[Glycerol as a feed component in fattening pigs]

Area of Science:

• Animal Nutrition
• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Glycerol is a significant byproduct of biodiesel production from rapeseed oil.
• Efficient utilization of this glycerol byproduct in animal feed can improve sustainability.
• Previous research on glycerol's impact on livestock diets is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of glycerol as a feed component for fattening pigs.
• To determine optimal inclusion levels of glycerol in pig diets.
• To assess the effects of glycerol on pig growth performance, feed intake, and meat quality.

Main Methods:

• Two feeding experiments were conducted with 48 pigs (Pietrain x F1, Landrace x German breed).
• Pigs received diets containing 5-30% glycerol, replacing barley.
• Feed intake, live weight gain, feed conversion ratio, blood/urine glycerol levels, carcass yield, and meat quality were monitored.

Main Results:

• Glycerol supplementation increased feed intake and daily live weight gain, attributed to its sweet taste and improved feed structure.
• A feed conversion ratio significantly different from controls was observed only at 30% glycerol inclusion.
• Blood and urine glycerol levels increased with dietary glycerol content, but no pathological changes in liver or kidney were observed.

Conclusions:

• Glycerol can be safely included in fattening pig diets.
• Up to 10% dietary glycerol is recommended for optimal results without adverse effects.
• Glycerol shows potential as a sustainable and cost-effective feed ingredient in swine production.