2.3. Experimental procedure
A total of 16 FLF samples from each bucket were taken weekly in the morning immediately before feeding. The pH, microbial composition, and the concentration of organic acids and of ethanol were measured.
Individual feed intake was recorded weekly by weighing the offered feed and refusals and determining their dry matter content. Individual body weight was recorded weekly. The animals were introduced to the study in three series of 24, 18, and 18 animals each.