Effects of Fermented Soybean Hulls on Reproductive Performance, Blood Physiology and Immune Parameters Along with Fecal Microbiota in Sows

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effects of fermented soybean hulls (FSHS) on reproductive performance, plasma biochemical profiles, immune parameters, and fecal microbiota in sows. A total of 325 sows were randomized into five groups, each fed a diet with varying FSHS proportions: 0% (control), 2% (FSHS2), 4% (FSHS4), 6% (FSHS6), and 8% (FSHS8). Diets were prepared by replacing conventional soybean hulls with FSHS in equal amounts. The study lasted from day 30 to day 110 of gestation. The results indicated the following: (1) Reproductive Performance: The number of live piglets per litter, newborn litter weight, and individual piglet weight increased linearly with the increase in FSHS addition in the diet (PLinear Linear = 0.076). FSHS improved newborn weight and weight variation compared to the control when FSHS was added to the diet (PAnova p Linear Quadratic Quadratic = 0.082). (3) Hormone Levels: Plasma insulin and adrenaline levels exhibited quadratic effects on day 60 and 90 of gestation, respectively (PQuadratic Linear p > 0.05). (5) Fecal Microbiota: On day 90, the abundance of actinobacteriota increased quadratically with FSHS levels (PQuadratic Linear Linear p = 0.05). At the genus level, terrisporobacter showed a quadratic increase and then decrease (PQuadratic Quadratic p < 0.01). Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with FSHS increased fecal microbial diversity, alleviated the incidence of constipation, and ultimately improved sow reproductive performance. The recommended optimal addition of FSHS to the sow diet is 6%.

Keywords

• fermented soybean hulls
• pregnant sows
• reproductive performance
• plasma biochemical indices
• immunity
• fecal flora composition