Escherichia coli is one of the most important causes of diarrhoea in piglets. As immunisation of the sow with vaccines does not target post-weaning diarrhoea, the use of alternative measures for control is needed.

The most important member of the clostridial genus causing signs in pigs is Clostridium perfringens. Besides necrotising enteritis in piglets and mild to moderate diarrhoea in post-weanning pigs, enterohemorrhagic syndrome (EHS) has been associated with clostridial infection. In about half of all EHS cases, C. perfringens can be isolated.

Despite numerous research studies and practical observation trials, the puzzle over ‘pellets versus meal’ remains confusing for most producers and their consultants. The reason lies behind the fact that results of using either form of feed remain largely farm-specific. Let me explain.