Effect of Different Amounts of Hybrid Barley in Diets on the Growth Performance and Selected Biochemical Parameters of Blood Serum Characterizing Health Status in Fattening Pigs

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of dietary hybrid barley and/or wheat on production parameters, selected biochemical parameters of blood serum characterizing health status in fattening pigs. In group I, hybrid barley constituted 80% of feed; in II—wheat and hybrid barley were used, each in amount of 40% feed; in III—contained 80% of wheat. No significant differences were noted in case of performance results (body weight gains, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio) and meatiness of fatteners. All estimated biochemical indices determined in serum were within normal range. Usage of 80% hybrid barley decreased concentration of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein fraction (LDL), and triglycerides in blood (p < 0.05). However, high-density lipoprotein fraction (HDL) content increased (p < 0.01) up to 1.04 mmol·dm−3, comparing to the group with 80% of wheat (0.84 mmol·dm−3). Summarized, the diet with high level of barley had a beneficial effect on blood lipid indices, what indicate a good health status of all animals.