Vitamin, Amino Acid, and Antibiotic Supplementation of Corn-Meat By-Product Rations for Swine

Abstract

Three experiments were conducted to determine the value of supplementing corn-meat by-product rations with vitamins, antibiotic, and amino acids. Results of the first trial presented evidence that vitamin B12 and terramycin stimulate growth. In the second trial, pig response clearly indicated the supplementary values of combined riboflavin, calcium pantothenate, and niacin; of vitamin B12; and of terramycin. Administration of the three B-vitamins afforded greater response than either vitamin B12 or terramycin. These factors in combination with the three B-vitamins stimulated development still further. Pantothenic acid deficiency symptoms occurred in pigs receiving vitamin B12, those receiving terramycin supplementation, and in individuals receiving the basal ration. Administration of increased levels of pantothenic acid effected a cure in the latter group, but failed to completely allay the condition in the vitamin B12 or terramycin-treated groups. Results of the third trial indicate that corn-tankage rations are adequate in lysine and methionine, but limiting in tryptophan. Rations containing meat scraps as the only protein supplement are inadequate to sustain optimum growth. Tryptophan is probably the most limiting amino acid in a corn meat and bone scrap ration.