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Growth Performance of Large White Yorkshire Pigs in Swill and Concentrate Feeding Systems

Author: Vijin V.L., John Abraham, Balusami Chinnappan, Sabin George, Biju Chacko and Namratha Valsalan

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Abstract

This study investigates the growth performance of Large White Yorkshire (LWY) pigs under two feeding systems: a conventional concentrate-based diet (T1) and a swill feeding system (T2). Over a period of 373 days, twelve male weaned piglets were randomly assigned to each treatment group. Weekly measurements of body weight, average daily weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were recorded. While both feeding systems generally resulted in similar growth trends, significant differences were observed at certain intervals, particularly in weeks 13 and 49, where T1 displayed higher body weight and more efficient feed conversion compared to T2. These findings suggest that both feeding systems can yield high-quality pork and lard, with T1 showing a slight advantage in terms of efficiency. However, the swill feeding system presents an environmentally friendly approach by utilizing food waste. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential of swill feeding as a sustainable alternative for pig farming, contributing to the optimisation of pork production in India.

Keywords

Growth performance, concentrate-based diet, swill feeding system, feed conversion, body weight

Conclusion

The results of your study indicate that both concentrate and swill feeding systems can yield high-quality pork and lard with comparable results. Specifically, in the concentrate feeding system, 105 kg of lean pork was produced, while in the swill feeding system, 103.64 kg of lean pork was generated. These outcomes were achieved over a period of 373 days. This data suggests that both feeding systems are effective for producing lean pork and lard with comparable results.

References

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How to cite this article

Vijin V.L., John Abraham, Balusami Chinnappan, Sabin George, Biju Chacko and Namratha Valsalan (2024). Growth Performance of Large White Yorkshire Pigs in Swill and Concentrate Feeding Systems. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(3): 04-08.