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Feeding support can reduce piglet losses around farrowing

Practical Knowledge, Studies

With farrowing, sows undergo one of the most demanding transitions in animal production: the shift from late gestation to the milk-driven lactation phase. This is often characterized by oxidative stress and energy deficiency. Metabolic disorders such as Postpartum Dysgalactia Syndrome (PPDS) continue to be among the most common causes of performance losses and piglet mortality. Targeted support for metabolism and the immune system is therefore crucial. Functional ingredients such as antioxidant vitamins, plant extracts, and emulsifiers can help stabilize the sow’s physiology during this sensitive phase.

The study was conducted on a farm with 505 sows under standard production conditions. All animals received the same lactation feed, consisting of wheat, barley, corn, wheat bran, and soybean meal. The experimental group additionally received 30 g of BEWI®-FATRIX Lactiva per sow per day during the last seven days before farrowing, up to and including the day of farrowing. The control group received the same lactation feed without supplementation.

Performance data such as the number of live-born piglets, pre-weaning piglet mortality, the
number of weaned piglets, and the weaning weight of the litters were recorded over a period of five months (November 2024 to March 2025).

Results: Piglet weaning weight increased by 460 g and total litter weight by 5.3 kg

Selected biological performance data of sows and piglets

Performance Data Tijdhoff

What our customer says:

Harald Tijdhof | Sow Farm, Netherlands

“By supplementing sows with BEWI®-FATRIX Lactiva, we were able to measurably improve biological performance: the average piglet weaning weight increased by 460 g.”

Conclusion:

Targeted supplementation with BEWI®-FATRIX Lactiva in the week before farrowing leads to measurable improvements in the biological performance of sows and piglets. The combination of plant fat with lecithin, vitamin E, vitamin C, and phytogenic ingredients offers a promising approach to reducing oxidative and inflammation-related stress during the peripartum period.

The increase in weaning weight and reduction in piglet losses indicate a positive effect on maternal metabolic health and piglet vitality. The results underscore the practical benefits of phytogenic and antioxidant supplements. Targeted supplementation around farrowing sustainably supports the welfare and performance of high-performing sows.

Matching products

BEWI-FATRIX Lactiva by Bewital agri: feed bag with illustration of active ingredient capsule
Metabolism

BEWI®-FATRIX Lactiva

Metabolic support for high-performing sows