Zootechnical benefits of using a tribomechanically-micronized zeolite in weaner piglets

The performance impact of replacing 2% (MZ2) or 4% (MZ4) of postweaning feed by a micronized zeolite (MZ) was tested in weaner piglets. The effects were compared with those obtained with (AGP) or without (Control) antibiotic growth promoters. Use of MZ led to improved pig homogeneity in the pens, with a significantly lower intra-pen weight standard deviation for MZ2 and MZ4 batches than Control or AGP batches. Growth rate was significantly lower in MZ4 pigs, whereas the highest growth rates were obtained in AGP and MZ2 pigs, while Control-group pigs presented intermediate values. Feed conversion ratio expressed in net energy was significantly better for the MZ2 batch than the Control batch, while AGP and MZ4 pigs presented intermediate values.