The use of by-products instead of part of the compound feed to raise pigs can significantly lower feeding costs. However, if the amount of by-products is too high, it may negatively impact weight gain, feed efficiency, and prolong the time until slaughter. The key is to incorporate a large proportion of by-products—such as 50% by-products combined with 50% compound feed—without compromising the pig's performance. Through various scientific methods, we have successfully improved the utilization of these by-products.
As a result, pigs fed with this optimized formula gained 5% more weight compared to those on conventional feeds, and the cost per kilogram of feed was reduced by 17% to 25%. Selling pigs at 7 to 8 yuan per kilogram leads to higher profitability, with a profit increase of 70 to 90 yuan per pig. There was no significant difference in slaughter rate or lean meat ratio between the two groups.
Based on nutritional requirements during the growing phase (20 kg to 60 kg) and finishing period (60 kg to 90 kg), six types of by-products were selected: tofu residue, beer dregs, corn waste from starch and sugar production, and alcohol dregs. During the growing phase, the mix reached up to 50% and 68%, resulting in daily weight gains of 100% and 97% compared to conventional feed, with feed cost reductions of 13% and 18%, respectively. In the finishing phase, the by-product content reached 58% and 80%, with daily gains of 128% and 116% of the conventional feed, and feed cost reductions of 23% and 25%.
The appropriate amount and feeding method of by-products depend on the type. Tofu residue can be used up to 25%, but should be cooked for 10–15 minutes or at least boiled before feeding. Beer dregs or sugar dregs can be dried or directly fed, with usage up to 30%. Alcohol dregs are not recommended, and only 8–15% is suitable. Soy sauce residue and other salt- or antibiotic-laden dregs should be limited to about 5%.
Feeding pigs with by-products requires careful consideration. First, the best protein source among the by-products is corn waste from starch or sugar production. Second, mixing different types of dregs before feeding is essential, with a water-to-mix ratio of 1:2 to 1:2.5. Avoid feeding frozen or spoiled materials. Third, the high crude fiber content in by-products can reduce digestibility, so the total fiber in the diet should be minimized. Fourth, when using more than 50% by-products, the diet becomes acidic, which can affect the pig’s metabolism. Adding physiological alkaline agents can help maintain optimal growth.
We recommend the following formulas for growing and finishing pigs. Growing pig formula: 25% tofu residue, 12.5% starch or sugar corn waste, 12.5% alcohol distillate, and 50% commercial feed. Finishing pig formula: 4% soybean meal, 44% corn, 15% tofu residue, 12% beer dregs, 18% starch or corn waste, 5% soy sauce, and 2% bone meal. Both formulas require additional trace elements and vitamins for balanced nutrition.