Sustainable pork production in Germany: the InnovationPork project

The InnovationPork project

has several key objectives. First, it involves a comprehensive analysis of the entire pork value chain, from production to processing. This includes an assessment of resource use, animal health, husbandry practices, and environmental impact. Importantly, all these aspects will be considered within an international context, allowing for the identification of best practices and their adaptation to German conditions.

Scientific support for the project is provided by the Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institute, guaranteeing a high level of research and analysis. Eight partners from various fields, including industry and academia, are participating in the project. These include AGRAVIS Raiffeisen AG, The Hanor Company, TOPIGS-SNW GmbH, and Westfleisch SCE mbH, as well as the Thünen Institute for Market Analysis.

Funding and Support:

The project is being funded by several organizations, including the German Raiffeisen Association, the Agricultural Press Foundation, and the Landscape Foundation Westphalia. This underlines the importance of the project not only for individual companies, but for the entire agricultural sector in the region.

Dr. Jochen Farwick, Chairman of the Project Advisory Board, noted: “Pig production is a key economic factor in Westphalia. Following cuts in public funding, we decided to take the initiative ourselves and develop sustainable solutions locally.” This demonstrates the desire of local producers to adapt to the changes and challenges facing the agricultural sector.

International Cooperation

One of the interesting aspects of the project is its international cooperation. Partners from the United States are also participating, enabling a comparison of pork value chains in different countries. Professor Martin Banse, Director of the Institute for Market Analysis at the Thünen Institute, emphasized the importance of this international comparison for identifying the key factors driving the development of German pig production.

Research Projects

Two coordinated research projects are planned for the next three years. The first will focus on identifying the key factors influencing the efficiency of pork production, including genetics, feeding, and slaughter and processing processes. This will not only improve production performance but also enhance the quality of the final product.

Prospects and Significance

The InnovationPork project holds great promise for German pig farming. Amid growing uncertainty related to climate change, consumer preferences, and economic conditions, sustainable meat production is becoming increasingly important. The project's participants hope that the results of their work will help farmers not only maintain competitiveness but also improve the environmental performance of their production.

Thus, the InnovationPork project represents an important step toward creating a more sustainable and efficient pig farming industry in Germany, which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the entire agricultural sector and secure the future of local producers.