During his PhD study, Jakob C. Johannsen conducted experiments to investigate the impact of dietary protein on the performance of hyper-prolific sows during different stages of gestation. The research aimed to determine the optimal concentration of protein in diets for sows, to ensure the re-establishment of sufficient body reserves, high reproductive and lactational performance, as well as efficient nitrogen utilization.

The findings of this PhD study have provided updated insights into the protein requirement of gestating sows, allowing for better alignment between the dietary supply and the sows' nutritional needs, which benefits animal productivity and health, and environmental sustainability.

The PhD study was completed at the Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University.

This summary was prepared by the PhD student.

Time: Friday, 25 April 2025 at 10:00
Place: Building 8814-3075, Auditorium, AU Viborg, Aarhus University, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele.
Title of PhD thesis: Optimal dietary protein for sows during gestation and transition
Contact information: Jakob Christoffer Johannsen, e-mail: jakob.johannsen@anivet.au.dk, tel.: +45 30265731
Members of the assessment committee:
Principal Research Scientist Pieter Langendijk, Trouw Nutrition, Boxmeer, The Netherlands
Research Professor Jason Woodworth, Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, USA
Associate professor Tofuko Awori Woyengo (chair), Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark
Main supervisor:
Senior Researcher Martin Tang Sørensen, Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark
Co-supervisors:
Senior Specialist Thomas Sønderby Bruun, SEGES Innovation, Aarhus, Denmark
Assistant Professor Takele Feyera, Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark
Language: The PhD dissertation will be defended in English

The defence is public.
The PhD thesis is available for reading at the Graduate School of Technical Sciences/GSTS, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, 8000 Aarhus C.