What is Black Box?
Black Box Biologicals represents the next generation of agricultural innovation, born from a deep-rooted passion for farming and a commitment to sustainability. Founded by two "farm kids," Wyatt Doolittle and Katie Martin, who each grew up on multi-generation farms, Black Box Biologicals embodies a unique blend of tradition and cutting-edge science. Raised on a backgrounder ranch and dairy farm, respectively, we bring firsthand experience in animal husbandry and sustainable practices.
The inspiration behind Black Box Biologicals lies in the intricate and often mysterious workings of a cow's digestive system, which Wyatt first encountered in a college livestock nutrition class. This complexity, referred to as a "black box," inspired us to create solutions that improve cattle health from the inside out, using the power of probiotics and prebiotics.
Our goal is to move beyond traditional antibiotics, offering products that are "pasture proven" and designed to enhance gut health, immune function, and overall productivity. Black Box Biologicals doesn’t just offer solutions; we offer a philosophy—focusing on alternatives that align with nature, efficiency, and sustainability.
By combining scientific rigor with a deep appreciation for agriculture, Black Box Biologicals stands out as a company that’s not only developing innovative solutions but also investing in the future of farming communities. This vision makes us more than just another company—we are partners in the journey toward a more sustainable, efficient, and healthier livestock industry.
More about microbes.
OUR Mission
Our mission at Black Box Biologicals is to establish and sustain healthier, more productive herds by providing science-based, sustainable solutions that are “pasture proven.” We’re dedicated to supporting producers with products that have been carefully researched and developed, ensuring they bring real value and peace of mind to those who use them.
What do we know?
The livestock industry is actively seeking alternatives to antibiotics due to concerns about antimicrobial resistance. Probiotics and prebiotics are promising candidates due to their potential to improve gut health and immune function in livestock.
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in animal health and productivity. Probiotics and prebiotics can modulate the composition and function of the gut microbiota, leading to improved nutrient digestion, enhanced immune response, and protection against pathogens.
Several studies report that probiotics and prebiotics can improve feed efficiency, growth rate, and overall performance in livestock.
Research on Angus-influenced steers found that a synbiotic supplement (yeast-derived prebiotic + Bacillus subtilis probiotic) administered during the initial 45 days in the feedlot showed positive results.
Steers receiving the synbiotic supplement demonstrated a better response to bovine respiratory disease (BRD) treatment, suggesting enhanced immune function. “Steers receiving the synbiotic supplement had improved response to BRD treatment, suggesting heightened immunocompetence from partially enhanced metabolism and the nutraceutical effects of B. subtilis and yeast compounds." Steers who received supplement exhibited increased feed intake during the first three weeks after arrival at the feedlot compared to groups receiving traditional antibiotics.
The gastrointestinal microbial community significantly impacts energy recovery from feed, particularly in ruminants. The composition of this microbiota is crucial for efficient energy utilization. The composition of the gut microbiota is influenced by a complex interplay of host genetics, environment, and diet.
Probiotics offer several potential benefits in animal production, including:
Improved Growth Rate: Studies show probiotics can positively influence livestock growth rates.
Enhanced Immune Function: Probiotics can stimulate the immune system, reducing the need for antibiotics.
Pathogen Control: Probiotics can competitively exclude and antagonize pathogenic bacteria in the gut.
Criteria for Probiotic Selection: Selecting appropriate probiotic strains is crucial for achieving desired effects.
Probiotics and prebiotics hold significant potential as alternatives to antibiotics in livestock production. By positively influencing the gut microbiota and host immune responses, these bio-based solutions can contribute to improved animal health, productivity, and overall sustainability in the livestock industry. Continued research and development are essential to fully harness the potential of these promising feed additives.
What sets us apart?
At Black Box Biologicals, the relationship with producers goes beyond simply providing a product—it’s about building a true partnership grounded in shared values, experiences, and goals. As fellow producers ourselves, we deeply understand the day-to-day challenges of ranching and have developed solutions that are designed with the producer’s success in mind.
Our company’s approach centers on providing tools that support the long-term health and productivity of herds, acting as a trusted partner rather than just a supplier. This means offering products that have been rigorously tested and "pasture proven," ensuring that they fit seamlessly into real-world farming operations. Moreover, Black Box Biologicals is committed to offering guidance and support, making ourselves available to producers whenever questions or challenges arise.
By focusing on sustainable, science-backed practices that genuinely enhance herd health and performance, Black Box Biologicals doesn’t just sell solutions—we empower producers to thrive and grow alongside us. This shared commitment creates a partnership that’s built to last, benefiting both the livestock and the producers who care for them.
