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Updated: Mar 30, 2026
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Published on: June 16, 2018
Potential of Using Maize Cobs in Pig Diets - A Review
A T Kanengoni1, M Chimonyo2, B K Ndimba3
1Agricultural Research Council-Animal Production Institute, Pretoria 0062, South Africa ; Department of Animal Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa .
Maize cobs can be a cost-effective pig feed ingredient, but their fibrous nature requires processing. Ensiling with enzymes can improve nutrient digestibility and pig health.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural By-products
Background:
- Pig producers face limited feed ingredient options.
- Maize cobs are abundant, low-cost agricultural by-products.
- Their lignocellulosic structure hinders pig digestion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review maize cob composition and its impact on pig nutrition.
- To explore methods for improving maize cob utilization in pig diets.
- To propose ensiling with exogenous enzymes as a viable processing method.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on maize cob composition.
- Analysis of effects on nutrient digestibility and intestinal microflora.
- Evaluation of growth performance in pigs fed processed maize cobs.
Main Results:
- Maize cobs are high in fiber (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin).
- Processing methods like grinding, heating, and fermentation can improve utilization.
- Dietary fiber benefits gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.
Conclusions:
- Maize cobs have potential as a sustainable pig feed ingredient.
- Ensiling with exogenous enzymes is a promising strategy to enhance maize cob digestibility and pig performance.
- Further research can optimize this approach for wider adoption.
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