Without doubt, the ability to wean a strong pig is one of the greatest advantages that can be achieved in preparation for weaning without zinc. Once we wean a good pig the next most important step is to ensure we maximise feed intake in the early post-weaning phase. We have found that adopting a collaborative approach from breeding to weaning yields the greatest benefit. Research has shown that the combined use of ColfaPig® in sow diets with EnteriMAX® piglet diets, can ensure successful transition to zinc-free piglet diets whilst also improving overall farm performance.
|
Column heading |
Control |
ColfaPig®/EnteriMAX® |
|
Gestation |
Standard |
Standard + 1Kg ColfaPig® / T |
|
Lactation |
Standard |
Standard + 1Kg ColfaPig® / T |
|
Suckling |
EasiStart + 3.1 Kg ZnO |
EnteriMAX® In4Gut |
|
Starter |
EasiStart + 3.1 Kg ZnO |
EnteriMAX® IP Zinc Free |
|
Post Starter |
Vital + 2.0 Kg ZnO |
EnteriMAX® LR Zinc Free |
|
Grower |
Standard Diet |
Standard Diet |
|
|
|
|
|
Pigs Born alive / sow |
14.38 |
14.60 |
|
Pre weaning mortality |
13.01 |
8.97 |
|
Pigs weaned per sow |
12.51 |
13.29 |
|
Weaning age |
25.8 |
26.1 |
|
Litter weaning weight |
90.32 Kg |
108.7 Kg |
|
Piglet weaning weight |
7.22 Kg |
8.18 Kg |
|
Piglet LWT 12 weeks of age |
37.18 Kg |
39.23 Kg |
|
|
|
|
|
Subsequent farrowing rate |
84.61% |
89.86% |
|
Pigs born alive in next litter |
14.47 |
14.92 |
|
Wasted days per sow |
16.3 |
14.4 |
|
Pigs sold / sow / year |
28.8 |
31.2 |
ColfaPig® is the result of over 15 years of research, conducted by our R&D team. One aspect of this research involved examining how ColfaPig® influenced gene expression in pigs. This research was conducted in collaboration with Queens University in Belfast and has shown that ColfaPig® mediated changes in the expression of 147 genes.
From a practical farming standpoint, these changes in gene expression have resulted not only in an enhanced immunoglobulin profile in colostrum, but also in a reduced number of low-birth-weight pigs at farrowing, increased piglet survivability, increased piglet weaning weight, increased performance post weaning and reduced sow non-productive days.
Our new EnteriMAX® range of piglet diets have been designed to enhance the digestibility of the diet and support the gut microbiome, thereby reducing the risk of digestive upsets. Through five years of research, we have identified alternative technologies and ingredients that offer a viable alternative to the inclusion of zinc oxide in pig diets. This, coupled with decades of R&D in infant pig nutrition has allowed our nutrition team to create of a range of piglet diets that protect the gut thereby maximising the performance of your pigs.
If you would like to know more about how ColfaPig® and EnteriMAX® can support your business as we transition to zinc free, complete our contact form and one our team will be in touch.
Back to Press Releases