Pig farming is often a popular choice for new farmers, and its appeal often stems from a combination of practical, economic, and lifestyle factors. Some of the appeal has its roots in reality, but farmers must remember that all farming operations require careful research.
Despite this, it is important to consider what some of the appeal is. For example, pigs have relatively short gestation periods and reach market weight faster compared to other livestock species, such as cattle. This means more frequent income for farmers. Pigs are also known for their efficient feed conversion, meaning they can convert feed into body mass quite effectively. As most farmers know, feed efficiency usually translates to lower costs per unit. (Of course, there are other variables to consider than simply feed efficiency.)
AFFORDABLE PROTEIN
As an affordable protein option when compared with lamb or beef, there is also perceived consumer demand for pork, which means that new farmers often believe that there is always a market for their product.
There is also the belief that you can run a profitable pig operation at a small scale. While this may be true for some piggeries, it is not true across the board, and it is important to remember that the more pigs you produce, the less they cost per unit. This means that your pork may reach the market at a more affordable price, thus seeing an increase in demand. However, the opposite may be true with a smaller herd, and your pork may thus then have to be marketed as niche (organic or free-range pork, for example).
Some of the appeal is also the belief that pigs can be raised on any food product. This is not true, particularly if producing pigs for the formal market. It is very important that your pigs are fed nutritious food that is healthy for the growing pigs and for the end consumer.
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 15, 2023 من Farmer's Weekly.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة December 15, 2023 من Farmer's Weekly.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
Uncertainty over Trump's stance on AGOA
It is of vital importance that that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) be upheld following the recent US presidential election, in which Donald Trump emerged as the winner.
Plum pollen study reveals varietal differences in pollination effectiveness
A new study undertaken near George, Western Cape, explored pollination in plum varieties, showing key differences in pollen quality. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports on the research findings.
Study: small cuts to beef production could eliminate years of emissions
In a paper published in early November, scientists reveal that pasturelands, in particular those that were once forests, hold great potential for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Harnessing wind for cleaner energy
At the Windaba Conference and Exhibition, held in October in Cape Town, Western Cape, Niveshen Govender, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the state of wind energy in the country and the opportunities that farmers can exploit.
The Cape Grace: a Cape Town icon is reborn, and her new custodians shine
Brian Berkman has had the exceedingly good fortune of spending many nights at the Cape Grace Hotel over the years. He revisits it to find it as impressive as ever.
Cutting-edge tech aiding the agri sector
Toyota Material Handling's innovations conserve resources and reduce the environmental footprint of farming operations.
Use the correct growing medium for safe seedling production
Instead of buying expensive growing mediums for seedlings, farmers can make their own mixtures from local resources, such as manure, which are economical and produce excellent results
Optimising cherry production and quality
Growing cherries in a suboptimal climate requires manipulating trees and temperatures. But with a considerable market advantage, it is worth the effort. Lindi Botha visited ZZ2's Toscana farm, which for four weeks of the year takes prime position in the cherry market.
Biosecurity & nutrition: the foundation of pig farming success
JD Mostert, a consulting swine nutritionist at CS Vet, and Dr Stefan Steyn, a veterinarian at Afrivet, shared their expertise with Sinenhlanhla Mncwango, delving into why biosecurity and nutrition are critical pillars in establishing and maintaining a productive pig farm geared for long-term success.
The business of pig farming: practical steps for success
Running a pork farm requires knowledge and expertise. Mosele Lepheane, director of a small piggery in the Free State, spoke to Sinenhlanhla Mncwango about the structured approach needed to succeed, from drafting a business plan and managing cash flow to sourcing equipment and expanding market access.
