Swine

Definition of Swine

Swine refers to domesticated pigs raised within agricultural systems for meat production and related by-products. In farming contexts, the term encompasses breeding sows, boars, piglets, and growing–finishing pigs that are managed under controlled feeding, housing, and health programmes.

Swine production systems are designed to efficiently convert feed into pork while managing animal health, biosecurity, welfare, and environmental impacts across the production cycle.

Why Swine Matters

Swine matters because pig farming is a major contributor to global meat supply and rural economies. Its importance includes:

• Providing a widely consumed source of animal protein

• Supporting farm income and agribusiness supply chains

• High feed conversion efficiency compared to many livestock species

• Ability to utilise a range of feed ingredients and by-products

• Contributing to national and international food systems

Effective swine management is essential for maintaining productivity while addressing animal welfare, disease prevention, and environmental responsibility.

Key Aspects of Swine Production

• Breeding and Genetics – Selection for growth, efficiency, and health

• Nutrition and Feeding – Balanced monogastric diets for different life stages

• Housing Systems – Indoor, outdoor, or hybrid production models

• Biosecurity – Disease prevention and movement controls

• Animal Welfare – Stocking density, enrichment, and humane handling

• Environmental Management – Manure handling and emissions control

Related Terms

• Livestock

• Monogastric

• Livestock Management

• Animal Health

• Biosecurity

• Food Systems

Useful Resources on Swine

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about swine production, pig health, and sustainable pork systems:

• FAOSTAT – Livestock (Pigs)– International statistics on pig populations and pork production.

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) – Standards for pig health and disease control.

• DEFRA – Pig Farming (UK) – Policy, welfare standards, and industry data.

• AHDB Pork (UK) – Practical guidance, market data, and best practice resources.

• USDA – Swine and Pork Industry – Production, health, and trade information.

• Our World in Data – Pork Production – Global data and environmental context.

• AGRIS – Swine Research Database – Peer-reviewed literature on pig production.

• European Commission – Pigmeat Sector – EU policy and market information.

• Pig World - The voice of the UK Pig Industry.