Welfare challenges for Italian heavy pigs

Italian heavy pigs are traditionally raised until they reach higher age at slaughter and body weights (at least 9 months and 160 kg, respectively) than in the majority of European countries. Meat derived from these pigs is intended for the production of high added-value pork products (e.g., Protected Designation of Origin dry-cured hams). We have identified tree main aspects that can affect the welfare of Italian heavy pigs: water rationing,illumination regimes and floor space allowance. The results from our research on water needs show that heavy pigs are motivated to obtain water from nipple drinkers even when they are liquid-fed (Nannoni et al., 2013).As concerns illumination requirements, either an increased duration of the photoperiod (up to 14 hours/day) or a higher light intensity (up to 80 lux) can favorably affect animal behavior (calmness degree) without any negative effect on meat quality (Martelli et al., 2015;Sardi et al., 2012).With respect to space allowance, its increase (up to 1.3 m2/head) was found to improve heavy pigs’ capability to rest (time spent lying in lateral recumbency) and their productive parameters (Nannoni et al., 2015). In conclusion, although no specific legislation requirement has been set for heavy pigs, our results may indicate the presence of peculiar needs besides the minimum mandatory levels (EC Directive 2008/120). Further research is presently being carried out on complemental aspects, such as environmental enrichment tools and tail docking.