Abstract
Abstract A total of 288 pigs (Line 600 241, DNA, Columbus, NE; initially 41.6 kg) were used in an 82-d trial to determine if replacing conventional yellow dent corn with high amylase corn (Enogen®, Syngenta Seeds, LLC, Downers Grove, IL) in diets with or without distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) influences growth performance and carcass characteristics. Diets were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial with 2 corn sources (yellow dent or high amylase) and 2 levels of DDGS (0 or 25%). Experimental diets were fed in meal form in 3 phases: d 0 to 29, 29 to 47, and 47 to 82. There were 9 pens/treatment each containing an equal number of barrows and gilts. Pigs were weighed approximately every 2 wk and at the beginning of each phase. On d 82, pigs were transported to a commercial packing plant for processing and carcass data collection. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX procedure of SAS with pen as the experimental unit. There were no interactions (P > 0.05) between corn source and DDGS inclusion for overall performance or carcass characteristics. Overall, average daily gain (ADG) was marginally greater (P < 0.089) for pigs fed high amylase than yellow dent corn with no evidence (P > 0.196) for difference in feed intake, feed efficiency (G/F), hot carcass weight (HCW), or other carcass traits. Addition of DDGS resulted in decreased (P < 0.037) overall ADG and G/F. Pigs fed DDGS had marginally lower (P < 0.071) HCW, less (P < 0.050) backfat, greater (P < 0.026) loin depth, and greater (P < 0.020) percentage lean and iodine values. In summary, high amylase corn tended to improve overall ADG; however, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics were unchanged between corn sources. Consistent with previous research, addition of DDGS decreased ADG and increased IV.
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