"Viable options to deal with variability in protein and amino acid sources, and pigs of varying status and sources" by David Rosero and John Patience
Significant intrinsic variability exists in nutrient sources, analytical methods, and the inherent diversity among pigs and management practices. Central to nutrient source variability is the lack of routine and cost-effective access to in-vivo assays or alternative methods for assessing the digestibility coefficients of feed ingredients. These coefficients are used in feed formulation assuming uniform ingredient sources, yet evidence suggests that significant variability exists. To address these challenges, practicing nutritionists must adopt strategies for ingredient evaluation and quality control, leveraging advanced tools such as near-infrared spectroscopy, setting safety margins, and applying statistical methods like statistical process control. Additionally, adopting stochastic feed formulation methods will enable the incorporation of ingredient variability into formulations in a dynamic manner and allows nutritionists to set confidence levels for meeting nutrient requirements.