Organic Trace Elements Improve Growth and Health in Pigs
Author Information
Author(s): Xu Weiwei, Zhou Miao, Yang Zhikang, Zheng Mengli, Chen Qinghua
Primary Institution: Hunan Agricultural University
Hypothesis
Replacing inorganic trace elements in pig feed with organic trace elements will enhance growth performance, meat quality, and gut health.
Conclusion
Replacing 100% inorganic trace elements with 30, 50, and 70% organic trace elements showed no negative effects on finishing pigs and improved various health parameters.
Supporting Evidence
- Replacing inorganic trace elements with organic ones did not negatively impact growth performance.
- Organic trace elements improved serum immunoglobulin levels and antioxidant enzyme activities.
- Fecal trace element excretion was significantly reduced with organic trace element supplementation.
- The gut microbiota diversity improved with the inclusion of organic trace elements in the diet.
Takeaway
This study found that using organic minerals instead of regular ones in pig food helps them grow better and stay healthier.
Methodology
128 pigs were divided into four groups receiving different levels of organic trace elements in their diet over 56 days, with various health and performance metrics measured.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on specific trace elements and may not generalize to all dietary conditions.
Participant Demographics
Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire pigs, average weight 33.88 kg.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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