A survey of current levels of trace minerals and vitamins used in commercial diets by the Brazilian pork industry—a comparative study

Abstract

This study identified the levels of trace minerals and vitamins used in commercial diets by the Brazilian pork industry and compared these levels against the Brazilian reference tables and those from the North American pork industry. Animal feed companies (n = 15) and cooperatives/agro-industries (n = 15) from the Brazilian pork sector participated in this study. Levels of vitamin A, D, E, and K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid, vitamin B12, choline, vitamin C, cobalt, copper, chromium, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc were collected. Data were compiled by feeding phase to determine descriptive statistics. Ratios were calculated comparing the observed levels to those from the Brazilian reference tables and those from the North American pork industry. Average levels of trace minerals and vitamins used by the Brazilian pork industry were between 40% and 240% higher than the recommendations of the Brazilian reference tables. Compared to the North American pork industry, Brazilian levels for trace minerals were overall higher but for water-soluble vitamins they were significantly lower. Large between-companies variations were observed for most of the studied nutrients, especially for water-soluble vitamins. In conclusion, the Brazilian pork industry adds a significant margin of safety for trace minerals and vitamins supplementation. The large between-companies variations, especially for water-soluble vitamins, reflect the limited knowledge available on precise levels of supplementation for trace nutrients for pigs.