Factors affecting pig growth and breeding by raw materials and countermeasures

1. Corn LMj China Feed Industry Information Network - based on feed, serving livestock

Corn is an annual grass plant belonging to the genus Zea, native to South America and now one of the most widely cultivated crops globally. It is mainly grown in the United States, China, and other countries. There are two main types: early-maturing and late-maturing corn. Early-maturing corn has round kernels, a smooth top, bright color, and is hard with high levels of protein and a firm texture. Late-maturing corn, on the other hand, has flat kernels, a concave top, dull color, and lower protein content. Due to its high starch and fat content, corn is considered the most important energy source for pig feeding.

During harvesting, broken corn kernels can lead to nutrient loss and even toxin formation. These damaged kernels are often highly contaminated, so it's crucial to minimize grinding pressure during harvesting and storage to prevent insect damage and protect the outer layers.

When storing corn without proper drying, the risk of mold and spoilage increases, which can negatively affect feed quality and even produce zearalenone—a toxin that may cause false pregnancy in sows, affecting their growth. To prevent this, moisture levels should be kept below 14% during storage, and measures should be taken to control pests. One effective method is to store wet corn in sealed plastic bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. This creates an environment where oxygen is consumed, inhibiting the growth of harmful molds like Aspergillus flavus, making it a cost-effective and efficient approach.

In pig feeding, older corn is often preferred over fresh corn because it has lower moisture and better nutritional value, helping to prevent mold development.

2. Bran LMj China Feed Industry Information Network - based on feed, serving livestock

Bran consists of parts of the endosperm, seed coat, and embryo after processing. It has a high crude fiber content and relatively low energy value but is rich in crude protein (12.5–17%) and B vitamins. In pig diets, bran helps regulate nutrient balance and improve the texture of concentrated feeds. Additionally, it has a mild laxative effect, which can help postpartum sows maintain digestive health when given in appropriate amounts.

It’s important to avoid feeding spoiled bran to pigs, as it can severely impact digestion and may cause diarrhea, affecting growth. Also, excessive use of bran in compound feed can lead to constipation due to its strong water-absorbing properties. The amount of bran should be adjusted according to the pig’s age and size.

3. Soybean Meal LMj China Feed Industry Information Network - based on feed, serving livestock

Soybeans are native to China and are primarily grown in regions such as Northeast China, North China, Northwest China, and Inner Mongolia. According to research from the Animal Husbandry Institute of Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, soybeans contain 36.2% crude protein and 16.1% crude fat, making them an excellent concentrate for pigs. Soybean meal, the byproduct of oil extraction, is a key protein source in animal feed.

The percentage of soybean meal in compound feed should be adjusted based on the pig’s growth stage and nutritional needs. Too much or too little can affect performance. Additionally, due to natural disasters in soybean-producing areas, protein levels may drop, requiring timely formula adjustments. Each batch of soybean meal should be tested for adulteration—such as the presence of hydrolyzed feather powder or leather powder—and for protein content to ensure quality and effectiveness.

The color of soybean meal should be light yellow; if it’s too dark, it may be overcooked, and if too pale, it may be underprocessed. Both over- and under-cooked soybean meal can reduce its utilization and negatively affect pig growth.

4. Fishmeal LMj China Feed Industry Information Network - based on feed, serving livestock

Fishmeal is an animal-based protein feed and also classified as an energy concentrate. Its high-quality protein and balanced calcium and phosphorus content make it valuable in pig feed. It effectively complements deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus in other feed sources.

When purchasing fishmeal, it’s essential to check its purity, as it is often adulterated with substances like hydrolyzed feather powder, leather powder, or inorganic nitrogen. Some products may have up to 70–80% adulterants, which can be difficult to detect through standard protein testing. It’s best to send samples to a trusted laboratory for accurate analysis.

Fishmeal should only be added when necessary, based on the specific requirements of the feed to optimize cost and performance. When buying, always prioritize quality, ensuring that you get reliable and safe products for your animals.