BREEDING
US studious about sow longevity
Sow longevity is not a simple subject and while geneticists find promise in individual gene effects, producers have to examine why sows are culled before attempting to improve their herd's productive life.

HOUSING
Knowledge to support pollutant control
Understanding the factors affecting airborne pollutant concentrations on farms is important, as this knowledge is the first important step towards reduction and better control.

COUNTRY
Brazil off to a good start
If January's performance is anything to go by, Brazilian pork exports will have another record year in 2005. There is some concern, however, that the current buoyant export prices, along with the return of economic growth encouraging consumers in Brazil to eat more meat, might encourage farmers to expand output too much.

COLUMN
What the textbooks don't tell you about….
Mycotoxins and Immuno Suppressive Mycotoxicosis.

HOUSING
Cleaning and disinfecting processes compared
An effective scheme of cleaning and disinfection makes it possible to reduce incidence and consequences of numerous diseases. Unfortunately this takes a lot of time and is often costly. The aim of this study is to propose an optimised scheme of cleaning and disinfection of pig farms.

BREEDING
Tailored genetics give proven benefit
An integrated scheme in the UK is working to secure more value from the producer members' pigs.

HOUSING
Geothermal exchange embraced for optimal environment
Since February, a new housing system developed by Nutreco Agriculture has been populated with the first pigs. These animals will be the first to experience the advantages of a unique ventilation system in practice. The highly improved stall climate is claimed to have advantages regarding animal welfare, environment and animal health.

MANAGEMENT
Reducing variability in weight of pigs
Large variations in weight of pigs within groups at slaughter can lead to either an inefficient use of resources, as some pigs have to be retained longer than others, or large variation in carcass weight, which is a problem for the processor.

ENVIRONMENT
Odour reduction through biofilter
The impact that pig houses have on the environment regarding odour is getting more attention, especially in the high density production areas in Denmark. Biological air cleaning systems are being tested for their effectiveness in reducing the odour from pig houses.

FEEDING
Wide-ranging discussion at workshop on liquid feeding systems
A workshop organised in the UK revealed that while producers are aware of the benefits associated with liquid feeding, they also have their doubts and fears.

 
March 21, 2005