Which nutrients serve as primary sources of energy for hogs?

The primary sources of energy for hogs are carbohydrates and lipids. Carbohydrates, found in feedstuffs such as grains, are a crucial source of energy due to their ability to be readily digested and metabolized. They break down into glucose, which is a vital energy source for pigs, supporting their growth, reproduction, and overall health.

Lipids, or fats, are also significant energy providers. They contain more than double the energy content of carbohydrates on a per-gram basis, making them an efficient energy source in the diet. Fats can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and contribute to the overall energy density of the diet, allowing for improved feed efficiency and growth performance in hogs.

In contrast, other nutrients listed do not primarily serve as energy sources. Vitamins and minerals play critical roles in enzymatic reactions and physiological functions but do not provide energy in the same way carbohydrates and lipids do. Protein is essential for growth and maintenance of body tissues and can be used for energy, but its primary role is not as an energy source, especially when sufficient carbohydrates and lipids are available. Water is vital for overall health and physiological functions but does not contribute to energy supply directly. Thus, carbohydrates and lipids are