Estimation of the energy value of feeds for pigs

Abstract

Energy supply represents the main cost in pig production (>50 %). Therefore, it is quite important to evaluate precisely both the energy requirements of pigs and the energy value of compound feeds or ingredients. This review presents the concepts and the information used for calculating the energy value for pigs of the ingredients (n = 120) listed in the Feeding Tables published by INRA and AFZ in 2002. Simplified methods for estimating the energy value of ingredients whose chemical composition differs from the values given in the Feeding Tables are also proposed. The results are based on a compilation of available literature information and according to the most recent concepts. Six energy values resulting from the combination of three modes of expression (digestible energy, metabolizable energy and net energy) and two stages of pig production (growing pigs and adult sows) have been proposed. The effects of other factors such as technology (pelleting, grinding, …) or feeding level on energy value are also presented. However, the available literature information was insufficient for taking them into account in the estimation of energy value.