What do Pigs Eat? [Most Essential Food for Pigs]

The nutritional needs of growing and finishing pigs are essential for their health, growth, and efficient production. As pigs grow, their nutritional requirements change. Below are the key nutritional components and guidelines for growing and finishing pigs:

1. Energy (Calories)

• Energy Source: The primary source of energy for pigs is carbohydrates from grains like corn, barley, and wheat. Fats (like vegetable oils or animal fats) can also be included for energy density.
• Growing Pigs: Young pigs require high energy to fuel their rapid growth.
• Finishing Pigs: As pigs approach market weight, they still need energy for finishing but at a slightly reduced rate because their growth rate slows.
• Energy Requirement: Energy is typically measured in ME (metabolizable energy) or NE (net energy). The amount varies depending on the pig’s weight and age, with a growing pig (30–50 kg) requiring around 3.2–3.5 Mcal per kg of feed, while finishing pigs (80–110 kg) might need around 3.0–3.4 Mcal per kg of feed.

2. Protein

• Protein Source: Protein is essential for muscle development, tissue growth, and overall health. Common protein sources include soybean meal, canola meal, fish meal, and other legumes.
• Growing Pigs: The protein requirement is higher during the growing phase to support muscle development.
• Finishing Pigs: The protein requirement decreases as pigs get closer to their finishing weight because their growth rate slows, and they focus more on fat deposition.
• Protein Requirement:
  • For growing pigs, protein content should be around 18–20% of the diet.
  • For finishing pigs, protein content should drop to around 14–16%.

3. Amino Acids

• Pigs require a balance of essential amino acids (e.g., lysine, methionine, threonine) for muscle growth and metabolism.
• Lysine is the most critical amino acid for growing pigs. A lysine deficiency can severely limit growth.
• As pigs approach finishing weight, their need for amino acids decreases because the body shifts more towards fat storage rather than muscle building.

4. Minerals

• Calcium: Important for bone development. Growing pigs need higher calcium levels to support skeletal growth.
• Phosphorus: Works together with calcium for bone development and overall metabolism.
• Sodium, Chloride, and Potassium: These minerals are essential for electrolyte balance, particularly in the growing phase, as they help maintain fluid balance and muscle function.
• Trace Minerals: Zinc, copper, iron, iodine, and manganese support immune function, enzyme activity, and overall growth. Supplements may be needed, especially in confined feeding systems.

5. Vitamins

• Vitamin A: Supports immune function, skin health, and growth. Growing pigs need sufficient levels for cellular and immune system development.
• Vitamin D: Vital for calcium and phosphorus metabolism and bone development.
• Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, supporting overall health and immune function.
• Vitamin K and B-Vitamins: Important for metabolism, red blood cell formation, and energy utilization.
• In general, pigs are usually fed a vitamin supplement, as their natural diet may not provide all the necessary vitamins in adequate amounts.

6. Fiber

• Role of Fiber: While pigs are not “ruminants,” they still need fiber in their diet for proper digestion and gut health. Fiber helps stimulate gut motility, preventing constipation and digestive disorders.
• Growing Pigs: A moderate level of fiber is needed to support proper digestion.
• Finishing Pigs: The fiber content can be reduced in the finishing phase to allow for faster weight gain, but it should still be included to avoid digestive problems.

7. Water

• Water Intake: Pigs require access to clean, fresh water at all times, as water is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health.
• Water Consumption: The amount of water a pig needs depends on its age, diet, and environmental conditions. Growing and finishing pigs typically drink around 2–3 times as much water as the feed they consume.

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Diet Composition Based on Growth Phase

Growing Pigs (30-60 kg)

• Energy: 3.2–3.5 Mcal/kg
• Protein: 18–20% of the diet
• Lysine: 1.0–1.1% of the diet
• Fiber: Moderate (4-5% crude fiber)
• Calcium: 0.7–1.0% of the diet
• Phosphorus: 0.5–0.7% of the diet

Finishing Pigs (60-110 kg)

• Energy: 3.0–3.4 Mcal/kg
• Protein: 14–16% of the diet
• Lysine: 0.8–0.9% of the diet
• Fiber: Lower (3-4% crude fiber)
• Calcium: 0.6–0.8% of the diet
• Phosphorus: 0.4–0.6% of the diet

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Feeding Strategies

• Phase Feeding: Many commercial farms use phase feeding, where the diet is adjusted as pigs grow. For example, protein and amino acid levels are higher in the early growing phases and then reduced as pigs transition into the finishing phase.
• Optimizing Feed Efficiency: To minimize costs and maximize growth, feeding strategies often involve providing the right balance of nutrients in the right amounts at the right times. Overfeeding protein can be costly, and underfeeding energy can slow growth.

Nutritional requirements of piglets

The nutritional requirements of piglets are crucial for their growth and development, particularly during the early stages of life. Piglets undergo rapid growth in the first few weeks, so providing the right balance of nutrients is essential for optimal health, immune function, and long-term productivity. Below are the key nutritional components and guidelines for piglets:

1. Energy

• Energy Source: Piglets require energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for growth, body development, and activity. The primary energy sources are milk (for suckling piglets) and, later, carbohydrates from grains like corn or wheat in their solid feed.
• Energy Requirement:
  • Newborn piglets: The energy needs are primarily met through sow milk, which is rich in fat and lactose.
  • Weaned piglets (around 3–4 weeks): After weaning, piglets will begin to require energy from solid feed sources. The energy content of their feed should be around 3.5–4.0 Mcal/kg.

2. Protein

• Protein Source: Protein is essential for the rapid growth and development of muscle, organs, and tissues. Initially, piglets rely on the protein found in sow milk, but as they transition to solid feed, protein from ingredients like soybean meal, whey, or fish meal are added.
• Protein Requirement:
  • Suckling piglets: Protein needs are met by sow’s milk. Piglet milk contains sufficient protein (around 8–10%).
  • Weaned piglets: The protein requirement increases to support rapid growth. A diet with 18–22% protein is typically required for weaned piglets. This protein helps to support muscle development and immune function.

3. Amino Acids

• Essential Amino Acids: Like all growing animals, piglets require essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, threonine, and tryptophan. These amino acids are critical for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health.
• Lysine: Lysine is the most important amino acid for piglets and is commonly supplemented in piglet diets.
  • Lysine requirement: For weaned piglets, lysine should make up about 1.1–1.3% of the diet.

4. Fats

• Fat Source: Fats provide a concentrated energy source. Fats from milk, vegetable oils, or animal fats are commonly used in piglet feeds. The fat content in piglet feed is typically around 6–8% to ensure proper energy balance.
• Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid are important for cell structure and overall health.

5. Vitamins

• Vitamin A: Supports immune function, skin health, and vision.
• Vitamin D: Important for calcium and phosphorus metabolism and bone development.
• Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant to protect cells and supports immune function.
• B-Vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, etc.): B-vitamins are essential for energy metabolism and nervous system health.
• Piglet feeds are often supplemented with a balanced vitamin mix to ensure their needs are met.

6. Minerals

• Calcium and Phosphorus: Essential for bone development, muscle function, and metabolic processes.
  • Calcium requirement: Approximately 0.8–1.0% of the diet.
  • Phosphorus requirement: Approximately 0.5–0.7% of the diet.
• Sodium and Chloride: Crucial for electrolyte balance and proper cellular function.
• Trace Minerals: Zinc, copper, iron, iodine, and manganese play important roles in immune function, enzyme activity, and overall growth.

7. Fiber

• Role of Fiber: While piglets’ fiber needs are lower than in adult pigs, a small amount of fiber is important for the development of the digestive system and gut health.
• Fiber Content: Piglet diets usually contain around 2–4% fiber, which helps in gut motility and aids in the transition from a milk-based diet to solid feed.

8. Water

• Water Intake: Water is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. Piglets should have constant access to fresh, clean water from birth, especially as they transition from milk to solid feed.
• Water Consumption: Water consumption increases as piglets begin to eat solid food. After weaning, piglets will drink about 2–3 liters of water per day, depending on the environment and feed intake.

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Diet Composition for Piglets at Different Stages

1. Newborn Piglets (0-2 Weeks)

• Milk: Mother’s milk or a suitable sow milk replacer is the primary source of nutrition.
• Energy: The energy needs are met by the milk, which provides sufficient fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
• Protein: High-quality milk provides enough protein (~8–10%).
• Water: Ensure access to fresh water to complement milk intake.

2. Early Weaning (3–4 Weeks)

• Solid Feed: At around 3–4 weeks, piglets start transitioning to solid feed.
• Energy: 3.5–4.0 Mcal/kg of energy from solid feed.
• Protein: 18–22% protein from high-quality sources such as soybean meal.
• Amino Acids: Add supplemental amino acids like lysine (1.1–1.3%) to ensure proper growth.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Supplement with appropriate levels of vitamins A, D, E, B-complex, calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals.
• Fiber: Moderate fiber content (around 3–4%) to support gut development.

3. Post-Weaning (4–8 Weeks)

• Solid Feed: Continue feeding high-quality starter rations, with an emphasis on digestible ingredients.
• Energy: Around 3.5 Mcal/kg of energy.
• Protein: Protein level should be around 20–22% to support growth and immune function.
• Amino Acids: Lysine levels of 1.1–1.3% are essential for growth.
• Fiber: Fiber content can be increased slightly as piglets’ digestive systems mature (around 3–5%).

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Feeding Strategy for Piglets

• Milk-based Feeding: Suckling piglets should receive the sow’s milk for at least 2–3 weeks. If necessary, milk replacers can be used.
• Transition to Solid Feed: Gradually introduce solid feed as piglets approach 3 weeks of age. This transition helps with gut development and prepares them for weaning.
• Weaning: A gradual weaning process is recommended, with the introduction of high-protein, energy-dense starter feeds after weaning.
• Starter Feeds: High-quality starter rations with adequate protein and energy should be provided for piglets post-weaning to support their rapid growth.

What do baby pigs eat?

Baby pigs, or piglets, have specific dietary needs to support their rapid growth and development during the first few weeks of life. Here’s what they eat at different stages:

1. Newborn Piglets (0–2 Weeks)

• Mother’s Milk: The primary food for newborn piglets is sow’s milk. It provides all the nutrients they need, including:
  • Protein: For growth and muscle development.
  • Fat: For energy.
  • Carbohydrates: Mostly from lactose, the sugar in milk, which provides energy.
  • Antibodies: Colostrum (the first milk produced by the sow) is rich in antibodies, helping the piglet develop immunity against diseases.
• Water: Though they get hydration from the milk, piglets should also have access to fresh, clean water, especially if the sow isn’t able to provide enough milk.

2. Early Weaning (3–4 Weeks)

• Milk Replacer (if necessary): If the sow’s milk is insufficient or the piglet is orphaned, a milk replacer designed for piglets can be given. This is similar to sow milk but is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing piglets.
• Starter Feed: Around 3–4 weeks of age, piglets begin to nibble on solid feed. Starter feeds are specially formulated for piglets and are typically:
  • High in protein (around 20–22%).
  • Energy-dense to support their rapid growth.
  • Easily digestible (often made from corn, soy, or wheat).
  • Formulated with vitamins and minerals to support immune function and development.
• Transitioning to Solid Feed: At this age, piglets start transitioning from milk to solid feed. This helps develop their digestive system and encourages the weaning process.

3. Post-Weaning (4–8 Weeks)

• Solid Starter Feed: After weaning, piglets are fully transitioned to solid starter rations.
  • These feeds are still high in protein, typically around 20–22%, to support continued growth.
  • The feed will also be nutrient-rich with vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals, to support bone development and overall health.
  • Fiber: Fiber content is increased slightly to help develop the piglets’ digestive systems.

4. Weaning Diet (After 8 Weeks)

• After 8 weeks, piglets continue to eat grower or finisher feed that is lower in protein and tailored to support weight gain as they grow. This feed will have:
  • Protein levels reduced (around 16–18%) as the piglets approach their finishing phase.
  • Energy-rich ingredients to promote muscle growth and fat deposition.
  • Moderate fiber to maintain gut health.

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Summary of Baby Pig Feeding Stages:

1. 0–2 weeks: Sow’s milk (or milk replacer if needed).
2. 3–4 weeks: Starter feed (solid feed), transition from milk to solid food.
3. 4–8 weeks: Solid starter feed, weaning begins.
4. 8 weeks and older: Grower or finisher feed, with lower protein content to support continued growth.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Pigs

While pigs are generally omnivorous and can eat a wide variety of foods, there are certain foods that should not be fed to them due to potential health risks, digestive issues, or toxicity. Here’s a list of foods to avoid feeding pigs:

1. Raw or Undercooked Meat

• Why Avoid: Raw or undercooked meat can carry bacteria and parasites, such as trichinosis, which can harm pigs and even humans. Pigs can be carriers of African Swine Fever (ASF) or Classical Swine Fever (CSF), which can be transmitted through pork products.
• Exception: Cooked meat (without bones) can be fed in moderation, but it’s still not recommended in large amounts.

2. Spoiled or Moldy Food

• Why Avoid: Spoiled food, including moldy bread, grains, or fruit, can contain mycotoxins, which are toxic to pigs and can cause digestive issues, liver damage, and even death.
• Tip: Always check that food is fresh and free from mold before feeding it to pigs.

3. Raw Potatoes and Potato Peels

• Why Avoid: Solanine, a toxic compound found in raw potatoes and potato skins, can cause poisoning in pigs, leading to symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and digestive upset.
• Tip: If you want to feed potatoes, make sure they are cooked and peeled properly.

4. Onions and Garlic

• Why Avoid: Onions and garlic, when consumed in large amounts, can cause hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells), leading to weakness, lethargy, and possible death. Both vegetables contain compounds like thiosulfates, which are toxic to pigs.
• Tip: Avoid feeding these foods altogether to pigs, especially in large quantities.

5. Chocolate

• Why Avoid: Theobromine, a compound in chocolate, is toxic to pigs (and many other animals). It can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or death.
• Tip: Always keep chocolate and cocoa products away from pigs.

6. Avocados

• Why Avoid: Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can be harmful to pigs and other animals like birds and cattle. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems in pigs.
• Tip: Avoid feeding any part of the avocado plant to pigs.

7. Citrus Fruits

• Why Avoid: While small amounts of citrus fruits may not harm pigs, large quantities can cause digestive upset. The acidity can irritate the stomach and lead to diarrhea or discomfort.
• Tip: If feeding citrus, do so in moderation, and always ensure the fruits are not overly acidic or too large for the pigs to consume comfortably.

8. Alcohol

• Why Avoid: Alcohol is toxic to pigs, just as it is to many animals. It can depress the nervous system, cause digestive problems, and potentially lead to alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.
• Tip: Never feed any alcoholic beverages to pigs.

9. Bones (especially cooked bones)

• Why Avoid: Cooked bones are brittle and can easily splinter, leading to potential choking hazards, intestinal blockages, or internal injuries. Even raw bones can pose a risk if not handled properly.
• Tip: Never feed bones that are small, cooked, or brittle. If you do feed bones, make sure they are raw and large enough to prevent choking.

10. High-Sugar or High-Salt Foods

• Why Avoid: Pigs should avoid large amounts of sugary foods (like candy or sweetened foods) and salty foods (like processed snacks or salty meats) because they can disrupt their dietary balance and lead to obesity, diabetes, or other health issues like kidney problems or dehydration.
• Tip: Avoid feeding foods like cakes, sweets, and processed foods with high salt or sugar content.

11. Certain Plants

• Why Avoid: Some plants can be toxic to pigs. These include:
  • Rhubarb leaves (contain oxalates, which can cause kidney failure).
  • Foxglove (which is poisonous if ingested).
  • Nightshade plants (like tomatoes and peppers when consumed in large quantities, particularly if they are green).
• Tip: Be cautious when allowing pigs to forage, and make sure they don’t have access to toxic plants.

12. Uncooked Beans

• Why Avoid: Uncooked beans, such as kidney beans, contain lectins which can be toxic to pigs. Cooking beans eliminates the lectins and makes them safe to eat.
• Tip: Always cook beans thoroughly before feeding them to pigs.

13. Dairy Products (in excess)

• Why Avoid: Some pigs may have trouble digesting dairy products like milk, cheese, or yogurt. Feeding them too much dairy can lead to digestive upset, diarrhea, or gas.
• Tip: Small amounts of dairy can be okay for pigs, but it should not be a regular part of their diet.

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General Guidelines for Feeding Pigs:

• Fresh, Balanced Diet: Pigs should have access to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, including grains, protein sources, vegetables, and some fruits (in moderation).
• Safe Scraps: If you feed pigs food scraps, ensure they are free of the harmful foods listed above and are properly prepared (cooked and cut into appropriate sizes).
• Consult a Veterinarian: If you’re unsure about whether a specific food is safe for your pig, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian.

Conclusion

Growing and finishing pigs have different nutritional needs, and meeting these requirements is key to ensuring healthy growth, efficient feed conversion, and optimal market weight. Ensuring the right balance of protein, energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber will support their growth and health through each phase.