PSV-11 - Evaluation of a Supplement (ATPsorb) on Growth Performance in Nursery Pigs

Abstract: ATPsorb is a unique combination of Lipidol Ultra (a source of lysophospholipids) and Endo-power Beta (a source of several NSP enzymes). Thus, the response of ATPsorb was evaluated in nursery pigs. A total of 551 (DNA x DNA 600 sired) weaned, commercial pigs (21 days of age, average 5.61 kg (P=0.38); 9-10 reps; 29 pigs/pen) were blocked by body weight. There were 2 treatments: standard nursery feed without antibiotics, control (CON); 2) CON + 2 lb per ton of ATPsorb for 21 days (ATP). FANCOM feeding system was used to deliver feed. Pens of pigs were weighed and feed disappearances were recorded on d 0 and 21. Data were used to calculate ADG and ADFI. To simulate commercial practice, pigs were treated with injectable antibiotic if required, and those that did not respond were removed and placed in sick pens. At the end of 21 days, the number of dead (% mortality) and viable pigs (% morbidity) were calculated. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design using the GLM procedure in Minitab with Fisher’s t-test determining differences between treatments. For d 0-21, there were no differences (P≥0.61) observed for BW, ADG or ADFI. There was a 6.6% improvement (P=0.05; 0.55 vs. 0.59) in G:F. No differences (P≥0.33) were observed for morbidity or mortality. These data suggests that ATPsorb is capable of providing better nutrient utilization and absorption during the first 21 days in the nursery phase. Further testing is needed to evaluate lifetime performance.