TN Duroc
Robust Birth Weights
The higher birth weight of TN Duroc offspring provides a significant advantage. The Early Phase Vitality of TN Duroc is evident right at the birth of the piglets, as they are heavier, stronger, and more active. This ultimately leads to better uniformity, continuous growth, and reduces caretaker workload.
The Advantages of Higher Birth Weight in TN Duroc Offspring
Since the early 2000s, Topigs Norsvin has implemented a practice of weighing new born piglets. This plays a crucial role in their breeding program, which focuses on piglet vitality and quality. As a result, TN Duroc offspring are heavier at birth than those from other Duroc lines, establishing a strong foundation for their Early Phase Vitality.
Not only do piglets have higher birth weights, but they also have better-developed organs and a greater energy supply, contributing to a stronger start.
Heavier Piglets Mean a Stronger Start
Recent scientific studies conducted on pig farms in the United States show that TN Duroc offspring weigh 0.06 to 0.16 pounds more than those from other Duroc lines.
The increased birth weight positively impacts their performance during the farrowing phase. They grow faster and are generally stronger, leading to fewer health issues. When health problems arise, recovery tends to be quicker, resulting in less labor needed in the farrowing barn.
The benefits of higher birth weight extend into piglet rearing and the finishing phase as well. Because the initial phase in the farrowing pen is more seamless, these piglets are healthier and stronger by the time they are weaned. This facilitates smoother transitions into the nursery and finishing phases, with fewer health challenges.
A Self-Reinforcing Mechanism
Because of their strong start, pigs continue to efficiently consume feed and are less susceptible to disruptions, resulting in fewer health complications. Each uninterrupted production phase strengthens the animals, allowing them to perform better in later phases.
Early Phase Vitality initiates a self-reinforcing mechanism that promotes steady growth and development. This also enhances uniformity and ultimately improves carcass quality. The benefits of reduced labor input are also evident during the finishing phase.
Summary
TN Duroc offspring have a higher birth weight, which is a key element of their Early Phase Vitality. This leads to a quick, problem-free start, resulting in efficient production, better uniformity, uninterrupted growth, and improved quality. Additionally, it reduces labor requirements not only in the farrowing pen but also in the rearing and finishing phases.
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