Pig-Raising Technology in Fermentation Bed and Production of Fermentation Bed
What is Fermentation Bed Swine?
Fermentation bed swine, also known as "lazy Han pigs," "ecological pigs," or "indigenous bacteria-raising pigs," are pigs raised on a composted bed made from materials like sawdust, rice husks, and other organic waste. This system allows for zero manure discharge, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable method of pig farming. The concept was first developed by Professor Kazuo Akio from the University of the Ryukyus in Japan and quickly gained popularity across Japan, Korea, and even in Europe and the United States.
Traditional pig farming in concrete houses often forces pigs to live in unnatural conditions, leading to bad odors, frequent cleaning, and the buildup of pathogens in enclosed spaces. This increases the need for antibiotics and veterinary care. In contrast, fermentation bed systems mimic natural environments, promoting healthier living conditions for pigs. As the saying goes, “nature is the best.†The benefits of using fermentation beds over traditional methods are numerous. The microorganisms in the bedding break down pig waste, eliminating the need for regular cleaning and saving up to 30-50% in labor costs. Water is only used for drinking and maintaining litter moisture, with minimal water usage—between 5% and 90% less than traditional methods.
Pig feces and urine are broken down into bacterial protein, which pigs can eat, improving their digestion and feed conversion rate. This results in a 10-15% reduction in feed costs. The meat-to-bone ratio improves from 1:3.0 to 1:2.6, and pigs reach market weight about 10 days earlier, increasing turnover efficiency. Pigs regain their natural behaviors, such as rooting and wallowing, reducing stress. Beneficial bacteria in the bedding help suppress harmful pathogens, creating a cleaner, healthier environment that boosts immunity and reduces disease incidence. Drug use is significantly reduced.
The surface temperature of the fermentation mattress ranges between 27–28°C in summer and 17–18°C in winter, while the temperature below 10cm reaches 30–40°C, and up to 50–60°C at deeper layers. These temperatures support optimal growth and reduce heating costs in cold seasons. Additionally, pork from fermentation bed pigs has a better texture, color, and overall quality, giving it a competitive edge in the market. With its many advantages, this method is rapidly replacing traditional cement housing systems.
Production of Fermentation Beds
Litter Selection
The choice of litter depends on local availability and environmental conditions. Common materials include sawdust, rice husks, peanut shells, wheat straw, and corn stalks. Below is a typical mix ratio:
| Raw Material | % |
|---|---|
| Sawdust | 50 |
| Rice Husk | 50 |
| Peanut Shells | |
| Wheat Straw (crushed) | |
| Corn Stalks (crushed) |
It's important to note that all materials used must be free from mold and chemical contamination. For example, sawdust from furniture manufacturing, which may contain adhesives, should not be used. In some cases, fermentation bed failures have occurred due to the use of contaminated materials. Always ensure the raw materials are clean and suitable for microbial activity.
Production Steps
1. Mix the selected materials and add water to achieve a humidity level of around 55–65%. To check, grab a handful of the material—if it feels moist but no water drips out, it’s ready.
2. Add the fermentation starter according to the recommended ratio (e.g., 1kg of starter per ton of litter). You can mix it during the initial step or spray it evenly using a clean sprayer.
3. Pile the mixture in an open area, ensuring the pile is at least three times the size of the final bed. Cover it with breathable materials like straw to maintain heat.
4. By the second day, internal temperatures will rise to 40°C, and by the third day, they can reach 60–70°C. This high temperature helps kill harmful pathogens and promotes microbial growth.
5. After a few days, the temperature will stabilize between 40–50°C, indicating the bedding is ready. Spread it evenly to form the fermentation bed.
6. Lay a 10cm layer of dry material on top. After 24 hours, when the surface is dust-free, you can introduce the pigs. The fermentation bed is now complete.
If you're setting up a basement system, you can ferment directly in a pit. However, the material near the walls may not heat up properly, leading to uneven fermentation. For best results, use the accumulation and fermentation method in an open space. This ensures maximum efficiency and successful bedding preparation.
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