Expert sees potential in straw-raised pigs

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Published: December 5, 2002

Producers using straw-based pig production systems could one day find a

niche export market for their animals, said John Maltman, regional

swine specialist with Manitoba Agriculture.

Manitoba Agriculture and Agriculture Canada have spent the last year

developing protocols and synchronizing production systems. In addition

to exploring U.S. markets, a private company is also involved in

looking at markets in Europe.

The idea is to raise an animal in a unique system that is efficient,

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more welfare friendly and that uses less antibiotics, Maltman said.

“Some people want a little more comfort in reductions in antibiotic

uses and welfare issues,” he said.

“It’s not intended to be mainstream.”

He said straw-based systems may have a role in developing new markets

for farmers and choices for consumers.

Maltman, who said 200,000 pigs are raised in these systems in Manitoba,

is optimistic there are market opportunities and producers willing to

participate.

“Initial work has demonstrated there is very serious interest in it.”

Negotiations with packers have been complicated by the fact packers

need large volumes of pigs to be efficient. Also, to access the

European Union, the pigs would have to be slaughtered in an EU-approved

plant.

About the author

Karen Morrison

Saskatoon newsroom

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