Comparison of three commercial feeds in the fattening of Yorkshire pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) in the starter and growth

Abstract

Objective: To assess the efficiency of three commercial feeds for pig fattening. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted in the pig unit of the Centro de Bachillerato Tecnológico Agropecuario No. 90. Thirty-three pigs were randomly assigned to one of the following three treatments (11 specimens per treatment): 1) Sabamex®; 2) Campeón®, and 3) Ganador®. In the starter phase, the three feeds were provided ad libitum for four weeks. The same feeds were offered from the fifth to the eighth week (growth phase). The response variables were analyzed in a completely randomized design for each phase. The impact of sex differences on weight gain was analyzed using Student's t-test. Results: All variables assessed recorded a difference (P<0.05) between treatments. In the initial four-week period, a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in the daily weight gain per animal per day variable. The same difference (P<0.05) was observed in the subsequent four weeks of growth (end stage) for the same variable. Additionally, sex differences had an impact on weight gain (P˂0.05). Study Limitations/Implications: Pigs should not be fattened in autumn and winter, due to the adverse effects of low temperatures. The Campeón® feed is the most profitable and advisable option. Findings/Conclusions: Pigs that were fed on Sabamex® and Ganador® had a better performance than pigs that were fed on Champion®.