Farm managers in pig production are keen to understand the dynamics of their operations: how are the pigs growing, what’s the rate of mortality, and other key performance indicators. Gaining control and insight into pig production can significantly enhance a farm’s efficiency, profitability, and overall success.
Being knowledgeable about various aspects of pig production — from breeding and feeding to health management and environmental control — is crucial for farm managers. This knowledge aids in improving animal welfare and, consequently, boosts productivity.
A comprehensive understanding of pig health and behavior enables farm managers to quickly identify and resolve issues. This leads to healthier herds, lower mortality rates, and a reduced need for medical interventions, which can be expensive and sometimes harmful to the pigs’ health and the quality of the produce.
Farm managers with a deeper understanding of their pigs’ performance can achieve higher product quality. This includes better meat texture and flavor, as well as more efficient reproduction rates. Such improvements are often the result of well-managed feeding programs, optimal living conditions, and strategies to reduce stress.
Modern pig farms are increasingly reliant on data to guide their decisions. This data often comes from reliable sensors designed for the challenging environments of pig barns. Monitoring data on temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, ammonia levels, and feed supply provides crucial information for maintaining optimal living conditions.
Moreover, controlling the environment is key to preventing disease outbreaks. Farmers knowledgeable in biosecurity measures can effectively protect their herds from common illnesses, ensuring continuous production and guarding against potential losses.
Control over pig production leads to economic stability and potential growth. Efficient farms can operate at lower costs with higher output, leading to greater profitability. For instance, a stable and optimal barn environment results in better feed conversion ratios (FCR), meaning lower feed costs. Improved animal welfare also reduces losses and medical expenses, stabilizing finances.
