Good quality drinking water is often known as the 'forgotten nutrient' but it is essential for life, health and productivity in all livestock units.

While many producers appreciate the need to provide water, they are less aware of the importance of water quality.

“Insufficient drinker numbers or poor flow rate can lead to serious consequences, particularly in hot weather," says Richard Remmer of Trouw Nutrition.

"Attention should be paid to meeting the different requirements at different stages of production. For example, a chick or piglet at weaning has a vastly different requirement to a lactating sow or hens at peak lay.

Richard Fremmer says water is often known as the forgotten nutrientRichard Fremmer says water is often known as the forgotten nutrient

“Whatever the stage of the production cycle, contaminated water can lead to serious health issues. Careful management of the drinking lines can help to prevent problems.”

He advises paying close attention to the sources of water. Mains water has to meet agreed standards and should contain no pathogenic bacteria while water from bore holes should be regularly checked for mineral and microbiological quality, with appropriate steps based on this testing taken to ensure that water is of good quality. It is a requirement of farm assurance schemes that routine testing is undertaken and recorded.

“Irrespective of the water source, ensuring water delivery systems are hygienic is also essential to optimise water quality and reduce pathogenic risk. Adopting thorough water line cleaning protocols is essential for maximising water quality and promoting overall farm hygiene with several key benefits.”

Over time biofilm can build up in the lines providing an environment for bacteria and other pathogens to proliferate. Biofilm is basically a slime produced by bacteria where other bacteria can thrive and attach to surfaces. Regular cleaning helps remove this biofilm ensuring cleaner water availability.

Regular cleaning helps prevent blockages caused by mineral deposits or organic matter helping to ensure a consistent water supply to all drinkers. Clean water lines improve the effectiveness of water treatments such as acidifiers. Purged of biofilm or other contaminants water treatment products can work more efficiently.

“Clean water lines are a major contributor to overall better water quality, reducing the risk of disease and promoting the health and productivity of pigs and poultry,” said Mr Remmer adding that drinking water acidification is a proven and effective treatment.

“Using a well-tested acid product in the drinking lines like Selko pH E, a synergistic blend of free and buffered organic acids, maintains better water hygiene and also promotes responsible farming hygiene practices.”

Water acidification involves reducing the pH of drinking water to create an acidic environment. This process reduces problems caused by harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella which thrive in neutral or alkaline conditions.

“By lowering the pH, the growth of these pathogens is significantly inhibited. This is particularly beneficial in young pigs at weaning helping to speed up the development of the stomach and the production of stomach acid. With the withdrawal of therapeutic zinc oxide and the push for lower antibiotic use, water acidification has been shown to play a key role in helping pigs at this critical time.”

By reducing the pH of drinking water, an inhospitable environment is created for harmful bacteria. This reduces the risk of waterborne diseases, ensuring healthier livestock.

“Incorporating water acidification into daily routines encourages stock people to regularly monitor and maintain water quality. This proactive approach to hygiene supports the farm’s overall health management plan.

“Furthermore, drinking water acidification supports better digestion and nutrient absorption, enhancing feed efficiency and performance in both pigs and poultry. Acid inclusion can improve the palatability of water which can encourage higher consumption rates, helping prevent dehydration and the loss of performance that follows.

He added that introducing water acids into water management system can be straightforward, with products often fed directly into the drinking lines via a dosing system. Regular monitoring of water pH levels is recommended to ensure optimal results are achieved. Using pH testing kits, the desired acidity level required for effective pathogen control can be maintained.

“Along with using water acids, implementing a comprehensive routine water line cleaning protocol after every batch will protect the system against biofilm and other contaminants, providing the best possible water quality for livestock.

“Water acidification is a practical and effective approach to enhancing drinking water quality for pigs and poultry. Through promoting an environment that inhibits bacterial growth, routine acidification and regular drinking system cleaning supports responsible hygiene on-farm and supports better animal health and helps improve performance.”