Utilization of Brewer’s Spent Grain as a Partial Substitute for Maize in Pig Diets

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 Background to the Study

Feed cost is the major constraint in pig production, accounting for over 70 percent of the total cost of production. The reliance on conventional feed ingredients such as maize makes pig farming expensive and less profitable. Brewer’s spent grain (BSG), a by-product of the brewing industry, has emerged as a potential alternative feed ingredient because it is cheap, abundant, and nutritionally rich in fibre and protein (Olajide et al., 2015).

The inclusion of agro-industrial by-products such as BSG in livestock feeds can help reduce feed cost without compromising performance. According to Akinfala and Tewe (2004), moderate inclusion of BSG in pig diets supports good growth performance and carcass quality. However, the optimal level of inclusion and its effects on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, and growth rate in pigs need further investigation.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The high cost of maize and other conventional feed ingredients limits profitability in pig production. While brewer’s spent grain is readily available, its nutrient composition and effects on animal performance vary with source and processing methods (Ojabo et al., 2018). There is a need to determine the safe and effective inclusion level of BSG that maintains growth performance and carcass quality.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To determine the proximate composition of brewer’s spent grain.

2. To evaluate the effects of replacing maize with different levels of BSG on pig growth performance.

3. To assess the economic impact of BSG inclusion on feed cost and profitability.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the nutritional composition of brewer’s spent grain?

2. How does partial replacement of maize with BSG affect pig growth rate and feed intake?

3. What is the economic benefit of using BSG in pig feed?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will provide practical information for pig farmers and feed formulators on how to use BSG to reduce feed costs. It will also promote waste recycling and contribute to sustainable livestock production.

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on weaned pigs fed diets with varying levels of brewer’s spent grain under controlled feeding conditions. It will not assess long-term reproductive or health effects.

1.7 Definition of Terms

• Brewer’s Spent Grain: The solid by-product obtained after brewing malted barley.

• Feed Substitution: Replacing part of a feed ingredient with an alternative source.

• Growth Performance: The rate at which animals gain weight over a given period.