Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare and Genetic Diversity Conservation

Commercial pig production relies on a narrow genetic base. Maintaining rare breed diversity provides genetic resilience and preserves welfare-relevant traits from broader selection.

Key Facts

Three or four global genetics companies dominate commercial pig production worldwide
Rare pig breeds including Tamworth, Oxford Sandy and Black and Berkshire retain unique gene pools
Rare breeds typically show stronger maternal behaviour, disease resilience and outdoor adaptability
Gene banking of rare breed genetics provides insurance against future needs
Rare breed pork often commands premium prices that reward welfare-positive extensive production

Welfare Considerations

Genetic diversity in pig populations is a welfare insurance policy against future disease challenges and changing welfare requirements. Supporting rare breed production maintains this diversity while often rewarding better welfare systems.

What You Can Do

Choose rare breed or heritage pork from extensive welfare-positive production systems
Support Rare Breeds Survival Trust and Pig Genetics Diversity Project initiatives
Advocate for public funding of rare breed gene banking and conservation breeding programmes