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.
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