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Feed typically accounts for 60–70% of the total cost of raising pigs, so even small gains in feed conversion ratio (FCR) translate directly into stronger margins. Improving feed efficiency is not about feeding less — it is about ensuring that every kilogram of feed delivers the maximum amount of lean growth. That depends on diet formulation, gut health, and the environment in which pigs are raised.

Match the diet to the pig

Nutrient requirements change rapidly as pigs grow. Phase feeding — adjusting energy, amino acid and mineral levels to each stage — prevents both under- and over-supply. Precisely formulated diets reduce nutrient excretion, lower feed cost per kilogram of gain, and ease the environmental footprint of production.

Unlock nutrients with enzymes

A significant fraction of the energy and phosphorus in cereal-based diets is locked in forms pigs cannot fully digest. Feed enzymes such as phytases and carbohydrases release these nutrients, improving digestibility and allowing formulators to reduce the inclusion of expensive ingredients while maintaining performance.

• Use phase feeding to align nutrient supply with each growth stage
• Add feed enzymes to improve energy and phosphorus digestibility
• Protect gut health so the small intestine can absorb what the diet provides
• Manage feeder adjustment and particle size to cut feed wastage
• Keep pigs in their thermoneutral zone to avoid wasting energy on thermoregulation

Feed efficiency is won gram by gram — in the formulation, in the gut, and in the barn environment.

VPhS Technical Team

Do not overlook the environment

Even a perfectly balanced diet cannot compensate for poor housing. Draughts, wet floors, overcrowding and inconsistent temperatures force pigs to burn energy on maintenance rather than growth. Good ventilation, comfortable stocking density and clean water all support the return on every feed investment.

Conclusion

Improving feed efficiency in swine is a cumulative discipline: precise diets, enzyme supplementation, robust gut health and a well-managed environment each contribute a share. Together they lower the cost of production, reduce nutrient losses and support healthier, faster-growing pigs.