Model responses of the growing pig to the dietary intake of energy and protein

Abstract

SUMMARY A simple model is described which enables the prediction of the magnitude and direction of the responses of growing pigs to different energy and protein intakes. The model calculates daily live-weight gain from the conversion of the dietary supply of crude protein and energy into protein, lipid and ash in the body of the growing pig. Values were also determined for the energy and protein balances, the composition of the body and the efficiency of feed conversion. The model was formulated with factors drawn from published findings and validated by comparison with independent feeding trials.