A good example of the change in performance expectations is shown in Table 1. This table summarizes results from two experiments, one conducted in 1980, the other in 2001. Both experiments were carried out in the same partially slotted, modified-open-front facility at similar times of the year using feeder pigs from a single source.

In Table 1, note the large increase in average daily gain, average final weight, and the large improvement in feed conversion efficiency when comparing the 2001 and 1980 trials.

There are many reasons for these performance differences. The most obvious include single-sex ('01) vs. mixed-sex pens of pigs ('80), and different feeders, genetics, health status and nutritional regimens.

This list of differences highlights many of the changes that have occurred in the finishing phase of production. As researchers, producers, nutritionists, veterinarians, equipment manufacturers and others have better understood the pig and its needs, and breeders have responded to the genetic challenge, expectations of normal performance have ratcheted higher in the past couple of decades.

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Source: National Hog Farmer - 15th October 2002