Creep feeding in piglets: Technology for enhancing pig productivity

Abstract

Modern pig production system should be efficient, highly productive, animal welfare centric and sustainable. There is growing emphasis to produce more pork from fewer animals with a target to get average 2–2.2 farrowing and minimum 30 piglets per sow per year. To achieve this, the modern swine production system relies heavily on genetics, nutrition and reproductive technologies for
enhanced productivity. Nutrition strategies and precision feeding plays an important role in pig production starting from early life of piglet. Creep feed is one such nutritional intervention for production of healthy piglets. During initial phase of piglets, feed efficiency is maximum and feed conversion ratio is minimum. Therefore, creep feed ensure maximum growth rate. It also ensures early weaning at 30–35 days of age, thereby ensure proper body condition of sow. In conclusion, creep feed is recommended for efficient and profitable pig production.