Effect of higher levels of zinc on nutrient utilization and mineral balance in indigenous pigs

The study was conducted on 27 adults indigenous pigs (age 12 months; BW 56.0 +/- 5.96 kg) divided into three equal groups (2 male and 7 female) and fed concentrate mixture with different levels of zinc content. The control group (T-1) pigs received zinc as per recommended requirements i.e. 50 ppm while pigs in groups T-2 and T-3 received higher levels at 150 and 200%, respectively, of the suggested level during experimental feeding period of three months. Addition of 100 ppm zinc in concentrate mixture (T-3) had significant (P<0.05) effects on the digestibility of CP, EE, CM and balances of N, Ca, P and Zn. The intake of DCP was also significantly (P < 0.05) higher in that group. It was concluded that supplementation of higher Zn levels in adult indigenous pig ration improved digestibility and balance of nutrients.