The use of growth promoters in pig nutrition

Publication date: 18/10/2017
Extent: 24 pages

Contributions by: John M. Brameld, David M. Brown and Tim Parr, University of Nottingham, UK

Chapter synopsis: This chapter will describe the use of growth promoters in pigs, specifically growth hormone (GH) and beta-adrenergic agonist (BA), with the latter focussing on ractopamine. After introducing each growth promoter, their individual effects on growth and feed efficiency will be described, followed by sections on their mechanisms of action and effects on muscle fibre type and meat quality. Lastly, the recent studies on the use of the two growth promoters in combination will be described along with consideration of their future use commercially in relation to issues of global food security.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2017.0013.12