Animal welfare and innovation in pig farming: from mating to weaning

How can improved animal welfare be combined with innovation in pig farming systems? This was the central theme of the meeting "Animal welfare and innovation in pig farming. From mating to weaning", held on November 12 in Cremona, which provided an opportunity for in-depth analysis and discussion on one of the most relevant topics for the evolution of the pig sector.

The initiative—organized by ERSAF Lombardia within the framework of the Living Lab Innovation for animal welfare in Lombardy livestock farming, coordinated by Professor Erminio Trevisi—addressed animal welfare across a particularly sensitive phase of the production cycle, from gestation and farrowing through to piglet weaning, connecting the latest scientific evidence, potential developments in the regulatory framework, and hands-on field experience.

Opening the program of presentations was Luca Sardi from the University of Bologna, who explored the findings of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and potential regulatory developments regarding sow welfare. In particular, the focus centered on new systems for gestation and farrowing management, analyzing both their benefits and critical aspects. These solutions challenge the sector to adapt farm facilities and husbandry practices, seeking a balance between the physiological and behavioral needs of the animals and the organizational and managerial sustainability of farms.

The second contribution, delivered by Paolo Ferrari of CRPA, focused on the best practices developed within the European project WelFarmers. This provided an opportunity to examine experiences and approaches aimed at improving farming conditions, with particular attention to translating scientific knowledge into practical interventions and solutions applicable on pig farms.

Rounding out the program was the presentation by Andrea Corso of Società Agricola Santa Marta SRL, who brought the perspective of a working farm, thereby complementing the scientific and technical-design viewpoints with that of the production sector.

The morning concluded with a discussion session that allowed participants to gather and compare the various perspectives that emerged during the presentations.

Today, animal welfare represents an increasingly vital component in livestock innovation pathways. Its evolution requires constant dialogue between research, technical expertise, and businesses so that scientific knowledge can translate into effective and sustainable practices. In the case of pig farming, this ongoing exchange spans the entire production cycle and involves both the design of housing systems and the day-to-day management of the animals.