How much does disease cost pig producers?

Disease affects the environment through reduced efficiency, for example, from mortality, taking longer to reach finishing weight and reduced feed conversion efficiency (FCE). In fact, it is one of the most significant contributors to the environmental impact of livestock farming.

The study compared a hypothetical perfect farm without any losses against industry averages. The difference between perfection and average was £858m per year across the whole UK pig herd.

This figure represents more than two times the approximate value of the industry. While it is unrealistic to expect perfection, it does demonstrate the importance of animal health to production and, therefore, the environment. It is also important to recognise the benefit of improved animal health on welfare, which underpins the reputation of our sector.

Commenting on the findings, Dr Miranda Bowden-Doyle, Animal Health and Welfare Scientist, said:

“Understanding where individual farms can have the greatest impact on moving towards a disease-free utopia is the next step. The gap between average and utopia is large, and closing it is unachievable.

"However, small gains in litter size, pre-weaning and post-weaning survival, food conversion efficiency, days to slaughter, and mortality would pay big dividends in farm profitability and the impact on the environment.”

We will be sharing the full report soon. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Dr Bowden-Doyle.