Pig health and welfare in eco-efficient organic systems discussed at research seminar

June 13th, the Danish Organic RDD projects, VIPiglets, pECOSYSTEM and MAFFRA, presented results to and discussed recommendations with an international audience. Furthermore, international researchers where invited as guest speakers to share knowledge on research abroad.

Photographer: Helene Uller-Kristensen, ICROFS

The participants got the latest knowledge on how to reduce piglet mortality, improve health and welfare for weaning piglets and growing-finishing pigs, at the same time reducing the environmental impact. Knowledge gaps and research needs where also identified during the day.

A range stakeholders such as researchers, advisers, veterinarians, teachers and agricultural organisations participated in the event at Dronninglund Slot in the northern part of Jutland, Denmark. 

The main purpose of the seminar where to discuss current knowledge and identify future research needs in organic pig production. Based on discussions of the day, a synopsis, identifying and prioritizing research needs, will be distributed to the EU-funding bodies.

The overall programme of the day included presentations of:

  • Early piglet mortality in organic sow herds
  • Improved health and welfare of weaning piglets
  • Improved pen hygiene and welfare for growing-finishing pigs
  • Improved animal welfare without increasing the environmental footprints
  • Future research needs 

See presentations from the seminar:


Visit the website of VIPiglets
Visit the website of pECOSYSTEM 
Visit the website of MAFFRA


The projects are part of the Organic programme, which is coordinated by ICROFS (International Centre for Research in Organic Food Systems). They have received grants from ’Grønt Udviklings- og Demonstrationsprogram (GUDP)’ under the Ministry of Environment and Food of Denmark.