Soybean Hulls Use in Swine Finishing Diets

Soybean hulls are a by-product of soybean processing that contains about 40% crude fiber, 12% protein and 2% fat. Research conducted in the 1970-80s indicated that 12-24% soybean hulls could be added to swine rations with little or no effect on average daily gain. The pigs seem to eat to their energy requirements, whereas, today’s meat-type pigs have lower feed intakes. A study was conducted to evaluate whether today’s pigs have the ability to adjust intake of lower energy feeds to maintain performance standards. One hundred and sixty-five pigs weighing 156 pounds were fed for eight weeks finishing rations containing different levels of soybean hulls. The five hull treatments were: 0, 3%, 6%, 9% and 9% with added fat to make it near-isocaloric to the control diet. The results indicated that low levels of soybean hulls (3%) can be successfully used in swine finishing rations and may even improve average daily gains, daily feed intake and feed efficiencies. Higher levels of soybean hulls can be used, but supplemental energy sources need to be added to the ration to assure the pig’s energy requirements are met. The research concluded that the modern leaner pig genetics do not have as great an ability to adjust feed intake to meet their energy needs and maintain growth. This has importance in diet formulation and the utilization of low energy by-product feed ingredients. Bottom line: Soybean hulls can be included in swine finishing rations at moderate levels as long as the nutritionist maintains energy levels needed for commercial production standards.

Bowers, K.A. and co-workers. 2000. Evaluating inclusion levels of soybean hulls in finishing pig diets. Purdue University Swine Day Proc. P39-42.