Reproduction in pig farms is one of the main determinants of economic efficiency. Technical indicators used at the European level show that high-performing farms achieve between 28 and 32 weaned piglets per sow per year, while the European average ranges between 25 and 28, depending on genetics, management, and biosecurity. In Romania, variability is high: industrial operations approach the reference values, while small and medium-sized farms remain below potential, with 20–24 weaned piglets.

A critical indicator is neonatal mortality, which in high-performing farms is kept below 10%, compared to 12–15% in less standardized systems. Nest temperatures, colostrum administration, and close monitoring of farrowings directly influence piglet survival. Deviations of only 1–2°C from the optimal temperature increase mortality by 2–3 percentage points, according to European technical assessments.

Weaning weight is another key indicator, with reference values ranging between 6.5 and 7.5 kg. Piglets under 6 kg generally have lower daily weight gains and less efficient feed conversion during the fattening stage. For 2025, Romanian farms will need to optimize biosecurity, microclimate control, and feed standardization in order to approach the performance levels of Northern European countries.

(Photo: Freepik)