Water
When we think of swine nutrients, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins typically come to mind. While pigs can survive for extended periods without any of these nutrients, the one nutrient they cannot live without – even for a short time – is water. Researchers often refer to water as the "forgotten nutrient" and note that it is frequently taken for granted in the swine industry, despite being the most essential nutrient. Although other nutrients are important, the quality of water provided is crucial as it influences health and performance at every stage of a pig's life.
Water Quality
Water quality is a pivotal factor in swine health and productivity. Water makes up anywhere from 50-80 percent of a pig’s body depending on the growth stage.1 Water is essential for all physiological functions including digestion, secretion of enzymes, regulation of body temperature, distribution of nutrients throughout the body, and more.2 In short, poor-quality water affects all life functions of a pig. Even though pigs have a higher tolerance than humans, sustained application of subquality water can overwhelm the immune system and eventually affect performance. Contaminated or improperly balanced water can lead to decreased feed intake, poor growth performance, and increased disease susceptibility. Several key parameters, such as pH, mineral content, and microbial load, significantly influence water quality.3
Water Acidification
Water acidification offers a proactive solution for the various problems caused by subquality water by adjusting the pH, which not only inhibits pathogenic bacteria, but also enhances nutrient absorption. An essential and important component of water acidification is maintaining clean water lines.
Importance of Cleaning Water Lines
Effective water line management is critical to the success of any water acidification program. Over time, water lines accumulate a complex matrix of organic and inorganic materials that harbor pathogenic bacteria – known as biofilm. This buildup can obstruct water flow, alter water quality, and shield pathogens from the effects of acidifiers.
- Routine Cleaning: Regular cleaning with acid-based or oxidizing agents is essential to decrease bacterial load and maintain optimal water quality. This ensures efficient delivery of medications, vaccines, and acidifiers through the water system.
- Impact on Pig Health: Harmful bacteria not only clogs water lines but also provides a protective habitat for pathogens, increasing disease pressure within the herd. By keeping water lines clean and properly acidified, producers can reduce the incidence of disease and the need for antibiotic interventions.
Types of Acidifiers for Water
Water acidifiers come in various formulations, each suited to different objectives such as controlling microbial growth, enhancing nutrient absorption, or maintaining water line hygiene. Choosing the appropriate acidifier depends on specific herd management goals.
- Organic Acids: These include acids like lactic, citric, and acetic, known for their palatability and efficacy in promoting gut health. They help inhibit pathogenic bacteria and enhance nutrient uptake.
- Inorganic Acids: Phosphoric and hydrochloric acids are strong acidifiers that are effective in reducing water pH and dissolving mineral deposits in water lines. They are particularly useful in high-mineral-content water.
- Blended Acidifiers: Combining multiple acids in a blended product like KEM SAN® from Kemin offers a comprehensive solution. These blends are tailored to achieve specific pH targets and provide broad-spectrum control over water quality challenges.
Pig Performance, Microbial Control, and Water Line Cleaning
KEM SAN® and PRO-OXINE® AH create a one-two punch that supports animal health and maximizes results. Together, they form a complete approach to water quality that drives on-farm success.
KEM SAN® is a versatile water acidifier formulated with a blend of four organic acids designed to support gut health and improve water hygiene.
- Times of Stress: Administer during high-stress windows and feed changes to reduce harmful waterborne bacteria and promote gut health. By improving water quality during these critical times, feed conversion and growth rates can be enhanced.
- Pig Placement: Use to flush your system to prepare water lines before new pigs arrive. This process reduces harmful bacteria in the water, helping prevent disease and giving your pigs a healthier, stronger start.
PRO-OXINE® AH is a broad-spectrum, stabilized chlorine dioxide disinfectant with proven effectiveness against bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens.
- Continuous Application: Use daily to prevent buildup of biofilm-forming pathogens in water lines and reduce the bacterial levels in the water. This consistent application supports a healthier water environment throughout the entire production cycle and could help decrease mortality rates and antibiotic use.
- Enhance Effectiveness of Water Treatments: Help ensure water-applied products like medications and supplements remain effective by preventing them from binding to biofilm. As a result, treatments deliver their full benefit, improving animal health outcomes.
References
1Nyachoti, C. M., & Kiarie, E. (2014). Water in swine production: A review of its significance and conservation strategies. University of Manitoba. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Elijah-Kiarie/publication/266865290_water_in_swine_production_a_review_of_its_significance_and_conservation_strategies/links/5580d10208aea3d7096e5101/water-in-swine-production-a-review-of-its-significance-and-conservation-strategies.pdf
2WikiFarmer. (n.d.). The critical role of water in swine health and production. Retrieved August 14, 2025, from https://wikifarmer.com/library/en/article/the-critical-role-of-water-in-swine-health-and-production
3SwineWeb. (2023). The crucial role of water quality in the swine industry. Retrieved August 14, 2025, from https://www.swineweb.com/animalhealth/the-crucial-role-of-water-quality-in-the-swine-industry