BioFed

Identifying biological targets for feed additive development to improve feed efficiency in pigs

PROJECT INFO:


DURATION: 
2025-2027
 
FUNDING:
The Mission Partnership 
 

PARTNERS:
Aarhus University 
University of Copenhagen
IFF

CHALLENGE

Inefficient feed utilisation increases emissions and production costs

TECHNOLOGY

Biology‑based feed additive targeting pig feed efficiency

POTENTIAL

Reduces emissions and costs while improving livestock productivity

Goal

The goal is to initiate the development of a commercial feed additive, by applying an innovative pig-centered approach focused on uncovering key physiological characteristics correlating to feed efficiency. The feed additive should be used by the global pork industry to improve feed efficiency in grower-finisher pigs to reduce environment and climate impact, while reducing feed costs.

Plan

The project will run for 2 years.

Identify grower-finisher pigs with high and low feed efficiency by collecting data on growth, feed intake and feeding patterns from individual group-housed pigs.

Sample tissues, fluids, digesta and fecal swaps from pigs with high and low feed efficiency to screen for biological pathways, microbiome profile, enzymes and metabolites with stimulatory or inhibitory effects on pig’s ability to utilize nutrients in the feed.

Investigate biological and technical obstacles to develop a feed additive and a R&D business plan leading to commercialization.
 

Expected results

The project will analyze pig growth and feeding behavior, identify biological targets for feed efficiency, and build a biobank with detailed metabolic, microbiome, and degradation profiles.

Key findings will be published, and feasibility challenges and R&D needs for a feed additive will be assessed, leading to a business case and commercialization plan.

PARTNERS:
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The project is part of the Mission Partnership, and the funding is provided by Innovation Fund Denmark.

We continuously open new calls and programmes that support innovation within food and bioresources.

Mette Kallestrup Spring

Mette Kallestrup Spring

Program Manager (mission partnership)

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