Schema biofilm
Water treatment solutions

Eliminating biofilm: what are the best solutions?

It’s a common misconception that water quality remains consistent from its original source on the farm to the point of consumption by animals.

Whether the source is a municipal supply or a well, and regardless of whether the water is treated, there’s no guarantee your animals are drinking clean water. Microorganisms can form biofilms along the inside of pipelines, compromising water quality and potentially causing serious issues for livestock health.

Ensure your animals have access to clean, safe, and sufficient drinking water.

What is biofilm?

Biofilm is a slimy or hard layer formed by microorganisms that build up on the inner walls of waterlines. Composed of mineral deposits (e.g., iron, calcium, and manganese) and microorganisms (bacteria, yeast, fungi, and viruses), biofilm contaminates water and can serve as a carrier for diseases. When disrupted, it can release large amounts of harmful pathogens, posing serious health risks to your animals.
Biofilm in water pipeline at livestock farm before cleaning with Di-O-Clean

Common areas prone to biofilm development:

Stagnant or low-flow sections of pipelines, junctions, bends, or fittings in the system and areas with mineral or organic deposits

Risks associated with biofilm

Compromised animal health
Biofilm promotes the spread of pathogens, increasing the risk of disease and health issues within your herd.
Reduced effectiveness of treatments
Vaccines, medications, and nutritional supplements lose efficacy, jeopardizing your animals’ health and performance.
Degraded water quality and consumption
Biofilm affects water taste, odor, and quality, leading to reduced water intake by animals.

How to effectively clean water pipelines

There are two key methods to ensure clean pipelines in livestock operations:

#1 Flash cleaning

This involves introducing a high concentration of disinfectant into the pipelines for a short period. These concentrations exceed safety thresholds for animals and are applied in their absence—typically between production cycles—to eliminate biofilm and pathogens rapidly.


Ideal for intensive cleaning

in cases of significant contamination

Can be applied between rounds

requires the absence of animals

Livestock farmers recommend:

MS MegaDes Oxy, a powerful hydrogen peroxide-based solution that effectively removes organic and inorganic deposits, ensuring clean and functional water systems.

#2 Continuous cleaning

This method involves continuously adding low doses of disinfectant to the water supply. It prevents biofilm formation and limits pathogen proliferation while remaining safe for animals.

After administering nutritional or medicinal supplements in the water, a temporarily increased dosage can boost cleaning efficiency.


Keeps pipes clean at all times

ensures continuous cleanliness without interruption

Animal-friendly

can be used safely with animals

Livestock farmers recommend:

Di-O-Clean is applicable for drinking water treatment and cleaning and disinfection of drinking water systems in professional livestock farming. Di-O-Clean has been developed for use in professional pig, cattle and poultry farming. The large oxidative capacity of Di-O-Clean will help to clean the entire water supply system.

Frequently asked questions about biofilm

Contact MS Schippers
Call for personal advice +1-866-995-7771 or send an email to sales@schippers.ca

Do you have a question about this topic?

Complete the form and we will contact you within 48 hours.

Continue to www.msschippers.com?