Supply of protein feed to young pigs and chickens in organic farming

Supplying monogastric livestock with amino acids is a key challenge in animal husbandry. In organic farming, the challenges are even higher due to legislative restrictions on the use of high-quality protein feed and especially synthetic amino acids, the latter being common practice in conventional livestock production. For this reason, there are currently derogations that allow the use of non-organically produced protein feed to a limited extent. These exemptions have been increasingly restricted in recent years. Under current EU law, it is still permitted to mix non-organic protein feed into the diet of young poultry and pigs weighing less than 35 kg up to a proportion of 5% in feed (dry matter) from agricultural sources if there is a proven lack of availability of organically produced protein feed. Until this derogation expires in 2026, all EU member states are required to prepare an annual report on the use and availability of organically produced protein feed. In addition, it is crucial to know the amino acid requirements of the animals, which protein feeds are available to meet these requirements and the effects on animal welfare and health, if the supply of amino acids is insufficient. Amino acid requirement depends on genetics, age, performance (predisposition) and husbandry conditions (exercise, climate, immune system, etc.). It is therefore difficult to determine exact requirements for each animal. Intake and bioavailability of amino acids also depend on the feeding regimen (feed used, ratio to energy and other nutrients, etc.). There are numerous studies that show that the potential to supply pigs with 100% organic feed without negative effects on animal welfare and health under good husbandry conditions. An extended suckling period and an optimized rearing feed after weaning can be important factors. For chickens, the challenge is particularly great in the early rearing phase, as they place high demands on protein quality during this period, regardless of the direction of use.