Sow slaughterings up 30% as producers cut back
By Peter Crichton
THE three main UK sow slaughterers are all reported to be working flat out to cope with the flood of sows from cash-strapped producers. 35,000 sows slaughtered in August, up 30% on 1997.
According to one major breeding company the north, where many of the most intensive pig units are, is seeing the fastest decline in numbers, with an estimated 57,000 sows already culled in Yorkshire.
The same pattern of high sow slaughterings is being seen in East Anglia and all the signs are that the overall UK herd will be down by around 30% in six months time.
Breeding companies are also reporting a slump in gilt sales, with many producers opting for farm-saved replacements. AI use has also soared, with farmers cutting right back on boar numbers and replacements.
Abattoirs are already beginning to feel a slight shortage of spot pigs, with several returning to the auction ring to top up dwindling supplies. This has lifted liveweight prices by 4-6p/kg this week and more rises are on the cards, according to abattoir operators.
- Slaughtered sows cram abattoir chillers, FWi Markets, 4 September, 1998
- Mass slaughter of prime breeding pigs, FWi, 28 August, 1998