Generally we are using high inclusion rates of barley this year. New crop barley contains viscous B-glucans which can increase the incidence of scour in pigs.
The level of B-glucan depends upon the barley variety and growing conditions
and declines over about a six week period. Where possible it is wise to blend
new and old crop barley for the first month of use. Feed enzymes are certainly
helpful. In recent years there have been few obvious issues with new crop barley
but keep and eye open!
(Taken from Premier Nutrition Pig News – July 2010).