Can Flaxseed Replace Antibiotics in Starter Diets?

Nov 24, 2015

We hypothesized that feeding n-3 FA’s to sows in the form of flaxseed would allow for the removal of Ab’s in starter feeds. Based on the findings from this trial, we can neither accept nor reject this hypothesis, as we found that in our high health herd, Ab’s had no benefit when fed for the first week post-weaning. Results from this trial have clearly shown that in a high health situation, the use of in feed Ab’s post-weaning had no benefit, regardless of weaning age. This experiment has also shown that, at nursery exit (8 weeks old), piglets weaned at 3 weeks of age had heavier body weights than those weaned at 4 weeks of age, which in part may be due to the fact that piglets weaned at 3 weeks had lower WBC, CK and AST counts relative to those weaned at 4 weeks.

Flaxseed and Antibiotics

Source: Prairie Swine Centre

Video: Season 6, Episode 10: Defining Resiliency and the Research Driving Swine Health Forward

Genetic research and new technologies continue to influence the future of swine health and production efficiency. In this episode, we explore how research and technology are being used to support stronger, more resilient pigs, while also improving overall production outcomes. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist with Topigs Norsvin, to discuss both routine and emerging strategies for improving piglet, pig, and sow livability. She outlines two primary approaches to enhancing resiliency: gene editing and traditional selective breeding. Continuing the resiliency conversation, we also hear from Dr. Lucina Galina, director of technical research projects at the Pig Improvement Company. She shares insights into ongoing gene-editing work focused on PRRS, detailing the pathway to success, regulatory and practical considerations, and the questions that still remain as the technology evolves. Together, these conversations provide a closer look at how research, genetics and innovation are shaping the future of swine health and livability.