Germany: High Corn-Cob-Mix (CCM) percentages in pig feed; pay attention to the lack of raw fibre

Grain prices of over €25 per dt or even higher are currently causing concern for pig farmers. In view of the poor market situation for piglets and fattening pigs, every euro currently counts when it comes to feed costs. Farmers who feed maize as a Corn-Cob-Mix (CCM), on the other hand, are hit less hard by the high feed costs: According to evaluations by the Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture, grain maize yields fell in 2021 6.5% higher than in the previous year. Seen nationwide, the yields were above average in comparison to the last five years. Farmers harvested large quantities even on light sandy sites. For some pig farmers, it makes sense to consider replacing most or all of the grain in the feed ration with cheaper CCM. In addition to wheat, barley is also saved. But CCM has one shortcoming: it is relatively low in raw fibre! An optimal supply of raw fiber for pigs is very important for animal health and high performance. Josef Raming, consultant for pig fattening at the ...