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Project

Reducing feed consumption for sustainable pig production (VLEVAVOER)

Main research question/goal
The “Reducing feed consumption for sustainable pig production” project is a research and demonstration project with potential for increasing the profitability of fattening pig farms. The aim of the project is to interactively inform farmers about feed conversion ratio and feed spillage. Feed conversion ratio is a main determinant of pig farm sustainability. The focus is on management such as feeder adjustment and feed type. We want to give a picture of possible losses when farmers do not take these factors into account.

Research approach
By performing farm visits, we will identify problems concerning feed usage to get a list of important influencing factors. During the visits, we both identify and demonstrate possible problem areas and perform demonstration trials on feeder adjustment and feed type. We calculate the effect of feed losses on individual farms’ profitability via the Pigs2win model. We disseminate research through seminars, newsletters and brochures. The “Pig information counter” (“Varkensloket” in Flemish) helps to disseminate the results.

Relevance/Valorisation
Feed conversion ratio is a main determinant of pig farm profitability. Some farmers appear to be insufficiently aware of this, or assume that the conversion is mainly due to genetics, gender and feed composition.
The ultimate goal of the project is to optimize Flemish pig production and increase its sustainability. We do this by convincing pig farmers of the importance of feed spillage and translating scientific knowledge into on-farm practice.

Funding provider(s)
Vlaamse Overheid - L&V ADLO

External partner(s)
KULeuven - Fac. Bio-ingenieurswetenschappen
Proef- en vormingscentrum vd Landbouw
UGent
Vives
Date:1 Apr 2015 →  30 Mar 2017