RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Title: Evaluating the Efficacy of Probiotics on Pig Performance and Productivity: A Trial
at the Pig Industry Board
Background:
The use of probiotics in animal agriculture has gained significant attention in recent years
due to their potential to improve animal health, growth, and productivity. This study aims to
investigate the benefits of our probiotic products on pig performance and productivity at the
Pig Industry Board.
Objectives:
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of the Pruex probiotic cleaning product, PIP Deep Clean, in
reducing bacterial loads on pen floors.
2. To assess the impact of Pruex , PIP Air, on the health and productivity of farrowing sows.
3. To investigate the effects of the Pruex water additive, PIP Waterplus, on pig growth and
health.
Methodology:
1. Deep Clean Trial: The pen floors will be swabbed after cleaning with the Pig Industry
Board's chosen detergent/disinfectant. The pens will then be cleaned with Deep Clean, and
swabbed again to compare the results.
2. PIP Air Trial: PIP Air will be sprayed on the teats of farrowing sows every 3 days to
evaluate its impact on sow health and productivity.
3. Waterplus Trial: Due to the difficulty of separating water for individual pigs, a
comparison data approach will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of Waterplus. Data will
be collected from three cycles: the previous cycle, the cycle during which Waterplus is used,
and a subsequent cycle after the trial.
Data Collection:
The following data will be collected during the trial:
1. Mortality rates
2. Average daily gain/growth rate
3. Feed conversion ratio (FCR)
4. Disease incidence
5. Antibiotic usage
Trial Period: The trial will last for 3-4 months.
Expected Outcomes:
This study aims to provide evidence on the efficacy of Pruex probiotic products in improving
pig performance and productivity. The results will be used to inform best practices for the use
of probiotics in pig farming and to identify areas for further research.