PIGS Producing piglets

Feed is the biggest contributor to input costs in pig production, accounting for 60% to 80% of total expenses.

Pigs that are fed correctly will grow and reproduce efficiently, utilise feed optimally, produce good-quality meat, and ensure maximum profit for the farmer.

Pigs must be fed the correct quantity of the right feed mixture. This is because the nutritional requirements (particularly of digestible energy and protein) of each production class are different. There are four basic production classes:

• Boars and gestating sows;

• Sows with piglets;

• Young pigs, three to 10 weeks old;

•  Growing pigs up to slaughter at a live weight of between 60kg and 90kg.

TO BUY OR TO MAKE?

As a pig producer, you can buy feed mixtures or mix them yourself. The latter is cheaper, but it’s important to consult an expert on the feedstuffs (ingredients) before you do.

Be sure to weigh the various feedstuffs correctly before mixing; feed mixtures for each pig class should contain the right quantities of nutrients: digestible energy (DE), proteins, minerals and vitamins.

Grain should comprise between 55% and 70% of the total feed mixture. The grain provides mainly energy (between 60% and 80% of the total DE in the mixture). Grain also contributes 30% to 60% to the protein content of the mixture.

ANIMAL PROTEIN SOURCES

By-products of the animal and fishing industry can be used as animal protein sources for pigs.