Introducing nettle into organic pig feeding

From 2022, 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.