Reducing Heat Stress Effects in Sows

Every year, pig producers worldwide face the deleterious effects of summer heat stress on pig performance and welfare. Heat stress causes sows to reduce feed intake and reproductive performance, negatively affecting the sow and her litter.

But what can we do to reduce the effects of heat stress in sows? Numerous studies have tried to identify nutritional and environmental alternatives to help reduce the negative effects of heat stress on sows. Under these conditions, feed flavors can be used to optimize the sensory properties of feed and improve lactating sow feeding behavior.