Problem

The organic feed processing must be designed and adapted to address critical points, guaranteeing compliance with the organic production regulations.

Solution

This tool facilitates access to the fundamental content of the established requirements and certification procedures for organic feed.

Description

The guidelines give an overview of the requirements for the organic feed processing. It describes the main aspects to consider, such as raw material selection, separation, labelling, packaging, transportation, storage, control, etc. This tool is a summary of the certification requirements and the reference regulation EAC 834/2007 (and its implementing regulations). The tool aims to facilitate access to the fundamental content of the established requirements. The tool is relevant for the manufacturers of the organic feed and is specific for the organic farming. The tool is applicable under the certification according to the regulation 834/2007.



https://orgprints.org/38652/



{Tool} Guidelines for certification - organic feed processing. [Guía para la certificación - elaboración de piensos ecológicos.] Creator(s): Perez Montero, Juan Carlos. Issuing Organisation(s): CAAE - Servicio Certificación. (2016)

Problem

The main dietary challenge for pig producers is ensuring that feed fulfils the protein and amino acid profile requirements of pigs. This is a particular challenge for organic pig producers as the use of synthetic amino acids is not allowed.

Solution

This guide analyses the potential of locally produced and novel protein sources as viable, alternative feed sources for the organic pig industry.

Description

Protein nutrition of the pig is concerned primarily with supplying the amino acid requirements for fast, efficient growth and development of a lean carcass. This technical guide outlines the most common limiting amino acids, common feed sources and their protein and amino acid profile, as well as potential plant and animal-based protein sources, including oilseeds, legumes, forage legumes, cereals and others. Several options are available to fulfil the requirement of 100% ingredients of locally produced organic origin in organic pig concentrate diets. However, the range of options varies with the different climatic conditions throughout Europe with more limited options in the northern areas than in the south. This tool is targeted for organic pig farmers in Europe, but parts are also relevant for non-European farmers.



https://orgprints.org/38637/



{Tool} Fulfilling 100% organic pig diets: Concentrates. [Répondre aux exigences d’une alimentation 100% biologique pour les porcs : l’aliment complet.] Creator(s): Crawley, Kenny; Smith, Jo; Gerrard, Catherine and Sumption, Phil. Issuing Organisation(s): ORC - Organic Research Centre. ICOPP Technical Note, no. 3. (2015)

Problem

The main dietary challenge for poultry producers is ensuring that rations fulfil the protein requirements and the correct amino acid profile. This is a particular challenge for organic poultry producers as the use of synthetic amino acids is not allowed.

Solution

This guide analyses the potential of locally produced and novel protein sources as viable, alternative feed sources for the organic poultry industry.

Description

It is important to correctly balance protein/ amino acid requirements to ensure productivity, bird welfare and sustainability. This technical guide outlines the most common limiting amino acids, common feed sources and their protein and amino acid profile, as well as potential plant and animal-based protein sources. To reach 100% organic poultry diets, practical, economic and environmental foot print must be considered. Within the category of plant ingredients, oilseeds and in particular European-produced soya meal seem to be the most promising long term alternative to imported soya meal. Within the category of legumes, peas, beans and sainfoin seeds seem to be a viable option because of their relatively high digestible methionine content, and their good availability. This tool is especially relevant for organic poultry farmers in Europe, however there is also relevant information for farmers in other regions.



https://orgprints.org/38630/



{Tool} Fulfilling 100% organic poultry diets: Concentrates. Creator(s): Crawley, Kenny; Krimpen, Merinus; Smith, Jo; Gerrard, Catherine and Sumption, Phil. Issuing Organisation(s): ORC - Organic Research Centre. ICOPP Technical Note. (2015)

Problem

How to breed organic sows in integral outdoor area?

Solution

This guide explains every step of organisation and management of sows in an outdoor area.

Description

This guide is made up of 15 different fact sheets that can be read separately, or all together as they complement and build upon each other. The factsheets are based on the advice of experts but also on the 25 years’ experience in the integrated open-air experimental pig farm in Trinottières, France. Each element of outdoor sow rearing is elaborated, including: advantages of outdoor breeding, work organisation, outdoor area design, choice of shelter and equipment, weather management, soil cover, sow feeding, grazing and fodder, pig stock management, reproduction from farrowing to weaning, pig health and sanitary aspects and biosecurity. This guide will help organic breeders and/or advisors to manage outdoor breeding system of organic sows. It can also be useful for future organic breeders who wants to implement this kind of outdoor-breeding system.



https://orgprints.org/38650/



{Tool} Outdoor breeding of organic sows: a complete technical guide. [L’élevage des truies biologiques en plein-air : un guide technique complet pour accompagner les éleveurs.] Creator(s): Roinsard, Antoine; Maupertius, Florence; Dubois, Aude; Olivier, Denis and Rodríguez-Estévez, Vicente. Issuing Organisation(s): Chambre d’Agriculture des Pays de la Loire. (2020)

Problem

Laying hens are usually only used for one year, so pullets must be purchased annually. This is expensive on the one hand and ethically questionable on the other hand, because many chicks (most males) are killed - the alternative is moulting.

Solution

The leaflet explains how moulting can be artificially induced in laying hens and directed in an orderly manner to prolongs the laying life of the hens by 6-8 months.

Description

This leaflet explains the natural process of moulting and why laying hens should go through moulting, discussing economic advantages and improved animal ethics. The process of artificially inducing moulting is explained in detail, by day. It addresses some common questions or problems one could encounter and how to overcome them. This leaflet targets organic chicken farmers and farm advisors in the German-speaking countries.



https://orgprints.org/38233/



{Tool} Inducing moulting in organic hens. [Mauser auslösen bei Biohennen.] Creator(s): Zeltner, Esther. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2020)

Problem

Which feeding system best meet hens' nutritional needs and what laying performance can be expected? How do pasture areas contribute and what are their effect on the optimal feed composition?

Solution

Combining pasture into the hens’ feeding strategy increased the laying performance compared to those who had no pasture access.

Description

This final report provides information for organic and non-organic farmers who keep their animals in free-range systems. Two feeding strategies were investigated for organic feeding. In the first part of the experiment, two groups with pasture runs were compared. One group was fed with a complete feed, while the other group was fed with a combined feed, where the animals were free to choose daily between wheat (60 g/bird) and ad libitum supplementary feed. In the second part of the experiment, both groups were switched to combined feeding and one group was kept in the outdoor run to evaluate the influence of pasture on laying performance. This tool is relevant for organic egg producers and can be applied everywhere.



https://orgprints.org/38591/



{Tool} Feeding strategies for laying hens in free-range systems with pasture. [Fütterungsstrategien für Legehennen in Haltungssystemen mit Grünbewuchs im Auslauf.] Creator(s): Roth, Franz Xaver. Issuing Organisation(s): TUM - Technische Universität München. (2005)

Problem

How to organise outdoor runs to maximise utilisation by broilers and layers.

Solution

This guide shows how to design outdoor area with trees and explains how that influences broiler behaviour.

Description

The guide explains why it is important to plant tree in the outdoor run for chickens. Then, every step of implementation is described: space arrangement, inventory of soil and climate conditions, economics aspects, etc. Several tree designs show diverse possibilities to create the most adapted system for every situation. In addition, tree-planting rules are provided, i.e. tree varieties, soil preparation, mulch, planting, tree protection, tree maintenance, etc. This tool is not specific for organic farming and is relevant for any farmer who would like to integrate trees into their outdoor poultry run.



https://orgprints.org/38602/



{Tool} Technical guide: tree-planning in poultry outdoor run. [Aménagements arborés des parcours à volailles. Guide technique.] Creator(s): Béral, C.; Guillet, P. and Brun, V.. Issuing Organisation(s): ITAVI. (2014)

Problem

What is the impact of 100% organic feeding on layer hens’ performance?

Solution

100% organic feeding for layer hens is possible without impact on performance but it’s a bit more expensive.

Description

100% organic feeding will be compulsory at the end of 2020. This trial compares the performance of layers fed with 95% organic and 100% organic feeding. 100% organic feeding meets the layers needs while maintaining animal performance and egg quality. Also, no negative impact on hens’ welfare was observed. However, the cost of 100% organic feeding led to an increase in total feeding costs, so now the question; where will this supplement be found? This document can help farmers and feed producers to change feeding formulation from 95% to 100% organic. This tool is specific for organic hen producers and is relevant for all locations, particularly in the European Union where 100% organic feed is mandated by the end of 2020.



https://orgprints.org/38600/



{Tool} 100% organic feeding for layers hens: is it feasible? [Faisabilité d’une alimentation 100% biologiques pour les poules pondeuses. Synthèse des essais menés à l’UMT BIRD de Nouzilly (ITAVI-UE PEAT).] Creator(s): Peron, Laure; Bourin, Marie and Dussart, Léonie. Issuing Organisation(s): SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologiques. (2019)

Problem

Organic broilers require a high protein diet for fattening but these needs are hard to meet under organic regulation.

Solution

Establishing an outdoor areas for broilers can provide an important source of protein.

Description

This tools explains how to design outdoor area with different kind of ground cover and how that influences broiler behaviour and performance. Different ground cover with different species, pure or mixed, are tested. Broilers behaviour, intake and outdoor area utilization are monitored. Finally, lessons learned about the capacity of outdoor areas as an attractive source of protein for broilers are discussed. This depends on the outdoor areas design and the chickens appetite for the cover ground. A key point is to ensure a good plant establishment and maintain its quality with appropriate maintenance. The tool is aimed at farmers and farmers advisors in organic sector but it’s also practical in conventional farming.



https://orgprints.org/38599/



{Tool} Protein value of an outdoor area for poultry. [Parcours à haute valeur protéique. Synthèse des essais conduits sur volailles de chair à l’INRA du Magneraud et au Lycée des Sicaudières.] Creator(s): Peron, Laure; German, Karine; Brachet, Mathilde and Couilleau, Laurent. Issuing Organisation(s): SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologiques. (2019)

Problem

Reducing protein needs over the broilers life helps to avoid over-feeding and waste.

Solution

This tools explains how you can gradually reduce the feed protein content in 5 feeding phases rather than the typical 3.

Description

This tool explains feeding phases in poultry, they are the different divisions that are established in order to obtain maximum utilization of feed and nutrients. A trial which compared two feed restriction treatments of broilers was done at Lycee Nature; both of which protein feed was gradually reduced. The first was reduced over 3 feeding periods and the second over 5. The purpose was to progressively reduce protein content of feed at the end of the fattening period without impacting broilers performance. Results shows that reducting protein use in 3 or 5 phases allowed equal performance in broilers. This document can help farmers and feed producers to adapt feeding formulation and ration planning in order to reduce feed waste, which implies saved production costs.



https://orgprints.org/38627/



{Tool} Feeding phases of poultry: trail synthesis from Lycée Nature. [Alimentation fractionnée Synthèse des essais conduits sur l’élevage avicole du lycée Nature.] Creator(s): Peron, Laure. Issuing Organisation(s): ITAB - Institute for Organic Agriculture and Food. (2019)

Problem

Designing appropriate outdoor areas for broilers is a challenge.

Solution

This video describes relevant aspects of design and conception for creating a versatile outdoor area for broiler production. Advise and experiences about tree plantation and seeding of outdoor area are provided.

Description

Designing an outdoor area for poultry is essential to maximing use of space and improving animal welfare. Featuring trees in the outdoor area provides shade and protection for broilers, allowing them to explore, forage, and find more nutrients via the plants, grubs and insects present. The composition of the grazing area is also important to keep the soil covered. This space must be properly managed to stay attractive and effective. This tool provides tips and covers the basics for farmers and advisors who want to re-design their outdoor grazing area for poultry.



https://orgprints.org/38624/



{Tool} Designing and optimising outdoor areas in organic poultry farming. [Aménagement et valorisation des parcours en volaille bio.] Creator(s): Kéraval, Gérard. Issuing Organisation(s): ITAB - Institute for Organic Agriculture and Food. (2018)

Problem

If organic farms use sow and boar bloodlines with a high reproductive potential, it can happen that more piglets are born than the sows themselves can rear.

Solution

The leaflet shows which long-term breeding measures and short-term management measures can be used to prevent piglet losses.

Description

The leaflet highlights long-term breeding measures, focusing on boars and juvenile sows, as well as short-term steps which allow for healthy sows and piglets following farrowing if the litter is too large for the sow. It provides various strategies to take and explains when is best to take them. This leaflet was made for organic farmers and farm advisors and is relevant across Europe.



https://orgprints.org/38227/



{Tool} Avoiding too large of a litter and piglet losses. [Zu grosse Würfe und Ferkelverlust vermeiden.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Haldemann, Peter; Henning, Luther (Suisag) and Tanner, Christoph. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2015)

Problem

Various housing systems have developed across Europe according to traditions, climate, land characteristics, local standards, consumer expectations and economy. High standards of animal health and welfare is expected among organic consumers.

Solution

This guide explains the common housing strategies used in organic pig farming in Europe, while discussing advantages and disadvantages of different systems. It addresses the main challenges and measures to reduce risks related to these challenges.

Description

Housing can be divided into three categories: indoor, outdoor and mixed housing. Each come with unique challenges, advantages and disadvantages. The guide describes the housing practices in various European countries, provides performance comparisons and practical recommendation for each housing category and life stage (lactating sows, suckling piglets, and weaner pigs). This technical guide is most relevant for European organic pig farmers and farm advisors.



https://orgprints.org/38216/



{Tool} Organic pig production in Europe: health management in common organic pig farming. Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Bochicchio, Davide; Dippel, Sabine; Edwards, Sandra; Gunnarsson, Stefan; Leeb, Christine; Lindgren, Kristina and Mejer, Helena. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. (2011)

Problem

Weaning the piglets from the sow is a great challenge for many sow owners. Lack of appetite, immunodeficiency and weaning diarrhoea often lead to animal losses.

Solution

Optimising husbandry, feeding and management can make a decisive contribution to avoiding animal losses and keeping the use of medication to a minimum.

Description

This leaflet discusses the difficulties associated with weaning piglets and shows what measures are necessary to prevent problems and to remedy them in acute cases. In addition to recommendations for optimising housing, management and feeding, the leaflet also lists feed supplements approved in organic farming to stabilise piglets' digestion. Medicinal plants and homeopathic medicines for prophylaxis and alleviation of the unpleasant symptoms of diarrhoeal diseases are recommended and available advisory services relating to pig husbandry according to the country (Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxemburg), complete the guide. Organic farmers and farm advisors from German-speaking countries will benefit from reading this guide, additionally, farmers in transition to organic.



https://orgprints.org/38219/



{Tool} Successful weaning of organic piglets. [Erfolgreiches Absetzen der BioFerkel.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Hagmüller, Werner; Walkenhorst, Michael and Wesselmann, Stefan. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bio Austria, Bioland, Bio Suisse, Demeter, IBLA Luxemburg, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen. Technical guide. (2014)

Problem

Tail biting is a common challenge in pig husbandry.

Solution

The checklist points out the typical symptoms associated with the problem of tail biting in pig husbandry and helps in the early detection of the problem.

Description

This information sheet informs pig farmers on how to recognise the signs of tail biting and how to implement appropriate measures. It provides photos which help to identify tail biting according to the tail position and lesions. The tools is appropriate for all pig farmers, organic or conventional, as well as farm advisors.



https://orgprints.org/38220/



{Tool} Prevent tail biting: watching – thinking – acting. [Schwanzbeissen verhindern: beobachten - erkennen - handeln.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Vermeer, Herman and Dippel, Sabine. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, FBN, FLI - Friedrich Löffler Institut, WUR - Wageningen University and Research, INRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, CEA LETI, DTI - Danish Technological Institute. (2017)

Problem

Free-range hens must comply with animal welfare, water protection and the expectations of consumers, while respecting the associated technical and economic constraints.

Solution

This leaflet provides solutions for the realization, use and maintenance of providing pasture access to laying hens.

Description

This leaflet gives an overview of what elements are required for successful free-range hens, including measures in the space near the poultry house, existing solutions, implementation, and effectiveness. Goals, advantages, disadvantages, hours of work, costs and important things to know are provided for the different areas of such a system: rotational grazing areas, area with wood chips, and the concrete/stone/gravel area. Laying hens need shelter for their safety, which can be achieved by using natural and/or artificial elements in the pasture. Both natural and artificial options are considered in the leaflet. Many solutions to common problems in free-range chickens, like how to plan grazing, which breeds are best, how to construct or alter your space, ways to counter the threat of predators and how to prevent disease and pest outbreaks. This tool is aimed at organic farmers and farm advisors in Switzerland but could also be interesting across Europe.



https://orgprints.org/38229/



{Tool} Free-range laying hens: animal and environment friendly. [Aire de sortie pour poules pondeuses: respectueux des animaux et de l'environnement.] Creator(s): Hirt, Helen; Maurer, Veronika; Zeltner, Esther; Bapst, Beat and Hartnagel, Siegfried. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2001)

Problem

The weaning phase represents an enormous psychological and physiological strain for the piglets. The sudden changes in the social environment, the housing environment and the feed composition make the piglets very susceptible to diseases and developmental disorders.

Solution

The leaflet summarises the experience gained in a three-year practical project and the observations of consultants on piglet management and feeding around the weaning period.

Description

During the weaning phase, it is particularly important to adapt the management to the piglets' requirements, to avoid management mistakes. The leaflet provides important information regarding the weaning phase according to the needs during this critical time, suitability of barn and pen types for breeding, sows and piglets friendly facilities, and tips for healthy piglets according to husbandry, feeding, hygiene, and controls and treatments. It provides information on the organic regulations of organic production of piglets in the EU, Germany and Switzerland, as well. The leaflet is useful for organic farmers and advisors, alike. This also could be helpful for farmers in transition or thinking about transiting to organic pig production. The information provided to relevant across Europe.



https://orgprints.org/38226/



{Tool} Optimising weaning management in piglets. [Optimierung von Haltung und Management der Absetzferkel.] Creator(s): Bussemas, Ralf and Simantke, Christel. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bioland Beratung GmbH, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen, Bio Austria. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2011)

Problem

Keeping the germ pressure in animal husbandry low is essential to animal health. Since chemical treatment should be avoided when possible, organic farmers must be well-informed in regard to effective and approved animal hygiene measures, focusing on prevention.

Solution

Using examples from organic pig farming, the leaflet shows which hygiene, cleaning and disinfection measures are suitable for organic farms.

Description

This leaflet provides ways of optimizing animal hygiene relating to stall design and construction and management practices, provides technical cleaning steps to properly reduce the microbial pressure, lists organic-approved suitable chemical disinfectants as well as alternatives. The leaflet informs reader how pathogens are transmitted and suggests ways to deal with ecto- and endo-parasites. “Prevent instead of treat”, is an important guiding principle for successful hygiene management in organic farming. This leaflet is targeted at organic pig farmers and advisors in German-speaking countries.



https://orgprints.org/38222/



{Tool} Hygiene management in organic pig husbandry. [Hygienemanagement in der Bioschweinehaltung.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bioland Beratung GmbH, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen, Bio Austria. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2011)

Problem

Successfully keeping and feeding lactating sows in groups is a more species-appropriate husbandry method, and preferred in organic pig farming. However, group suckling presents challenges to farmers.

Solution

Group suckling when properly implemented can reconcile animal welfare, performance and economy. Management measures in husbandry, feeding and animal health are provided.

Description

This leaflet provides an overview of advantages and disadvantages associated with keeping lactating sows in a group. It highlights practical measures for successful group suckling, compares single housing, group housing and combinations, various parameters, requirements and rules-of-thumb for success, are discussed. An occupancy plan for group suckling is provided. The target users of this tool are German and Czech-speaking organic farmers ad advisors.



https://orgprints.org/38221/



{Tool} Group suckling in organic pig husbandry. [Gruppensäugen in der Bioschweinehaltung.] Creator(s): Aubel, Erhard; Baumgartner,, Johannes; Bussemas, Ralf; Früh, Barbara; Hagmüller, Werner and Simantke, Christel. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bioland Beratung GmbH, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2011)

Problem

Free-range laying hens can be demanding in many ways – including threats imposed by extreme weather, predators and parasites. Safety and well-being of the flock must be ensured through proper husbandry strategies.

Solution

advantages when external risks are managed properly. Management strategies which balance the needs of the animals, environment, consumers and farmers are discussed.

Description

The leaflet provides the most important information on the design, use and care of outdoor runs for laying hens. It includes information on suitable design measures, tips on the care of the pasture and information on flock management in the pasture. It also explains what to do against predators, how diseases and parasites are controlled and what additional costs arise from keeping the hens outdoors. Minimum requirements of organic associations Bioland, Bio Austria, EG-Oeko-Verordnung, and Bio Suisse are provided for laying hens and pullets. This leaflet was made for organic farmers and advisors in the German-speaking countries of Europe.



https://orgprints.org/38232/



{Tool} Free-range laying hens: providing species-appropriate and sustainable husbandry. [Freilandhaltung von Legehennen: So wird sie tiergerecht und nachhaltig.] Creator(s): Deerberg, Friedhelm; Maurer, Veronika and Zeltner, Esther. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bioland Beratung, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen, Bio Austria. (2010)

Problem

Stable housing with access to a concreate run is the main method of pig husbandry in Switzerland however, in recent times, organic farmers want to employ more species-appropriate systems, improving animal welfare while meeting customers ideals. Various forms of free-range farming are successfully practiced abroad, many appropriate for application in Switzerland.

Solution

The leaflet explains how the keeping of pigs on pasture can meet the requirements of animal welfare, environmental protection while enabling economic success.

Description

The factsheet informs readers about what free-range pig production is, the best choice for location, infrastructure, suitable breeds, feeding and pasture management, animal health, costs and workload, and legal requirements. Key features required for successful free-range pig production are highlighted, advantages and disadvantages of management techniques are examined, and specific measures to prevent and treat animal diseases. Finally, links and contact for further information is provided, in the case of further questions or interest. The target users of this tool are Swiss organic or transitioning organic farmers and farm advisors.



https://orgprints.org/38218/



{Tool} Free-range pigs: high animal welfare with appropriate infrastructure and management. [Freilandhaltung von Schweinen: Viel Terwohl bei passender Infrastruktur und richtigem Management.] Creator(s): Jenni, Anna; Früh, Barbara and Fürst, Eva. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. Technical guide. (2019)

Problem

The risk of endoparasites is higher in free-range chickens and synthetic deworming agents are used to combat this problem. However, when used too often worms can form resistance, residues in the eggs increase and there is a negative impact on the soil and water health.

Solution

The leaflet explains how to reduce the use of synthetic deworming treatments in laying hen husbandry and how to prevent the development of parasite resistance.

Description

The leaflet provides an overview of the most important endoparasite which affect chickens, ways to avoid outbreaks, and how to diagnose, and safely treat your animals for endoparasites while preventing the creation of resistance. Regulations according to BioSuisse for deworming treatments are also provided. This short leaflet is aimed at Swiss organic farmers and farm advisors but is also relevant across Europe.



https://orgprints.org/38230/



{Tool} Controlling endoparasites in laying hens. [Regulierung der Endoparasiten bei Legehennen.] Creator(s): Maurer, Veronika; Perler, Erika and Werne, Steffen. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2018)

Problem

Chicken fattening operation hold promise for organic farmers, but one must select the right methods which suit their lifestyle, landscape, and economics.

Solution

Raising organic broiler chickens, not only is the species-appropriate keeping of the animals guaranteed, but chicken meat is also obtained which is appreciated by consumers for its quality.

Description

For farms with spare manure capacity and enough level areas for the stables, chicken fattening can be an interesting operation. The leaflet provides an overview of on-farm fattening of broiler chickens from the market situation, production and husbandry to feeding and business management. The publication also provides information on animal health and welfare, disease prevention and measures against predators. Although the leaflet is aimed at Swiss organic farmer and advisors it would be useful in other European countries, as well.



https://orgprints.org/38231/



{Tool} Fattening chickens in organic farming. [Pouletmast im Biolandbau, Élevage de poulets bio.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Hirt, Helen; Hossle, Isabel; Maurer, Veronika and Richter, Toralf. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. Technicla guide. (2003)

Problem

The demand for organic pork has been growing steadily for a few years now – however, the growing demand leads to a supply bottleneck for organic piglets in production.

Solution

The leaflet gives Swiss farmers a good overview of the requirements for organic sow management and best practices. The farm management information and guideline requirements are no longer up to date and must therefore be consulted with caution.

Description

This leaflet provides conventional sow owners and organic producers with the specialist knowledge they need to get started in organic breeding sow management. Topics covered range from business administration, construction costs, husbandry and feeding requirements, animal health, sales planning, and tips for successful transition. This tool is targeted at farmers and farm advisors in Switzerland. This tool was created in 2002, so consult current regulations before proceeding with any changes in management.



https://orgprints.org/38225/



{Tool} Breeding sows in organic farming. [Zuchtsauenhaltung im Biolandbau.] Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Heller, Stefan and Wesselmann, Stefan. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bio Suisse. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2002)

Problem

In German-speaking countries, the fattening uncastrated piglets is hardly known. Many livestock farmers and breeders consider the risk of loss of meat quality due to boar odour to be too great.

Solution

Increasing efforts and interests regarding animal welfare by fattening boars has led more and more farmers to consider fattening boars, if sales were secure and open questions were clarified. This technical guide aims to do clarify these open queries.

Description

The leaflet presents the current state of knowledge on boar fattening and the use of boar meat and highlights the key aspects of castration-free fattening of male piglets. Production and processing practices in Great Britain and Ireland, Spain, Portugal are compared, genetic potential is discussed, adaptations of management approach for boat behaviour, challenges faced with adequate amino acid supply, reliable odour detection, different options for processing, marketing options, and concludes with 10 rules for successful boar fattening. This tool is most relevant for German-speaking organic farmers and farm advisors in Austria, Germany, Luxemburg and Switzerland.



https://orgprints.org/38217/



{Tool} Boar fattening on organic farms: animal-friendly alternative to castration. [Erbmast im Biobetrieb: Tiergerechtre Alternative zur Kastration.] Creator(s): Holinger, Mirjam; Früh, Barbara and Herrle, Jürgen. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2013)

Problem

Sows and piglets have high nutritional requirements, and improper feeding can result in large losses in performance and vitality. The high protein demand as well as market requirements present great challenges for organic pig farmers.

Solution

The tool summarised the latest recommendations and actions which optimise water and feed supply in organic sows and piglets.

Description

This information sheet provides feeding strategies recommendations for sows, piglets and fattening pigs, these recommendations are based on the need and supply of digestible amino acids in feed. Recommendations cover topics like; performance-based feeding, water requirements and strategies, how to avoid, recognise and treat nutrition-related problems, guidelines for rationing, ration component options and optimal ratios, the role of roughage, the body condition score charts, and feeding hygiene. This tool is aimed at organic farm advisors and farmers.



https://orgprints.org/38195/



{Tool} Appropriate feed strategies for organic sows and their piglets. [Bedarfsgerechte Fütterung von Biosauen und ihren Ferkeln.] Creator(s): Patzelt, Sybille; Schubbert, Antje and Stalljohann, Gerhard. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Bioland, Landwirtschaftskammer Nordrhein-Westfalen, KÖN - Kompetenzzentrum Ökolandbau Niedersachsen, University of Kassel. FiBL-Merkblatt. (2011)

Problem

There are many ways to care for pigs, some being more animal-friendly than others.

Solution

This technical guide describes relevant aspects of husbandry which take the natural behaviour and needs of the animals into consideration from site and housing requirements, weaning, feed components at different life stages, amongst others.

Description

Recommendations are given considering not only the performance but also the species needs. Topics discussed include; basic requirements according to age groups and needs, natural behaviour of pigs and resulting requirements, temperature and climate requirements, housing comparison, basic elements of pig feeding, body condition scoring, a planning outline for six sow units, including recommended questions to be discussed with the farmer. The tool emphasizes the importance of considering animal welfare, producing on-farm feed therefore closing the system, and that prevention of problems and disease is better than cure. This tool is not specific to organic farming but the techniques discussed often agree with organic farming techniques. The tool is aimed at farm advisors but is just as relevant for farmers. It was developed for use in advisory services in Swaziland but information provided is widely applicable across all climate zones.



https://orgprints.org/38091/



{Tool} Animal-friendly pig husbandry: an advisory tool for Swaziland. Creator(s): Früh, Barbara. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, Sahee Foundation. Technical guide. (2016)

Problem

How to introduce nettle into organic pigs’ rations to assist in reaching 100% organic feed.

Solution

This video shows how to harvest and use nettle to feed pigs.

Description

From 2021, feed for organic pigs and poultry must be 100% organic. Alternatives must be found to replace the last 5% in monogastric rations. Diversifications of protein sources can be a good way, and nettle is a promising resource. However, nutritional values vary depending on the growth stage of the nettle. Therefore, it is important to harvest nettle properly to guarantee a good nutritional value of this forage. Digestibility analysis are in progress to better understand nettles role in monogastric rations. The trails shown in the video were realised by a breeder who have made observations on the pigs’ consumption, using dried nettle. For the moment, nettle utilisation is still experimental and more research should be undertaken to provide additional information for the future. This video is directed at organic farmers but is also useful for all monogastric farmers look or alternative feed sources.



https://orgprints.org/38634/



{Tool} Introducing nettle into organic pig feeding. [Introduction de l’ortie dans l’alimentation des porcs bio.] Creator(s): Bordeaux, Célia and Roinsard, Antoine. Issuing Organisation(s): Chambres d’agriculture Pays de la Loire, ITAB - Institute for Organic Agriculture and Food, SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologique. (2020)

Problem

Is only one finishing ration is enough to raise pigs after weaning? What is the impact of this feeding method?

Solution

The trial explores the potential of compensatory growth of pigs.

Description

In this trial, two batches of pigs were raised with different feeding management to evaluate a simplified feed strategy. After weaning, one batch was fed according to the classic management, with separate growing feed composition then switching to a finishing feed composition; the other batch was fed with only the finishing feeding. Formulations of each feed are described and show that finishing feed is lower in protein than growing feed, therefore it is also cheaper. Results confirm that pigs can partially catch up growth retardation without impact on lean meat percentage when they are fed with only finishing fed. Unfortunately, economics impacts cannot be evaluated. Moreover, impact on digestive system should be also measured on further experimentation. This tool can be use by organics farmers and advisors to find inspiration and to see if it is possible to simplified fattening period for pigs.



https://orgprints.org/38622/



{Tool} Simplifying feeding management between weaning and culling process: impact on growth performance of organic pigs. [Impact d’une conduite alimentaire sevrage-vente simplifiée sur les performances et les résultats d’abattage en production porcine.] Creator(s): Maupertius, Florence. Issuing Organisation(s): SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologique. (2019)

Problem

Is lucerne a good alternative feed source to reaching 100% organic feed for pigs?

Solution

This trial explores the potential of lucerne as pig feed.

Description

Three batches of pigs were raised with different rations to evaluate lucernes potential as pig feed. Two of the three batches had access to lucerne silage and the third had access to lucerne hay. In each batch, subdivisions are made with different percentage of ration feeding. The hypothesis: by reducing feed availability, pigs will eat more lucerne. All three treatment batches were compared with the control group, who were fed only classic feed rations. Results show variable consumption of fodder (from 50 to 1060 g/pig/day). Lucerne consumption didn’t permit to compensate rationing on pig development. But at the end, there is no impacts on pig performances at slaughterhouse and lucerne feeding allow to rationing concentrates without deteriorate pig welfare. This tool can be used by organic farmers and advisors to discover the possibilities of introducing lucerne in pig feeding. This tool is not location specific and can be applied anywhere lucerne can be grown.



https://orgprints.org/38603/



{Tool} Lucerne as pig feed. [Apport de fourrages de luzerne a des porcs en croissance.] Creator(s): Ferchaud, Stéphane. Issuing Organisation(s): SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologique. (2019)

Problem

How can one increase their protein autonomy in pig feeding?

Solution

From a farm system perspective, this tool explains how pig farmers introduced more legumes for feed on their farm.

Description

First, this tool is based on one farm system, it is an example and it has not to be consider as recommendations for all pig farming system. Features of the farm are presented: cropping system, pig breeding, feeding system and economics results. On this base, several ways of improvements are identified about protein autonomy and crop rotation. The objective is to consider points for modification in the whole system; for example, diversified crop rotations change what is available for pig feed. Simulations show how the system can be modified to integrate more legumes in the crop rotation. New feed formulations are made considering the new available feedstuff. Specifics equipment requirements are also described. These specifics allowed the evaluation of economic impacts of such practical changes on the farming system. The conclusion showed an economic gain, increased protein autonomy, and a more resilient crop system. This tool can be used by farmers and advisors to find inspiration related farm system changes. Although the example is specific to France, the principles are not site specific and can be applied to other farming systems.



https://orgprints.org/38594/



{Tool} Farm system evaluated: pig farm in Centre region of France. [Cas concret : élevage porcin en région centre.] Creator(s): Roinard, Antoine; Mouchard, Thierry; Valory, Agathe; Lubac, Stanislas and Mazenc, Jean-Marie. Issuing Organisation(s): SECALIBIO - Sécuriser les Systèmes Alimentaires en Production de Monogastriques Biologiques. (2020)

Problem

How to optimise grazing of hogs while maintaining healthy vegetative ground cover?

Solution

This synthesis shows how to subdivide the paddock to rotate pig grazing into the different sections.

Description

First, the rotation approach to pig grazing is described. Then all assumptions and goals of this method are detailed: soil protection, quality of forage, stocking rate, rotational management, logistic aspects, time of return between two groups, etc. Finally, several examples of design are presented for different kind of animals; breeding sows, gestating sows, from growing to finishing pigs. This will help breeders or advisors to choose which system is well-adapted and how this should be implemented. This tool is relevant to all farmers who hope to better manage their pig grazing system and is not location specific.



https://orgprints.org/38593/



{Tool} Designing pasture subdivisions for practical management of hogs. Creator(s): Pietrosemoli, Silvana and Green, James T.. Issuing Organisation(s): CEFS - Center for Environmental Farming Systems. (2015)

Problem

Which weeds are traditionally used to feed pigs? Which are best?

Solution

This tool includes a list of weeds and fodders sources for pigs feeding.

Description

This tool reviews weeds and fodder sources traditionally used to feed pigs. All the plants are wild species and valid for organic farming. This list is useful for both organic and conventional farmers and technicians. Most of the species are widely distributed. It includes information of the parts consumed and of recommended treatments before feeding to pigs.



https://orgprints.org/38645/



{Tool} List of weeds traditionally used to feed pigs. [Listado de plantas silvestres usadas tradicionalmente para alimentar a los cerdos.] Creator(s): Rodríguez-Estévez, V.; López-Tirado, J.; Sanz-Fernández, S.; Reyes-Palomo, C. and Díaz-Gaona, C.. Issuing Organisation(s): ECOVALIA - Asociación Valor Ecológico CAAE, Cátedra de Ganadería Ecológica Ecovalia-Clemente Mata. Universidad de Córboda. (2020)

Problem

What possibilities do traditional raw materials, alternative products and by-products offer for feeding pigs?

Solution

This tool makes many references and links for further and complementary information.

Description

This tool reviews raw materials, produce and by-products traditionally used to feed pigs. It explains facts about alternative feed sources and shows a wide range of possibilities, from natural resources like fruits (acorns, chestnuts, olives, carobs, etc.) and weeds to local crops (cabbages, turnips, etc.) and fodders (i.e. lucerne). Silage is shown as an option to conserve and handle raw materials. It includes many references and links for further and complementary information.



https://orgprints.org/38660/



{Tool} Traditional raw materials, alternative products and by-products for organic pig feeding. [Materias primas tradicionales, productos alternativos y subproductos para la alimentación del porcino ecológico.] Creator(s): Rodríguez-Estévez, Vicente; Reyes-Palomo, Carolina; Sanz-Fernández, Santos; Rodríguez-Hernández, P; López-Tirado, J.; Sánchez-Rodríguez, Manuel and Díaz-Gaona, Cipriano. Issuing Organisation(s): Cátedra de Ganadería Ecológica Ecovalia-Clemente Mata. (2020)

Problem

The formulation of a pigs diet has become extremely sophisticated, and accounts for 70-80% of the cost of pig production. Organic farming requires an integrated, whole-farm approach to food production which takes into account of sustainability, environmental and animal welfare considerations.

Solution

The selection of appropriate diets and feeding strategies is easily improved by following simple rules for diet formulation, provided by the nutritional value and feeding characteristics of different raw materials for organic pig diets.

Description

This handbook is designed to assist organic pig producers in selecting appropriate diets and feeding strategies by summarising the relevant knowledge from conventional pig nutrition, discussing the ways in which organic systems may differ, presenting simple rules for diet formulation and providing information related to the nutritional value and feeding characteristics of different raw materials for organic pig diets. The target group of this tool is organic farmers (new, converted or experienced) and advisors. This tool is relevant in all locations where pigs are being raised.



https://orgprints.org/38590/



{Tool} Feeding organic pigs: a handbook of raw materials and recommendations for feeding practice. Creator(s): Edwards, Sandra. Issuing Organisation(s): University of Newcastle. (2002)

Problem

Soybean seeds are sensitive to damages on their hulls and require special care in storage to preserve viability.

Solution

This tool discusses storage of soybean seed best practises.

Description

Soybean seeds are usually stored minimum 6-8 months before sowing. Experiences from Austria and Germany from recent years between 2010 and 2020 indicate that soybean batches can differ substantially in their viability and germinability. This tool covers good practises for preserving best seed quality until the next season. It addresses key points at harvest, drying and storage.



https://orgprints.org/38646/



{Tool} Storage of soybeans. [Lagerung von Sojabohnen.] Creator(s): Miersch, Martin. Issuing Organisation(s): Tofu Taifun – LZ Soja. Taifun Sojainfo - Fachinformationen für Sojaerzeuger und -verarbeiter, no. 11. (2015)

Problem

Silage is generally too low in protein to feed pigs

Solution

The tool demonstrates growing maize and beans together to create forage with a better protein content.

Description

The tool shows that it is possible to grow maize and beans together to produce a high-protein feedstuff. The German video demonstrates relay planting, manual harvesting and processing of the product.



https://organic-farmknowledge.org/tool/36544



{Tool} Maize and beans – Organic roughage with benefits? [Mais-Bohne – Öko Raufutter mit MehrWert?] Creator(s): Böhm, Herwart. Issuing Organisation(s): Thünen-Institut. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2016)

Problem

There is an increasing need for alternative protein sources in the organic poultry and pig production to achieve 100 % organic feeding including locally grown sources.

Solution

Grass clover fields have many important positive properties in organic farming, and now it is also possible to extract protein from grass clover and produce organic protein feed for the growing pig and poultry production.

Description

Green protein from clover-grass or alfalfa is considered a valuable protein source for poultry and pigs. By concentrating the protein fraction from grass clover crops grown locally in Denmark, and by using biorefining technology, one expects to obtain a vegetable protein and amino acid source that can optimize feed formulation of organic layer and pig diets, thereby increasing the sustainability of organic egg and pig meat production as well as increase feed efficiency. Optimisation of the biorefining method is a continuing process, and recent studies have shown that the protein and amino acid content increased from 2016 to 2018. Target groups are organic farmers, advisors, industry and scientists.



https://orgprints.org/36475/



{Tool} Grass protein - a golden chance to improve organic farming. [Grass protein - a golden chance to improve organic farming.] Creator(s): Fog, Erik. Issuing Organisation(s): SEGES. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2018)"

Problem

Fulfilling amino acid methionine (MET) requirements without overfeeding protein is difficult, because in organic farming, synthetic amino acid and animal by-products are not allowed.

Solution

The tool encourages multiple-phase feeding, using high levels of protein during the starter phase of growth and then decreasing protein levels during the finishing phase. This is the way to pair the diet with nutrient requirements.

Description

Methionine is the most limiting amino acid in a typical poultry diet. In this article, they focus on protein/methionine requirements of poultry and balance in the diet. Some studies found that slow-growing broilers require lysine at the same concentration as fast-growing broilers. Laying hens have lower methionine requirements than broilers. Methionine requirements, amino acid balance and energy balance related to feed intake are also discussed with a table indicating the presence of digestible methionine in different feedstuffs. Another topic is the difference in profit between small-scale vs large scale production looking at plant-based protein, animal-based protein and additional sources and how to add these to poultry diets. The tool concludes that synthetic methionine is necessary to satisfy amino acid requirements for organic poultry but that alternative sources of protein and animal proteins can help to reach amino acid balance. The target group of the tool is organic feed advisors and it can be used for ration formulations.



https://orgprints.org/36943/



{Tool} Organic Poultry Production: Providing Adequate Methionine. Creator(s): Fanatico, Anne. Issuing Organisation(s): NCAT. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2010)"

Problem

Poultry nutrition is a complicated matter. Farmers have to combine a lot of different feedstuffs and minerals to feed the animals properly. The needs of animals change with their age, their genotype and with the aims of the farmer.

Solution

This tool provides advice for the farmers to manufacture their own feed on farm. It proposes an optimized calculation of the feedstuff.

Description

AVIFAF helps farmers enhance their production of local feedstuffs, optimize the cost of feed for their poultry production without loss of performance, and grants more autonomy. This online tool is based on the latest known references of feed values of innovative feedstuffs. AVIFAF is a software to assist in the formulation of on-farm feedstuffs for poultry production. It allows farmers to design balanced feed diets for most species and at different stages of growth, enhancing the ingredients farmers have or those they may have access to nearby. Different requirements are available, linked with the various goals in terms of animal performance. A large database with organic feed value is provided and main recommendations on how to use different feedstuffs in animal diets are available.



https://orgprints.org/36538/



{Tool} AVIFAF©. [AVIFAF©.] Creator(s): Delassus, Anne-Sophie und Bordeaux, Célia. Issuing Organisation(s): Chambre Régionale d’Agriculture des Pays de la Loire. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2015)"

Problem

There are few technical documents that concisely identify the most common feedstuffs used in organic farming and their specificities

Solution

For each feedstuff, nutrient content, treatment/processing and possibilities/restrictions for feeding different animal species are described.

Description

In this booklet, the most common feed materials in Swedish organic production are listed. For each feed ingredient and feedstuff, nutrient content, treatment, opportunities and restrictions are described for feeding to ruminants, pigs and poultry. Additionally, some guidelines on their use are given. Poultry includes laying hens and broiler chickens, but most information can also apply to ducks, geese and turkeys. The feed resources described are organic ley crops, pasture, whole crops, straw, corn, potatoes, oats, barley, wheat, triticale, rye, faba beans, peas, lupins, rape seed and turnip rape, linseed, soya beans and fish meal. The booklet is relevant and available to use for advisors and farmers.



https://orgprints.org/36477/



{Tool} Feed in organic production. [Foder i ekologisk produktion.] Creator(s): Danielsson, Dan-Axel. Issuing Organisation(s): Swedish board of Agriculture. Jordbruksinformation, Nr. JO16:12. (2016)"

Problem

Information on pig feeding is fragmented: it is important to have comprehensive and complete technical guides.

Solution

This technical booklet summarizes the recommendations and knowledge from four research projects.

Description

The technical booklet ""Feeding pigs in organic farming"" is intended for farmers and advisors. It is based on the results of four research projects and provides a synthesis of information on e.g. the regulations concerning the feeding of organic pigs, feeding management and the needs of animals according to their physiological stage. Furthermore, it includes information on the nutritive value of organic raw materials, examples of diet formulation and expected performances, the use of feedstuff and its manufacturing on the farm. This document has been produced specifically for organic farming but may be useful for all pig farmers. It can be used regardless of a farm's location.



https://orgprints.org/36548/



{Tool} Feeding pigs in organic farming. [Alimentation des porcins en agriculture biologique.] Creator(s): Bordes, Anne; Calvar, Cathrine; Maupertius, Florence; Alibert, Laurent; Ferchaud, Stéphane; Uzureau, Anne; Roinsard, Antoine und Carrière, Julie. Issuing Organisation(s): French Research Institute for Organic Farming ITAB, Le réseau de l’initiative Bio en Bretagne IBB, Chambre d’agriculture Pays de la Loire, Institut du porc IFIP. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2014)"

Problem

How to replace 5% of non-organic protein-rich raw materials in organic poultry feed.

Solution

To help this transition, several research programs have been initiated since 2010. This website gathers the presentations from a conference that gathered 5 research programs regarding the transition towards 100% organic feed in poultry production.

Description

The website includes scientific articles and slide presentations of each project’s main results. This tool is specific to organic farming. Target groups are researchers, farmers, feed producers and all actors of the organic sector interested in 100% organic feed for poultry production. Topics covered are: - Availability and quality of raw materials for organic poultry farming - Testing solutions for formulating 100% organic feeds for broilers and laying hens - Agronomic issues regarding seed legumes for poultry feed - Experiences from farmers and feed producers



https://orgprints.org/36942/



{Tool} Towards 100 % organic diets for poultry. [Vers une alimentation 100 % AB en agriculture biologique.] Creator(s): Roinsard, Antoine; Bordeaux, Célia und Lubac, Stanislas. Issuing Organisation(s): French Research Institute for Organic Farming ITAB. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2015)

Problem

How can we use silage as a supplemental feedstuff for broilers and as foraging material?

Solution

Practical application of feeding silage by mechanised silage distribution for broilers on farm.

Description

Different types of silages can be fed to broilers several times per day. Silage contributes nutrients to the diet and occupies the broilers improving welfare and reducing the risk of feather pecking. The roughage/silage is fed several times daily with a mechanical suspension system (robot) on a veranda just outside the broiler house. This stimulates the broilers to leave the house to eat the silage and to increase the use of the outdoor area. Using a mechanical system to allocate silage makes it possible to feed several times a day and supply the broilers with material with a rough structure, which is considered to have positive effect on development of the intestinal system and intestinal health. Target groups are organic farmers and advisors.



https://orgprints.org/36933/



{Tool} Use of a robot to feed roughage, improving welfare of broilers. [Grovfoderrobot øger velfærden hos økologiske slagtekyllinger.] Creator(s): SEGES, . Issuing Organisation(s): SEGES. (2018)

Problem

Can soya be replaced in chick rations?

Solution

Replacing soya with dehulled legumes.

Description

The tool gives the results of a trial which was looking at the effect on chicks of feeding a ration where soya was replaced with dehulled legumes. The outcome was that the removal of anti-nutritional properties in the hulls meant that chick growth was similar to chicks fed a proprietary compound feed. Although not organic it shows that dehulling could be used to make pulses suitable for chickens.



https://orgprints.org/36932/



{Tool} Inclusion of some dehulled legume grains as concentrates for broiler chicks. Creator(s): Dousa, B.M.; Abdel Atti, Khandiga A.; Elseed, Fadel und Elawad, S.M.. Issuing Organisation(s): ANSInet. International Journal of Poultry Science, Nr. 11 (1). (2012)

Problem

Soybeans have a high protein value, but they contain anti-nutritional factors (ANFs), such as trypsin inhibitors. Without treatment, this inhibitor reduces the animal's digestibility of the protein.

Solution

In the tool, varieties with a lower ANF-content are found. They are tested in a dairy cow production trial. The low ANF-soybeans have the same effect as the treated ones.

Description

Two rations with different soybean varieties were tested on dairy cows to see whether a soybean low in anti-nutritional factors could be used without treatment. By choosing the right genetic soybean variety, it is possible to achieve a higher protein digestibility without treatments. There are different soybean varieties , some with only half the ANF content. This way, it is possible to harvest soybeans directly at the farm and feed them to the animals. These varieties contain 25 mg antitrypsin per g flour compared to commercial varieties which contain 50 to 55 mg. The varieties low in antitrypsin were used to feed a group of dairy cows while the conventional variety was fed to another. Production and fertility values as well as milk quality remained the same; this means that this low-ANF-soybean variety does not decrease digestibility of protein even though it is untreated. Without the treatment, it is possible to use the soybeans directly on the farm. This tool can be useful for organic and conventional farmers.



https://orgprints.org/37525/



{Tool} Soy with less anti-nutritional factors excellent for yields and rations. [Soia con meno antinutrizionali ottima per rese e nelle razioni.] Creator(s): Snidaro, Mariolino und Danelon, Imerio. Issuing Organisation(s): Centro Ricerche Produzioni Animali. L'Informatore Agrario, Nr. 19. (2019)

Problem

Lack of information about the role roughage can play in addressing the nutritional and foraging needs of pigs in organic systems.

Solution

The guide presents alternative forages for feeding pigs, and their management.

Description

The tool shows the benefits of roughage feeding and foraging for pigs and then looks at some of the possible options for farmers. The feed available from worms and other soil living invertebrates is also explained.

It is a technical note giving options rather than answers. Although written for organic farmers it is relevant to non-organic farmers. Although UK based it has potential for all regions.



https://orgprints.org/37060/



{Tool} Fulfilling 100% organic pig diets: Feeding roughage and foraging from the range. Creator(s): Crawley, Kenny. Issuing Organisation(s): Organic Research Centre ORC. ICOPP technical note 4. (2015)

Problem

The potential to use silage as a supplemental feedstuff for layers.

Solution

The practical application of feeding silage via a mechanized silage distribution for layers on farms.

Description

Growing protein-rich roughage/silage can help increase self-sufficiency and improve the crop rotation on organic poultry farms. Different types of silage can be fed to layers daily and contribute to the poultry's nutrient requirements. The roughage/silage is allocated several times a day with a mechanical suspension system. It also keeps the layers occupied and provides activity, minimising the risk of feather pecking. The method is considered a new concept of producing protein rich roughage that can be used in feed formulation. Target groups are organic farmers, but it is also valuable for advisors and scientists.



https://orgprints.org/36473/



{Tool} Roughage for organic laying hens. [Økologisk grovfoder til høns.] Creator(s): Volmar, Jan. Issuing Organisation(s): Økologisk Landsforening (Danish Organic National Association). (2009)

Problem

There are some laying hen farms that look almost like a desert, containing very little biodiversity.

Solution

The booklet suggests different methods and tools to improve the use of free-range areas on organic layer farms.

Description

The booklet focuses on designing free-range areas for laying hens in order to: - increase the farmer's satisfaction in his/her work; - improve the welfare of laying hens; - promote a positive image of animal husbandry in organic farming. - meet societal expectations regarding organic farming. The booklet includes different planting methods, instructions on designing pathways, on selecting plants, windbreaks, etc. It further describes how to improve the animals' use of free-range areas as well as promote biodiversity on the farm.



https://orgprints.org/36476/



{Tool} Plants and planting designs for organic poultry ranges. [Beplantning i økologiske hønsegårde.] Creator(s): Thejsen, Jens. Issuing Organisation(s): Økologisk Landsforening (Danish Organic National Association). OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2015)

Problem

The requirement for 100 % organic feed raises many questions in the poultry sectors and among organic feed manufacturers. One of the risk is that protein dependence on soybean imports might be increased. Also, it might generate technical and economic uncertainties.

Solution

This article presents the results of an evaluation of innovative raw materials and formulation strategies to achieve 100 % organic feed.

Description

The article summarises the results of French and European research projects. It presents the vegetable protein market for animal feed, the nutritional values of various high-protein raw materials and the results of testing formulation strategies (diversification of raw materials and foraging). New raw materials are interesting, but not available and/or expensive. The tests reveal additional costs related to feed price and increased consumption indices. Formulation strategies with lower levels of protein in the finishing period make it possible to limit these obstacles. This article is mainly interesting for advisors. It is specific to organic farming, but not limited to a geographical area.



https://orgprints.org/36600/



{Tool} Using local raw material for broiler feed in organic farming. [Valorisation de matières premières locales pour l’alimentation des poulets en agriculture biologique.] Creator(s): Roinsard, Antoine; Bordeaux, Célia; Lubac, Stanislas; Brachet, Mathilde; German, Karine und Juin, Hervé. Issuing Organisation(s): ITAB, Chambre d’agricultures des Pays de la Loire, IBB, INRA. Journal Tema, Nr. 40. (2016)

Problem

The tool addresses the dependence on soya in poultry feed in the UK.

Solution

The tool offers potential alternatives to organic soya which could be grown in the UK.

Description

The tool shows two alternatives to organic soya: oilseed rape and sunflower seeds. It is a written report providing information and research outlines regarding their potential in poultry feed. The nutritional differences of different crops are described in detail and agronomic advice on how to grow the crops is provided.

Aimed at organic farmers in the UK, but relevant to all northern European countries.



https://orgprints.org/36547/



{Tool} Making poultry feed more sustainable. [Making poultry feed more sustainable.] Creator(s): Nelder, Rebecca. Issuing Organisation(s): Organic Research Centre ORC, Elm Farm. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2012)

Problem

Potential to use silage as feedstuff for pigs.

Solution

The tool shows that pig production is not decreased when silage is fed.

Description

This tool is the report of a series of meetings as part of a Field Lab run by Innovative Farmers. It was a farmer led trial, which addressed the specific question of whether silage was a possible feed, and follows the stages of farmer involvement and then results of both physical results and taste tests. Research was carried out to show that silage can be fed to pigs. The indications that silage can reduce feed requirements for pigs without reduced output. Relevant to organic and conventional farmers.



https://orgprints.org/36927/



{Tool} Feeding pigs silage. Creator(s): Michie, David. Issuing Organisation(s): Innovative Farmers. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2016)

Problem

There are few references on the use of forage resources to feed outdoor sows. Which species should be planted, how should the grassland be organised and what are the zootechnical results?

Solution

The video presents the results of a trial testing the implementation of meadows grazed by pregnant sows whose ration is reduced in protein and quantity.

Description

The video "Foraging of sows on high-protein grassland" presents the results of a trial conducted on the Trinottières pig experimental farm on 6000 m² of grassland, containing grasses and fodder legumes. The aim is to test rotational grazing on pregnant sows, whose concentrated feed is reduced in quantity and protein, and to observe the feeding behaviour of sows, the circulation of animals, and the consumption of feedstuff. The trial was seemed to support this method. However, it suggests that a full ration should be maintained at the end of the pregnancy. This tool is interesting for both farmers and advisors, and can also be used in conventional outdoor breeding. It can be used in any geographical area where animals have access to the outdoors.



https://orgprints.org/36518/



{Tool} Foraging sows on high-protein grassland. [Pâturage des truies sur parcours à haute valeur protéique.] Creator(s): Maupertius, Florence; Pierre, Patrice und Roinsard, Antoine. Issuing Organisation(s): French Research Institute for Organic Farming ITAB. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2018)

Problem

In order to achieve 100 % organic feeding, including locally grown sources, a sufficient supply of organic protein feed with the right amino acid profile at a competitive price is needed.

Solution

Proteins extracted from organic green crops have the potential to substitute imported protein feed. Extracting proteins from red clover and clover grass using a novel method shows good results, especially with respect to a favourable amino acid composition.

Description

The overall purpose of the OrganoFinery project is to provide solutions to these problems by developing a green biorefinery where the organic crops are at the same time used for animal feed, fertilizer and energy production (methane). One of the project´s aims is to identify crops suitable for organic arable farms that have a general need for nitrogen. Sufficient nitrogen supply is essential for the production of protein; therefore, legumes or mixed cropping with legumes are particularly interesting for organic farmers, since these crops fix nitrogen. In the bio-refining method, freshly harvested red clover and clover grass are mechanically separated into a green juice and a press cake using a screw press. Organic protein feed is produced by lactic acid fermentation of the green juice. Target groups are organic farmers, advisors, industry and scientists.



https://orgprints.org/36474/



{Tool} Proteins from organically grown green crops are promising poultry feed. [Proteins from organically grown green crops are promising poultry feed.] Creator(s): Lübeck, Mette; Molinuevo-Salces, Beatriz; Fog, Erik und Kiel, Pauli. Issuing Organisation(s): ICROFS: International Centre for Research in Organic Food Systems. ICROFS news, Nr. 4. (2014)

Problem

Organic pig feeding needs to be compliant with a large range of requirements.

Solution

This brochure provides comprehensive guidance for farmers and advisors to fulfill production requirements and to achieve a satisfactory performance.

Description

This brochure provides guidance on organic pig feeding. It summarises guidelines and requirements set by the most common quality standards in Germany and describes the basics for ration planning in detail.



https://orgprints.org/36928/



{Tool} Organic pig feeding. Feed, rations. [Schweinefütterung im Ökobetrieb I. Futtermittel, Rationen.] Creator(s): Lindermayer, H. und Reichel, P.. Issuing Organisation(s): Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture LfL. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2020)

Problem

Soybean production is increasing in Europe, but in many regions, local feed processing facilities are lacking. That results in a suboptimum supply to livestock production and limits the chances to exploit business opportunities.

Solution

The joint enterprise of the families Monschein and Hebenstreit illustrates how small-scale farms can create added value through processing of self-grown soybeans.

Description

The website ‘Mein Hof, Mein Weg’ provides a platform for a group of innovative farms from Austria to present themselves to the wider public. One of them is the farming enterprise of Monschein/Hebenstreit (Styria, Austria). The website portrays the farm profile, highlights their motivation to become a pioneer in the Austrian agricultural community and shows by videos how soybean cultivation and processing is integrated into their laying hen farms.



https://orgprints.org/36944/



{Tool} Profile of a farm with integrated soya production, processing and laying hen husbandry. [Mein Hof, Mein Weg - Monschein - Hebenstreit.] Creator(s): Ländliches Fortbildungsinstitut Österreich, LFI. Issuing Organisation(s): Ländliches Fortbildungsinstitut Österreich LFI. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2018)

Problem

How it is possible to successfully cultivate faba beans?

Solution

Location requirements and cultivation methods as well as harvesting.

Description

This tool deals with cultivation recommendations for faba beans. The tool has been developed for conventional agriculture, but provides important insights for organic farming. The aim is to promote the cultivation of field beans and to use them more in feeding. The cultivation recommendation is primarily aimed at farmers and advisors.



https://orgprints.org/36956/



{Tool} Cultivation of faba beans. [Ackerbohnen Anbauempfehlung.] Creator(s): Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft Sachsen-Anhalt, (LLG). Issuing Organisation(s): Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Gartenbau Sachsen-Anhalt (LLG). OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2014)

Problem

How it is possible to decrease feed costs in pig production using whey as by-product?

Solution

Using whey as an affordable product in pig feeding to help the animals reach commercial weight.

Description

This tool in the form of a demonstrational video shows the successful use of whey as a feedstuff on a multispecies farm. It is targeted towards farmers, both organic and conventional. The tool is not location-specific.



https://orgprints.org/36954/



{Tool} Whey in pig feed. [Suero lácteo en la alimentación de cerdos.] Creator(s): La finca de hoy, . Issuing Organisation(s): La finca de hoy. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2017)

Problem

There is a lack of references and instructions to cultivate soybeans.

Solution

Knowledge about home growing soybeans.

Description

The on-farm cultivation of soybeans presents the farmer with challenges. Climate and location requirements, the preceding crop and crop rotation play an important role in cultivation. A suitable seedbed preparation and the choice of variety also play a major role for successful cultivation. Sowing, fertilisation and weed control measures are also dealt with. Finally, harvesting and marketing aspects are considered. The target group is farmers who are interested in soy cultivation or already have experience. The tool is not specific to organic farming.



https://orgprints.org/36957/



{Tool} Cultivation of soybeans. [Anbauanleitung für Sojabohnen 2018.] Creator(s): Imgraben, Hans Jörg. Issuing Organisation(s): Regierungspräsidium Freiburg. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2018)

Problem

Nutrient requirements, limitations, possibilities and how to formulate diets for organic pigs.

Solution

Information and practical recommendations on feed ingredients, feed rations and feeding strategies.

Description

The guide contains information on nutrient requirements for pigs and practical recommendations on feeding strategies for organic pigs. Included is information about amino acids, phosphorus, energy-amino acid balance and nutrient requirements, as well as examples of feed rations with lower energy and lysine content. The guide also describes the principles for compensatory growth and the importance of feed analysis and record keeping of production results. The guidelines are relevant and available to use for advisors and farmers.



https://orgprints.org/36934/



{Tool} Feed for organic pigs. [Foder till ekologiska grisar.] Creator(s): Göransson, Leif. Issuing Organisation(s): Gård och djurhälsan. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2009)

Problem

Formulated, complete diets for laying hens do not reflect their nutrient requirements since their needs change according to the weather and their age. As a consequence, nutrients are often under- or oversupplied.

Solution

With free choice feeding, the rations are not fed to the chickens as a complete feed but instead offered as three separate component feeds supplying energy, protein and calcium.

Description

By using feed produced on-farm, feed costs can be reduced. At the same time, the hens can use their so-called "nutritional wisdom" to better create their own rations with the free-choice feeding. The system is interesting, especially for mobile housing systems as they offer high amounts of young grass and can thus reduce the amount of protein sources used.



https://organic-farmknowledge.org/tool/38443



{Tool} Free choice feeding - an alternative feeding method for laying hens (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice abstract). Creator(s): Müsseler, Olivia and Vogt-Kaute, Werner. Issuing Organisation(s): Öko-BeratungsGesellschaft mbH. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract, no. 038. (2020)

Problem

A key challenge remains to achieve organic and sustainable monogastric feeding strategies: meeting their protein and essential amino acid needs with locally sourced feedstuffs.

Solution

Feeding of insects offers new possibilities to overcome the protein gap in organic farming. Insect feeds offer a sustainable and local alternative to commonly used protein feed sources.

Benefits

Live insects and larval meal can replace soy in feed rations. The amino acid profile of insects corresponds to the dietary needs of fish, poultry or swine animals, especially relating to amino acids like lysine, threonine, methionine, and tryptophan.

Practical recommendations

• Processed insect protein legally belongs to the group of ‘animal proteins’ and is currently not permitted in livestock feed; however, this legislsation does not apply to the feeding of live insects, as this is not a processed feed. • Due the high fat content of the live larvae or worms there is an upper limit, which cannot be determined at present with the available results from the feeding trail. • Feeding live mealworms (Tenebrio) (Fig. 2) to laying hens does not reduce aggressive behaviour (based on results of a FiBL trial, where hens received 10 g of live mealworms per day).



https://orgprints.org/38429/



{Tool} Feeding insects for organic layers (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Früh, Barbara; Alföldi, Thomas and Gearing, Jessica. Issuing Organisation(s): FiBL - Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract, no. 037. (2020)

Problem

Switching poultry rations from 95 % to 100 % organic feed can lead to a reduction in the use of home-grown and regional feed. Currently, conventional maize gluten and conventional potato protein are replaced by organic oilcake (soya, sunflower, rapeseed, sesame). Oilcake has a comparatively low content of important amino acids such as methionine and so higher proportions of oilcake must be used. This can lead to further reductions in the use of regionally produced and home-grown feed components such as cereals.

Solution

Energy feedstuff components contain different amounts of amino acids such as methionine. Some grain species have a high methionine content and can grow well in most regions by the farmers themselves. The best examples are proso millet (Panicum milleceum) and naked oats (Avena nuda) followed by spelt, naked barley (Hordeum vulgare L. var. nudum Hook. f.) and buckwheat with all containing higher levels of methionine than wheat or maize. Figures 1 and 2 show the harvest and a field visit as part of the project “Proso millet in poultry feed”

Benefits

In the present ration example, the use of oil cake can be reduced from 34.8 % to 26.1 %. This means that the share of home-grown and regional components can be increased by more than 8 % since the oil content could also be reduced.



https://orgprints.org/38082/



{Tool} Focus on the amino acid content of energy feedstuff components (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Vogt-Kaute, Werner and Schmelzer, Elias. Issuing Organisation(s): Öko-Beratungsgesellschaft mbH, Bioland Beratung GmbH. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 036. (2020)

Problem

Outdoor-dried hay from fine-grained legumes is a risky business due to the weather. Field drying can lead to very high leaf losses, which greatly reduces the protein and amino acid content. This is why fine-grained legumes are mown early (see Fig. 1), brought in moist (see Fig. 2) and then dried on the farm in an energy-intensive way.

Solution

The approach here is to use the waste heat from biogas combustion for the drying of fine-grained legumes. There are different methods for drying the crop. They all use the warm exhaust air, which is sucked in by a fan and fed to the various processes via air ducts.

Loose plants can be dried with a continuous dryer or in special drying containers with perforated floors (see Fig. 3). For better and more compact storage, the crop should then be compressed into bales (see Fig. 4).

Benefits

• Low loss of leaf mass leads to high concentration of protein and amino acids.

• A fast harvest reduces the dependence on the weather.

• Waste heat utilisation of the biogas plant and a possibility for the operator to earn additional income through contract drying.

• Extension of the range of applications for fine-grained legumes in monogastric feed from roughage supplier to protein supplier



https://orgprints.org/37511/



{Tool} Utilisation of waste heat from biogas plants for drying fine-grained legumes (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Lindner, Christopher; Schmelzer, Elias und Vogt-Kaute, Werner. Issuing Organisation(s): Bioland Beratung GmbH. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract. (2020)

Problem

Current production systems compromise pig health and welfare through a lack of structural feed components, which is associated with the development of gastric ulcers.

Solution

Feeding a diet which includes roughage, like grass silage, increases pig gut health.

Benefits

A reduction in gastric ulcers leads to increased animal welfare. Additionally, roughage, such as grass silage, may satisfy the pigs’ need for rooting and lead to a reduction in tail biting. Furthermore, the pigs are occupied with feeding for longer periods of time, which leads to a reduction in boredom. As grass silage has a good nutritional value, it is an ideal supplement to concentrate feed. Note: feeding roughage does not negatively impact meat quality. Practical recommendation • Provide fattening pigs with roughage on a daily basis (minimum 100-300 grams per pig every day) • Grass silage is an ideal roughage: it is very attractive for the pigs due to its taste and consistency. Besides grass silage, grass, hay, and other types of silage have comparable effects on health and welfare. • To avoid feed waste and to provide good access, place feed in racks at an optimal height. • Place racks away from areas where pigs rest in order to avoid disturbances.



https://orgprints.org/36454/



{Tool} Feeding grass silage to fattening pigs (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Holinger, Mirjam; Scheibler, Samuel und Früh, Barbara. Issuing Organisation(s): Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL). OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract. (2019)

Problem

The inclusion of soya meal into the poultry diet is relevant, as a source of high quality protein. However, as soya is planted for both human and animal consumption, the cost is high.

Solution

The production of tofu and soymilk generates okara as a waste product which can be added fresh or dried, to poultry rations, reducing both soya meal inclusion and costs. Due to its high fibre content, the amount of okara in the diet should be limited to avoid a decrease in feed intake.

Description

• Due to its chemical and amino acid composition, Okara can be used in different ways in the poultry diet. A possible use is to include okara in the starting and growing phases (from the 1st to 21st day). Another possibility is to feed okara from week 1 to slaughtering time. Okara inclusion replacing soyameal quantity from 25 to 75 % in the diet, will not affect feed intake or mortality, and it will reduce ration cost and achieve comparable daily body weight gains, to 100 % soya diets. However, due to the high fibre content, overfeeding Okara, could decrease feed intake and performance. • The composition of Okara ranges between 20 % and 47.3 % protein and 9.3 % and 22.3 % fats. It contains high amounts of isoflavones and the polyunsaturated fatty acids, linolenic acid, and linoleic acid. The energy content is also important to ensure weight gain from day 1 to 21.



https://orgprints.org/37898/



{Tool} Okara: Including a soya by-product into the poultry diet (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Papi, Eugenio. Issuing Organisation(s): AIAB - Associazione Italiana Agricoltura Biologica. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 030. (2020)

Problem

Soya beans are rich in proteins but also contain anti-nutritive substances, which require processing prior to feeding to pigs or poultry. Designing an adequate processing system for a farm is challenging because a range of factors need to be considered together: profitability, time efforts, needs of livestock, and consumers.

Solution

Various technological design solutions exist for on-farm processing systems and are adaptable according to a farm’s needs.

Benefits

Using processing equipment for home‐grown soya beans can increase and retain the value created on the farm.

Practical recommendation

The core of the processing facility is equipment which serves the purpose to convert raw soya beans into a digestible form via heat treatment. The required processing can be achieved through different technological procedures.



https://orgprints.org/38314/



{Tool} Guide for farms to plan small scale soya bean processing equipment (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Rittler, Leopold. Issuing Organisation(s): Donau Soja. OK-Net-Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 029. (2020)

Problem

Sunflower oil cake is a high protein and fat feed source for livestock. It is a by-product obtained from the extraction of oil from sunflower seeds. It can be obtained by mechanical pressing resulting in a „cake“ containing 15-20 % oil or by solvent, which increases the quantity of oil. In organic farming, oil may only be extracted by mechanical pressing. The quality of the oil depends on plant characteristics and on the processing.

Solution

The quality of the product can be increased by first dehulling the seeds. This improves the pressing capacity as well as the oil and meal quality. Mechanical extraction is used by producers of speciality oils and smallholder farmers in both developed and developing countries.

Benefits

Oil presses are used for the mechanical extraction of oil from oilseed crops. The procedure to obtain oil cake is as follows: • The seeds are delivered to the press where they are crushed and squeezed. • Under pressure, the oil leaks through the press holes and gathers into the oil repository underneath the press. • The oil is filtered to remove any solids, which are then cleaned of unwanted substances. • Together with the oil, an oil-rich press cake is produced. • After the oil cake has been removed from the press, it is cooled down. It can be stored for up to 3 months. • This procedure is a current processing technique that produces a good quality oil cake. In terms of feeding, sunflower oil cake plays an important role in monogastric diets due to its high methionine content.



https://orgprints.org/37801/



{Tool} Sunflower oil cake (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Porietti, Lavinia. Issuing Organisation(s): AIAB - Associazione Italiana Agricoltura Biologica. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 028. (2020)

Problem

Soya beans are rich in protein with a valuable composition of amino acids but also contain anti-nutritive substances (trypsin inhibitors) and approximately 20 % fat, which can limit the applicability in organic pig husbandry.

Solution

If soya beans are pressed and heat treated, the products can be used in organic feed rations for pigs.

Benefits

• Soya beans need to be heat treated to enable digestion by pigs or poultry. Professional processing technology is required to apply a heat treatment of the right quality and intensity. This is essential to preserve protein quality. • De-fatting of soya beans helps to increase shelf life and the amount that can be fed to sows, piglets and pigs. A mechanical press reduces the fat content down to approximately 7-10 %, see table 1. The product is called soya cake. Before feeding it to pigs, it needs to be heat treated. • Soya cake or full-fat soya beans are best in growth phases with high energy needs: nursing sows, rearing piglets and in the first fattening phase (share in total feed <15 % DM). • The fat of soya beans contains relatively high levels of polyene fatty acids. For achieving lean meat of high quality, the use of soya cake is limited during the final fattening phase (approximately 5 % of DM). Full-fat soybeans should be avoided during this phase. • If soya cake is the main protein feed during the fattening period, the share of corn should be lower than 20 %. Otherwise, lean meat of high quality is not achievable.



https://orgprints.org/37897/



{Tool} Recommendations for using soya-based feedstuffs in pig husbandry (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Rittler, Leopold. Issuing Organisation(s): Donau Soja. Practice Abstract, no. 027. (2020)

Problem

Soya is one of the most important sources of protein in poultry feeding. However, the high crude protein content alone is not sufficient to meet the special needs of poultry on essential amino acids. They need to be supplemented with other components to get optimal amounts and ratios. In poultry, the feeding of raw soya beans is not possible due to digestive inhibiting components, and must be prepared by thermal treatment. Soya beans have a very high oil content. Full-fat beans can therefore be used in the ration with a maximum of 10 - 12 %. In this case, the methionine-rich components such as corn gluten must also have a low raw fat content. A high raw fat content in the ration can lead to health problems.

Solution

Toasting the raw bean improves the digestibility and usability of the protein and extends the shelf life of the toasted beans to approximately 6-12 months. There are different toasting methods with different effects on the quality of the soya. For the mobile solutions, the thermal method is predominantly used. In order to increase the quantity used from about 10 % to about 20 % in the ration, the soya bean must be de-oiled by pressing, which reduces the crude fat content from about 20 % to about 10 %. Since synthetic amino acids may not be used in organic farming, the ration must be supplemented with components with a high methionine content. In 100% organic rations rice protein or methionine-rich oil cakes are used for this purpose.



https://orgprints.org/37896/



{Tool} Recommendations for using soy-based feedstuffs for poultry production (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Lindner, Christopher and Schmelzer, Elias. Issuing Organisation(s): Bioland Beratung GmbH. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 026. (2020)

Problem

Soya beans are rich in protein, but they contain antinutritional components such as trypsin inhibitors, which means that thermal processing is required before feeding to pigs and poultry. However, heat treatments are costly and cause damage to wanted nutrients, including protein.

Solution

Results from recent pig feeding trials in Austria show that heat-treated soya can be replaced with unprocessed (full fat) soya, low in trypsin inhibitors, to up to 10 % of the diet.

Benefits

The successful use of unprocessed soya bean varieties with reduced content of trypsin inhibitors enables farmers to become more independent in their feed supply. Furthermore, costs for thermal treatment, e.g. toasting, could be saved.

Practical Recommendations

Pig feeding experiments in Austria and Germany during 2017 – 2020 provide following insights for practitioners:

• Since the TIA value can differ between batches, the batch-specific TIA must be known. TIA measurements are offered by specialised feed laboratories.

• Other protein-rich ingredients (e.g. peas or faba beans) need to be added into the pig feed to cover the pro-tein requirements adequately. Unprocessed "Xonia" soya beans alone cannot provide enough protein.



https://orgprints.org/38419/



{Tool} Unprocessed soya beans low in trypsin inhibitors in organic pig fattening diets (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Rittler, Leopold; Raser, Helmut; Puntigam, Reinhard and Slama, Julia. Issuing Organisation(s): Donau Soja. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract, no. 025. (2020)

Problem

Meeting growing pigs’ nutrient requirements with on-farm-produced cereals and protein feed ingredients can be hard. To overcome the risk of undersupplying pigs with amino acids, diets are formulated with higher contents of protein than recommended. With 100 % organic feedstuffs, it is difficult to match the amino acid requirement without a very high level of protein. This can decrease the health and welfare of weaners and increase nitrogen losses.

Solution

A single-phase feeding strategy and utilising pigs’ capacity for compensatory growth (Figure 2) can lessen the need for diets with high protein and amino acid content in the early stage of the growing phase.

Benefits

Single-phase feeding of pigs followed by growth compensation might reduce nitrogen emissions, as it excludes the need for a high protein and amino acid content in the diet in the early stages of growth. It enables efficient use of locally produced protein feed resources and can reduce soya intake by pig and simplify feed manufacturing, feed handling and diet formulation at the farm level. This practice can reduce the cost of the feed for the weaners.



https://orgprints.org/37512



{Tool} Single-phase feeding and compensatory growth in growing and finishing pigs (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Åkerfeldt, Magdalena Presto. Issuing Organisation(s): Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 024. (2020)

Problem

The growth and health of piglets is reduced directly after weaning because of high incidence of diarrhoea.



Solution

Feeding low doses of seaweed to piglets may positively affect gut health and reduce diarrhoea. It will also supply several minerals.



Benefits

Polysaccharides in seaweeds can have antimicrobial, prebiotic or immunomodulatory effects, alleviating negative effects linked to weaning.

• Effectivity might differ depending on the seaweed type, harvest season and processing method. Brown and red seaweed species may be better than green. • Several commercial seaweed products can be used, and it is important to ask for documentation of effect before relying on e.g. effect on diarrhoea. • High levels of macro and micro minerals have to be taken into account when composing diets with seaweed. • Many seaweed extracts are available, which may not be suitable for organic production.



https://orgprints.org/37244/



{Tool} Seaweed as feed supplement (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): van der Heide, Marlene Elise und Værum Nørgaard, Jan. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 023. (2020)

Problem

Organic production should use 100 % organic protein in 2025, but the availability of organic protein is limited.

Solution

Mussel meal can replace other less sustainable protein-rich ingredients, in particular fishmeal, in the diets of organic pigs and layers. Furthermore, mussels can lessen water eutrophication by uptake of nitrogen and phos-phorus.

Benefits

Feed intake, weight gain and egg-laying are sustained at normal levels when feeding mussel meal to grower-finisher pigs or layers. Egg quality remains good with a more orange yolk colour compared to feeding fishmeal (Figure 1).



Practical recommendation

• Mussels are harvested from nutrient-rich water before maturation.

• Mussels are deshelled by boiling, dried and processed into meal with approximately 60 % crude protein.

• Mussel meal is included in the diet at a maximum 8% in layer hen diets to avoid off flavour in eggs (Fig-ure 2).

• No maximum inclusion rate has been established in piglets.

• Diets can be optimised for essential amino acid requirements and will often include less crude protein.



https://orgprints.org/37800/



{Tool} Blue mussels as feedstuff (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): van der Heide, Marleen Elise und Værum Nørgaard, Jan. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 022. (2020)

Problem

A species-appropriate pig diet consists of different feed components with different structures. However, such a diet is technically, and in terms of ration planning, more complex to produce than a feed that is always of the same structure.

Solution

Integrate roughage feeding into ration plans and use the farm's potential for feed production.

Benefits

• With combined feeding, the energy requirement of pregnant sows can be reduced by up to 50 % in the first stage of gestation and up to 20 % in the last stage of gestation by providing energy-rich roughage products like grass or corn silage (Picture 2). • For pregnant sows, the daily feed intake capacity for clover grass and maize silage is 2-4 kg fresh matter. • In addition to clover grass silage (with a high protein value), a cereal and minerals mixture without pro-tein-rich feed components should be used. • In addition to maize silage, a very protein-rich concentrate is needed. The daily intake of 3.5 kg maize si-lage per sow can compensate for a concentrated feed quantity of up to 1 kg per day compared with pure concentrated feed. • In addition to grass silage, 85 % of complete feed requirement for pregnant sows could be provide. • Feeding silage to suckling piglets and weaned piglets prevents diarrhoea.



https://orgprints.org/36930/



{Tool} Relevance of roughage feeding to pigs (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Früh, Barbara. Issuing Organisation(s): Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 021. (2019)

Problem

The nutritional needs of organic poultry

Solution

The technical note offers nutritional information and options to supplement the range area and to improve feed value.

Description

Part of a series on the topic of monogastric feeding, this technical note looks at the role that forage can play in providing feedstuff for poultry. It provides options of different grasses and advice on how to grow them. Although aimed at organic farmers, it would benefit all poultry keepers who have free-range birds or who need to house birds during parts of the year.



https://orgprints.org/36526/



{Tool} Fulfilling 100 % organic poultry diets: roughage and foraging from the range. Creator(s): Crawley, Kenny. Issuing Organisation(s): Organic Research Centre ORC, Elm Farm. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2015)

Problem

Due to the risk of cross contamination between genetically modified soybeans and organic ones, it is necessary to find different protein sources to use as feedstuffs in organic farming.

Solution

This manual helps farmers to use other feedstuffs than soybeans.

Description

This tool is created for pig farmers who want to use organic feedstuffs other than soybean, because a big part of soybeans is genetically modified and the risk of cross contamination is high. The Italian Ministry of Agriculture finances the Council for Agricultural Research and Analysis of Agricultural Economics (CREA) to investigate solutions for organic nutrition. CREA created a manual with existing and new information about organic feedstuffs. The manual is a list of information about characteristics and utilization of main feedstuffs for pigs. For each feed there are summarised agronomic information, nutritional values of single feeds in the table, and potential uses and limitation of each ingredient in a ration.



https://orgprints.org/36935/



{Tool} Feedstuffs for organic pigs. [Alimenti per il suino biologico.] Creator(s): Commellini, Michele; Bochicchio, Davide und Della Casa, Giacinto. Issuing Organisation(s): Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria CREA - CRA-SUI UNITÀ DI RICERCA PER LA SUINICOLTURA. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2012)

Problem

In organic farming, protein and amino acid balance is difficult to achieve, especially in the context of a 100 % organic diet. For piglets, the most physiologically critical phase is the time after weaning when their protein requirement is high, but at the same time, they are sensitive to gastrointestinal disorders.

Solution

Adjusting amino acid requirements to below the current recommended levels can help organic producers to meet the nutritional needs for piglets and weaners, in the context of a 100 % organic diet. The diets should be formulated according to the specific production potential and farmer objectives.

Benefits

The acceptance of a reduced level of amino acids in the diet can enable higher use of locally produced protein feed resources and simplify feed manufacturing, feed handling and diet formulation at the farm level. Formulating diets with optimal protein content and amino acid composition, in relation to piglet needs, will improve health and growth performance and decrease the risk for excessive protein in the diets and excretion of nitro-gen to the environment. Using a higher percentage of local feed resources increases self-sufficiency and sus-tainability of the farm.



https://orgprints.org/38395/



{Tool} Protein requirement for piglets and weaners (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Åkerfeldt, Magdalena. Issuing Organisation(s): SLU - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 018. (2020)

Problem

Feed is responsible for the main part of costs in organic poultry production. Achieving the goal of 100 % organic feeding for poultry presents some challenges as it may be more difficult to achieve a balanced diet when certain protein-rich raw materials are not easily available.

Solution

This technical guide summarizes the expertise of researchers and advisors and the knowledge acquired through various research programmes about poultry feeding in organic farming.

Description

This technical guide synthesizes knowledge available about: - The physiological mechanisms of poultry, - Nutritional requirements and recommended intakes, - The feeding behaviour of organic poultry, - The nutritional value of raw materials, - The nutritional value and possible intakes of foraging - On-farm feed manufacturing It also describes 100 % organic feeding strategies and expected zootechnical performances. The guide covers specifically organic poultry production. Target groups are farmers and advisors.



https://organic-farmknowledge.org/tool/36545



{Tool} Poultry feeding in organic farming. [Alimentation des volailles en Agriculture Biologique.] Creator(s): Bordeaux, Célia und Roinsard, Antoine. Issuing Organisation(s): French Research Institute for Organic Farming ITAB. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2015)

Problem

An increase in demand for organic feedstuffs is expected to limit protein availability. Therefore, new and more sustainable protein-rich ingredients are needed.

Solution

Starfish are caught to reduce predation on farmed mussels. Starfish meal contains 38-70% protein and can be used to partially replace other protein-rich ingredients in monogastric animal feed.

Benefits

Feeding starfish meal gives comparable growth to feeding fishmeal in piglets. For layers, egg production and quality are maintained at normal levels when feeding up to 8% starfish meal.



Practical recommendation

• Starfish should be harvested, at the earliest, three months before spawning to have highest protein and lowest ash content.

• High calcium levels limit the inclusion level of starfish meal in piglets’ diets to around 5%.

• Starfish meal is not organically certified but can still be used because it is not of agricultural origin.

• Starfish meal is already commercially available in Denmark.

• Diets can be optimized regarding amino acids and with lower crude protein.



https://orgprints.org/37559/



{Tool} Starfish as feedstuff (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): van der Heide, Marleen Elise und Værum Nørgaard, Jan. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 016. (2020)

Problem

Large variation between pigs in a litter or production batch makes it difficult to target their nutrient requirements for optimal growth. Diets are therefore formulated with higher lysine and protein contents than recommended, resulting in wastage of nutrients and unnecessarily high N-emissions.

Solution

A phase feeding plan, with two or more phases, will better reflect the actual need of protein and amino acids for pigs at different live weights (growth phases) as dietary content of crude protein and essential amino acids is decreasing with increasing age of the pigs.

Benefits

Phase feeding will more closely match the pig’s nutrient requirements and minimise the over- and underfeeding of nutrients. The feed will be better utilised by the pigs, in favour of both production economy and reduced N-emissions. Practical recommendation • To get the maximum benefit from phase feeding, diets and feeding should be established based on actual animal performance and profitability/performance goals for each stage of production. It is easier to develop with a small number of pigs per batch (to manage heterogeneity) • Diets should be formulated on a digestible amino acid basis rather than on a total amino acid or crude protein basis, crude protein should preferably be kept at a low level and ingredients should be analysed for their nutrient contents.



https://orgprints.org/35451/



{Tool} Phase feeding for growing and finishing pigs (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Presto Åkerfeldt, Magdalena. Issuing Organisation(s): SLU - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 015. (2020)

Problem

Producing fully organic poultry feed of regional origin is challenging, particularly for protein sources that offer balanced amino acid profiles. Furthermore, not all nutrients present in feed are available for digestion.

Solution

To optimise feed rations, diets should be based on digestible nutrients, nutrient interactions and the influence of other feed characteristics.

Benefits

Feed rations that consider nutrient digestibility can better utilise regional feedstuffs, optimising health, body maintenance and production requirements. They help to improve animal welfare, lower costs and reduce nitrogen pollution from compensatory feeding. Practical recommendations • Regular analysis of all dietary components is recommended for a reliable nutrient profile of feed rations. • To optimise the use of home-grown feed, the nutrient content of forage should be considered in diet formulation. • High quality protein fulfils amino acid (AA) requirements, particularly lysine, cysteine and methionine. • Diets formulated on digestible amino acids (DAA) are more effective than those formulated using total AA content. • Digestibility of AAs is affected by dietary fibre content and the presence of anti-nutritional factors and protease inhibitors. • Adding permitted enzymes to the diet can stimulate the digestibility of all nutrients, particularly protein and complex carbohydrates. They may also help birds to break down anti-nutritional feed components

https://orgprints.org/38640/



{Tool} Nutrient digestibility in poultry (OK-Net EcoFeed practice abstract). Creator(s): Whistance, Lindsay. Issuing Organisation(s): ORC - Organic Research Centre. OK-Net EcoFeed practice abstracts, no. 014. (2020)

Problem

Organic poultry producers are often confronted with high feed costs and a lack of alternative high-quality protein sources for poultry.

Solution

Green protein concentrate can be produced from locally grown crops such as clover-grass or alfalfa. It can be used in the diets of organic broilers and layers. In a bio-refinery, protein concentrate is obtained by pressing fresh green material (see figure 2), heating/fermenting the juice to precipitate protein and finally putting it in a centrifuge. The concentrated green protein can be dried and added to poultry feed.

Benefits

Concentrate from clover/clover grass and alfalfa has a high protein content and an optimal amino acid profile for poultry, which makes the feed formulation of organic diets more optimal. An increase in locally grown protein sources can improve the sustainability of the farm and make the farmer less dependent upon imported protein, such as soya, from overseas.

https://orgprints.org/37034/



{Tool} Green protein from locally grown crops (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Steenfeldt, Sanna; Ambye-Jensen, Morten und Lübeck, Mette. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University AU. Ok-Net-Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 013. (2020)

Problem

Producing and using self-grown soybeans on farm requires a detailed understanding of the whole process from field to feeding.

Solution

The brochure describes step-by-step key practice points and portrays integrated organic farms in Germany.

Description

Soybeans are rich in protein and have a well-balanced amino acid profile. Since soya fits well for many farms in Europe, it provides also an option for farmers to grow their own feed. By doing so, they can increase the added value on their farms and can respond to the demand of consumers for regional food products. The brochure is intended to help keep the quality of the soya bean as high as possible, from sowing to harvesting and storage, from thermal processing to feeding poultry and pigs. In addition, special attention is paid to compliance with organic quality. The brochure includes a checklist of the main key practice points and portrays three integrated organic farms in Germany.



https://orgprints.org/36946/



{Tool} Organic soybeans – Managing quality from field to feeding. [Bio-Soja, Qualität vom Feld bis zum Futtertrog.] Creator(s): Bär, Maria und Kögel, Alexander. Issuing Organisation(s): Landesvereinigung für ökologischen Landbau Bayern LVÖ. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2016)

Problem

Organic broilers grow slower than conventional birds and so producers face the challenge of feeding quality feed components at lower concentrations. Feed needs to fulfil the amino acid and energy requirements of broilers for efficient growth and development, but growth is slower.

Solution

Choice feeding, access to range and forages can increase the utilisation of protein and energy, which will increase feed efficiency. The requirements for birds to use the range area is part of the solution.

Benefits

Organic standards require organic broilers to be free range and have access to open-air spaces as soon as possible but at a minimum of one-third of their life. The minimum slaughter age for broilers is 81 days. • Feed components should contain high-quality proteins, e.g., legumes, aquatic feed sources and by-products from food manufacturing and industrial processes. • Organic standards prevent the use of synthetic amino acids, so there is a need to ensure amino acid availability (especially methionine and lysine). • A phase feeding strategy should be used to account for the differences in the dietary needs of broilers dur-ing different growth stages. • Account for feed consumed in outdoor areas (i.e., roughages) when calculating nutritional requirements and formulating feed rations. • Formulate diets on a digestible amino acid basis rather than on a total amino acid or crude protein level. • Choose appropriate breeds that are able to perform with the given resources, particularly slower-growing breeds.



https://orgprints.org/37940/



{Tool} Feeding strategies for broiler chickens (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Alford, Jeremy. Issuing Organisation(s): Soil Association. Practice Abstract, no. 011. (2020)

Problem

Soybeans contain anti-nutritive substances that need to be processed before the beans can be fed to livestock. The application of relevant and compact processing technology for farms or for small enterprises requires special knowledge, and practical experience is not widespread.

Solution

The tool presents the most common technologies available or used in Central Europe to process soybeans into feed. It provides an assessment of advantages and disadvantages for each technology.

Description

Little is known about professional soybean processing technology in Europe. This brochure describes them by referring to farms or enterprises in Germany and Austria. Through an assessment of advantages and disadvantages, the brochure provides guidance for practitioners including farmers and advisors, with relevance for conventional and organic farming.



https://orgprints.org/36543/



{Tool} Soybean processing technology. [Sojaaufbereitungsanlagen.] Creator(s): Asam, Ludwig; Spory, Kerstin und Spiegel, Ann-Kathrin. Issuing Organisation(s): Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL. (2014)

Problem

Forage storage and quality are affected by the percentage of water contained in the plants. A high water content encourages the formation of mould and indigestible compounds.

Solution

To increase water loss after cutting, grass needs to be spread with an appropriate machine (tedder) to expose more surface to the sun. When moisture content is around 45-50 %, the grass is turned.

Benefits

To obtain the best forage quality, cutting at the correct time is important, when cellulose and lignin content is not too high. During spring, cutting early is the best option to preserve forage quality; for grasses, the correct time is beginning of heading; for leguminous plants, it is beginning of blooming. However delaying cutting increases dry matter (DM) content, which speeds up the drying process. Favourable weather conditions can reduce drying costs. Making hay decreases the moisture content to 15 % and increases dry matter (DM) to 85 %. Cutting height (Figure 2) is important for a perennial crop, affecting speed and quantity of regrowth. Generally is not recommended cutting too close to the ground, because basal buds are the slowest to refill and have low vigour. • Spreading the grass at cutting helps to decrease drying time and minimise forage quality and quantity losses. On field crushing of stems using a conditioner, increases water loss by up to 30 % and increases DM.



https://orgprints.org/37881/



{Tool} Dry Forages: Process and techniques (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Papi, Eugenio. Issuing Organisation(s): AIAB - Associazione Italiana Agricoltura Biologica. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract, no. 009. (2020)

Problem

The protein supply to organic pigs and poultry requires careful management to ensure an adequate supply of essential amino acids and to avoid overfeeding. Alternative sources of protein need to be used to supply the balance of amino acids needed.

Solution

By-products of manufacturing processes are useful alternatives. Maize germ cake is a by-product of starch and corn oil production, as well as a brewing by-product.

Benefits

• It is important to know what process the cake is from because that will affect its feed value. - Dry milled maize should contain more soluble protein, starch, and phosphorus. - Wet-milled maize tends to contain more residual oil. - Organic cake will have high oil levels because oil can only be extracted by pressing, not solvents. • Maize germ (about 11 % of the grain weight) cake contains 20-24 % crude protein and higher levels of essential amino acids than whole maize. • Other products like maize gluten feed are similar but contain more bran and have different nutritional values. Maize quality and processing methods should be identified well in advance to avoid any nutritional imbalances. Ideally, the feed should be analysed to determine nutritional value. • The maize germ contains high levels of phytic acid which has some anti-nutritional factors, particularly relating to phosphorus availability, but up to 20 % maize germ cake can be used without reduced productivity in pigs and poultry rations.



https://orgprints.org/37794/



{Tool} Maize germ cake (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Alford, Jeremy. Issuing Organisation(s): Soil Association. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, no. 008. (2020)

Problem

How to produce organic peas in different regions of France?

Solution

The tool describes the management of pea cultivation including the geographical area, variety choice, difficulties and solutions, and use in animal feed.

Description

The booklet "Organic pea production" describes in detail the technical process of organic pea cultivation: place of cultivation in the rotation, varietal choice, seedlings, weeding, pests and diseases, harvesting and economic data. It also presents a map of the crop in France, specifying potential yields and the main obstacles to cultivation. It provides information on the use of peas in pig and poultry feed. This tool is interesting for both farmers and advisors. It is specific to organic farming. Some of the information can be used beyond France, but some is specific to France.



https://orgprints.org/36945/



{Tool} Organic pea production. [Produire du pois en agriculture biologique.] Creator(s): Chaillet, Isabelle; Biarnès, Véronique; Fontaine, Laurence und Chataignon, Marie. Issuing Organisation(s): Institut du Végétal Arvalis, UNIP, French Research Institute for Organic Farming ITAB, Le réseau de l’initiative Bio en Bretagne IBB. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2014)

Problem

Access to outdoor areas is mandatory in organic poultry production. Stimulating organic broilers to use outdoor areas can be a challenge if there is only sparse vegetation without trees and bushes outside the houses.

Solution

Establishing attractive areas is necessary to increase the number of broilers going outside. A combination of smaller open areas with grass and herbs as well as areas with different bushes and trees, where the broilers can feel safe, will stimulate the chickens to use a larger part of the outdoor areas. Choice of genotypes can be important, as some genotypes are more active than others.

Benefits

Having access to an attractive outdoor areawill stimulate the broilers to be more active and forage, which contributes to a more natural behaviour.Active broilers are expected to have fewerfood pad lesions, which is important for the birds' welfare. In addition to higher activity, grass, herbs and/or crops in the outdoor area can provide the birds with nutrients.



https://orgprints.org/35469/



{Tool} Foraging of broilers in outdoor areas (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Steenfeldt, Sanna. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University AU. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 006. (2019)

Problem

Soya beans are an excellent source of protein but they also contain anti-nutritive components, which need to be deactivated by heat prior to feeding to swine or poultry. However, high temperatures can also damage key nutrients, reducing their digestibility.

Solution

Trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA), protein dispersibility index (PDI) and urease activity are useful indicators in soya products to assess the quality of soya bean processing and help to predict availability and digestibility of nutri-ents. Most feed laboratories can measure these parameters. In addition, specialised near infra-red spectrosco-py (NIRS) can now measure the availability of amino acids.

Benefits

Regular monitoring of key soya bean processing indicators is essential for achieving a consistently high product quality. Results can be also used by animal keepers for planning feed rations.

Practical Recommendations

Common procedures for the heat treatment of soya beans are toasting, steaming and extrusion. The purpose of these procedures is to deactivate anti-nutritive components such as trypsin inhibitors. However, applying high temperatures inevitably leads to nutrient damage so the goal is to balance processing intensity. For toasted soya beans, the intensity is a function of processing time and temperature.



https://orgprints.org/35520/



{Tool} Guide for assessing the protein quality in soya feed products (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Rittler, Leopold. Issuing Organisation(s): Donau Soja. OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 005. (2020)

Problem

Feeding silage to organic laying hens is practised on a daily basis by many egg producers. Since hens can eat large amounts of silage, it is important to use high-quality silage.

Solution

Different types of silage can be used. However, e.g. grass, clover grass, alfalfa, hemp, horse beans, lupines and sunflower silage often have a higher protein content than e.g. barley/pea or maize silage (whole plant or the cobs only). A chemical analysis of the harvested silage is important in order to estimate the quality.

Benefits

High-quality silage can provide nutrients for the hen and encourage natural foraging behaviour, thus reducing the risk for feather pecking. Growing protein-rich silage helps increase self-sufficiency and improve the crop rotation of the organic poultry farms. Practical recommendation • Choose the silage type(s) that provides the best yield and quality, depending on soil type and weather con-ditions. • The silage has to be finely chopped. • Silage generally has to be preserved under proper conditions to optimize the fermentation process. • Analyse the protein content of the silage and other nutrients if possible. • Avoid silage with anti-nutritional factors. • Investing in an automatic feeding system (robot) is recommended for larger flocks to distribute the silage evenly and encourage the hens to eat it. • Including the chemical content of the silage in the feed formulation could be an advantage, when feeding higher amounts per hen per day (>20 g per day).



https://orgprints.org/35470/



{Tool} Silage feeding for laying hens (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Steenfeldt, S.. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University (AU). OK-Net EcoFeed practice abstract. (2019)

Problem

To reduce the risk of nutrient losses from free-range pigs, it is important to limit stocking density and to reduce nutrient inputs from concentrated feed.

Solution

Stimulating pigs’ nutrient intake from foraging. Utilising available biomass is an obvious strategy to improve the sustainability of free-range systems.

Benefits

Improved utilisation of foraging crops reduces the use of concentrated feed, thereby decreasing feed costs, risk of nitrate leaching and greenhouse gas emissions.

Practical recommendation

• Root foraging crops, like Jerusalem artichokes or sugar beet (photo 1), can cover more than 80 % and 50 % of the energy requirements of pregnant sows and growing/finishing pigs, respectively. • Protein-rich foraging crops like Lucerne or grass/clover can provide 100 % of the lysine and methionine requirements of pregnant sows and 30-40 % of the lysine and methionine requirements of growing/finishing pigs when including estimated contribution from foraged soil organisms like earthworms • If pig producers adopt restrictive feeding (limited access to concentrated feed) to stimulate foraging behav-iour, it is important to reduce competition for feed by allowing adequate time and space for feed consump-tion. • As continuous access to attractive foraging crops stimulates pig foraging behaviour, it is important to consider and develop competitive moveable fences/systems.



https://orgprints.org/37100/



{Tool} Foraging of pigs in outdoor areas (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Kongsted, Anne Grete. Issuing Organisation(s): Aarhus University. OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract, Nr. 003. (2020)

Problem

Individual feedstuffs are discussed and their value for achieving the goal of 100% organic feeding is determined.

Solution

Meeting the challenge of 100% organic feed in the coming years is only possible with a strategy that integrates a large number of different building blocks.

Description

The purpose of the tool is to inform about opportunities and barriers of the named feedstuffs. These are described extensively in the form of application possibilities with feed value of different variants, research needs and availability also included. It is aimed at everyone, provides a good overview and serves as a reference book. Since it deals with organic feeding, it is primarily aimed at organic farming, but can also be used for conventionally produced feed. The tool is somewhat dated, but it is still an important source which unites the work of the VÖP up to that time.



https://orgprints.org/36955/



{Tool} Strategy options for feeding 100% organic feed to organic monogastric livestock. [Strategieoptionen zur Realisierung einer 100%igen Biofütterung bei Monogastriern im ökologischen Landbau.] Creator(s): Griese, Sigrid; Ebert, Ulrich; Fischinger, Stephanie; Geier, Uwe; Lenz, Annika; Schäfer, Freya; Spiegel, Ann-Kathrin; Vogt-Kaute, Werner und Wilbois, Klaus-Peter. Issuing Organisation(s): Verbund Ökologische Praxisforschung V.Ö.P. OK-Net EcoFeed-selected tool. (2014)

Problem

Feed is the biggest cost in pig farming, especially in free-range systems. In these systems, feed consumption is higher due to higher activity and higher thermal regulation needs. Outdoor sows are usually housed in huts on grass leys.

Solution

During periods of high grass growth, it is possible to reduce the amount of feed and protein content given to sows in order to get the most out of grazing. The concentrated feed can be limited to 80 % of the recommended amount for at least 3 months. At the same time, this "pasture feed" can be lower in protein. Note: from 3 weeks before farrowing, sows need a complete diet.

Benefits

With this practice, feed and production costs can be reduced by 16 % due to lower quantities of concentrate feed and lower costs of "pasture feed" per ton. Practical recommendations • Allow time for the grass ley to establish before sows start grazing. • Enrich the ley with legumes to provide good nutritional value and palatability for sows. • Harvest/remove less palatable plants that are not eaten by sows. • To prevent rooting behaviour remove sows when the grass is still high (> 8 cm). • Encourage the creation of functional areas (lying area, feeding area) and encourage sows to learn to graze on the paddock. • Provide individual feeding distribution systems to avoid aggression. • Provide excess grass as silage during periods with no grass production.



https://orgprints.org/35449/



{Tool} Rotating pasture for pregnant sows (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract). Creator(s): Roinsard, Antoine. Issuing Organisation(s): Institut de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation biologiques (ITAB). OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract. (2019)