How to Feed Wheat to Pigs

Pigs often consume corn as their primary energy source. If the price is comparable, wheat grain is substituted for corn and provides an adequate diet for all ages of swine. Wheat contains slightly less energy than corn but has a higher crude protein, calcium and phosphorus content. Pigs require energy, protein, vitamins and minerals in their diet. Wheat is mixed with a protein supplement, vitamins and minerals to provide a balanced diet.

Things You'll Need

  • Nutrient requirement chart for pigs
  • Coarsely ground, lightly rolled or pelleted wheat grain
  • Protein supplement
  • Vitamin and mineral premix
  • Scales
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the current price and availability of wheat. If the price of corn is high and the price of wheat low, substitute wheat for corn. In some locations, wheat is a more readily available cereal grain than corn.

    • 2

      Determine the energy, vitamin and mineral requirements for the type of pigs. Market hogs weighing 20 to 50 pounds eat a starter feed. 50 to 125 pound pigs consume a grower feed, and pigs from 125 pounds to market weight eat a finisher ration. Sows consume a gestation or a lactating diet. The University of Missouri reference provides a complete guide.

    • 3

      Find the protein requirement for the pigs. Because wheat has a higher protein level than corn, less protein supplement is required. Usually starter feed has 20 percent crude protein, grower contains 16 to 17 percent and finisher about 14 to 15 percent. Sows during gestation consume a diet with about 15 percent protein and lactating sows require about 16 to 17 percent.

    • 4

      Formulate a feed ration. For example, a ton of a complete sow gestation ration includes 1,700 pounds wheat, 225 pounds soybean meal and 75 pounds of a vitamin/mineral premix. A ton of starter feed for young pigs contains 1,360 pounds wheat, 575 pounds soybean meal and 65 pounds vitamin/mineral premix.

    • 5

      Consider substituting part of the diet with wheat. Pig rations may contain barley, oats, rye, or triticale. Wheat is a viable substitute for any of the grains.

    • 6

      Process the wheat kernels before feeding. Coarsely ground, lightly rolled or pelleted wheat increases average daily gains and feed efficiency. Avoid finely ground wheat.