Abstract

The Nutritional Value of Quality Protein Maize for Weaner Pigs

I.D.T. Mpofu, S. Sibanda, A. Shonihwa and Pixley

This study was done to find out the potential and efficacy of Quality Protein Maize (QPM) as a substitute for normal maize variety in intensive pig production in an attempt to reduce the cost of production. Thirty-two weaner pigs were assigned to four treatment groups in a completely randomized block design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Blocking was done on initial weight and sex. The treatments were a high inclusion rate of both QPM and normal maize at 72.3% inclusion rate compared to a low inclusion rate of 64.3% in both cases. Water and feed was provided ad-libitum throughout the study period. Feed intake, water consumption, weight gain and mortality were recorded. Feed intake was more (P<0.05) in animals fed 72.3% ordinary maize compared to the other diets. High QPM diet had the highest (P<0.05) feed conversion efficiency and was cheaper because less protein source (soyabean meal) was included. The diet by sex interaction was not significant (P>0.05). The results indicated that feeding QPM to weaner pigs at a higher level of 72.3% inclusion level could command a higher food conversion efficiency and at a reduced cost of production.