Objectives

Evaluate the effect of niacin (vitamin B3), a B-complex vitamin blend (B1, B2, B3, and B5), and vitamin D in the diet of finishing pigs under heat stress conditions to reduce stress and performance losses caused by high temperatures.

More specifically:

• Study the vitamin, energy, and antioxidant metabolism in finishing pigs under heat stress conditions;
• Determine the best vitamin strategy for finishing pigs to significantly improve their energy status (blood and muscles) and antioxidant status, enhance bone and muscle health, and reduce performance loss under heat stress conditions;
• Assess the impact of such supplementation on muscle fatigue during loading, transportation, and unloading, as well as on carcass and meat quality.