the EIT Food Seedbed incubator (2022) and was later approved into the biotope incubator in Ghent, Belgium, further solidifying its place in the European biotech ecosystem. Additionally, Elogium recently received the prestigious WomenTechEU grant, a highly competitive programme with an acceptance rate of less than 5%, underscoring the company’s innovation and impact in the biotech sector.
The science behind Elogium
Elogium’s research is backed by leading experts in microbiology and food safety. The team includes:
- Karlis Udris – CEO, overseeing business strategy and commercialisation.
- Dr Katarina Šimunović – Chief Campylobacter Officer, expert in foodborne pathogens.
- Dr Polonca Stefanič – Chief Bacillus Officer, specialist in Bacillus subtilis interactions.
- Prof Ines Mandić Mulec – Scientific Advisor, renowned microbiologist.
- Claude Dhont – Business Advisor, with extensive experience in animal health and diagnostics.
Their work has been recognised with multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals, reinforcing the scientific credibility of Bacillus subtilis PS-216 as an innovative probiotic.
Regulatory pathway and challenges
Bringing a new probiotic solution to market requires navigating stringent regulatory approvals. Elogium has developed a comprehensive regulatory roadmap to ensure EloSafe+ is approved as a zootechnical feed additive. This process involves extensive in-vitro and in-vivo studies to demonstrate efficacy and safety, aligning with European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) standards. By the end of 2025, Elogium expects to finalise all required research and submit its regulatory dossier, with full approval anticipated by the end of 2027.
One of the major hurdles in gaining regulatory approval is the demonstration of consistent efficacy under real-world farm conditions. To address this, Elogium is collaborating with industry partners to conduct large-scale field trials, providing robust data to regulators while ensuring that EloSafe+ delivers measurable benefits to poultry farmers.
Commercial strategy and market expansion
Elogium’s business model is structured around co-development partnerships with established animal health companies. This approach allows Elogium to focus on research and regulatory approvals while leveraging the manufacturing, branding, and distribution expertise of its partners. The company has already secured Letters of Intent (LOIs) with global animal health firms, setting the stage for long-term collaboration and market penetration.
In terms of market size, Elogium initially targeted the European market, valued at €120m, with the goal of capturing a 10% market share (€12m SOM) over the next five years. Additionally, financial incentives for reducing Campylobacter contamination in poultry could significantly expand market opportunities, potentially increasing the company’s target market share by three to five times.
The road ahead
Elogium has already raised €325,000 in equity and convertible notes and has been part of leading startup incubators, including EIT Food Seedbed and Biotope by VIB. Looking ahead, the company aims to finalise co-development agreements, complete EFSA submissions, and launch EloSafe+ in the EU market by 2027. By 2028, Elogium expects to reach financial break-even, with additional products advancing through the regulatory pipeline.
The company is also seeking new strategic partnerships and investment opportunities to accelerate its growth, scale its manufacturing capabilities, and expand into additional markets. With a strong scientific foundation and regulatory momentum, Elogium is positioned to redefine probiotic solutions in animal agriculture.
As the poultry industry moves towards antibiotic-free solutions, Elogium’s breakthrough technology presents a game-changing opportunity to enhance food safety, improve animal health, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Please note, this article will also appear in the 21st edition of our quarterly publication.
