Incorporating probiotic live yeast into pig diets can reduce finishing time and improve feed conversion ratio, suggests a trial. The year-long trial was carried out across a total of 27,000 pigs in 66 batches. Some 32 batches were supplemented with the probiotic live yeast Levucell SB, says Hannah Elliott,... Read more
UK pig producers are being urged develop robust contingency plans as African swine fever continues to spread across Europe. ASF is a highly contagious viral disease of pigs. There are several different strains. Pigs infected with mild strains may not become ill or show typical clinical signs. But severe... Read more
Inspirational pig industry stalwart Howard Revell has won the 2024 David Black Award – recognising his long-standing dedication to the sector. The accolade – recognising Mr Revell’s efforts to help improve animal welfare while mentoring others within the industry for almost 40 years – was presented on 18 November... Read more
Lowest level of livestock antibiotics Multi-drug resistance in pigs and poultry has fallen to an all-time low after a decade of reducing antibiotic use. The amount of antibiotics sold for livestock remains at the lowest level to date, says Defra. But an increase in antibiotic usage for some livestock... Read more
Poultry and pig producers are being advised to review hygiene protocols to reduce the risk of pathogenic infections affecting performance. Better hygiene and disinfection procedures are seen as a key way to maximise biosecurity and reduce productivity losses – including those resulting from sub-clinical health issues. “Monogastric units remain... Read more
Pig industry leaders have urged the government to stop illegal meat imports and animal disease from entering the UK. The National Pig Association national biosecurity and better border controls should be a top priority amid fears that a major disease outbreak could devastate Britain’s outdoor herds and indoor units.... Read more
Helps to reduce carbon footprint Hybrid rye is increasingly being seen as bringing significant benefits to pig and poultry rations as well as having major agronomic benefits for growers with its low nitrogen requirement and tolerance to increasingly frequent drought conditions. The earlier advantages seen when rye is fed... Read more
Lallemand Animal Nutrition has expanded its monogastric team by appointing a new poultry sales manager with a wealth of industry experience. Antonia Chittock brings more than 13 years of poultry expertise to the team – having started her career at AB Agri as a feed sales trainee and progressing... Read more
Pig producers are being encouraged to reach out to their vets to perform free diagnostics if they are concerned about post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD). Elanco is funding veterinary testing for the F4 and F18 strains of E.coli – both of which are a common causes of PWD and have shown to be present on... Read more
Pig project set to reduce emissions A Nottinghamshire pig producer has joined a pioneering programme that will see retailer M&S work with farmers to decarbonise its meat supply chain and reach net zero by 2040. Wold Farm, which supplies M&S pork through Cranswick, is one of seven farming enterprises... Read more