Eight pig producers from across Europe have won international awards for their innovation in pig production, including one British farmer.
They are the winning entrants in the EU PiG Innovation Group Grand Prix and have each been awarded the title of EU PiG Ambassador.
It is an annual competition designed to identify best practice on pig farms and share it with pig producers throughout the European network and beyond.
British farmer David Goodier has won best practice in the 'precision production' category.
The farrow-to-finish producer is measuring and managing gilt body condition more accurately.
This is to help retain more young sows in the herd and improve sow lifetime productivity, while reducing the replacement rate of gilts and associated costs.
EU PiG coordinator Ben Williams, of AHDB in the UK said of the competition: “It shares new knowledge and practical case studies all in one place online, helping producers across Europe find out about the ideas and systems already out there that can help improve their own farm’s efficiency and sustainability.
“It’s a bit like going on a study tour without having to travel. EU PiG is providing another way for producers to pick up information and experience directly from each other.
Mr Williams added: “It is about connecting pig producers and others across Europe to help ensure an evermore efficient and competitive industry.”
2018 EU PiG Grand Prix winners
Precision
Daily manure removal to reduce emissions - Netherlands
Improving young sow retention - United Kingdom
Meat quality
Easy weighing of pigs for slaughter - Netherlands
Olive oil as a source of fat for pigs - Belgium
Welfare
Birth management in loose farrowing systems - Austria
Novelty enrichment material - Spain
Health
Different feeds as zinc oxide alternatives - Belgium
Cross-company approach to PRRS - Belgium
