FEEDING FOR FIRM MEAT.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 602, 13 September 1913, Page 3

FEEDING FOR FIRM MEAT.

The most; common causes of soft pork are, first, the feeding of. pigs too rapidly from birth to the required weight. This rushing process, while it does not always give bad results, frequently produces soft sides, and not seldom are the carcases both "soft'' and ''thick." Another cause is selling when under weight or before maturity. Generally speaking, i also, the degree of immaturity may be taken as the measure of softness; that is. the further from maturity, the softer the meat is likely to be. Then, again, pigs fed in any way not favourable to thriftiness are almost certain to yield a large percentage of "softs." Properly cared for pigs means pigs fed under conditions conducive to health and thrift. Airy and roomy quarters, with plenty of light, are essentials. If space is an expensive consideration, then let the small space be well ventilated, well lighted, and kept clean. The most important factor in the production of firm bacon is undoubtedly the food. The rate of feeding is of importance, since "rushed" pigs produce more or less 'softß." The kind of feed is the thing. Maize fed alone produces a very large percentage of "softs." Maiz9 fed with a small proportion of skim milk or whey gives much better results. After the skim milk or whey consitutes ten or fifteen per cent, of the dry matter of the ration, the proportion does not appear to greatly matter. Roots, clover, rape, or grass may take the place of skim milk with maize, and give results nearly as good. A imall propotion of maize with oats or barley, or with peas, does not appear to have a very injurious effect. Barley is unsurpassed as a feed for the production of firm bacon. Oats are excellent. Peas produce good results, and mixed with other grains, are exceedingly valuable. Skim-milk and whey are almost infallible guarantees of firm pork. The cereals and peas properly fed constitute an almost faultless ration. Maize may be fed, but must have some counter acting food along with it.