Optimal nutrition for happy, healthy pigs

In this article, SwiNE Nutrition Management and the South African Pork Producers' Organisation provide an explanation of pigs' nutritional needs during different times of their life cycle.

- 

Pig farming can be highly profitable when done correctly. And, according to SwiNE Nutrition Management (SwiNE), success largely hinges on proper nutrition (the single most important factor determining a herd's health), growth rates, and profitability.

"Just like humans, pigs need a carefully balanced diet to grow well, stay healthy, and produce quality meat that meets market standards. Whether [you're a] small-scale or commercial [farmer], understanding the fundamentals of pig nutrition can make all the difference in a herd's performance and [your] bottom line," it says.

MEETING NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

According to SwiNE, pigs require a mixture of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to thrive.

"Proteins are particularly important for muscle growth, especially in piglets and growing pigs. While soya bean meal and fishmeal are [also] excellent protein sources, many local farmers are now successfully using alternative protein sources," it says.

Carbohydrates provide the essential energy that pigs need to grow. In South Africa, maize is still the traditional base used as carbohydrates.

"However, with maize prices fluctuating [see graph], savvy farmers are incorporating sorghum and wheat by-products from flour mills," says SwiNE.

Fats are needed in smaller amounts, explains SwiNE, and are particularly important for young pigs and breeding sows.

"Many South African farmers are finding success using vegetable oils from local processors or even some food industry by-products."

THE ROLE OF VITAMINS, MINERALS, AND WATER

According to SwiNE, vitamins and minerals play an important role in pigs' immune function, bone development, and overall health.

"While commercial premixes are available, some farmers in areas like the Eastern Cape are successfully supplementing with natural forage when available."