Iron polysaccharide complex in nursery pigs
When pigs are weaned from their mothers, their iron requirements increase due to rapid growth and expanding blood volume. Typically, iron is supplied through supplements like ferrous sulfate, but a newer supplement, SQM iron, may offer even greater health benefits. This study compared the effects of SQM iron and ferrous sulfate on the gut health, gut bacteria, and overall growth of nursery pigs. We divided 320 pigs into four groups and provided different diets: SQM iron or ferrous sulfate, in either clean or dirty conditions. Over 28 days, we monitored growth rate, food intake, gut bacteria, and iron levels in feces. The results showed that pigs fed SQM iron grew faster and consumed more food than those fed ferrous sulfate. They also had higher iron levels in their feces and improved fecal scores, indicating better gut health. In dirtier conditions, SQM iron reduced gut bacterial diversity, though this did not negatively affect the pigs' gut health.In conclusion, SQM iron enhanced pig growth and gut health. SQM iron may be a more effective choice for promoting pig growth and gut health during weaning.