EU PiG scheme searches for project ambassadors
The EU PiG Innovation Group (EU PiG) has been designed to support the competitiveness of the European pig industry. This will be achieved by identifying and sharing innovative ideas and validated best practices.
An ‘EU PiG Grand Prix’ will search for the continent’s top producer, and crown them EU PiG Ambassador. The contests will be held annually and on a local level, created to identify the best practice in each of the project’s four themes, including health management, precision production, welfare and meat quality. Those who make it through on a local level will then compete on a European level for the title. Ambassadors will be selected via a stringent evaluation of their best practice, while considering current state-of-the-art and economic benefits. The award-winning best practice will be shared with other producers.
Each year of the four-year project will focus on topics in one of the four different themes. The contests will be adjudicated through industry consultations with input from technical experts, who will take into account industry trends and emerging issues. This year, topics are: biosecurity, reduction of antimicrobial medication, reduction of boar taint, innovation in short food supply chain, castration methods, tail docking, smart water usage and feeding management.
The competition is open for entries in these areas and is seeking best practice in them. It is coordinated by the project’s 13 Regional Pig Innovation Groups (RPIGs) at a local level.
Producers interested in participating are encouraged to visit the project’s recently launched website, www.eupig.eu where you will be put in touch with your local RPIG representative. The contest is open until the end of the month.
