Managing High Feed Costs
Feed costs always will be the single largest component in costs associated with pork production. Finding ways to effectively reduce feed costs while optimizing pig performance helps producers economic sustainability. This publication focuses on four key areas including: 1) Diet formulation 2) Diet processing 3) In-barn management and 4) Measuring success.
When feed prices are high, producers and nutritionists may look at adjusting feed formulations and feed processing options to save money. However, there are things producers can do in the barn that can also help decrease overall feed costs. The finishing period accounts for approximately 80% of total feed cost. If you are looking to re-evaluate your feeding program, you should start here. There are multiple factors affecting feed usage and feed efficiency in a barn, including feeder settings, water access and health status of the herd. Market hog weight also plays an important role in overall feed costs.
