Pork exports to China have received a boost after a big push by producers, government officials and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Two more sites have received export approval after a delegation from the China Meat Association visited the UK... Read more
• Helps optimise egg production • Data on flock health and welfare • Good for birds and farm income Acoustic sensors could help boost the health and welfare of laying hens – saving money and optimising egg production. The project uses state-of-the-art sensors to monitor birds through novel sound... Read more
• Rules for water under scrutiny • Manure ‘mustn’t be excessive’ • Deadline for government reply Autumn manure spreading could be under threat following an investigation into pollution guidance by the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP). The government’s Farming Rules for Water (FRfW) aim to reduce and prevent water... Read more
Incorporating probiotic live yeast into pig diets can reduce finishing time and improve feed conversion ratio, suggests a trial. The year-long trial was carried out across a total of 27,000 pigs in 66 batches. Some 32 batches were supplemented with the probiotic live yeast Levucell SB, says Hannah Elliott,... Read more
UK pig producers are being urged develop robust contingency plans as African swine fever continues to spread across Europe. ASF is a highly contagious viral disease of pigs. There are several different strains. Pigs infected with mild strains may not become ill or show typical clinical signs. But severe... Read more
Inspirational pig industry stalwart Howard Revell has won the 2024 David Black Award – recognising his long-standing dedication to the sector. The accolade – recognising Mr Revell’s efforts to help improve animal welfare while mentoring others within the industry for almost 40 years – was presented on 18 November... Read more
Lowest level of livestock antibiotics Multi-drug resistance in pigs and poultry has fallen to an all-time low after a decade of reducing antibiotic use. The amount of antibiotics sold for livestock remains at the lowest level to date, says Defra. But an increase in antibiotic usage for some livestock... Read more
Poultry and pig producers are being advised to review hygiene protocols to reduce the risk of pathogenic infections affecting performance. Better hygiene and disinfection procedures are seen as a key way to maximise biosecurity and reduce productivity losses – including those resulting from sub-clinical health issues. “Monogastric units remain... Read more
Pig industry leaders have urged the government to stop illegal meat imports and animal disease from entering the UK. The National Pig Association national biosecurity and better border controls should be a top priority amid fears that a major disease outbreak could devastate Britain’s outdoor herds and indoor units.... Read more
Helps to reduce carbon footprint Hybrid rye is increasingly being seen as bringing significant benefits to pig and poultry rations as well as having major agronomic benefits for growers with its low nitrogen requirement and tolerance to increasingly frequent drought conditions. The earlier advantages seen when rye is fed... Read more