Can Tho University Journal of Science (Nov 2015)
The effects of probiotic supplementation on growth performance of weaning pigs in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam
Abstract
The experiment was conducted at the farm in Cho Lach district, Ben Tre province to assess the supply of probiotic products on performance of [Duroc x (Yorkshire-Landrace) - DYL] 108 piglets (12 herds) after weaning. Piglets were weaned at 28 days of age and the experimental period was lasted 5 weeks. The initial live weight of pigs was about 8 kg and final live weight of 26 kg. The experimental design was 3 treatments and 12 blocks (12 herds); each herd was divided into 3 groups randomly allocated into 3 treatments. It included 2 treatments supplied probiotic products (PRO: containing Bacillussubtilis, Lactobacillus spp; PRO-ANT: PRO + neomycine sulphate) vs to the CONTROL (none supply bio-product). Results showed that live weight of pig and growth parameters (weight gain, average daily gain) of pigs which supplied bio-products were significantly (P<0.05) higher as compared to those of the control group at week number 4 and 5. Feed conversion ratio was also effective (P<0.05) for the PRO and PRO-ANT treatments. The diarrhea rate (%) of piglets in the treatments with additional products was lower than that in the CONTROL group. Quantitative results of E. coli (106 CFU/g) in feces samples of pig in the CONTROL (3.1) were higher than PRO (0.9) and PRO-ANT (0.6). Economic benefits of feed and veterinary for the CONTROL (100%) were lower than PRO (106%) and PRO-ANT (108%). The supplement of probiotic products may become effective for improving performance, pig health and also the environment in the Mekong Delta.
