The newest benchmark numbers show a continued progress in pig robustness and efficiency, with DanBred customers in Europe reaching new production milestones.
DanBred genetics continue to improve survival and robustness, which is confirmed by benchmark numbers in the Netherlands where the average DanBred customers experience a 3.5% improvement in piglet survival in just two years.
DanBred Duroc is a big contributor to these results with improvements in piglet vitality at birth and higher survival rates. At the same time, the newest generations of DanBred Hybrids have improved maternal ability delivering stronger piglets that thrive better from birth all the way to finisher.
Stronger pigs from the latest generations
In 2022, DanBred’s owner Danish Agriculture and Food Council updated the breeding goals by introducing new traits focused on robustness and survival. The results of these investments are now becoming increasingly visible across all DanBred production systems worldwide.
“Dutch producers using DanBred genetics are seeing the benefits of continuous improvement,” says Jos Vlemminx, Country Manager Netherlands, and continues: “In 2026, we expect one additional pig produced per sow per year, driven by large improvements in piglet survival. The average performance of DanBred farms is approaching four extra pigs per sow compared to the national Dutch average, and the gap continues to grow.”
Supporting farmers in a challenging market
DanBred helps pig producers around the world utilize the genetic potential of DanBred pigs – helping them produce more robust pigs with higher survival and improved productivity, leading to a more sustainable pig production.
“Increasing production costs and lowering margins make efficiency more important,” according to Stefan Derks, Regional Director Europe in DanBred, he continues: “DanBred provides pig producers with the genetic potential to remain competitive”.
“Investments in modern loose farrowing facilities and improved management systems are essential; producers will have to ensure a return on those investments. DanBred helps farmers produce more effectively by delivering robust animals with strong performance – documented to deliver in new and modern management systems,” says Stefan Derks.
Higher piglet survival contributes to more weaned pigs
DanBred Hybrids deliver stronger piglets with improved vitality, enabling piglets to thrive better from birth to finisher, together with improving survival. The results in the Netherlands confirm that the average DanBred customers are moving towards +37 pigs weaned per sow per year. This is largely due to DanBred genetics being focused on higher robustness and survival.
“It used to be rare to see farms achieving 40+ pigs per sow,” concludes Jos Vlemminx, who continues: “However, today around 25% of our customers are reaching this level. This shows the power of combining continuous genetic progress with professional farm management.”
