Ontario Pork Research
Potential research funding was offered to 8 projects in Ontario after Ontario Pork compiled research outcomes into production, economic, societal trends and perception, and innovation priority areas. The projects include a Canadian health claim feasibility assessment report for pork producers, and research on improving understanding of nitrogen nutrition for growing pigs to improve flexibility in feed formulation and reduce nitrogen losses into the environment. As well, studies on minimum duration of teat use required in first lactation to ensure optimal milk yield in second lactation, the relationship between feed, genetics, health, and growth performance up to market weight in pigs, and the effects of zinc oxide on gut microflora and antibiotic resistance were approved. The final three approved research proposals were on the prevalence of iron deficiency in suckling pigs, combining iron-dextran and NSAIDs for use while castrating, and testing for a genetic defect for in-transit deaths in pigs with heart lesions.