Although numerous factors impact the financial performance of pigs, primary consideration is the cost of production and efficiency of animal nutrition. Feed costs can represent up to 70% of the total cost of production so understanding and managing the nutritional requirements of the pig is vital to efficient and profitable production.
Selenium deficiency
Selenium, an essential trace element is now known to be a component of over 30 proteins. The function of these selenoproteins is strictly regulated with actions ranging from antioxidant protection to thyroid hormone metabolism - even to the integrity of sperm so crucial in fertility. However, the selenium content of raw feed ingredients is low and declining in many parts of the world, resulting in deficiencies such as a high rate of stillbirths and mulberry heart disease in pigs. Unlike inorganic selenium, organic selenium is more bioavailable and as a supplement is incorporated into body proteins and selenoproteins, ensuring an adequate selenium supply when required.
Mycotoxin contamination
Swine are extremely sensitive to mycotoxins and their presence in the feed reduces performance in the growing and breeding animal, affects their immune and health status, and can ultimately lead to death.
The table below lists some of the common mycotoxins, their source, nominal individual toxicity thresholds and their main clinical effects in swine. The table needs to be interpreted with some caution because:
- The nominated list of mycotoxins is far from complete.
- The toxicity thresholds vary between classes of stock and health status.
- Mycotoxins seldom occur in isolation and have additive or synergistic effects when they interact with each other which will greatly decrease the thresholds of concern. Consequently there is no real safe level.
Digestibility and reducing feed costs
Enzymes can control and minimise the levels of nutrients excreted thus lessening the incidence of pollution as well as reducing feed and production costs. Enzymes such as those produced by Solid-State Fermentation have proven benefits over traditional enzyme cocktails, allowing the reformulation of diets to reduce raw ingredients whilst maintaining performance, or supplemented to increase performance. Either way, enzymes enhance profitability.
Alternative protein sources
As a result of the banning of fishmeal, plasma and other animal-based protein sources in certain countries around the globe, alternative non-animal sources of protein have become highly sought after for pig diets. One alternative ingredient, natural yeast extract, offers a promising future during these delicate times. Data generated from this product has consistently shown improvements in the health and performance of young pigs.