Research project aims to improve piglet survival Team will explore practical applications of zinc supplementation that adds little to no extra cost to producers yet reduces pre-weaning pig mortality Written By: The Globe | × MORRIS — University of Minnesota researchers are taking on the challenge of decreasing pre-weaning mortality rates in piglets after hearing from pork producers and industry professionals. In previous research, Minnesota researchers showed elevated levels of zinc in the sow’s diet during pregnancy positively influences pig performance after birth. This new research project aims to determine the timing and duration of zinc that may influence “fetal imprinting” to optimize health and performance.