More live-born piglets, stronger litters, and sows with improved maternal traits make work in the farrowing unit both easier and more rewarding.
This still requires focus, discipline, and training of employees, but the outlook is promising. Mette Lundsgaard is an independent consultant and farmer, and she clearly sees how genetic progress and improved management make a difference in everyday life both in her own herd and among customers at home and abroad.
“I am pleased that we maintain focus on the viable sow and piglet. I see that it is becoming easier and easier to manage high numbers of live-born piglets because the sow’s maternal abilities are improving. That is positive,” she says.
At the same time, she points out that robust piglets and better sows make the tasks in the farrowing unit more manageable. However, the foundation must be right – especially when it comes to gilts.
“You have to follow the recommendations and manage quarantine properly. A good gilt can be ruined by poor quarantine management,” she emphasizes.
According to Mette, 2025 has been marked by growing interest in advisory services and knowledge sharing, which may help accelerate this positive development.
Gilts must get the best possible start
At Ceva, swine production consultant Henrik Bech Pedersen supports the message: If you follow the recommendations, many results come naturally.
“It’s about the gilts getting off to a good start. You can compare it to a hotel. There must be good food, enough space for all guests in rooms that are nice and clean, and of course good weather – meaning 200 lux at eye level for 16 hours per day in the mating unit. And then there must be friendly staff,” he explains.
The quarantine stable is a particularly critical point. If the type of feed and feeding level are not properly aligned with the gilts’ age during quarantine, you risk gilts that are too thin or too heavy. This can lead to weaker first heat, fewer piglets born, and ultimately reduced longevity.
Good communication among staff is also essential, and not least timely action in the event of injuries or signs of disease:
“Timely treatment is crucial to addressing problems early,” he states and continues: “I believe we see upside potential.”
We have to become even better – because we can
Karina Mikkelsen from Farestaldseliten also sees clear improvements in everyday work. She highlights that breeding efforts – such as increased robustness in DanBred Duroc and litter growth as part of the breeding goal for sows – have contributed to more viable piglets.
“The work in the farrowing unit has become easier because the piglets are more viable,” she says.
She finds that farmers have become better at managing body condition in both sows and gilts. This has required a focused effort, but the results are clear, and many are keen to learn more.
“Overall, I see a higher level among employees, and that is exactly where we need to focus. Even though we are world champions, it must not become a resting place. We have to become even better and get management completely in place,” she concludes.
