Research for the Dutch Organic Pig Sector

Early 2009 there were about 87 organic pig farms in the Netherlands. The country has a waiting list for conventional pig farmers wanting to convert to organic production. Organic pig meat has become part of the regular assortment in supermarkets and at the largest chain of butcheries in the country. The share of organic meat in gross pig meat sales is higher than anywhere else in Europe.

biologische zeug aan drinknippelAnimal welfare remains an issue close to the heart of consumers. In the Netherlands, the Society for the Protection of Animals has started a label for meat products, that indicates animal welfare. Organic pig meat has the highest ranking in this system, but other non-conventional types of pig husbandry also do well. This label may impact the market for organic pig meat, in a positive or negative way.

Managing the carbon-footprint of pig farms and reducing nitrogen emissions are important topics for this sector.

Projects

100% organic feed for piglets In the near future all feed for organic piglets needs to be of organic origin. This project looks at ways to improve the protein content of organic piglet feed.

Natural health in pigs This project looks at natural products to improve animal health.

Reduction of Ascaris infections in organic pigs How can intestinal roundworms (Ascaris especially) be prevented and reduced?

Silages versus compound diets in gestating sows Feeding costs are high and rising. Silages may prove a cheaper option. This project looks at digestibility and nutritional value of silages.

Husbandry of organic male pigs Boar taint and so-called 'negative behaviour' are serious problems. This project looks at ways to reduce these effects.

Housing systems for organic pigs The objectives of this project are to reduce housing costs and labour input while improving performance and exchanging knowledge between pig farmers.

Fly control in organic pig production Flies can be a serious problem, irritating animals and workers, inhibiting production and transmitting diseases. This project tests control measures.

Improving welfare performance in organic husbandry systems This project aims to improve the welfare performance in organic husbandry systems by stimulating measures in on-farm situations.

Environmental enrichment for organic pigs This project aims to improve animal welfare and public image by offering animals environmental enrichment in the outdoor area.

Electronic identification and registration of pigs An individual management system requires individual identification of animals. This project looks at electronic identification and registration.

Piglet health: rearing conditions and outdoor run This project aims to improve maternal behaviour and the health of weaned piglets by providing them with access to pasture.

Pigs