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In the face of rising pig losses, how can farmers minimize their financial setbacks? During a training session held in Sihui on April 15th, Professor Liu Yanfen from Guangdong Ocean University shared innovative strategies with local farmers. She emphasized that raising pigs on pasture can reduce feed costs by 10% to 30%, offering a practical solution for sustainable and cost-effective pig farming.
Pigs are monogastric animals with an omnivorous diet, and their digestive system relies heavily on fermentation in the large intestine. The cecum and anterior colon play a key role in breaking down green forage. By feeding grass, farmers can enhance gut motility and improve nutrient absorption. "New king grass, ryegrass, legumes, and cowpeas are all excellent choices for pastures," said Professor Liu. Not only do these plants provide nutrition, but they also help improve soil quality over time.
When incorporating forage into pig diets, it's important to manage the feeding method. Grass can be chopped, mixed with concentrates, or fed before the grain-based feed. However, when boiling forage, it's crucial not to cover the pot and avoid temperatures between 40°C and 60°C to prevent potential poisoning. The amount of forage fed should vary depending on the pig’s stage of growth. For sows, up to 70% of their diet can consist of forage, while growing pigs should have no more than 30%.
On average, a pig consumes about 350 kilograms of feed from birth to market weight. A 10% reduction in feed usage could save over 300 yuan per pig. With current farm losses ranging from 50 to 150 yuan per pig, using pasture as a substitute for part of the concentrate offers a viable way to maintain profitability, even in a downturn.
Several farms in Sihui have already started experimenting with pasture-raised pigs, driven by both economic and environmental benefits. Wu Xiaobin, head of Qingfeng Pig Farm, reported that using forage has reduced constipation issues in sows and lowered feed costs significantly. “The grass grows quickly, and it’s almost free compared to commercial feed,†he noted.
While pasture-based pig farming offers cost advantages, it also requires sufficient land for planting. Professor Liu acknowledged that not all farms have this resource, but she suggested adapting forage production based on the farm’s scale. “Even small-scale farms can incorporate forage strategically,†she added, highlighting the flexibility and potential of this approach in modern livestock management.