Run free: Assessment of bone health and preparation of pigs for organic production

Last changed: 07 October 2024
pig-in-grass

Previous studies show that organic pigs have a higher risk of joint problems than conventionally produced pigs, despite using the same breeds. The paradox that pigs offered a better environment with outdoor exercise still have leg problems needs to be addressed. That is why this project aims to investigate bone problems and improve bone health in organic pigs in collaboration with farmers and advisors.

In Sweden, the same breeds are used in organic pig production as in conventional systems. However, these breeds are bred for high efficiency and are adapted for intensive production with rapid growth. Consumers expect animal welfare to be particularly good in organic production. Pigs have more space and access to outdoor exercise in yards or on pasture, providing a more challenging environment and increased opportunities for exercise.

The inspection of carcasses at slaughter shows that organic pigs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, such as osteochondrosis, than conventionally produced pigs, even though the same breeds are used. Osteochondrosis is influenced by many factors but increased activity in organic pigs may be part of the explanation. Although previous studies have found that organic pigs are less affected by lameness and injuries than pigs in conventional production (where pen occupancy is higher), the proportion of lame animals is still high, which is contrary to the goal of improved animal welfare in organic production.

Today, it is not known how common and severe these problems are in Sweden, but the paradox that pigs offered a better environment with outdoor exercise still have painful leg problems needs to be addressed. Ensuring good leg health for organic pigs leads to better animal welfare, which is valued by consumers, and it can increase demand for organic pork.

That is why this PhD project aims to investigate leg problems in eco-pigs. The project is done in collaboration with farmers and advisors in different sub-studies to:

  • Map the prevalence of bone problems in organic pigs with different genetic backgrounds
  • Improve and develop methods to assess bone health in live pigs over time
  • Investigate whether environmental changes in the pen early in the rearing process improve bone health
  • Assess animal welfare, work environment and other sustainability aspects of organic pig production at farm level

Facts:

The project is funded by SLU with government grants earmarked for research on organic production in the field.

Planned to last between 2024-2028.

The project is led by Lotta Rydhmer at SLU. PhD-student in this project is Lise Pinaqui.