The effects of adding lucerne protein concentrate to diets on the reproductive traits and blood metabolic profiles of sows and piglets

The aim of the study was to estimate the effects of supplementing different amounts of lucerne protein concentrate (LPC) on performance, blood haematological and biochemical parameters of sows and their offspring. LPC was added in amounts of 1.5% or 3.0% to the feed mixtures for sows during gestation and lactation (Trial I, continuous use of LPC) or only during gestation or lactation (Trial II, periodic use of LPC) and for their offspring from birth to day 84. Production results were based on: number of liveborn and weaned piglets, daily gains, average feed intake, feed conversion ratio and mortality. Blood samples were collected to estimate haematological and biochemical indices. Compared with the control groups, addition of 3.0% LPC during gestation significantly increased (P <= 0.05) average piglet birth weight, number of liveborn piglets and weaned piglets at day 28. Diets containing 1.5% and 3.0% LPC decreased losses of piglets by day 84 (P <= 0.05). The diet including LPC significantly (P <= 0.05) increased haematological indices: red blood cell count, haematocrit level, haemoglobin content, and biochemical parameters, especially alkaline phosphatase activity (P <= 0.01) in sow and piglet serum. The noticeable effect of LPC on haematological indices could be useful, especially in the piglet rearing period. Our results show that the best effects could be obtained by adding 3.0% LPC to the sows' diets, but 1.5% of LPC can also be recommended in pig nutrition.