Farm Animals

Pig Welfare: Genetic Diversity and Population Health

Genetic diversity in commercial pig populations affects disease resistance, welfare robustness, and the long-term resilience of the global pig herd.

Key Facts

Commercial pig genetics are highly concentrated in a small number of global breeding companies
Genetic bottlenecks reduce disease resistance and increase susceptibility to novel pathogens
Heritage breed conservation preserves genetic diversity that may be valuable for future welfare and production challenges
Genomic approaches to diversity management can maintain genetic health within commercial populations

Welfare Considerations

Genetic diversity is a long-term welfare and resilience investment. Homogeneous pig populations with limited genetic diversity are more vulnerable to novel disease challenges and may have reduced welfare robustness. Supporting heritage breed conservation and diversity management within commercial genetics serves future welfare.

What You Can Do

Support heritage pig breed societies and conservation programmes
Engage with breeding companies about their genetic diversity management approaches
Advocate for public research funding on pig genetic diversity and welfare robustness