Filling the Gap Left by Ractopamine

For years, many producers utilized ractopamine to add lean gain in the last 15 – 35 days before market. The tool improved feed efficiency and helped the pigs grow at a rate similar to their fastest growth stage – around 150 lbs.Like any tool, its usefulness all came down to economics. In good markets, it could provide a $2 – 3 return, while in some years, with its costs figured in, it was breakeven. But many producers appreciated having the tool available to add to their bottom