PIG FEEDING DETARMINATION

Pig Feeding Determination A Comprehensive Global Guide

Understand how to calculate, design and manage pig feeding programs that maximize growth, improve feed conversion, and increase farm profitability. This global guide covers nutrient requirements, feed composition, stage-based rations, feed formulation methods, cost calculations, and practical examples.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction — Why Feeding Determination Matters
2. Essential Nutrients & Feed Components
3. Feeding by Growth Stage
4. Feed Formulation & Calculation Methods
5. Feeding Management Practices
6. Costing, Profitability & Feed Efficiency
7. Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
8. Modern Innovations & Sustainability
9. Conclusion & Practical Checklist
10. Further Reading & References

Introduction — Why Feeding Determination Matters

Pig feeding determination is the process of deciding what to feed, how much, and when for pigs at different stages of life and production goals. Feed accounts for the largest share of production costs in pig farming (commonly 60–70%). Accurate determination improves growth, carcass quality, reproduction, and profitability while reducing waste and environmental impacts.

This guide is written for global producers — from smallholder and backyard systems to commercial intensive units. It focuses on universal nutritional principles while offering flexible formulations and ingredient choices that can be adapted to local circumstances.

Key aims of pig feeding determination

• Provide the correct balance of energy, protein (amino acids), vitamins and minerals.
• Match feed composition to the pig’s physiological stage (piglet, weaner, grower, finisher, breeder).
• Optimize feed conversion ratio (FCR) and daily weight gain (DWG).
• Minimize production costs while maintaining animal health and product quality.

Essential Nutrients & Feed Components

Pigs need six essential nutrient groups:

1. Energy – carbohydrates and fats provide calories.
2. Protein & Amino Acids – for muscle and organ growth; lysine, methionine, threonine and tryptophan are key.
3. Fats – concentrated energy and essential fatty acids.
4. Vitamins – fat and water-soluble (A, D, E, K, B-complex).
5. Minerals – macro (calcium, phosphorus) and micro (zinc, selenium, copper, iron).
6. Water – most essential; affects feed intake and digestion.

Common feed ingredients

Ingredient	Role	Notes
Corn	Energy	Main cereal in many regions
Wheat	Energy & some protein	Alternative when corn is expensive
Soybean meal	Protein & amino acids	Primary protein source
Groundnut cake	Protein	Used in Africa & Asia
Fish meal	High-quality protein	Starter feeds & piglets
Rice bran	Energy & fiber	By-product feedstuff
Cassava	Energy	Used widely in tropical regions

Feeding by Growth Stage

Piglets (birth–4 weeks)

• Colostrum within first 12 h is vital for immunity.
• Maintain 32–35 °C warmth; prevent chilling.
• Iron supplementation (100–200 mg) to prevent anemia.
• Introduce creep feed from day 7: 18–22 % CP, 13–14 MJ ME/kg.

Weaners (4–8 weeks)

• High digestibility starter feed: 18–22 % CP.
• Feed ad libitum; keep water clean and abundant.
• Use probiotics or enzymes to aid gut health.

Growers (20–50 kg)

• Feed 15–18 % CP, 13–14 MJ ME/kg.
• Balanced amino acids; avoid excessive protein.

Finishers (50–110 kg)

• Feed 12–14 % CP, energy dense for rapid gain.
• Adjust lysine : energy ratio to prevent fat buildup.

Breeding stock

• Gestation: 2–2.5 kg/day moderate-energy feed.
• Lactation: 14–18 % CP; sows may consume 5–10 kg/day.

Feed Formulation & Calculation

Pearson’s Square Example

Make 16 % CP feed from corn (8 % CP) and soybean meal (48 % CP).

1. 48 – 16 = 32 parts corn
2. 16 – 8 = 8 parts soy
3. Total = 40 parts ⇒ 80 % corn : 20 % soy

Digestible Lysine Targets

• Starter 1.2–1.4 %
• Grower 0.9–1.1 %
• Finisher 0.7–0.9 %

Mixing Tips

• Weigh all ingredients.
• Mix thoroughly; add premix last.
• Store feed dry; rotate stock FIFO.

Feeding Management

• Pellets improve FCR; mash is cheaper but can waste more.
• Feed piglets several small meals; growers ad libitum.
• Clean drinkers daily; ensure flow 1–2 L/min for adults.

Metric	How to measure	Target
ADG	Weekly weighing	0.6–0.9 kg/day
FCR	Feed ÷ weight gain	2.2–3.0
Mortality	Daily check	< 5 %

Economics & Feed Efficiency

Feed cost per kg gain = Feed price × FCR

Example: $0.30 × 2.5 = $0.75 per kg gain.

Improving Profitability

• Use local by-products after nutrient testing.
• Optimize energy : protein ratio.
• Adopt phase feeding.
• Monitor weight and feed weekly.

Common Mistakes

1. Moldy feed or poor storage.
2. Ignoring amino acid balance.
3. Water shortages reducing intake.
4. Feeding one ration to all stages.

Modern Innovations

• Alternative proteins: insect meal, algae, single-cell protein.
• Precision feeding systems with RFID sensors.
• Recycling manure nutrients for crops.

Conclusion & Checklist

• Match nutrients to each growth stage.
• Monitor ADG & FCR.
• Balance energy and lysine carefully.
• Keep records for cost and performance.

Further Reading

• Swine Nutrition Texts
• Least-cost formulation manuals
• Research papers on lysine requirements

Feeding by Growth Stage

Feeding pigs based on their growth stage is the cornerstone of efficient pig production. Each stage—piglets, weaners, growers, finishers, and breeders—requires specific nutrients for optimum growth and performance. Improper feeding at any stage can lead to poor weight gain, weak immunity, or low reproductive efficiency. Below is a detailed breakdown of feeding determination across all major pig stages.

Piglets (Birth to 4 Weeks)

Piglets are born with minimal energy and iron reserves. The first hours after birth determine their survival and growth potential. Early nutrition focuses on colostrum intake, warmth, and gradual introduction of creep feed.

Key feeding objectives:

• Provide colostrum immediately (within 2 hours of birth) for antibodies and nutrients.
• Maintain temperature at 32–35°C to prevent chilling and improve feed intake.
• Provide iron injection (100–200 mg) by day 3 to prevent anemia.
• Introduce creep feed by day 7–10 to prepare for weaning.

Creep feed composition (typical):

Ingredient	Percentage (%)	Purpose
Corn (maize)	40	Energy
Soybean meal	25	Protein
Fish meal	10	High-quality protein
Wheat bran	10	Fiber & energy
Skim milk powder	10	Digestibility & growth
Mineral/vitamin premix	3	Micro-nutrients
Salt	0.5	Electrolyte balance
Total	100

Nutritional target: 20–22% crude protein, 13–14 MJ ME/kg, 1.2% lysine. Offer 50–150 g/day/piglet from day 10 until weaning.

Weaners (4 to 8 Weeks)

After weaning, piglets experience stress due to diet and environment change. Their digestive system is still developing, so the feed must be highly digestible and palatable.

Feeding guidelines:

• Feed 18–20% crude protein diet with balanced amino acids.
• Use milk by-products, fish meal, or soybean meal as protein sources.
• Include small particle size feed or pellets for better intake.
• Feed frequency: 3–4 times per day during the first 2 weeks post-weaning.
• Provide constant access to clean, fresh water.

Example weaner ration (per 100 kg):

Ingredient	Quantity (kg)	Purpose
Maize	50	Energy source
Soybean meal	25	Protein
Fish meal	10	High-quality protein
Wheat bran	10	Fiber
Vitamin-mineral mix	2	Essential micro-nutrients
Salt	0.5	Electrolyte balance
Enzyme/probiotic supplement	0.5	Gut health

Average daily feed intake (ADF): 0.6–1.0 kg/day per weaner. Expected weight gain: 300–400 g/day.

Growers (20 to 50 kg Body Weight)

Growers have high muscle growth and moderate fat deposition. Energy and protein balance is critical to maximize feed efficiency without excess fat or waste.

Feeding recommendations:

• Crude protein: 16–18%
• Metabolizable energy: 13–14 MJ/kg
• Lysine: 0.9–1.0%
• Feed ad libitum or 3 times/day.
• Use dry or wet feed depending on local climate.

Example grower ration:

Ingredient	Quantity (kg)	Function
Maize or sorghum	60	Energy
Soybean meal	20	Protein
Wheat bran	10	Fiber
Fish meal	5	Protein quality
Limestone + DCP	2	Calcium/phosphorus
Salt	0.5	Electrolyte balance
Vitamin-mineral premix	2.5	Micro-nutrients

Average feed intake: 2.5–3.5 kg/day/pig. Daily gain: 600–800 g. Feed conversion ratio (FCR): 2.4–2.8.

Finishers (50 to 110 kg Body Weight)

Finishing pigs convert feed into fat and muscle before market. The goal is to achieve fast growth with high-quality carcass and low feed cost.

Feeding focus:

• Reduce crude protein to 13–15% while maintaining lysine at 0.7–0.8%.
• Energy level: 13–13.5 MJ ME/kg for rapid fat deposition.
• Minimize fiber; improve energy density.
• Feed twice daily or ad libitum if self-feeders are used.

Example finisher ration (per 100 kg):

Ingredient	Quantity (kg)	Purpose
Maize	70	Main energy source
Soybean meal	15	Protein
Wheat bran	10	Fiber
Fish meal	2	Quality protein
Limestone + DCP	2	Mineral source
Vitamin-mineral mix	1	Micro-nutrients

Feed intake: 3.5–4.5 kg/day/pig. Daily gain: 800–1,000 g. FCR: 3.0–3.2.

Breeding Stock (Sows and Boars)

Breeders require controlled feeding to maintain body condition, fertility, and milk production. Overfeeding causes obesity; underfeeding leads to poor conception and small litters.

Gestating sows:

• Feed 2.0–2.5 kg/day of 14–15% CP feed.
• Provide moderate energy (12.5–13 MJ ME/kg).
• Add fiber (bran, alfalfa) for satiety and gut health.

Lactating sows:

• Feed 4–7 kg/day depending on litter size.
• Use 16–18% CP diet rich in lysine (1.0–1.2%).
• Encourage water intake (20–25 L/day).

Boars:

• Feed 2–3 kg/day of 15–16% CP diet.
• Include vitamin E and selenium for fertility.
• Maintain moderate body condition to improve libido.

Summary Table: Nutritional Targets by Pig Stage

Stage	Crude Protein (%)	Energy (MJ ME/kg)	Lysine (%)	Feed Intake (kg/day)
Piglets	20–22	13.5–14.0	1.2–1.4	0.05–0.15
Weaners	18–20	13.5	1.1	0.6–1.0
Growers	16–18	13.0–14.0	0.9–1.0	2.5–3.5
Finishers	13–15	13.0–13.5	0.7–0.8	3.5–4.5
Sows (Gestation)	14–15	12.5–13.0	0.8	2.0–2.5
Sows (Lactation)	16–18	13.5	1.0–1.2	4.0–7.0
Boars	15–16	13.0	0.8	2.0–3.0

Proper feeding by stage ensures balanced growth, optimal body condition, and higher farm returns. Inaccurate feed determination at any stage can lead to poor productivity and wasted resources.

Feed Formulation and Calculation Methods

Feed formulation is the process of combining feed ingredients in the right proportions to meet the nutrient requirements of pigs at the lowest possible cost. It involves balancing energy, protein, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins according to the stage of growth and production goal.

1. Understanding the Basics of Feed Formulation

Feed formulation is both an art and a science. A good formulation should provide sufficient nutrients for maintenance, growth, reproduction, and lactation without waste. The process generally involves three key steps:

1. Knowing the pig’s nutrient requirements (based on stage, breed, and growth rate).
2. Understanding the nutrient composition of available feed ingredients.
3. Calculating the correct proportions to meet the requirements at minimal cost.

Formulations can be done manually using simple arithmetic or by using computer software such as WinFeed, FeedSoft, or spreadsheet-based models.

2. Key Nutrient Requirements to Balance

The following nutrients are crucial when formulating pig feeds:

• Energy (MJ ME/kg) — Drives growth, activity, and metabolism. Sources: maize, wheat, cassava.
• Crude Protein (%) — For tissue development and enzyme formation. Sources: soybean meal, fish meal, sunflower cake.
• Lysine (%) — The first limiting amino acid; crucial for muscle development.
• Calcium and Phosphorus (%) — For bone strength and metabolism. Sources: DCP, limestone.
• Vitamins & Minerals — For immunity, reproduction, and health. Added via premixes.

3. Common Feed Ingredients and Nutritional Values

Ingredient	Crude Protein (%)	Energy (MJ ME/kg)	Remarks
Maize	8–9	13.5	Excellent energy source
Wheat bran	15–17	11.5	Good fiber and protein
Soybean meal	44–48	12.5	High-quality protein
Groundnut cake	40–45	12.0	Protein; avoid aflatoxin
Fish meal	55–65	12.0	Best protein source for piglets
Rice bran	12–14	11.5	Energy and fiber
Bone meal	20–25	–	Source of phosphorus
Limestone	–	–	Source of calcium

4. Pearson’s Square Method (Manual Formulation)

The Pearson’s Square method is a simple arithmetic tool for formulating rations to meet a specific protein requirement using two ingredients.

Example:

Formulate a 16% crude protein (CP) grower feed using maize (8% CP) and soybean meal (44% CP).

1. Place desired CP (16%) in the center of the square.
2. On the left side, place the CP of each ingredient: maize (8%) and soybean (44%).
3. Subtract diagonally:
   • 44 − 16 = 28 parts maize
   • 16 − 8 = 8 parts soybean meal
4. Total parts = 28 + 8 = 36
5. Percentage composition:
   • Maize = (28 / 36) × 100 = 77.8%
   • Soybean meal = (8 / 36) × 100 = 22.2%

Therefore, a feed containing 78% maize and 22% soybean meal will provide approximately 16% crude protein.

5. Least-Cost Feed Formulation

Least-cost formulation determines the cheapest combination of ingredients that still meets all nutrient requirements. It’s usually performed using linear programming or specialized software.

Example considerations:

• Maize and cassava may be interchanged depending on price and availability.
• Protein sources can alternate between soybean meal, sunflower cake, and groundnut cake.
• Energy-protein ratio must remain constant despite cost differences.

For instance, if soybean meal prices increase, part of it can be replaced with groundnut cake or cottonseed meal while maintaining lysine balance through synthetic amino acids.

6. Nutrient Balancing Techniques

When formulating, always ensure the following ratios are respected:

• Lysine : Energy ratio — Critical for lean growth; typically 0.9–1.1 g lysine per MJ ME.
• Calcium : Phosphorus ratio — Maintain around 1.5–2 : 1.
• Energy : Protein ratio — Too much energy and low protein leads to fat pigs; too much protein increases cost and nitrogen waste.

7. Moisture and Storage Considerations

Moisture content of finished feed should not exceed 12%. Excess moisture leads to mold growth and aflatoxin contamination, especially in tropical regions. Store feed in clean, dry, and well-ventilated rooms away from direct sunlight and pests.

8. Formulation Example (100 kg Pig Grower Feed)

Ingredient	Quantity (kg)	Role
Maize	55	Main energy source
Wheat bran	10	Fiber and protein
Soybean meal	20	Protein
Fish meal	5	High-quality protein
Limestone	2	Calcium source
Dicalcium phosphate (DCP)	2	Phosphorus source
Vitamin-mineral premix	2	Micro-nutrients
Salt	0.5	Electrolyte balance
Total	96.5

Expected nutrient values:

• Crude protein: 17–18%
• Energy: 13.2 MJ ME/kg
• Calcium: 0.9%
• Phosphorus: 0.7%

9. Practical Mixing Tips

• Weigh all ingredients accurately before mixing.
• Mix dry ingredients thoroughly before adding oils or liquids.
• Add vitamin-mineral premix last to prevent nutrient loss.
• Use horizontal or vertical mixers for uniform blending.
• Always test feed samples periodically in a certified lab.

10. Sample Feed Cost Calculation

Assume the following ingredient costs:

Ingredient	Price (USD/kg)	Quantity (kg)	Cost (USD)
Maize	0.25	55	13.75
Soybean meal	0.60	20	12.00
Wheat bran	0.22	10	2.20
Fish meal	0.90	5	4.50
Minerals + premix + salt	1.00	3	3.00
Total		93	35.45

Cost per 100 kg feed = $35.45
Cost per kg = $0.35
If FCR = 2.5, then feed cost per kg weight gain = $0.35 × 2.5 = $0.88/kg gain.

This allows farmers to estimate profitability and adjust feeding plans according to market feed and pork prices.

11. Importance of Feed Formulation Software

Modern pig producers use computer models to improve precision and profitability. These software systems calculate complex nutrient balances automatically and optimize ingredient combinations using linear programming.

• WinFeed — user-friendly, Excel-compatible, widely used in Africa and Asia.
• FeedSoft — advanced, supports multiple livestock species.
• Brill Formulation — commercial-grade system for feed companies.

Tip: Even with software, you should still verify nutrient outputs manually to ensure biological feasibility.

12. Key Takeaways

• Feed formulation determines 70% of total pig production cost.
• Balance protein, energy, and minerals based on pig stage.
• Use local feed resources efficiently but test their nutrient value.
• Apply least-cost formulation for better margins.
• Regularly monitor pig growth and adjust feed ratios accordingly.

Well-formulated feeds improve feed conversion, reduce waste, and enhance farm profitability in any pig production system.

Pig feeding determination is one of the most crucial aspects of successful pig production. Feeding directly affects growth rate, carcass quality, reproduction, and overall farm profitability. From understanding nutrient requirements to formulating balanced diets, proper feed management ensures that every kilogram of feed converts efficiently into body weight or milk production.

Throughout this guide, we have seen that pigs require different feed compositions at every stage of growth — from the nutrient-rich milk replacers and creep feeds for piglets, to energy-dense rations for finishers and specialized diets for breeding sows and boars. Determining what, when, and how much to feed depends on the pig’s body weight, age, and production purpose.

Farmers and feed formulators should always consider feed quality, ingredient availability, and cost efficiency. Applying feed formulation methods such as the Pearson’s Square and least-cost programming helps balance nutrients and reduce unnecessary expenses. It’s also vital to maintain proper hygiene, clean water supply, and correct feeding frequency to avoid waste and disease outbreaks.

As global demand for pork continues to rise, efficient feeding strategies will play a major role in maintaining sustainability. Integrating scientific knowledge with locally available feed resources can help farmers maximize productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Regular feed testing, accurate record-keeping, and periodic evaluation of feed conversion ratios (FCR) should become standard practice for every serious pig producer.

In summary:

• Feeding determines 70–80% of the total cost of pig production — getting it right is key to profitability.
• Balanced nutrition leads to faster growth, better feed conversion, and higher-quality pork.
• Feeding must be adapted to each growth stage, using scientifically calculated rations.
• Local feed ingredients, when used wisely, can reduce costs without compromising performance.
• Good feeding management — including hygiene, record-keeping, and water provision — enhances efficiency.

Whether you are a smallholder farmer or a large-scale commercial producer, understanding and applying correct feeding determination principles will make the difference between loss and profit. By embracing proper feed formulation, growth stage management, and modern feeding techniques, the future of pig farming can be both profitable and sustainable.

Feed Supplements Vs Commercial Feeds

While commercial pig feeds are convenient and nutritionally balanced, they can be expensive or unavailable in some areas. Many farmers successfully reduce production costs and improve pig performance by using natural and locally available feed supplements. These supplements enrich the diet with proteins, vitamins, minerals, and energy that commercial feeds may lack.

1. Protein-Rich Natural Supplements

Protein is the building block of growth, reproduction, and immunity. Several local sources can replace or complement soybean meal and fish meal in small or medium-scale farms.

• Termites and Maggots: Excellent high-protein sources (40–60% crude protein). Maggot production using organic waste can be sustainable and cheap.
• Earthworms: Provide 55–65% protein and essential amino acids. Ideal for piglets and breeders.
• Leguminous Plants: Leaves from Leucaena leucocephala, Gliricidia sepium, and Moringa oleifera are rich in protein (20–30%) and vitamins.
• Groundnut Cake & Cottonseed Cake: Common oilseed by-products with 35–45% protein. Use in moderation due to possible toxins like gossypol in cottonseed cake.
• Blood Meal & Meat Meal: Animal by-products high in lysine and iron; excellent for weaners and growers when processed hygienically.

2. Energy-Rich Natural Supplements

Energy drives all metabolic activities, from growth to lactation. Local energy sources can effectively supplement maize and wheat bran.

• Cooked Cassava & Cassava Peels: Provide carbohydrates but should be properly dried or boiled to remove cyanide toxins.
• Sweet Potato Tubers & Vines: Both tubers and vines can supply energy and some protein; best when wilted or dried.
• Banana Peels & Reject Bananas: Good for maintenance diets, especially for mature pigs and breeding sows.
• Molasses: Rich in sugar and minerals; used as a palatability enhancer or energy booster (up to 5% inclusion).

3. Fiber and Roughage Supplements

Although pigs are non-ruminants, some fiber is beneficial for digestion and gut health. Fiber sources help regulate bowel movement and prevent constipation, particularly in sows.

• Rice Bran & Wheat Bran: Supply moderate fiber and B-vitamins, commonly used up to 15–20% of diet.
• Vegetable and Fruit Waste: Such as cabbage leaves, carrots, pumpkin peels, and pawpaw skins. Always chop and mix with dry feeds to prevent spoilage.
• Brewer’s Waste (spent grain): High in fiber and residual protein; ideal for growers and finishers. Must be fed fresh to avoid fermentation.

4. Mineral and Vitamin Supplements

Minerals and vitamins are critical for bone development, reproduction, and disease resistance. Farmers can use the following affordable sources to enrich diets:

• Crushed Eggshells & Oyster Shells: Natural sources of calcium for bone and eggshell formation.
• Bone Meal (homemade): Burned and ground animal bones supply both calcium and phosphorus.
• Wood Ash: A trace mineral source containing potassium and calcium; small amounts can be added to feed.
• Green Vegetables: Kale, spinach, and amaranth leaves supply vitamins A, E, and K along with iron.
• Seaweed (where available): Provides iodine and essential trace elements.

5. Probiotics and Natural Feed Additives

Feed additives enhance digestion, growth rate, and immunity. Natural options can replace synthetic antibiotics and growth promoters.

• Fermented Feeds: Soaking maize bran or cassava flour in water for 24–48 hours introduces beneficial lactic acid bacteria, improving digestibility.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Added to drinking water (10 ml per liter) helps prevent digestive infections and improves gut health.
• Garlic & Ginger Powder: Natural antibacterial and appetite stimulants; mix 1–2% in feed.
• Yeast Culture: Enhances feed conversion and boosts microbial activity in the gut.

6. Locally Made Feed Premixes

Premixes contain concentrated vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. While commercial premixes are recommended, farmers can prepare simple local blends using crushed multivitamin tablets and mineral-rich sources like bone meal and salt.

However, this should only supplement—not replace—standard premixes, especially for breeding and lactating pigs where precision nutrition is essential.

7. Safety and Processing Tips

• Always dry or cook plant-based supplements to remove anti-nutritional factors such as tannins and cyanides.
• Store supplements in dry, shaded areas to prevent mold and aflatoxin contamination.
• Introduce new feed ingredients gradually to avoid digestive stress.
• Maintain clean feeding troughs to prevent bacterial buildup from wet feeds.
• Monitor pig performance and adjust inclusion rates as needed.

8. Benefits of Using Local Feed Supplements

• Reduces feeding costs by up to 30–40%.
• Improves farm sustainability and self-reliance.
• Encourages use of agricultural and household by-products.
• Enhances meat quality through natural nutrient enrichment.
• Supports circular farming systems and waste reduction.

In summary, supplementing pig diets with locally available feed resources is an effective way to maintain productivity while minimizing expenses. However, always balance these feeds with proper nutrient formulation to ensure optimal pig health and performance.

Suggested Next Reads:

• Types of Feed
• Pig Farming Challenges
• Synchronization of Oestrus

For more articles on animal nutrition and livestock management, stay tuned to our blog for upcoming guides on pig housing, breeding, and disease control.