In the countries of the European Union, pig farms are characterized by high standards, combining modern technologies with traditional methods to ensure the highest quality and safety of pork. Thanks to this, European farms stand out on the global stage.
Characteristics of the Farming Location
The location, construction, and operation of farming establishments are strictly regulated by laws and requirements¹, which impose on farmers the obligation to obtain various decisions and permits, as well as to present detailed analyses of the environmental impact of farming at different stages of its implementation. High-quality farms in the EU should minimize negative impacts on the natural environment.
European Farming Standards
Directive 2008/120/EC of December 18, 2008¹ systematized all legal requirements regarding the maintenance of animal welfare in farms. Each animal on the farm is provided with freedom of movement. In natural conditions, sows lead a gregarious life, so farmers provide them with appropriate space to maintain their natural behaviors.
The Importance of Feed Quality
The most important thing is to ensure high-quality feed and constant access to water, allowing animals to adjust consumption according to their natural needs. The feed should be balanced and rich in essential nutrients, in line with the European Parliament Regulation². The water provided to animals must meet the standards for drinking water intended for human consumption.
Conditions in Farm Buildings
Farms should be free of obstacles, and the amount of space per animal depends on its weight. For example, for weaners and pigs kept for breeding, it ranges from 0.15 to 1.00 m², and for sows from 1.64 to 2.25 m². The farmer must ensure adequate space for animals to move freely. The walls of the buildings must be insulated to provide thermal comfort. Buildings should be kept clean, as pigs are very clean animals.
Quality Supervision
To maintain high farming standards, regular quality and animal welfare inspections are conducted. Each member state designates the appropriate supervisory bodies:
- The Environmental Protection Inspectorate supervises environmental protection,
- The Veterinary Inspectorate supervises animal health and welfare. Each farmer is obliged to keep detailed breeding records³.
Unique Features of Farming in the European
Union Maintaining pig welfare throughout their lives, providing optimal conditions for their development, and using only proven and modern technologies have taken European pig farming to a completely different level. European farms provide animals with living conditions as close to natural as possible. High-quality, extremely tasty, and safe pork from the EU guarantees unforgettable taste experiences!
1. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2008/120/oj Directive 2008/120/EC of the Council of December 18, 2008 laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs
2. Regulation (EC) No 183/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council of January 12, 2005 laying down requirements for feed hygiene
3. Commission Decision 89/502/EEC of July 18, 1989 establishing criteria governing the entry in herd-books of pure-bred breeding pigs
