Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of swine health, welfare, and productivity. A newly released discussion guide from Michigan State University Extension and Penn State provides a valuable framework for veterinarians and producers to collaborate on feeding strategies that optimize pig performance at every life stage.
The guide outlines the six essential nutritional components for pigs—water, energy, protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals—and explains how each supports health and growth. It also includes key considerations like protein quality, feed energy levels, and appropriate inclusion rates for a wide range of alternative feed ingredients.
Some highlights include:
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Water: A pig requires approximately 1 gallon of water for every pound of feed consumed daily.
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Protein: Needs vary by age and stage—lactating sows may require 18–22% crude protein, while older sows and boars can thrive on as little as 10%.
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Energy: Diets should provide 3,200–3,500 kcal/kg of digestible energy, depending on the pig’s age and role.
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Feed Access: Reference tables are provided for daily feed intake across production stages, offering practical guidance for ration planning.
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Ingredient Insights: An abbreviated table of over 20 energy and protein feed sources helps producers explore alternatives like barley, bakery waste, whey, and fish meal.
Veterinarians and producers are encouraged to use this guide to enhance feed strategies, adjust rations, and support pigs’ health through science-based decisions.
📄 Download the full PDF guide here: A Discussion Guide for Veterinarians and Producers on Basic Swine Nutrition
