Unrestricted whey for fattening pigs

Abstract

1. Results are reported from two experiments in a series to determine the optimal amount of meal to be fed in conjunction with unrestricted whey for fattening pigs.2. In both experiments, one carried out during the summer and the other during the winter season, the same four treatments were given. The control pigs received meal ad. lib up to a maximum of 6½ lb./ head daily. Pigs on the other three treatments received whey ad lib., and either 3 lb., or 3 lb. reduced at two different stages to 2 lb. of meal per head daily. There were ten pens of nine pigs on each treatment, involving a total of 360 pigs. Comprehensive carcass measurements were made on all pigs.3. The data obtained showed that satisfactory results could be obtained by feeding a daily allowance of 3 lb./pig of a proprietary sow and weaner meal throughout the fattening period, in conjunction with unrestricted whey. Where the utilization of as much whey and as little meal as possible was required, it was shown that a reduction from 3 to 2 lb. meal/pig/day by the 13th week of life could be made without adverse effects, apart from an increase of approximately 12 days in the time taken to reach bacon weights.4. Carcass grading results of all whey-fed pigs were reasonably satisfactory, but both the carcass grading and general performance of the control animals was not good. Possible reasons for this were discussed.5. Data concerning the pattern of food consumption over 14-day periods throughout the experiments were presented. Pigs given 3 lb. of meal/day throughout, or 3 lb. reduced to 2 lb./day, consumed up to approximately 3¼–3½ or 3¾–4 gal. of whey/day respectively.