How to Improve Piglet Health and Limit Fall-Behinds Post-Weaning

Producers know the nursery phase sets the tone for a pig’s lifetime performance. And today, that job is more challenging than ever. Smaller pigs, variable group sizes and health threats like PEDv are making it harder than ever to get pigs off to a strong start, with even the best-managed farms feeling the pressure.

That’s why giving pigs the right support and solutions in those early days can make all the difference.

Why the First Seven Days Post-Weaning Matter

In the first few days in the nursery, reduced feed intake is common, but that drop in nutrition can trigger gut stress, disrupt microbial balance and allow harmful bacteria to take over. As the gut becomes more vulnerable, pigs are at greater risk for setbacks like slower growth, increased health issues and even fewer full-value pigs going to market.

Establishing a healthy gut microbiota during this early window is essential. Research shows that once microbial communities are formed, they become increasingly difficult to shift later in life.¹ These early microbes influence everything from nutrient absorption to long-term performance.

A balanced gut microflora also plays a key role in developing the immune system. As beneficial bacteria colonize the gut and support the intestinal lining, they help train the immune system to recognize threats and crowd out harmful microbes. When this process is delayed, pigs become more susceptible to health challenges and often require more interventions later in life.

That’s why early intervention should be a high priority on week one. Supporting gut health during the first few days post-weaning lays the groundwork for stronger performance throughout the production cycle.

Addressing Early Gut Challenges in the Nursery

Because the first week of life is such a defining period, it’s important to have the right tools in place to support pigs through that transition. That means more than just encouraging intake and feeding the correct nursery diet, it’s about hydrating pigs, stabilizing the gut and supporting immune development from day one.

One option many producers have turned to is Essential-Lyte™, a natural water additive designed specifically for use during the first week post-weaning. Its formula brings together multiple Ralco technologies that support hydration, microbial balance and immune readiness, exactly when pigs need it most.

Proven Results in a Commercial Setting

Essential-Lyte’s performance has been validated in a large-scale field demonstration involving 24,000 weaned pigs across 22 commercial barns. The product was administered through the water for seven days post-weaning at a 1:128 ratio.

In real barns under real conditions, the improvements were clear:

• 41% reduction in mortality and culls

• 54% reduction in substandard pigs sold

• 3.43% increase in full-value pigs sold

Applied to a standard 1,200-head group, these improvements resulted in 41 additional full-value pigs and over $4,000 in additional revenue, generating a 13.6:1 return on investment.

A Strategic Blend of Functional Ingredients

Essential-Lyte combines several proven Ralco technologies into one convenient product, making it easier to support pigs without adding extra steps. Each component plays a role in improving piglet outcomes during this critical window:

• Actifibe® Prebiotic – An exclusive prebiotic fiber that selectively feeds beneficial bacteria throughout the entire digestive tract, promoting a healthy microbial balance and strengthening the gut lining.

• Microfused® Essential Oils – Concentrated plant extracts processed using Ralco’s Microfused® technology to ensure consistent delivery and efficacy in the gut. These oils help maintain microbial balance and support gut integrity under stress.

• Acidifier – Helps reduce gut pH to create a less favorable environment for harmful bacteria while improving nutrient digestibility.

• Electrolytes – Encourage water consumption, support hydration and help stabilize cellular function in newly weaned pigs.

• Vitamins D & E – Provide immune and antioxidant support, reducing stress-related impacts and improving resilience.

This unique combination is designed not just to ease the transition to the nursery but support the gut for growth and immune development.

A Practical Tool for Improved Profitability

Essential-Lyte provides a cost-effective, research-backed solution to one of the industry’s most persistent challenges – helping pigs get started post-weaning. When support starts early, it sets pigs, and your bottom line, up for better results throughout production.

Ready to See the Results for Yourself?

Give your next group a stronger start today! Sign up for a free trial of Essential-Lyte or call 1-800-533-5306 to talk to a swine specialist.

Essential-Lyte - Keep Nursery Pigs Out of the Sick Pen

Essential-Lyte is a water additive that helps maintain health during weaning and times of challenge.

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Reference

1. Nowland TL, Kirkwood RN, Pluske JR. Review: Can early-life establishment of the piglet intestinal microbiota influence production outcomes? Animal. 2022;16(100368). doi:10.1016/j.animal.2021.100368