Thompson's tip: Save feed, cut waste
UK - Despite the high cost of feed, frequently very simple feed-saving tasks on pig farms are being ignored.![]() |
Fed waste cannot be ignored and must be minimised. |
Paul Thompson MRCVS, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding and genetics company, ACMC says feeders with splits and holes in the bottom are a common sight on many units.
"And feed makes expensive bedding," says Paul.
Food dropping through slats due to damaged hoppers is also a common problem and under current economic conditions producers can't afford to waste this valuable resource.
Paul advises producers to make sure all feeders and feeding equipment/dispensers are set to deliver the correct amount of food, and to the right place.
While inspecting feeders it is also worthwhile re-checking that adequate feeding space is available for the size and number of pigs in each pen. The latest BPEX guide on Defra Codes of Welfare provide a good reference, says ACMC.