Publication Date: April 1, 2009
Reference: London Swine Conference, 2009
Country: Canada
Summary:
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Feed remains the largest cost to pork producers, so every option to reduce costs should be considered. Some of the ways to reduce feed costs are to have a high health status, phase feed, split sex feed, reduce wastage, use alternative ingredients and have an accurate feed budget. One case study involves a farrow to finish facility that wanted to improve ADG and feed conversion after changing terminal sire lines. It was found the feed budget was inaccurate in later grower stages, and a feed intake trial allowed a feed intake curve and ADG curve to be created. The budget and curves highlighted areas to change and revisions in the diets have improved performance.