Western Research and Demonstration Farm

The Effects of Swine Stocking Density in Hoop Structures on Growth, Carcass Composition, and Pork Quality

Authors: B. S. Patton (Iowa State University) , Steven M. Lonergan (Iowa State University) , Mark S. Honeyman (Iowa State University)

Abstract

Six hundred crossbred gilts and barrows were finished in hoop structures with a stocking density of either 7.5 ft² per pig or 12.0 ft² per pig. Performance and growth data including ADG, feed conversion (feed:gain), slaughter weight, shrink percentage during transport and lairage, dressing percentage, loin eye area, 10th rib backfat thickness, last rib fat depth, and fat free lean percentage were analyzed to determine effects of stocking density on growth and carcass traits. Increasing the stocking density from 12 to 7.5 ft² /pig in hoop structures did not affect growth performance, carcass composition, or fresh pork quality.

Keywords: Animal Science

How to Cite: Patton, B. S. , Lonergan, S. M. & Honeyman, M. S. (2005) “The Effects of Swine Stocking Density in Hoop Structures on Growth, Carcass Composition, and Pork Quality”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports. 2004(1).