Nine protein alternatives for pig feeds

Transporting raw materials, like soya, from South America and the destruction of ecosystems there have a significant environmental impact. Similar concerns are raised for fishmeal, along with price and consistency of supply. Food security is high on the agenda of many governments, as is improving agricultural sustainability. So what if protein could be produced closer to home, in a sustainable and economic manner?

This article will cover nine alternative protein sources that can be used in pig diets. Some, such as sunflower, canola and dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS), could feature more regularly in rations. Peas, beans and lupins are used in some regions but could be grown more widely. Commercialization of products like insect meal, Lenma protein concentrate and algae, is on-going but has the potential to supply high-quality protein for pigs.