The Amino Acid Requirements of Swine, Lysine

Abstract

Lysine has been shown to be indispensable for the growth and development of the weanling pig. A lack of lysine results results in cessation of growth, retarded feed consumption and decreased feed efficiency. Lysine-deficient pigs manifest a depraved appetite, rough hair coat, emaciated look and apparent inanition. A level of 2.0% DL-lysine · HC1 in our experimental diet permitted an average daily gain of 0.91 lb. in pigs for the 42-day period immediately following weaning.