Protein Levels for Pigs as Studied by Nitrogen Balance

Abstract

Using well-fortified practical diets, a study was made of the minimum protein intake of pigs for maximum nitrogen retention. The precision of 3-, 5-, and 7-day collection periods was also compared. With 50-lb. pigs, nitrogen retention increased to about the 18% protein level. With 150-lb. pigs, the data suggest that crude protein levels from 10 to 22% affect nitrogen retention, but the differences were not statistically significant. After a 10-day preliminary period, a 7-day collection period offered only a little advantage over a 3-day collection period in the case of 50-lb pigs, and even less advantage with 150-lb. pigs. Copyright © . .