ASAS/ADSA Breeding and Genetics: QTL Detection and Mapping

The experimental objective was to evaluate safety of spray-dried plasma protein after oral administration in weanling pigs by monitoring clinical, serological, and performance results. Thirty-six pigs (13.6 kg body weight) were randomly assigned to dietary treatments consisting of control (soybean meal) or 8% plasma. Diets were formulated to contain 1.20% lysine due to continuous administration for 2 months after weaning. Individual body weights and feed intake were determined on d 0, 21, 42, and 63 post-weaning. Clinical observations were monitored daily. Blood samples were obtained on d -14, 0, 21, 42, and 63 postweaning for serological testing. Average daily gain was improved (P < 0.10) from d 22-42 and 0-42 due to plasma consumption compared to control pigs. Average daily feed intake and feed efficiency tended towards (P > 0.10) improvement. During the experiment, no clinical signs were associated with oral plasma consumption; however, control pigs had mild clinical symptoms and one death. Serological results of all blood samples from control and plasma treated pigs were negative for antibody presence against the following viruses: porcine parvovirus (PPV), Aujeszky’s disease virus (PRV), porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus (PRRS), and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVD). The plasma used in the study was devoid of titers for PRV, PRRS, and BVD, but positive for PPV. In summary, results indicate that oral administration of plasma had no adverse effects on clinical or performance parameters. Serological results indicate no transmission of disease from plasma for the period from a 14 to 63 kg pig.