Temporal dynamics and intra-farm variability of animal welfare indicators in fattening pigs
This study highlighted the possible differences that may arise in WQ® scoring depending on the time of the assessment during a growing period.
articles about behaviour-welfare
European Pig Producers Congress 2026 puts Poland and the future of EU pig production in focus
20 to 22 May in Poland – Fully booked with about 250 participants from 18 different countries are expected to attend.
agri benchmark Academy 2026: Future leaders of global pig production meet in Finland
From June 1–4, 2026, young pig farmers, researchers, companies, and industry experts from around the world will gather in Seinäjoki, Finland, to discuss the future of pig production.
German pig farming associations call for national sow husbandry program
The German Cattle and Pig Association (BRS), the German Farmers’ Association (DBV), the German Raiffeisen Association (DRV), and the German Pig Farmers’ Interest Group (ISN) are calling for a national special program for sow housing.
German Cabinent approves mandatory video surveillance in slaughterhouses
The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMLEH) is pushing ahead with the introduction of mandatory video surveillance in slaughterhouses.
Technologies for automatic assessment of pig welfare using animal-based indicators in the slaughterhouse: a review
While automated systems for monitoring pig welfare show significant potential, challenges in practical implementation and widespread adoption remain.
Heat stress in sows: hidden consequences for sow and offspring performance
When foetuses develop in a heat-stressed gestation sow, a condition known as in utero heat stress occurs, and piglets may be born smaller with impaired gut microbiome and immune function. Additionally, these piglets show greater susceptibility to stress later in life. Although these consequences are not always immediately apparent, they are important to manage and prevent.
Qualified staff wanted
It is clear that qualified personnel will improve farm productivity…
Effects of ferulic acid, probiotic mixture, or jute sacks on peripartum oxidative stress, maternal behavior, farrowing, and piglet performance in loose-housed hyperprolific sows
Combining antioxidant supplementation with enrichment may reduce sow oxidative stress, improving reproductive and productive performance in loose-housed sows.
Comparative metabolic and stress-related responses to adrenaline in Iberian and Landrace pigs
Results suggest that Iberian pigs are furnished with increased metabolic flexibility to face short-term stress.
EU: strong support for phasing out the use of cages in pig farming
The European Commission’s consultation shows broad support for phasing out cages in pig farming, although the sector warns about costs, biosecurity, and structural constraints.
Few effects of sow lactational stress on maternal behavior, but altered physiology with implications for piglet early-life stress coping
Lactational stress resulted in increased cortisol in sow milk and saliva.
Agriculture and Fisheries Council: Cyprus presidency sets priorities for first half of 2026
Cyprus set out its 2026 priorities, focusing on a competitive and sustainable agri-food sector, organic farming reform and the EU bioeconomy strategy.
Effects of light spectrum on pig behaviour, health and growth
Light spectrum seems to have limited effects on behaviour, health and growth of growing-finishing pigs kept in commercial conditions with limited space and a relatively barren environment.
Denmark phases out sow confinement
A new executive order phases out the immobilization of sows in farrowing pens.
UK: New animal welfare strategy aims to phase out farrowing crates and CO2 stunning
The strategy includes plans to move away from farrowing crates and address welfare concerns around stunning pigs with carbon dioxide.