Evaluation of In-Barn Feeder Management Prior to Marketing to Reduce Feed Cost, Improve Carcass Yield, and Impact on Economic Return

A total of 695 mixed sex growing-finishing pigs (600 × 241, DNA; initially 242.7 ± 1.36 lb) were used in a 14-d trial to determine the effects feed withdrawal before first and final marketing event on carcass weight, yield, economics. Pens assigned 1 3 treatments randomized complete block design. There 24 pens per treatment 9 or 10 pen. Treatments consisted none, 6, 12 h feeder closure prior loading truck at both (2 weeks marketing) achieve approximately 12, 18, harvest processing plant. was no evidence differences (P ≥ 0.10) for ADG, ADFI, F/G during period between event. However, pig BW time loadout, with 24-h lighter < 0.05) than those only last. Pigs that had access (12 harvest) gained weight day, while 18 lost weight. For characteristics, increased HCW compared withdrawal. tendency = 0.055) effect undergoing having 1.1 lb heavier When evaluating using live weights all harvest, group greater yield marketed when overall, other two treatments. Conversely, event, decreased treatment. backfat, loin depth, lean % Feed consumed day cost (P< In conclusion, there observed yield. Carcass greatest Also, as expected, longer reduced consumption cost/pig marketing. Thus, saving would have offset reduction value justify withholding harvest.