Sodium and Chloride

Sodium and chloride are directly involved in nutrient absorption, electrolyte balance, and regulation of pH. Dietary supplementation of these minerals is essential as sodium and chloride are low in most cereal grains used in swine diets. Salt or sodium chloride is the most common source supplemented to swine diets to meet their requirements. The sodium and chloride requirements for grow-finish pigs decrease abruptly from the nursery stage. A typical grow-finish diet has 7 to 10 lb per ton added salt which is well beyond their sodium and chloride requirements.

Fact Sheet: Vitamin and Minerals