The effect of inclusion of a specific mix of encapsulated fatty acids in gestation and lactation diets on sow and piglet performance during lactation.

Colostrum is essential for the survival of piglets as it provides energy, antibodies and nutritional components (Le Dividich et al., 2005). In the first weeks of life, the piglet is dependent on maternal antibodies in the form of immunoglobulins (Ig) received from the sow’s colostrum and can take 2 weeks to build its own active immunity (Rooke and Bland, 2002). Failure to achieve adequate energy and/or immunity from colostrum intake is the underlying cause for the majority of piglet deaths occurring within the first days of post-natal life (Quesnel et al., 2012). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a specific mix of short and medium encapsulated fatty acids, (ColfaPig, Devenish Nutrition Ltd, Belfast, UK), on the nutritional and Ig content of colostrum and the nutritional content of milk.