Effect of yeast extracted β-glucans on the immune response and reproductive performance of gilts in the adaptation, gestation, and lactation periods

•The beta-glucan supplementation at the adaptation phase did not improve sows’ performance and immunity.•An positive effect of the diet with β-glucan supplementation was observed on the concentration of IgA and IgM in colostrum, and for IgA in the milk of the sows.•Colostrum from gilts with a diet supplemented with β-glucans showed significantly higher mitogenic activity than colostrum from non-supplemented gilts.