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In piglet nutrition, few topics generate more debate than diet complexity. Some argue in favor of highly digestible, milk-based formulas. Others promote simpler, plant-based diets. The answer lies somewhere in between. Complexity has a cost, but it also has a purpose. The key is knowing when to use it.
Piglets require complex feeds when their digestive systems are immature. This typically applies to animals weaned at or before 21 days of age. At this stage, piglets have low feed intake, reduced enzyme activity, and high vulnerability to digestive disturbances. They benefit from ingredients that are easy to digest, such as dried whey, fishmeal, plasma and cooked cereals.
