Pig Carcass Characteristics Research Articles

LInear measurements of carcases of the Myrhorod breed pigs

Objective. To evaluate the dependence of carcass characteristics of pigs of the Myrhorod breed on the starting capabilities of animals in the neonatal period of development. Methods. Three groups of pigs were formed, differing among themselves in the number of piglets in the litter at birth. For the purpose of comparative assessment, indexes for three groups as a whole were also determined. Young boars were selectedfor fattening and further slaughter. All piglets were received in one period, had free access to feed in accordance with the needs of sex and age groups. This stage of research was conducted at the experimental base of Institute of Pig Breeding and AIP NAAS. The main measurements of pig carcasses were taken at the meat processing plant of "Prodfoodservice" LLC in Poltava. Animals with a live weight of 100 kg were selected for the assessment. General rules were followed for the assessment of pig carcasses. The topography of fat deposition on the carcass was determined by the following points of taking measurements of the thickness of lard with skin: at the withers; at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae; on the waist; on the crosses in three points; at chest level. The formula proposed by N. V. Pivniak was used to determine the average thickness of lard along the spine (watering of the carcass). To compare animals of different groups of pigs of the Myrhorod breed, the full meatiness index (FMI) was calculated. The research results were processed using the traditional method of variational statistics. Results. The differences between the different groups were insignificant in relation to the girth of the sternum. According to the latitudinal parameters of the bacon half of the carcass, there were also no significant differences between different groups of pigs, with a slight shift of preference towards the third group. Regarding the ratio of the front to the back parts of the bacon halves, the smallest values were found in the animals of the second group, and the largest in the first group. Regarding the determination of fat thickness at different points of taking measurements, a clear picture regarding the superiority of a certain group was not determined, although according to most indexes, the carcasses of animals of the first group were marked by larger actual measurements. The animals of all three groups did not meet the requirements for the first extra and the second category of pigs for slaughter according to the fat thickness index at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae. All evaluated carcasses were assigned to the third category, which corresponds to the type of productivity of Myrhorod breed of pigs. According to the comprehensive assessment of carcass watering, the highest values were obtainedfor the first group, the average values for the second group, and the smallest values for the third group, respectively. The opposite picture was observed for the full meatiness index, although differences in this index were also unlikely. By comparing the main and most important indexes of the linear diameters of the carcasses of three different groups with the same indexes for all evaluated animals, the animals of the third group were the closest to the average values in relation to the front to the back parts of the bacon halves, the thickness of the lard at the level of the 6 - 7th thoracic vertebrae. At the same time, the animals of the second group were the closest to the average values according to the full meatiness index. Conclusions. As a result of the conducted research, it was found that there is no dependence of meatiness indexes, quality characteristics ofpig carcasses, and in particular, their salinity, etc. from the starting capabilities of animals in the neonatal period of development. Non-compliance with the requirements for the first extra and second categories of pigs for slaughter was found, which indicates that the productivity of the new generation of animals of the Myrhorod breed still belongs to animals of universal and fatty genotypes, although the carcasses according to the lard thickness index are at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae were at the lower limit of the third category of pigs for slaughter. Keywords: pigs, Myrhorod breed, slaughter qualities, pig carcasses, lard, meatiness, watering of carcasses.

LInear measurements of carcases of the Myrhorod breed pigs

Objective. To evaluate the dependence of carcass characteristics of pigs of the Myrhorod breed on the starting capabilities of animals in the neonatal period of development. Methods. Three groups of pigs were formed, differing among themselves in the number of piglets in the litter at birth. For the purpose of comparative assessment, indexes for three groups as a whole were also determined. Young boars were selectedfor fattening and further slaughter. All piglets were received in one period, had free access to feed in accordance with the needs of sex and age groups. This stage of research was conducted at the experimental base of Institute of Pig Breeding and AIP NAAS. The main measurements of pig carcasses were taken at the meat processing plant of "Prodfoodservice" LLC in Poltava. Animals with a live weight of 100 kg were selected for the assessment. General rules were followed for the assessment of pig carcasses. The topography of fat deposition on the carcass was determined by the following points of taking measurements of the thickness of lard with skin: at the withers; at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae; on the waist; on the crosses in three points; at chest level. The formula proposed by N. V. Pivniak was used to determine the average thickness of lard along the spine (watering of the carcass). To compare animals of different groups of pigs of the Myrhorod breed, the full meatiness index (FMI) was calculated. The research results were processed using the traditional method of variational statistics. Results. The differences between the different groups were insignificant in relation to the girth of the sternum. According to the latitudinal parameters of the bacon half of the carcass, there were also no significant differences between different groups of pigs, with a slight shift of preference towards the third group. Regarding the ratio of the front to the back parts of the bacon halves, the smallest values were found in the animals of the second group, and the largest in the first group. Regarding the determination of fat thickness at different points of taking measurements, a clear picture regarding the superiority of a certain group was not determined, although according to most indexes, the carcasses of animals of the first group were marked by larger actual measurements. The animals of all three groups did not meet the requirements for the first extra and the second category of pigs for slaughter according to the fat thickness index at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae. All evaluated carcasses were assigned to the third category, which corresponds to the type of productivity of Myrhorod breed of pigs. According to the comprehensive assessment of carcass watering, the highest values were obtainedfor the first group, the average values for the second group, and the smallest values for the third group, respectively. The opposite picture was observed for the full meatiness index, although differences in this index were also unlikely. By comparing the main and most important indexes of the linear diameters of the carcasses of three different groups with the same indexes for all evaluated animals, the animals of the third group were the closest to the average values in relation to the front to the back parts of the bacon halves, the thickness of the lard at the level of the 6 - 7th thoracic vertebrae. At the same time, the animals of the second group were the closest to the average values according to the full meatiness index. Conclusions. As a result of the conducted research, it was found that there is no dependence of meatiness indexes, quality characteristics ofpig carcasses, and in particular, their salinity, etc. from the starting capabilities of animals in the neonatal period of development. Non-compliance with the requirements for the first extra and second categories of pigs for slaughter was found, which indicates that the productivity of the new generation of animals of the Myrhorod breed still belongs to animals of universal and fatty genotypes, although the carcasses according to the lard thickness index are at the level of 6 - 7 thoracic vertebrae were at the lower limit of the third category of pigs for slaughter. Keywords: pigs, Myrhorod breed, slaughter qualities, pig carcasses, lard, meatiness, watering of carcasses.

293 Effects of Saccharmyces yeast postbiotics on pig feed performance and carcass characteristics when included in an elevated protein diet

Abstract The study objective was to determine effects of Saccharmyces yeast postbiotics (CT; celluTEIN; Puretein Bioscience LLC, Minneapolis, MN, USA) on growth performance and carcass characteristics of pigs fed an increased protein diet during growing and finishing. Pigs [PIC Camborough×PIC 337; n = 51 barrows; 57 gilts; initial body weight (BW) 28.3 ± 0.1 kg] were weighed, stratified by BW within sex, and within each two-pig strata, randomly assigned to a pen (n = 18; n = 6 pigs/pen). Pens were randomly assigned one of two dietary treatments (Diet) consisting of 0 or 100 ppm CT mixed in a four-phase dietary regimen (phase1 d 0 to 21, phase2 d 22 to 42, phase3 d 43 to 63, phase4 d 64 to 84). Weekly, feed consumption and pigs were weighed to calculate performance. On d 91, 98, and 105, the heaviest male and female from each pen was harvested and carcass data were collected. Performance data were analyzed as a completely randomized design, carcass data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design, and pen was the experimental unit). Statistical significance was determined at P ≤ 0.05 and tendencies were declared between 0.05< P < 0.10. At all four phases, there was no Diet effect on BW, average daily gain (ADG), and average daily feed intake (ADFI; P > 0.12), except CT pigs consumed less (P = 0.04) feed during phase4. There was no Diet effect on Phase2 gain to feed ratio (G:F), but CT pigs had greater Phase1 and 4 G:F and smaller Phase 3 G:F (P < 0.04). From d 0 to 84, there were no Diet effects on ADG and ADFI (P > 0.13), but CT pigs had greater (P = 0.02) G:F. celluTEIN carcasses tended to have greater (P = 0.09) weight and had greater (P < 0.01) dressing percent than control carcasses. There were no Diet effects for 10th or last rib fat thickness, but CT carcasses tended to have less (P = 0.07) first rib fat thickness. There were no Diet effects on loin eye area, National Pork Board (NPB) color score, Japanese color score, and L*, a*, and b* values (P > 0.24). celluTEIN carcasses had smaller NPB marbling and Japanese marbling color scores than control carcasses (P < 0.02). When supplemented to an increased protein diet, Saccharmyces yeast postbiotics improve feed conversion while positively affecting several important carcass measures.

150 A new Bacterial Phytase can act as an Overdose Concept, at low Levels, in Improving the Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Nursery and Finishing Pigs

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of doses of a new bacterial phytase (HiPhorius, DSM Nutritional Products) on the performance and carcass characteristics of pigs in the nursery and finishing phases. Barrows and gilts (n = 250, 21 d-old and initial body weight (BW) = 6.07 ± 0.73 kg were randomized in blocks design and submitted to 5 treatments. The pigs were fed five corn-soybean meal-based diets: positive control (PC), supplemented with inorganic phosphorus and calcium; negative control (NC), with 0.18% reduction in available phosphorus and 0.16% in calcium; and three NC diets supplemented with 600, 1,200 and 1,800 phytase units (FYT)/kg in the feed. Daily BW (DWG), daily feed intake (DFI), feed conversion rate (FCR), and BW were measured at the end of each phase: pre-starter I (21-28d), pre-starter II (28-35d), starter I (35-49d), starter II (49-63d), growing I (63-91d), growing II (91-112d), finishing I (112-133d) and finishing II (133-156d) phases. Carcass yield, back fat height, loin depth, and lean meat yield were measured in the 156 d-old. Data were submitted to ANOVA, Tukey test and regression analysis. In the nursery (21-63d) diets with phytase levels were similar to PC for FCR (P >0.05) and better to NC, with a quadratic effect (FCR = 1.671 - 0.0003X + 0.00000010526X2), being the best point 1,320 (FYT). The supplementation with phytase in grow-finishing phases (63 -156 d) were similar to PC (P > 0.05) for DWG, DFI and FCR (P < 0.05) and better than NC, which were identified a regression effect (DWG = 0.8543 + 0.0001X; DFI = 2.1453 + 0.0007X - 0.00000029618X2; FCR = 2.6924 - 0.0004X + 0.00000012768X2), with the best levels of phytase of 1,296 and 1,404 FYT for DFI and FCR, respectively. The supplementation of phytase improved the carcass yield, loin depth, kilogram of lean meat and percentage of lean meat when compared with NC diet. Supplementing levels of HiPhorius to a corn and soybean meal-based diet with inorganic P and Ca reduction improved performance and carcass traits of pigs after weaning until slaughter age.

PSII-15 Effect of Low Protein Diets Fed to Weanling Pigs on Growth Performance, Fecal Score, and Carcass Characteristics

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that feeding low protein diets to weanling pigs reduces diarrhea with no effects on growth performance from wean to finish or on carcass characteristics. In Exp. 1, 160 pigs (BW: 6.88 ± 0.36 kg) were allotted to 5 diets with 4 pigs/pen and 8 pens/diet. Five phase 1 diets were fed from d 1 to 14 and included the positive control (PC; CP = 23%) with an antibiotic growth promoter (AGP), the negative control (NC; CP = 23%) without the AGP, the NC containing 25% rolled oats (RO), and 2 diets containing 17% CP and 0 or 25% RO. Phase 2 diets were fed from d 14 to 35 and included the PC (CP =21 %) with an AGP, the NC (CP = 21%) without the AGP, the NC containing 20% RO, and 2 diets containing 19% CP and 0 or 25% RO. The statistical model included diet as fixed effect and replicate as random effect. Results from Exp. 1 indicated that pigs fed the 17% CP diet without RO had decreased (P < 0.05) diarrhea scores compared with the NC diet containing RO. Pigs fed the 17% CP diet containing RO had reduced (P < 0.05) G:F compared with the NC diet, but there was no difference among pigs fed the other 4 diets. In Exp. 2, 160 pigs (BW: 6.29 ± 1.00 kg) were allotted to 4 diets with 5 pigs/pen and 8 pens/diet in a wean to finish experiment with 6 phases. Phase 1 and 2 diets were fed for 14 d each, phase 3 was fed for 18 d, and phase 4, 5, and 6 diets were each fed for 35 d. In Phase 1, four diets included the PC diet (CP = 23%) with an AGP, the NC diet (CP = 23%) without the AGP, and 2 diets containing 19% CP or 17% CP and no AGP. In Phase 2, four diets included the PC diet (CP = 22%) with an AGP, the NC diet (CP = 22%) without the AGP, and 2 diets containing 20% CP or 19% CP and no AGP. All pigs were fed common conventional diets from Phase 3 to market. Data were analyzed as in Exp 1. Overall results from Exp. 2 indicated that there were no differences among treatments in the growth performance and carcass characteristics of pigs from wean to finish. In conclusion, feeding low protein diets to weanling pigs reduced post-weaning diarrhea and may replace antibiotic growth promoters without affecting growth performance or carcass characteristics at the time of marketing of pigs although slight reductions in growth performance in the nursery phase may be observed.

PSIII-6 Effects of L-Carnitine Supplemented Throughout Grow-Finish or Only in Late Finishing on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs

Abstract L-Carnitine is a feed additive involved in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria to produce energy. With this mechanism, L-Carnitine can enhance the ability to use fat for energy. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of adding L-Carnitine throughout the entire grow-finishing period or just 28 d before marketing on growth performance and carcass characteristics. A total of 1,833 mixed-sex growing-finishing pigs (PIC 337 × 1050; initially 26.5 ± 0.33 kg) were used in a 112-d growth trial to determine the effects of adding L-Carnitine throughout the entire grow-finishing period or just the last 28 d before marketing. There were 26 replicate pens per treatment and 20 (group 1) or 27 (group 2) pigs per pen in a completely randomized design. There were three treatment diets: 1) control with no added L-Carnitine; 2) diets containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine for the entire trial; or 3) control diet until d 84 and then a diet containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine. On day 84, one-half of the control pens were randomly assigned to the diet containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine. The experimental diets were corn-soybean meal-DDGS-based and were fed in 4 phases. From d 0 to 84, statistical analyses compared the 52 pens of pigs fed the control diets with the 26 pens of pigs that were fed diets with L-Carnitine. From d 85 until market, comparisons were made using all 3 treatments. In the first 28 d, pigs fed L-Carnitine had greater (P < 0.002) BW, ADG, and ADFI and similar G:F (P = 0.459) as those fed the control diet (Table 1). From d 0 to 84, pigs fed L-Carnitine had a tendency (P = 0.052) for greater ADFI, but there was no evidence (P > 0.14) of differences for ADG, G:F, removals, and mortalities. From d 85 to market and overall, there was no evidence of differences (P > 0.22) for ADG, ADFI, G:F, or removals and mortalities. For carcass traits, no difference (P > 0.54) in HCW, yield, backfat, lean, and loin depth were detected between treatments. In conclusion, added L-Carnitine improved performance in the early grow-finishing phase compared with control. However, this effect was not detectable at market, with no impact on overall growth performance, removals and mortalities, or carcass characteristics when added for the entire grow-finishing period or just the 28 d before marketing.

Effects of the Inclusion of Dietary Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia) on the Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs: Potential Application in the Feed Chain

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of bitter gourd (BG) leftovers (stems and leaves) as an alternative dietary ingredient on pig performance, carcass characteristics, serum parameters (urea, insulin, and leptin levels), and faecal consistency. Healthy Tempo × Great Yorkshire and Landrace pigs (N = 240; 120 gilts and 120 boars) weighing 25.8 kg (9–10 weeks of age) were randomly assigned to three treatments (eight pens per treatment; each pen with five gilts and five boars). The three treatments consisted of a non-supplemented commercial diet (control; CON) and a CON diet supplemented with 6.5 g/kg BG (BG1) or 13 g/kg BG (BG2). Pigs were fed the experimental diets until slaughter (120 kg body weight; BW). Feed intake was recorded daily and calculated for each experimental phase (i.e., days 0–36, days 36–66, days 66–98, and the overall experimental period). Average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated. The frequencies of visiting the feed station and of feeding were recorded daily. Faecal scores (FS) for consistency were measured per pen twice weekly. On the day of slaughter, two pigs per pen (one male and one female) were randomly selected for the measurement of muscle thickness and blood collection. At the slaughterhouse, carcass weight, dressing percentage, back fat thickness, muscle depth, and lean meat percentage were recorded. Data were analysed using ANOVA, with the pen as the experimental unit. Diets BG1 or BG2 did not affect the performance of the pigs, except for a significant decrease in the ADG of the pigs fed the BG2 diet in the feeding period of 50–80 kg. However, no differences in performance were observed in the overall experimental period. Faecal scores, carcass quality, and serum levels of urea, insulin, and leptin were also not affected by the diet. In summary, leftovers (stems and leaves) of BG can be successfully added to the diet of growing-finishing pigs without interfering with performance and carcass characteristics.

Impact of dietary analyzed calcium to phosphorus ratios and standardized total tract digestible phosphorus to net energy ratios on growth performance, bone, and carcass characteristics of pigs.

A total of 2,184 pigs (337 × 1,050, PIC; initially 12.4 ± 0.17 kg) were used in a 143-d study to evaluate the effects of feeding varying analyzed calcium to phosphorus ratios (Ca:P) at two standardized total tract digestible (STTD) phosphorus to net energy ratios (STTD P:NE). Pens of pigs (26 pigs per pen) were assigned to 1 of the 6 dietary treatments in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of STTD P:NE and Ca:P ratio. Diets consisted of two levels of STTD P:NE; High (1.80, 1.62, 1.43, 1.25, 1.10, and 0.99 g STTD P/Mcal NE from 11 to 22, 22 to 40, 40 to 58, 58 to 81, 81 to 104, and 104 to 129 kg, respectively); or Low (75% of the High levels), and three analyzed Ca:P ratios (0.90:1, 1.30:1, and 1.75:1). There were 14 pens per treatment. Diets were corn-soybean meal-based and contained a constant phytase concentration within each dietary phase with levels decreasing throughout the trial (phases 1 through 3, 500 FTU/kg, assumed release of 0.13% STTD P; phase 4, 400 FTU/kg, assumed release of 0.11% STTD P; phase 5, 290 FTU/kg, assumed release of 0.09% STTD P; and phase 6, 210 FTU/kg, assumed release of 0.07% STTD P). Overall, there was a Ca:P × STTD P:NE interaction (P < 0.05) observed for average daily gain (ADG), feed efficiency (G:F), final body weight (BW), hot carcass weight (HCW), bone mineral density, bone mineral content, and bone-breaking strength. When feeding Low STTD P:NE levels, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio decreased (linear, P < 0.001) ADG final BW, HCW, and tended to worsen G:F, bone mineral density, and bone mineral content (linear, P < 0.10). However, when feeding High STTD P:NE levels, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio significantly improved bone mineral content and bone mineral density (linear, P < 0.05), and tended to improve ADG and final BW (linear, P < 0.10) and G:F (quadratic P < 0.10). Additionally, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio worsened ADG, G:F, and bone mineralization with Low STTD P:NE but had marginal impacts when adequate STTD P:NE was fed.

Dietary supplementation with vegetable oils with low n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratios improves the intramuscular fat and fatty acid composition of growingfinishing pigs

This study investigated the effects of different n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios in pig diets using vegetable oil supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition in the longissimus dorsi muscle (LM) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of pigs. Fiftyfour cross-bred growing pigs (Large White × Landrace × Duroc; 45.03 ± 1.72 kg) were randomly assigned to one of three isoenergetic diets: the 1) basal diet (control), 2) RAPO diet (diet supplemented with 4.5% rapeseed oil), and 3) MIXO diet (diet supplemented with 2.25% rapeseed oil and 2.25% linseed oil), with n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios of approximately 13:1, 7:1, and 2:1, respectively. The experiment lasted 42 days. The RAPO and MIXO diets did not affect the growth performance and carcass characteristics of pigs, while the content of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TGs), and glucose (GLU) in the serum decreased substantially. Intramuscular fat (IMF) content increased by 19.25% and 20.11% in the LM of pigs fed the RAPO and MIXO diets, respectively, and lower cooking loss and drip loss of meat were observed only in pigs fed the MIXO diet. The RAPO and MIXO diets decreased the stearic acid and palmitoleic acid levels, increased the total PUFA levels (including those of α-linolenic and linoleic acid), and decreased the n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios in LM and SAT. However, the MIXO diet was more effective in improving the fatty acid composition. A mixed oil diet with an n6:n-3 PUFA ratio of 2:1 is an effective measure for improving meat quality.

Performance response of increasing the standardized ileal digestible tryptophan:lysine ratio in diets containing 40% dried distiller grains with solubles.

A total of 1,170 pigs (PIC 800 × PIC, initially 38.6 kg) were used in a 98-d grow-finish study to determine the performance response of pigs fed increasing levels standardized ileal digestible (SID) Trp:Lys ratio in diets containing 40% dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS). Five dietary treatments were fed and consisted of a corn-soybean meal (SBM) diet or diets containing 40% DDGS with SID Trp:Lys ratios of 15%, 18%, 21%, or 24%. Each treatment was replicated 9 times and pens contained 26 pigs with the equal number of gilts and barrows. Data was analyzed as a randomized complete block design with previous nursery treatment as a random blocking factor. Pair-wise comparisons were used to evaluate the impact of diets on performance and carcass traits; specifically to compare the corn-SBM dietary treatment against other dietary treatments. Single degree of freedom orthogonal polynomials were used to evaluate the dose-response of increasing the SID Trp:Lys ratio in 40% DDGS diets. Increasing the SID Trp:Lys ratio in diets containing 40% DDGS increased (linear, P ≤ 0.02) average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), final body weight (BW), hot carcass weight (HCW), carcass gain, and daily carcass gain. Increasing the SID Trp:Lys ratio in 40% DDGS diets did not impact (P ≥ 0.65) gain to feed (G:F) for the cumulative period. Pigs fed the corn-SBM diet had greater (P ≤ 0.01) ADG and a heavier (P ≤ 0.01) final BW compared to pigs fed 40% DDGS diets, regardless of the SID Trp:Lys ratio. Diets that contained 40% DDGS with a SID Trp:Lys ratio of 24% had no difference (P|t| = 0.25) in ADFI compared to the corn-SBM dietary treatment. The cumulative G:F of pigs did not differ (P = 0.32) between pigs fed corn-SBM diets and diets containing 40% DDGS regardless of the SID Trp:Lys ratio. However, pigs receiving the corn-SBM diets had heavier HCW, greater carcass yields, total carcass gain, and daily carcass gain (P < 0.01) compared to pigs fed the 40% DDGS diets regardless of SID Trp:Lys ratio. In conclusion, increasing the SID Trp:Lys ratio in 40% DDGS diets improved ADG and ADFI for the overall grow-finish period. However, when compared to a corn-SBM diet, increasing the SID Trp:Lys ratio in 40% DDGS diets did not correct the growth performance or carcass characteristics of pigs.

Effects of Increasing Soybean Meal Levels on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs in Grower and Late-Finishing Phases

Effects of Increasing Soybean Meal Levels on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs in Grower and Late-Finishing Phases

Increasing Doses of Bacterial Phytase (Citrobacter braakii) Improves Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs in Growing and Finishing Phases.

Simple SummaryPhytases of bacterial origin are the exogenous enzymes most widely used in the diets of monogastric animals, acting on the hydrolysis of phytate (myo-inositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis [dihydrogen] phosphate) to release the phosphate from this complex. However, the efficiency of phytase varies according to the aspects inherent to its own structure and origin, the age and physiological state of the animal, and the dietary composition. Overall, we found that supplementation with phytase between 1500 and 3000 units of phytase (FYT)/kg of feed in diets based on corn and soybean meal with a reduction in inorganic phosphorus (0.13%) and calcium (0.11%) improves the daily weight gain (DWG) and live weight (LW) of animals in the growing phase, which affects performance on finishing phases and slaughter body weight. This input could result in a reduction in the use of phosphorus sources, improving environmental issues with an increase in the main zootechnical parameters.The effects of increasing doses of bacterial phytase (Citrobacter braakii) on performance and carcass characteristics of growing-finishing pigs was evaluated. A total of 120 barrows weighing 25.16 ± 2.80 kg and 68 days old were submitted to five treatments: positive control diet (PC) containing inorganic phosphorus (P) and limestone (Ca); negative control (NC) with reductions in P (by 0.13%) and Ca (by 0.11%); and three NC diets supplemented with 1500 (NC15), 3000 (NC30) and 4500 (NC45) units of phytase (FYT)/kg. The daily weight gain (DWG) in growth phase I (68–91 days) was higher in the PC, NC15 and NC30, compared to the NC (1.06, 1.06, 1.06 vs. 0.95, respectively). The DWG in finishing phase II (141–156 days) was higher in the NC15 (1.20 kg) and NC30 (1.14 kg) than in the NC45 (0.94 kg). The final weights (LW156) in the NC15 (122.95 kg LW) were higher than NC (116.47 kg LW) and NC45 (114.43 kg LW). Over the entire period, a quadratic effect (2012 FYT) was observed for the DWG. The increasing levels of phytase in corn and soybean meal-based diets improved the DWG and carcass traits; however, the addition of more than 3000 FYT/kg of feed should be carefully studied to determine enzyme viability.

Genetic Associations of Novel Behaviour Traits Derived from Social Network Analysis with Growth, Feed Efficiency, and Carcass Characteristics in Pigs

Reducing harmful aggressive behaviour remains a major challenge in pig production. Social network analysis (SNA) showed the potential in providing novel behavioural traits that describe the direct and indirect role of individual pigs in pen-level aggression. Our objectives were to (1) estimate the genetic parameters of these SNA traits, and (2) quantify the genetic associations between the SNA traits and commonly used performance measures: growth, feed intake, feed efficiency, and carcass traits. The animals were video recorded for 24 h post-mixing. The observed fighting behaviour of each animal was used as input for the SNA. A Bayesian approach was performed to estimate the genetic parameters of SNA traits and their association with the performance traits. The heritability estimates for all SNA traits ranged from 0.01 to 0.35. The genetic correlations between SNA and performance traits were non-significant, except for weighted degree with hot carcass weight, and for both betweenness and closeness centrality with test daily gain, final body weight, and hot carcass weight. Our results suggest that SNA traits are amenable for selective breeding. Integrating these traits with other behaviour and performance traits may potentially help in building up future strategies for simultaneously improving welfare and performance in commercial pig farms.

264 Awardee Talk: A Systems Approach for Evaluating Productivity, Nutritional Efficiency, and Environmental Impacts of Feeding Programs for Growing-Finishing Pigs

Abstract Traditional evaluation of swine feeding programs have generally focused only on economically important performance and carcass measures but achieving sustainable pork production also requires formulating diets to reduce negative environmental impacts. Therefore, a systems approach is needed to evaluate swine feeding programs from multiple perspectives. The objectives of this study were to compare productivity, nutritional efficiency, and environmental outcomes of four different growing-finishing feeding programs consisting of diets containing corn and soybean meal (CSBM), low protein CSBM supplemented with crystalline amino acids (LP), CSBM with 30% distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and DDGS supplemented with crystalline Ile, Val, and Trp (DDGS+IVT). In experiment 1, growth performance and carcass characteristics of pigs (n=288; initial BW=36.9±4.2 kg) were measured in a 12-wk feeding trial. There were no differences in ADG, ADFI, carcass yield, and carcass fat-free lean percentage observed among feeding programs but gain:feed was greater (P &amp;lt;0.05) in pigs fed CSBM and DDGS+IVT than pigs fed LP. In experiment 2, nitrogen and phosphorus balance of pigs (n=32; initial BW=59.9±5.1 kg) were determined in a metabolism study. Pigs fed CSBM had greater N retained (P &amp;lt;0.05) than those fed other diets, but pigs fed LP had greater (P &amp;lt;0.05) protein efficiency ratio but lower (P &amp;lt;0.05) P intake than pigs fed CSBM and DDGS. In experiment 3, data collected from the previous 2 experiments were used to calculate environmental impacts of the four feeding programs through life-cycle assessments using Opteinics™ (BASF, Lampertheim, Germany). Feeding CSBM had the least impact per 1,000 kg carcass weight on climate change and fossil resource use, while LP had the least impact on acidification, water use, and total environmental footprint. These results indicate that each feeding program has comparative advantages depending on the metrics, which requires using a holistic systems approach for decision-making to improve the sustainability of pork production.

100 The Impact of Dietary Analyzed Ca to P Ratios and Standardized Total Tract Digestible P to Net Energy Ratios on Growth Performance, Bone, and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs

Abstract A total of 2,184 pigs (initially 12.4 kg) were used to evaluate effects of varying analyzed Ca:P ratios at 2 levels of standardized total tract digestible (STTD) P:NE. Pens of pigs (26 pigs/pen) were assigned to 6 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with 14 pens/treatment. Diets consisted of 2 levels of STTD P:NE: PIC recommendation (1.8, 1.62, 1.43, 1.25, 1.10, 0.99 g STTD P/Mcal NE from 11-22, 22-40, 40-58, 58-81, 81-104, 104-129 kg, respectively) or 75% of the PIC recommendation, and 3 analyzed Ca:P ratios: 0.90:1, 1.30:1, and 1.75:1. Diets were corn-soybean meal-based and contained phytase (Quantum Blue G, AB Vista, Marlborough, UK; 500 to 210 FTU/kg with release values from 0.13 to 0.07% STTD P). There was a Ca:P×STTD P:NE interaction (P &amp;lt; 0.05) observed for ADG, G:F and final BW. For ADG and final BW, when feeding 75% of PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing analyzed Ca:P ratio decreased ADG and final BW (linear, P&amp;lt; 0.001). But when feeding at PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to improve ADG and final BW (linear, P&amp;lt; 0.10). For G:F, when feeding 75% of PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to decrease G:F (linear, P &amp;lt; 0.10), whereas in pigs fed diets that met PIC STTD P recommendations, increasing analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to improve G:F in a quadratic (P &amp;lt; 0.10) manner. Pigs fed at PIC STTD P recommendations had increased ADG, final BW, and G:F compared with pigs fed 75% of PIC STTD P recommendations (P &amp;lt; 0.001). In summary, pigs fed at PIC STTD P recommendations had improved overall ADG and G:F compared with pigs fed diets at 75% PIC STTD P recommendations. Additionally, increasing analyzed Ca:P ratio reduced ADG and G:F when STTD P was below PIC recommendations, but had marginal impacts when adequate STTD P was fed.

169 The Effect of Increasing Valine, Isoleucine, and Tryptophan:Lysine Ratios on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs Fed Diets with High Leucine:Lysine

Abstract A total of 4,076 pigs (initially 39.3 kg) were used across 2 experiments to evaluate the effect of increasing ratios of Val, Ile, and Trp:Lys in corn-soybean meal-DDGS-based diets on pig growth performance and carcass characteristics. In both experiments, the 4 dietary treatments were: 1) high soybean meal and low feed grade amino acids (control), 2) low soybean meal and high feed grade amino acids, with Val:Lys, Ile:Lys, and Trp:Lys at 67, 55, and 18, respectively, (low ratio) 3) diet 2 except Val:Lys, Ile:Lys, and Trp:Lys increased to 72, 60, and 21, respectively, (medium ratio), and 4) diet 2 except Val:Lys, Ile:Lys, and Trp:Lys at 80, 65, and 23, respectively (high ratio). The Leu:lys levels for the diets with increased synthetic amino acids ranged from 135 to 146 for the 4 phases. All diets contained 30% DDGS until 100 kg BW, and then 20% DDGS until trial completion. Because there was no experiment × treatment interactions, data from both experiments were combined. Overall, ADG and ADFI increased (AA ratio; linear, P &amp;lt; 0.05) as Val, Ile, and Trp:Lys ratios increased from low to high. Pigs fed the control diet exhibited increased ADG compared with pigs fed low ratio diets, while pigs fed medium and high ratio diets performed intermediate. For carcass characteristics, pigs fed the control had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) percentage lean and loin depth compared with pigs fed the medium ratio diet, with pigs fed low and high ratio intermediate. Pigs fed the medium ratio diet had increased backfat depth compared with pigs fed the control, with pigs fed the low and high ratio intermediate (P &amp;lt; 0.05). In summary, the soybean meal level can be reduced, and synthetic amino acid levels increased in high DDGS diets as long as ratios of Val, Ile, and Trp to Lys are increased.

Effects of L-Carnitine Supplemented Throughout all Grow-Finish Phases or Only in Late Finishing on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs

A total of 1,833 mixed-sex growing-finishing pigs (PIC, 337 × 1050; initially 58.5 ± 1.62 lb) were used in a 112-d growth trial to determine the effects of adding L-Carnitine throughout the entire grow-finishing period or for just the last 28 d before marketing on growth performance and carcass characteristics. There were 26 replicate pens per treatment and 20 (group 1) or 27 (group 2) pigs per pen in a completely randomized design. There were three treatment diets: 1) control with no added L-Carnitine; 2) diets containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine for the entire trial; and 3) control diet until d 84 and then a diet containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine. On day 84, half of the control pens were randomly assigned to the diet containing 50 ppm of L-Carnitine. The experimental diets were corn-soybean meal-DDGS-based and were fed in 4 phases. From d 0 to 84, statistical analyses compared the 52 pens of pigs fed the control diets to the 26 pens of pigs that were fed diets with L-Carnitine. From d 85 until market, comparisons were made using all 3 treatments. In the first 28 d, pigs fed L-Carnitine had greater (P < 0.002) BW, ADG, and ADFI and similar F/G (P = 0.459) as those fed the control diet. No evidence for differences (P > 0.13) were observed in growth performance from d 29 to 56 and from d 57 to 84. From d 0 to 84, pigs fed L-Carnitine had a tendency (P = 0.052) for greater ADFI, but there was no evidence (P > 0.14) of differences for ADG, F/G, removals, and mortalities. From d 85 to market and overall, there was no evidence of differences (P > 0.22) for ADG, ADFI, F/G, or removals and mortalities. For carcass traits, no difference (P > 0.54) in HCW, yield, backfat, lean, and loin depth were detected between treatments. In conclusion, added L-Carnitine improved performance in the early grow-finishing phase, but due to greater variation, this statistical difference did not last until market, resulting in the same overall performance. Feeding L-Carnitine only for the last 28 d also did not elicit growth and carcass improvements.

The Impact of Dietary Analyzed Calcium to Phosphorus Ratios and Standardized Total Tract Digestible Phosphorus to Net Energy Ratios on Growth Performance, Bone, and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs

A total of 2,184 pigs (PIC 337 × 1050; initially 27.3 lb) were used to evaluate the effects of feeding varying analyzed calcium to phosphorus (Ca:P) ratios at two levels of standardized total tract digestible (STTD) P:NE. Pens of pigs (26 pigs per pen) were assigned to 6 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design with 14 pens per treatment. Diets consisted of two levels of STTD P:NE, including the PIC recommendation (1.8, 1.62, 1.43, 1.25, 1.10, and 0.99 g STTD P/Mcal NE from 25 to 50, 50 to 90, 90 to 130, 130 to 180, 180 to 230, and 230 to 280 lb, respectively); or 75% of the PIC recommendation, and 3 analyzed Ca:P ratios: 0.90:1, 1.30:1, and 1.75:1. Diets were corn-soybean meal-based and contained phytase (Quantum Blue G, AB Vista, Marlborough, Wiltshire, UK); 500 to 210 FTU/kg with release values from 0.13 to 0.07% STTD P. There was a Ca:P × STTD P:NE interaction (P < 0.05) observed for average daily gain (ADG), feed efficiency (F/G), and final body weight (BW). For ADG and final BW, when feeding 75% of PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio decreased ADG and final BW (linear, P < 0.001). However, when feeding the PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to improve ADG and final BW (linear, P < 0.10). For F/G, when feeding 75% of the PIC STTD P recommendation, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to worsen F/G (linear, P < 0.10), whereas in pigs fed diets that met PIC STTD P recommendations, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio tended to improve F/G in a quadratic (P < 0.10) manner. Despite the interactions, pigs fed the PIC STTD P recommendations had increased ADG, final BW, and improved F/G compared to pigs fed 75% of PIC STTD P recommendations (P < 0.001). In summary, pigs fed at PIC STTD P recommendations had improved overall ADG and F/G compared to pigs fed diets at 75% of PIC STTD P recommendations. Additionally, increasing the analyzed Ca:P ratio worsened ADG and F/G when STTD P was below PIC recommendations but had marginal impacts when adequate STTD P was fed.

Evaluating the performance and profitability of varied combinations of brewery by-products for fattening pigs

Context The consumption of pork is rapidly increasing in Uganda and presents an opportunity for pig farmers to maximise profits. However, the population and productivity of pigs remains low and this is attributed to the high cost of commercial feeds. Aims We aimed to evaluate the effects of various combinations of brewery by-products on the performance, carcass characteristics and profitability of fattening pigs. Methods The study involved 48 crossbred (Large White × Camborough) pigs weaned at 2 months of age and weighing 10.3 ± 1.2 kg. Group pens of four pigs, balanced for sex and weight, were assigned in a completely randomised design with three replications to four diets: BYM, 22% brewers’ spent grain + 15% yeast cake + 60% malt dust; BY, 33% brewers’ spent grain + 14% yeast cake (with 50% maize bran); YM, 27% yeast cake + 70% malt dust; and a commercial diet (control). Feed intake and efficiency, costs and carcass characteristic were determined. Key results Feeding brewery by-products increased (P &lt; 0.05) average daily feed intake by 1.40, 1.11, 1.09 kg/day for BYM, BY and YM compared with the control diet. Pigs fed the control diet had better (P &lt; 0.05) feed efficiency (feed conversion ratio 3.4) than those fed BYM (6.6), BY (5.7) and YM (6.1). The unit cost of diets (Ugandan shillings, USh) increased in the order BYM (USh410) &lt; YM (USh439) &lt; BY (USh551) &lt; commercial diet (USh1313). The unit cost of producing meat increased in the order YM (USh2691) &lt; BYM (USh2713) &lt; BY (USh3150) &lt; commercial diet (USh5331). The highest gross margins accrued from BYM (USh36 769), followed by YM (USh34 853), whereas a loss of USh41 735 was incurred when feeding the commercial diet. Dressing percentage and organ yield were comparable across diets (P &gt; 0.05). Backfat thickness measured at four sites was similar (P &gt; 0.05) across dietary treatments. Conclusion A blended mixture of brewery by-products containing brewers’ spent grain (22%), yeast (15%) and malt dust (60%) is an economical replacement of commercial diets for fattening pigs. Implications Brewery by-products can be used to increase profit margins without affecting the carcass characteristics of pigs.

Growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of pigs fed diets containing amarula (Sclerocarya birrea A. Rich) nut cake as replacement to soybean meal

This experiment evaluated varying levels of Amarula (Sclerocarya birrea A. Rich) nut cake (ANC) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics in pigs. Thirty Large White × Landrace (LW × LR) pigs were stratified by weight (average live weight of 20 ± 5kg) and randomly allocated to the five experimental diets that contained 0 (control), 50, 100, 150 and 200g ANC/kg DM. Each pig served as a replicate unit, housed individually. The pigs were fed the experimental diets ad-lib once in the morning, allowing a 10% of feed refusal, and had free access to water. Bodyweight, feed intake, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded weekly throughout the 56-day trial period. On completion of the growth trial, following a 3-day adaptation, a nutrient digestibility study was conducted over 5days. Thereafter, pigs were fasted for 12h, weighed, slaughtered, and carcass samples were collected for analysis. Data on the effects of treatments on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics were analysed using a two-way ANOVA in randomised blocks and were compared using Student's t-LSD. Feed intake was not affected by dietary treatment, but ADGs were reduced at ANC levels > 150g/kg, resulting in poor FCR. Protein digestibility was reduced at ANC levels > 150g/kg, while ether extract and fibre levels increased. Warm and cold carcass weights were lower at ANC levels > 150g/kg, with improved meat redness and lightness. It was concluded that ANC could replace SBM in the diet of growing pigs at less than 150g/kg inclusion level.