Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) is a key performance indicator in pig production, measuring how efficiently pigs convert feed into body weight gain. A lower FCR means better efficiency, as less feed is required to produce one kilogram of live weight. Because feed represents the single largest cost in pig production, optimizing FCR is essential for improving profitability while also reducing the environmental footprint of production. Below, we outline the importance of FCR in pig farming and practical strategies to improve it.
Feed Conversion Ratio is defined as the total amount of feed consumed divided by the live weight gain over a specific period. In pig production, FCR is influenced by factors such as genetics, health status, housing conditions, feeding strategy, and environmental control.
Since feed costs account for a major share of total production expenses, even small improvements in FCR can result in substantial economic gains. Efficient feed utilization also reduces nutrient excretion, contributing to more sustainable pig production.
Precise feed management is critical to achieving optimal FCR in pigs. Feeding strategies must be aligned with the pigs’ growth stages, nutritional requirements, and daily feeding behavior. Inconsistent feed availability or incorrect rationing can lead to reduced growth rates and poorer feed efficiency.
A reliable and continuous feed supply is essential. Accurate monitoring of feed levels helps prevent interruptions, overfeeding, and uneven feed distribution. To support this, the use of robust capacitive sensors designed for livestock environments enables precise feed level measurement in bins and silos, ensuring timely refilling and consistent feed delivery.
Proper feed storage is equally important. Feed quality can deteriorate due to moisture, temperature fluctuations, or spoilage, negatively affecting intake and digestibility. Well-designed storage systems and feeder designs that minimize spillage and segregation help reduce feed waste and maintain ration consistency.
To protect stored grains and raw materials, monitoring moisture and temperature is crucial. Wireless grain sensors allow producers to detect unfavorable storage conditions early, preventing spoilage, mold growth, and nutrient losses that would otherwise compromise feed efficiency and pig performance.
Advances in pig genetics allow producers to select lines that are naturally more efficient at converting feed into lean tissue. Modern breeding programs focus on traits such as growth rate, feed intake efficiency, carcass quality, and robustness across different production systems. Genetic selection for improved feed efficiency plays a major role in lowering FCR, particularly in grower–finisher pigs, where feed consumption is highest.
Matching feed formulations precisely to pigs’ nutritional requirements at each production stage is essential for optimal feed conversion. Pig diets are typically adjusted for weaners, growers, and finishers to ensure the correct balance of energy, protein, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.
The use of feed additives such as amino acids, enzymes, organic acids, and probiotics can improve nutrient digestibility and gut health. Well-balanced diets reduce nutrient losses, support steady growth, and improve overall feed efficiency.
Healthy pigs utilize feed more efficiently than animals under health or stress challenges. Comprehensive health management programs — including vaccination, parasite control, and strict biosecurity — help prevent disease outbreaks that negatively impact growth and FCR.
Stress also plays a significant role in feed efficiency. Factors such as overcrowding, poor air quality, inconsistent feeding, or abrupt environmental changes can reduce feed intake and impair nutrient utilization. Providing adequate space, comfortable housing, and good ventilation supports both animal welfare and feed conversion performance.
Pigs are highly sensitive to their thermal environment, especially young piglets and fast-growing finisher pigs. Maintaining optimal temperature, humidity, and air quality is critical for consistent feed intake and efficient growth.
Automated climate control systems equipped with robust sensors designed for livestock production help maintain stable environmental conditions. By adjusting ventilation, heating, and airflow in real time, these systems reduce heat and cold stress, supporting improved feed conversion and overall pig performance.
Improving FCR directly lowers the feed cost per kilogram of live weight produced, significantly enhancing farm profitability. In periods of volatile feed prices, a lower FCR provides greater economic resilience and more predictable production costs.
Efficient feed utilization reduces the total amount of feed required for pig production. This lowers demand for agricultural inputs such as land, water, and energy, while also reducing manure output and nutrient excretion — contributing to a smaller environmental footprint.
Optimized feeding, genetics, and management result in healthier pigs with more uniform growth and improved carcass quality. Better animal health and performance translate into consistent production outcomes and high-quality pork that meets market and consumer expectations.
