Which component of a pig’s diet should generally dominate to ensure energy requirements are met?

In swine nutrition, carbohydrates are essential for meeting the energy requirements of pigs. Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy, which is crucial for growth, reproduction, and maintaining overall health. Pigs utilize carbohydrates effectively, as they are able to convert these nutrients into energy through digestion and metabolism.

Grains, which are high in carbohydrates, are commonly included in swine diets for this very reason. They provide not only energy but also important structural components for the digestive process. By ensuring that carbohydrates comprise the largest portion of a pig's diet, producers can optimize feed efficiency and maintain healthy growth rates.

Meanwhile, while proteins are important for tissue development and repair, and fats offer concentrated energy, the foundational energy needs for pigs are predominantly fulfilled by carbohydrates. Vitamins, although essential for various metabolic processes, do not provide energy and thus do not serve as a dominant component in terms of caloric intake.