Animal Health and Productivity of Organic Greek Pig Farms: The Current Situation and Prospects for Sustainability

Abstract

A review of organic pig production in Greece was carried out. The aim was to present updated information on the production, development and health status of organic pig farming in Greece and potential prospects for sustainability and future development. The indigenous Greek Black Pig is the main breed reared in Greek organic pig farms. All the reasons why Greek Black Pig breeding is ideal for organic farming are mentioned. Furthermore, respiratory and parasitic infections are the most common health problems, while high piglet mortality rates are the main welfare issue in Greek organic pig farming. Concerns about how farmers and authorities should utilize the demands of modern consumers are discussed.

Screening for Viruses in Indigenous Greek Black Pigs

“…Conventional pigs give birth to 12–14 piglets, whereas indigenous Greek black pigs give birth to a maximum of 7. A conventional pig is utilized at the age of 5 months and weight of 110 kg, while an indigenous Greek black pig is slaughtered at 7–10 months of age, reaching a carcass weight of about 60 kg [ 14 , 15 ]. The animals give delicious pork meat and in some farms are fed with olives.…”

“…When the genetic diversity, based on microsatellite analysis, of the Greek black pig was investigated, its genetic uniqueness was demonstrated. Despite their low population size, they have a high degree of genetic variability, which will be useful for breeding programs aimed at maintaining the long-term survival of this ancient breed [ 14 , 15 ].…”