A perspective on gossypol ingestion in swine.

Cottonseed meal has been used for many years as a protein supplement in animal rations. Due to a polyphenol pigment, gossypol, present in cottonseed meal, its use for swine has been limited. The tolerance of gossypol for monogastric animals depends upon age and species with older animals being less sensitive than younger animals. Swine are highly susceptible to gossypol poisoning, and signs commonly develop after one or more months of consumption. The use of iron salts in the ration appears to be antidotal, and lysine supplementation of gossypol containing diets appears to improve gain. Reproductive performance can also be affected, including reduced conception and litter size. New extraction methodologies are being developed to reduce the amount of gossypol in cottonseed meal.