By Scout Nelson
Can the diet of a sow impact the health of her piglets in the nursery? This question led to a research trial aimed at determining if adjusting the sow's ration could improve piglet health and performance, especially when facing health challenges.
BioPlus 2B, a bacillus-based product from Chr Hansen, is added to complete feed. Previous studies indicate that sows consuming BioPlus 2B have improved lactation feed intake, higher weaning weights, and reduced bacterial load in the farrowing house.
The current trial evaluated the nursery growth performance and mortality of pigs, under a porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) challenge, from sows fed with or without BioPlus 2B during lactation.
In this Pipestone Applied Research trial, 286 weaned pigs from control sows and 288 weaned pigs from BioPlus 2B sows were acclimated to nursery diets for seven days. On day seven, pigs were challenged with PRRS (1-7-4). They were weighed every seven days until 21 days post-challenge.
The data showed an improvement in average daily gain and feed conversion in pigs from sows fed BioPlus 2B under PRRS challenge, resulting in increased body weight at 21 days in the nursery.
A notable result was the reduction in mortality in pigs weaned from sows fed BioPlus 2B, demonstrating that setting up piglets for success while nursing can translate into performance and mortality improvements in the nursery.
Similar performance benefits have been observed with other yeast-based feed additives. A trial at Kansas State University showed improved nursery average daily gain in piglets weaned from sows fed a yeast-based direct-fed microbial during lactation.
These findings highlight the potential of dietary adjustments in sows to positively impact the health and growth of piglets, reducing mortality and enhancing performance in the nursery.
This approach offers a promising strategy for farmers aiming to improve their livestock's overall health and productivity.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-4fr
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Hogs