The concept of precise feeding and the goal of improving the efficiency of essential nutrient utilization are considered advanced techniques in pig research in recent years.
The concept of precise nutrition and the goal of improving the efficiency of essential nutrient utilization are considered new techniques in pig research in recent years.
Precise Feeding for Reproductive Sows
The physical condition of pregnant sows can directly affect their productivity during lactation. Excessive energy intake can lead to obesity at farrowing, resulting in reduced voluntary feed intake and excessive mobilization of body reserves during the lactation period (Sinclair et al., 1998; Kim et al., 2009).
Typically, sows are fed the same diet throughout pregnancy without changes in the nutritional level or even the amount of feed provided. However, their nutritional needs change throughout the pregnancy period (Dourmad et al., 2008; Gaillard et al., 2020; Gaillard and Dourmad, 2022).
In some cases, the gestation period is divided to focus on the different requirements of each stage. An example is the use of the “high-low-high” (HLH) concept, in which the gestation period is divided into three stages: the first stage focuses on recovering the physical condition of the sow, the second stage on the development and maintenance of the mammary gland, and the final stage on milk production and rapid fetal growth.
Another factor that can affect feeding and nutrient absorption during pregnancy is group housing of sows, as feed competition can lead to disputes, hierarchy, and significant differences in physical condition among sows during this period. An excellent alternative solution that has been implemented in production is the modernization of feeding systems or the use of AIPF (Automatic Intelligent Precision Feeding stations), allowing us to provide appropriate feed to each sow individually, meaning no need for fighting or competing for feed, facilitating the application of the precise feeding concept, a strategy that has been extensively studied in recent years.
In a study conducted at the NEPSUI research unit (Institute of Agricultural Sciences of the Federal University of Minas Gerais, ICA-UFMG, Brazil), aimed at investigating the impact of precise feeding on high-performance pregnant sows, the study showed that providing the right balance of amino acids and energy at the right stage of pregnancy can bring significant productivity benefits. The study compared the effectiveness of using different feeding curve models during pregnancy, such as flat curves, HLH, and the application of predictive nutritional models focused on the daily needs of sows (Domingos et al., 2022).
Precise feeding was found to be more effective than other diets. Fetal development was better compared to other nutritional methods (Figure 1).
Figure 1. The impact of feeding strategies (flat curve, high-low-high, or precise) during pregnancy on fetal development.
Providing adequate feed based on the daily needs of sows affects not only fetal development but also tissue accumulation and milk production. The study showed that milk production was about 1.2 liters higher per day than other treatments, reflecting a more pronounced mobilization of body tissues accumulated during pregnancy, calculated by the accumulation and mobilization of fat reserves (Figure 2).
Figure 2. The impact of feeding strategies (flat curve, high-low-high, or precise) on the dynamics of body reserve accumulation and mobilization during pregnancy and lactation.
Therefore, strategies aimed at maximizing productivity can be promising alternatives in production. The use of precise feeding models is a solution that can bring many benefits to the animals and primarily to the breeders. Results show that precise feeding based on the daily lysine
ratio during pregnancy is very beneficial for high-performance sows, as it provides the necessary nutrients for the development of the sow’s body, as well as the fetus and mammary gland.
The concept of precise feeding is becoming a tool present in the daily operations of pig farms in Brazil and around the world, aiming to achieve sustainable and efficient pig production while increasing economic profitability for breeders.
