Bioconversion of Agrowastes as Calcium Source for Sustainable Pig Production

Background and Objective: Globally, pork and chicken are the most widely consumed meats Unfortunately, their production is limited by the high cost of conventional feed ingredients, necessitating the need for the discovery of effective non-conventional feed ingredients. This study evaluated the effect of eggshells as a sustainable alternative to Dicalcium Phosphate (DCP) in weaner pig diets. Materials and Methods: Three diets were formulated: Diet 1: 100% DCP-based, Diet 2: 100% eggshell-based, replacing DCP and Diet 3: 50% DCP+50% eggshells-based. Fifteen healthy weaner pigs (Large White and Landrace) per treatment, with an average weight of 7.27±2.6 kg were used in this study. Growth performance, serum minerals, bone characteristics and histological parameters of the experimental animals were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using one ANOVA in SAS 2010, with Duncan’s Multiple Range Test for mean separation and significance set at α = 0.05. Results: The animals fed with 50% eggshell as a replacement for DCP (Diet 3) had the least value of body weight. However, body weight gain was not different. Feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly (p<0.05) higher for pigs fed Diet 3 when compared with Diet 1 and 2. Calcium and phosphorus contents were significantly (p<0.05) higher for Diet 3. Conclusion: This study concluded that 50 and 100% inclusion levels of eggshell as a replacement for DCP did not negatively influence growth performance, serum minerals, bone minerals, bone characteristics and histology of weaner pigs. Eggshells regarded as agricultural waste materials successfully replaced DCP at 50 and 100% inclusion levels in pig nutrition which may benefit pig farmers.