The switch to 100% organic feed for fattening pigs in 2022 has in some cases led to an increase in PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids) concentrations in slaughter pigs and a reduction in performance. Negative effects on animal health were also observed on some farms.
The aim of this project, which is conducted together with Coop, Bio Suisse and Bell AG, is to investigate which factors on the farms in terms of management, climate, genetics and, above all, feeding (feed composition, phase feeding, etc.) lead to high PUFA levels and poorer performance. To this end, a survey will be carried out on all organic pig fattening farms in Switzerland. Subsequently, 10 farms with high PUFA levels in the past and 10 farms with low PUFA levels will be selected and further, more detailed data will be collected on site, in particular on animal health and management. The comparison of the two farm clusters should provide insights into which factors lead to high PUFA values. As a result of the project, measures will be listed that are associated with lower PUFA values as well as better performance and good animal health with 100% organic feeding.
Project manager
