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High-Fibre Diets and Immune Stimulation Increase Threonine Requirements in Growing Pigs
Posted in: Pork Insight Articles, Production by student on July 26, 2018
Authors: Dan Columbas, PhD, Research Scientist, Prairie Swine Centre, Inc., and Michael Wellington, MSC, PhD Student, Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan
Reference: Canadian Hog Journal Summer 2018
Summary: New legislation and increasing consumer pressure is influencing producers to decrease antibiotic use in agriculture. In order to continue maintaining animal performance it is necessary that alternatives to antibiotic use are developed. For this reason, nutritional alternatives to antibiotic use need to be concretely identified. Pigs whose immune system has been challenged display a decreased feed intake which translates to poor growth rates, which can have a significant impact on the producers profitability.
When looking at the immune response of the pig, it is apparent that glutamine, arginine, threonine, and aromatic and sulfur amino acids are important precursors for synthesis of many components. Providing these amino acids is postulated to aid in time of stress and disease challenge by improving the pig response and growth performance.
As inclusion of co-products of the milling and biofuel industry increases, it is apparent that fibre content is increases as well as an inconsistent protein level compromises the overall robustness and health status of the pigs.
The study focused on threonine inclusion, to maximize protein deposition. They concluded that there is an increased threonine requirement during times of immune challenge. As well this study determined the interactive effects of both fibre and immune stimulation. This information can be utilized when formulating diets that do not incorporate antibiotics at least cost while maintaining animal performance.
High-Fibre DIets and Immune Stimulation Increase Threonine Requirements in Growing Pigs