The performance and carcase quality of pigs fed liver meal as a protein supplement from weaning to bacon weight

Abstract

In two group feeding trials a total of 45 Large White pigs were fed rations containing either fish meal, liver meal, or a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal, as protein supplements in rations based on sorghum grain. Performance was compared over two periods, from approximately 42 to 100 lb liveweight, and subsequently from 100 to 190 lb liveweight. Cold dressed carcases were appraised. Pigs fed fish meal grew faster and converted food more efficiently than those fed either liver meal or a mixture 408 of liver and meat and bone meal. Differences were significant during the initial period (P<0.01) and overall (P<0.05). During the initial period pigs fed liver meal grew faster (P<0.05) than those fed a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal. Pigs fed fish meal developed less backfat and a greater area index of 'eye' muscle than those fed either liver meal (P < 0.01) or a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal (IJ<0.05). They also had the highest carcase appraisal score (P<0.05). Those fed a mixture of liver and meat and bone meal developed less backfat and had a higher appraisal score than those fed liver meal as the only protein supplement (P<0.05).