6 Tips to make Multiphase feeding a success

Modern pig production is all about precision, giving each animal exactly what it needs, when it needs it. Multiphase feeding is one of the best ways to achieve that balance. By gradually adjusting the nutrient composition of the feed to match the pig’s growth stage, you can improve feed efficiency, reduce waste, and reduce mineral excretion.

However, success with multiphase feeding depends on more than just having the right technology. It’s about how you apply it in practice. Here are six key tips to make multiphase feeding truly effective on your farm. Whether it is with dry feed or wet feed.

1. Start with clear nutritional goals

Before programming your feeding system, define exactly what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to reduce backfat? Improve lean growth? Enhance uniformity?
Work closely with your nutritionist to translate these goals into precise nutrient targets (amino acids, energy, minerals, and vitamins) for each growth phase. A clear feeding objective ensures that every phase transition supports your herd strategy.

2. Use accurate animal data

Multiphase feeding only works if the system knows what your pigs weigh and eat. Regularly update animal numbers and average body weights in your feeding computer. Using automatic weighing systems such as the eYeGrow, an automatic weight monitor for finishers, ensures that feed blends and quantities are recalculated based on reality not estimates.

3. Transition gradually between feed phases

Avoid abrupt feed changes. Instead, shift gradually from one phase to the next over several days. This approach helps the gastrointestinal tract adapt smoothly, maintaining feed intake and gut health. Based on a curve the controls will gradually change from one feed to the next over a selected period of time.

4. Monitor feed intake and growth performance

Feed data is valuable only if it’s used. Monitor daily feed intake, growth rates, and feed conversion ratio (FCR). If growth slows or backfat increases, it may signal that nutrient levels need adjustment. Regularly evaluating feed data helps you detect problems early and make fact-based decisions. Improving overall herd uniformity and productivity.

5. Combine feeding data with management observations

Technology provides precision, but human observation adds insight. Keep an eye on the pigs condition, behaviour, and manure quality. They often tell you more than numbers alone.
Integrating these observations with the data from your Lumina controller gives a complete picture of whether your feeding strategy is truly on target.

6. Keep your system calibrated and maintained

Even the best feeding strategy fails if the equipment isn’t accurate. Check and calibrate your weighing units, valves, and sensors regularly. Small mechanical errors can cause large nutritional imbalances over time. Routine maintenance ensures that feed quantities and blends remain precise, the cornerstone of successful multiphase feeding.

Conclusion

Multiphase feeding is not just a feeding technique; it’s a management philosophy that combines animal science, nutrition, and technology. When implemented correctly, it supports healthier pigs, stronger growth, and improved farm profitability.

With clear goals, accurate data, and the support of the Lumina 71 or 78 every pig producer can turn multiphase feeding into a practical success story.

Would you like to learn more about our multi-phase feeding solutions?

Author

Claudia Weick
Product Manager

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