A new type of pig fodder containing no antibiotics has been successfully developed in Shanghai which analysts believe may stimulate the country's exports of pork.
Invented by the Shanghai Runtu Farming and Breeding Technology Company, the fodder is made organically using natural preparations which can effectively restrain the growth of harmful bacteria and promote the growth of favorable bacteria.
Unlike traditional fodder with antibiotics, the new product will improve the immune system of pigs and cause no harm to humans because no antibiotics will be found in the pork.
According to the Shanghai Pig Breeding Association, although China is the largest producer and consumer for live pigs in the world, pork exports are low.
Calling the production technology "world leading and having reached European and American standards", the association holds that the fodder may help Chinese pork find a solid foothold on the world's market.
Typical "antibiotics pork" is characterized as having subcutaneous fat of less than two centimeter thick and a plump shape. With no medicinal residue it tastes much more tender and delicious.
(Xinhua News Agency June 30, 2003)