Pigs News

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) supports recommendations that changing needles between litters (12 piglets), is crucial for protecting piglet welfare.

Opening this year’s NFU Conference, Minette Batters called on the government to urgently implement a clear plan and vision for British farming and food production.

The National Pig Association has welcomed an announcement from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate but stressed that the industry must continue preparations for a future without zinc oxide products.

The National Pig Association is calling for everyone in the supply chain to take responsibility.

African swine fever is spreading across Germany and has also been found in Belgium, Romania and Poland.

The debate on farrowing crates has been ongoing for some time, with several dates for a ban having been proposed, despite producers’ concerns over the cost implications of the change to practice.

Responding to the current crisis in the British pig industry, leading farming charity, RABI, has announced the immediate availability of additional support to those affected.

Following weeks of growing tension, which saw farmers protesting at the Conservative Party Conference, the government has announced plans to help alleviate the crisis. 

Following weeks of mounting concern and frustration, pig farmers have taken to the streets to protest, gathering outside the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester on 4th October to highlight the current sector crisis.

The National Pig Association says it is “extremely disappointed” by the lack of measures to protect the pig sector amid labour shortages, as the likelihood of a welfare cull rises.

The government has made an agreement with CF Fertilisers, to allow it to reopen one of its plants amid soaring gas prices, following concerns over imminent food shortages.

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is the most important and costly disease on UK pig farms, affecting the performance of sows, sucklers, weaners, growers and finishers. Therefore, it is important producers are aware of the prevalence of this disease and have a detailed control programme in place.