It provides both energy and amino acids easily digested by the young pig. The cost also limits its use in other swine diets. Porcine plasma protein is a new ingredient for swine diets. It is expensive, but it is used in very small amounts for young pigs. Early research shows improvements in feed intake and performance in young pigs that are fed this form of protein.
Most ingredients commonly used in swine diets are plant products and poor sources of minerals.
As mentioned earlier, some animal products are excellent sources of minerals. Table 5 contains a list of inorganic mineral sources available for swine diets. Several common feed ingredients do not fit any of the above groups, but are still important. Whey is a by-product from milk processing used in diets for young pigs. Lactose is an excellent source of energy for pigs after weaning.