Utilization of Organic Feeds Formulation as an Alternative to Enhance the Growth Performance of Quezon Native PIGS

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an Organic Feed Formulation and evaluate its effects on the Growth Performance of Quezon Native Pigs from lechon-bound pigs. It also assessed the carcass characteristics, such as back fat thickness, crude protein, water holding capacity, and meat quality, including aroma, taste, juiciness, tenderness, and overall acceptability. The findings sought to provide valuable insights to native pig raisers in Guinayangan, Quezon, to help them optimize growth rates, productivity, and profitability in native pig production. A two-group design was used in this study with two treatments replicated three times. The treatments are: T1 - Native pigs under Traditional Feeding Practices and T2 - Native Pigs under Organic Feed Formulation. There was a significant difference in the Average Daily Gain (ADG) and Feed Conversion Ratio between the two treatments. In terms of carcass characteristics (back fat thickness, crude protein, and water holding capacity) and meat quality (aroma, taste, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptability), better meat quality and improved water holding capacity were obtained in native pigs fed with the Organic Feed Formulation. Moreover, a higher Return on Investment (ROI) was observed in native pigs fed with the Organic Feed Formulation.