Throw it to the Hogs

Most of you know that I, Taryn, live and work at Ironwood Pig Sanctuary. Most of the pigs here eat the swine feed we have, which is a grain. However, once in a while a pig will stop eating this for one reason or another. It is up to us to find out why and what they will eat.

Pinky is a very special boy. He has stolen many hearts. He has an infection in his jaw that too many pigs get. He stopped eating his normal food at the beginning of this last winter. He has been eating special foods that we give him and often enjoys when it is hand fed. We are more than willing to do so! We've been giving him tater tots, pasta noodles, melons, veggie burgers, and more.

Recently it has become apparent that he needs more fiber in his diet. Normally we would just add fiber powder or wheat bran to the food. This is trickier with Pinky since he has the special foods. Having a mind for baking I immediately thought of bran muffins! Pinky does like things such as pancakes so I have a feeling he will enjoy the muffins. If he doesn't I'm sure the staff and I will help him out.

Here is the recipe I came up with tonight:
1 1/2 c wheat bran
1c wheat flour
1c soy milk
2Tbs oil
egg replacer = to one egg
2/3c brown sugar
2Tbs apple sauce
1tsp baking soda
1tsp baking powder
1/2tsp salt

*of course you can add raisins, nuts, etc

Bake for 10-15 minutes at 375. I was able to make 12 regular sized muffins and one mini loaf.