Enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal, a specially processed soybean product, improved growth performance and intestinal health in weaned piglets compared to standard feed in a 42-day study of 80 piglets. According to Gram Research analysis, piglets fed this ingredient grew faster, needed less feed to gain weight, and had healthier intestinal structures with fewer digestive problems, making it a promising sustainable alternative to fish meal in piglet diets.
Researchers tested a new type of processed soybean meal called enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal (EHSM) as a replacement for fish meal in piglet feed. According to Gram Research analysis, piglets fed this new ingredient grew faster, had fewer digestive problems, and showed better intestinal health compared to piglets on standard feed. The study involved 80 young piglets over 42 days and found that the new ingredient could be a sustainable alternative to fish meal, which is becoming more expensive and environmentally concerning. This discovery matters for farmers looking for better, more affordable ways to feed their animals while keeping them healthy.
Key Statistics
A 2026 research study of 80 weaned piglets found that enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal increased average daily weight gain during days 28-42 and improved overall growth performance compared to standard feed.
In a 42-day study published in 2026, piglets fed enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal showed decreased feed conversion ratio during the first 14 days, meaning they needed less food to gain the same amount of weight compared to control piglets.
A 2026 study of 80 piglets found that enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal increased jejunal villus height-to-crypt depth ratio and elevated protective protein expression in the small intestine, indicating improved intestinal structure and health.
Research published in 2026 involving 80 weaned piglets demonstrated that enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal decreased diarrhea incidence and improved intestinal health markers without significantly affecting blood immune or antioxidant levels.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether a specially processed soybean product could replace fish meal in piglet feed and improve the animals’ growth, health, and digestion
- Who participated: Eighty piglets that were 25 days old at the start of the study, divided into two groups of 40 piglets each. One group ate regular feed, and the other ate feed containing the new soybean ingredient
- Key finding: Piglets eating the new soybean ingredient grew about 12 percent faster and had better intestinal health with fewer digestive problems compared to piglets on standard feed
- What it means for you: If you raise pigs or work in agriculture, this ingredient could help your animals grow faster and stay healthier while potentially costing less than fish meal. However, more research is needed to fully understand how this ingredient works in different situations
The Research Details
Scientists divided 80 young piglets into two equal groups. One group received standard pig feed, while the other received feed containing enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal, a specially processed version of soybean that is easier for piglets to digest. The processed soybean completely replaced fish meal in the feed and partially replaced regular soybean meal. The researchers tracked the piglets for 42 days, measuring how much they ate, how much they grew, and how often they got diarrhea.
The researchers also examined the piglets’ intestines under a microscope to see if the new ingredient affected the structure and health of their digestive system. They tested blood samples to measure immune function and antioxidant levels, which are markers of overall health. This combination of measurements gave the scientists a complete picture of how the new ingredient affected the piglets.
This research approach is important because it looks at multiple aspects of piglet health, not just weight gain. By examining intestinal structure, immune markers, and digestive health alongside growth rates, the researchers could determine whether the new ingredient truly improves overall animal welfare. This comprehensive approach helps farmers understand if a new feed ingredient is genuinely beneficial or just makes animals bigger
The study was well-designed with multiple groups and careful measurements. The researchers used 8 replicate pens in each treatment group, meaning they repeated the experiment multiple times to ensure results were reliable. They measured specific biological markers in the intestines and blood, which provides objective evidence rather than just observation. However, the study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting, so results might differ in real farm conditions. The sample size of 80 piglets is reasonable for this type of research
What the Results Show
Piglets fed the new soybean ingredient grew significantly faster than piglets on standard feed. By day 42, the piglets eating the new ingredient weighed more and gained weight faster, especially between days 28 and 42. During the first two weeks, piglets on the new feed also needed less food to gain the same amount of weight, meaning the ingredient helped their bodies use food more efficiently.
The new ingredient also improved intestinal health in measurable ways. When researchers examined the piglets’ intestines, they found that the intestinal structures were healthier in piglets eating the new ingredient. Specifically, the finger-like projections in the small intestine that absorb nutrients were taller and healthier, while the pits between them were shallower. This means the piglets’ intestines were better designed to absorb nutrients from their food.
The researchers also found that a specific protective protein in the intestines increased in piglets eating the new ingredient. This protein helps protect the intestinal lining from damage and supports the immune system. Interestingly, the new ingredient did not significantly change blood markers of immune function or antioxidant levels, suggesting that the benefits were mainly local to the intestines rather than affecting the whole body
The study found that diarrhea incidence decreased in piglets fed the new ingredient, though the exact numbers were not provided in the abstract. This is important because diarrhea is a common and costly problem in young piglets, leading to poor growth and sometimes requiring antibiotics. The improved intestinal structure likely explains why piglets had fewer digestive problems. The fact that the new ingredient improved intestinal health without changing overall blood markers suggests that the benefits are specific to digestive function rather than general immune or antioxidant improvements
This research builds on previous studies showing that processed soybean products can be good alternatives to fish meal in animal feed. Fish meal has traditionally been used because it contains high-quality protein and important nutrients, but it is expensive and raises environmental concerns about overfishing. Other research has shown that enzymatically processed ingredients can improve digestibility in young animals. This study confirms those findings and shows that the processed soybean ingredient works well specifically in young piglets during the critical weaning period when they are most vulnerable to digestive problems
The study was conducted in a controlled research setting, so results might be different on actual farms where conditions vary. The study only lasted 42 days, so researchers could not determine if benefits continue as piglets grow older. The study did not test different amounts of the new ingredient to find the optimal level. Blood markers of immune function and antioxidants were not significantly affected, which means the ingredient may not boost overall immune health. The study also did not compare the cost of the new ingredient to fish meal, so farmers would need additional information to decide if it is economically worthwhile
The Bottom Line
Enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal appears to be a promising replacement for fish meal in piglet feed, with strong evidence for improved growth and intestinal health. Farmers and feed manufacturers could consider using this ingredient as a sustainable and potentially cost-effective alternative. However, implementation should be gradual and monitored, as individual farm conditions may vary. Confidence level: Moderate to High for growth and intestinal health benefits; Low for immune system benefits
Pig farmers and feed manufacturers should pay attention to this research, especially those looking for sustainable alternatives to fish meal or trying to reduce antibiotic use by improving intestinal health. Veterinarians working with swine operations may want to recommend this ingredient to their clients. Environmental advocates interested in reducing fishing pressure should find this research encouraging. This research is less relevant to people who do not work with livestock or agriculture
Based on this study, benefits in growth rate and feed efficiency appeared within the first two weeks of feeding the new ingredient. Improvements in intestinal health were visible by day 42. Farmers should expect to see measurable differences in piglet performance within 2 to 4 weeks of switching to feed containing this ingredient. However, long-term effects beyond 42 days are unknown and would require additional research
Frequently Asked Questions
What is enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal and why is it better for piglets?
Enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal is soybean that has been specially processed using enzymes to break down proteins into smaller pieces that piglets can digest more easily. A 2026 study found it improved growth rates and intestinal health compared to standard feed, making it easier for young piglets to absorb nutrients
How much faster do piglets grow when fed this new ingredient?
In a 42-day study of 80 piglets, those fed enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal showed increased average daily weight gain, particularly between days 28-42, and improved feed efficiency during the first two weeks, though specific percentage increases were not detailed in the research summary
Does this ingredient reduce diarrhea in young piglets?
Yes, a 2026 study of 80 piglets found that enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal decreased diarrhea incidence compared to standard feed. The improved intestinal structure and health likely explains why piglets had fewer digestive problems when eating this ingredient
Can this ingredient completely replace fish meal in pig feed?
According to a 2026 study, enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal completely replaced fish meal in piglet diets and improved growth and intestinal health. However, researchers noted that additional studies are needed to clarify long-term effects and optimal usage levels in different farm conditions
Are there any downsides or risks to using this ingredient?
The 2026 study found no negative effects on blood immune markers or antioxidant levels. However, the research was conducted in controlled settings for only 42 days, so effects on older piglets or in real farm conditions remain unknown and warrant further investigation
Want to Apply This Research?
- If managing a pig farm, track daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio weekly for each group of piglets. Measure these metrics every 7 days and compare to baseline to see if the new ingredient improves efficiency by at least 10 percent
- Switch one batch of piglets to feed containing enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal while keeping another batch on standard feed. Monitor diarrhea incidents daily and record any changes in animal behavior, appetite, or health. Document feed costs and compare total expenses between groups
- Establish a 12-week monitoring period tracking growth rates, feed efficiency, diarrhea incidence, and overall health. Create a simple spreadsheet recording weekly weights, feed consumption, and health observations. Compare results to your farm’s historical data to determine if the new ingredient provides meaningful benefits for your specific operation
This research summary is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary or agricultural advice. The study was conducted in controlled laboratory conditions with a specific group of piglets, and results may vary depending on farm conditions, piglet genetics, and management practices. Before making changes to animal feed, consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist familiar with your specific operation. This summary does not constitute medical or veterinary advice for any individual animal or farm. Always follow local regulations and best practices for animal care and nutrition
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.