Hannah Burlet, Atta Agyekum – At the 2026 PSC Producer Meetings, Atta Agyekum presented new research on creep feeing. Creep feeding can be useful for piglets, especially in large litters, when sow milk production is declining, or when pigs are weaned later. It can help smaller piglets and familiarize them with solid feed before weaning. However, research results vary because piglet intake, timing, feed type and individual growth potential can all affect outcomes. Research at Prairie Swine Centre found that different creep-feed formulations had little effect on total intake, although simple creep feed sometimes improved early growth. Piglets given creep feed also showed better growth immediately after weaning, although final nursery weights were similar. Researchers suggest offering creep feed for at least 14 days before weaning, using fresh, high-quality feed and keeping feeders clean and dry. Future research is examining targeted creep-feeding strategies, including benefits for low-birth-weight piglets, gut health and resilience.
What do we know about creep feeding and piglet performance (full article) or watch the presentation here.
