Precision Feeding on Pig Fattening Farms: Can Simplified Implementation Enhance Productivity and Reduce Pollutant Emissions?

This study evaluated a simplified precision feeding (PF) strategy on pig fattening farms to assess its effects on economic performance and pollutant emissions. PF in pig production can reduce nitrogen (N) intake, excretion, and slurry-related environmental impacts, yet its implementation is difficult due to the need for daily diet adjustments to match pigs’ changing requirements. This work tested a simplified PF approach: two commercial feeds, a nutrient-rich pre-grower and a nutrient-poor finisher, were blended weekly based on the lysine needs of two groups of pigs, defined by initial body weight. During the fattening period, blend feeding (BF) sustained growth and feed intake at levels comparable to those with conventional three-phase feeding, but heavy pigs under BF showed reduced feed efficiency. Nitrogen excretion and slurry ammonia (NH3) emissions did not differ significantly, but BF increased methane and carbon dioxide emissions in the slurry from heavy pigs. The results show that simplified PF can provide economic benefits without compromising performance, but BF formulation should also address potential NH3 and greenhouse gas emissions during slurry storage. The integration of artificial intelligence-driven tools for real-time diet adjustments at the farm level would be of great interest to enhance sustainability and efficiency, because the economic benefits of PF application were evident.