Stakeholders’ views regarding the key challenges in organic and low-input pig farming

PPILOW focus group discussions highlighted key challenges in organic and low-input pig production, including the importance of proper site design, access to water and feed, and sufficient space for natural behaviors. Outdoor production requires careful pasture management and monitoring of soil and shelter conditions, with accessibility issues, especially in winter. Castration of male pigs is essential to reduce aggression and boar taint, but surgical castration without anesthesia is controversial, requiring alternative methods.