The inclusion of raw fibre in sow diets has many positive effects. An extensive trial in Germany investigate the effects of adding a new natural lignocellulose raw fibre concentrate to the diet one the fertility parameters in breeding sows.

The literature strongly points towards the fact that antibiotics can have amino acid saving properties. So it seems that animals fed without antibiotics need more amino acids in the diet for optimal growth and performance. Trials at Schothorst feed research investigated whether the AGP ban really has an effect on the amino acid requirements.

It is well established that the birth weight of a piglet is one of the most important factors in determining its growth rate and chance of survival. A little extra effort in the form of attention and nutritional care can alleviate the disadvantage of being born small or late, explains Jens Villadsen.

The absence of in-feed antimicrobials does not always lead to gastrointestinal disorders such as post-weaning colibacillosis (PWC) in pigs. Therefore Jos Houdijk and colleagues at the Scottish Agriculture College in Edinburgh set up a trial that focused on establishing the appropriate dose of bacteria that causes sub-clinical PWC. In the absence of in-feed antibiotics, such an experimental infection model would be used to better assess the effects of novel feeding strategies on (the consequences o...

The anti-microbial activity of organic acids is thought to be the main reason for the positive responses in nursery and finisher pigs. The increasing interest in the use of organic acids made companies search for acids that are easier to handle than conventional organic acids while still maintaining the biological effectiveness within the pig.

Adding phytogenic substances to feed not only increases the palatability, it also improves nutrient digestibility. Therefore, these plant based concentrates can smoothen the lactation period of sows explains Jörg Perner.

The raising of gilts is an essential part of pig production. However, mycotoxins can be a real spoilsport as the occurrence in gilt rations has adverse effects on reproduction parameters and the immune system. A single false heat or missed service will have quite dramatic effects on the production pyramid. Fergus Neher explains what measures can be taken to ensure that this variable is eliminated.

Bacteriophages hold great commercial promise in disease prevention and control and in food safety assurance. Rainer Engelhardt and Bruno Rochet explain how Gangagen and Lallemand have joined forces to make the most of this ancient antibacterial.

Together with legislation to reduce on-farm levels of salmonella, the EU's ban on antibiotic growth promoters will intensify pressures to rethink pig nutrition and herd health management. Feed enzymes represent a key element when working towards a strategy of replacing AGPs, explains Gary Partridge.

The piglet is born in a state of iron deficiency, normally rectified in practice by injection. In nature, however, oral intake is adequate. Research into iron absorption means that new oral supplements can be developed.