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Will Pigs Eat Milk?

Published in Animal Nutrition 1 min read

Yes, pigs will happily drink fresh, un-curdled milk.

While pigs enjoy milk, there are a few things to consider to optimize its use as a feed.

  • Digestion: According to David Maren, co-founder of Tendergrass Farms, allowing the milk to "age" or ferment in barrels for a few days before feeding it to pigs can aid in digestion. This fermentation process likely breaks down some of the lactose, making it easier for the pigs to process.

  • Nutritional Value: Milk provides a good source of protein and calcium for pigs, especially growing piglets.

  • Practical Considerations: Fresh milk can spoil quickly, especially in warm weather. Fermenting the milk can help preserve it and improve its digestibility.

Therefore, offering milk to pigs can be a beneficial addition to their diet, particularly if it is properly managed to enhance digestion.

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