Development of evidence-based feeding strategies for lactating sows using novel and evolving feeding technologies.

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Computerized feeding technologies are becoming more common and are being implemented by Canadian pork producers. These technologies reduce the labour required to deliver feed to pigs, facilitate data collection, and provide the opportunity to closely match estimated (daily) nutrient requirements by blending diets that have differing nutrient densities. For sows, this is a very powerful tool, as nutrient requirements change considerably throughout the reproductive cycle. This research program will explore the use of computerized feeding technologies to generate and apply precision feeding programs for lactating sows, explore the effects of precision feeding on sow and offspring productivity, and will develop evidence-based recommendations for feeding sows during the pre-farrowing (transition) and lactation periods. The potential benefits of using precision feeding technologies for lactating sows include optimizing sow performance (e.g., litter growth rates, lifetime productivity), reducing feed costs and environmental impact (minimize nutrient oversupply), and providing solutions to labour shortages on Canadian pig farms. The proposed research will also contribute to the training of three graduate students and three undergraduate students, who will be provided with the skills required to pursue careers in academia or the Canadian pork industry as nutritionists and/or research and development personnel.