An overview of protein nutrition of the pure iberian pig

Abstract

An accurate assessment of the animal’s requirements is of utmost importance for a balanced nutrition of farm animals. In this review we describe the results from a series of experiments, performed during the last years by our research group, aiming at assessing the utilization of dietary protein by the Iberian pig throughout the different stages of its productive cycle. Nutritional dose-response studies involving several isoenergetic treatments differing in protein concentration -all with similar aminoacid profile following the ideal protein concept-along with comparative growth and metabolic studies with conventional breeds have been performed. Our observations reveal that the capacity of this breed for protein accretion is rather limited compared to that of conventional or lean breeds at similar stages of growth. They also suggest the need for reducing the concentration of protein in the diet of the Iberian pig to comply with the metabolic profile of this native pig breed. We summarise all the information gathered during the last fifteen yearsand provide recommendations on the level and composition of dietary protein in the diet for pure breed animals during the different phases of growth. An adequatenutritional management, particularly dietary protein provision, improves the efficiency of utilization of dietary protein and results in relevant economic, environmental and animal welfare benefits.