Precision feeding and Pig Genetics

Precision feeding and genetics: A win-win for the pork industry and the environment

The pork industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact. Precision feeding and genetics offer two promising solutions that can help the industry meet this challenge.

Catalin Nicolaiciuc, Nutritionist at Topigs Norsvin explains more in the online magazine Progress.

“Precision feeding is the practice of feeding pigs according to their individual stage of life. This is done by collecting data on each pig’s weight, growth rate, and feed intake and then using this data to create a personalized feeding plan.

Genetics in precision feeding is important because pigs have different genetic predispositions for traits such as feed efficiency and growth rate. By taking genetics into account, pig producers can create more accurate feeding plans tailored to each genotype’s individual needs.

For example, pigs with genes that make them more efficient at digesting feed will require less feed to reach their target weight. By feeding these pigs exactly what they need, pig producers can save money and reduce the environmental impact.

Topigs Norsvin is testing the pigs to identify the ones with the best genes for feed efficiency and growth rate. These pigs can then be selected for breeding, which can help to improve the genetic makeup of the herd over time.”

Improved Pig Genetics

Pig genetics have improved significantly over time, and we need to make sure that we can apply this knowledge to create better outcomes and reduce our environmental impact.

The graph below from Topigs Norsvin shows the genetic trend for daily weight gain, which has improved by 125 grams and feed conversion, which has decreased by more than 0.25 over the past five years. This can be interpreted as increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

Read more stories like this and others on our the JSR Genetics news page.