A special operation method and intestinal cannulae were developed for the ascertainment of the ileal nutrient digestibility of roughage and root crops. The presented method has proved reliable over a period of 2 years. The possibility of ascertaining the chyme flow directly (by total collection) or indirectly (with an inert marker) is described. The reduction of the expenditure of labour by cutting down the collecting period is suggested for routine studies.

With a view to studying the effect of acid addition, weaned piglets and fattening pigs were fed graduated amounts of protein mixed silage (pH-value 3.15 by adding 20 g H2SO4/kg) in rations of equal energy and protein levels. On average, the fattening pigs were taking in 0.26 g H2SO4/kg, whilst the amounts for piglets were 0.60 and 0.72 g H2SO4/kg. Higher acid intakes had a negative effect of energy expenditure, weight gains and feed intake. The experimental animals had significantly longer small intestines, whilst the intestine's wall was found thinner and the amount of digesta reduced and with a higher water content. The microbial activity in the stomach proved significantly inhibited. However, it was higher in the caecum as compared to the control animals. Metabolic parameters suggest that water and mineral balances are under stress. The significance of acid addition for tract flora and its metabolites is discussed. Protein mixed silage is regarded a dietetically favourable feed when given at a maximum daily amount of 25 g/kg LW or 1 kg/animal. The recommendation for dosing the daily administration of inorganic acids is as follows: max. 0.5 g acid/kg LW or 20 g/animal.