Balanced breeding by Topigs Norsvin: 44% less piglets under 1000 grams

Jun 27, 2017

In recent years, users of Topigs Norsvin genetics have experienced a clear drop in piglets with a birth weight below 1000 grams. Based on genotypic information, the percentage ofpiglets born with a weight below 1000 grams dropped by 44% between 2012 and 2016. In the same period litters became more uniform, the average birth weight increased by 12%, and litter size increased by an average of one piglet.

Fewer low-weight piglets and a higher uniformity have many benefits. Pre-weaning mortality is substantially reduced, which leads to less labor in the barn and better finisher results. The higher birth weight has a positive effect throughout the entire production.

It is often thought, and for many other genetics it is the case, that the birth weight decreases when litter size increases. With the balanced breeding program of Topigs Norsvin, the unique piglet weighing protocol, and state-of-the-art breeding goals this can be avoided. Topigs Norsvin sows are bred to cope with larger litter sizes and produce more uniform and heavier piglets. This leads to higher efficiency in the entire pork production.

Source: Topigs Norsvin

Video: What Does 20 MILLION Hogs a Year Look Like?

?? The Multi-Plant System Processing 20 Million Hogs Annually in the Midwest JBS USA operates multiple large-scale pork processing facilities across the Midwest, including major plants in Iowa, Minnesota, and Indiana. Combined, these facilities have the capacity to process approximately 20 million hogs annually.

Each plant operates high-speed automated slaughter systems capable of processing up to 20,000 head per day, followed by fabrication lines that break carcasses into primals, sub-primals, and case-ready retail products.

Hog procurement is coordinated through electronic marketing platforms that connect regional contract finishing operations and independent producers to plant demand schedules. This digital procurement system allows for steady supply flow and scheduling efficiency across multiple facilities.

Processing plants incorporate comprehensive food safety systems, including pathogen intervention technologies, rapid chilling processes, and integrated cold-chain management. USDA inspection is embedded throughout the harvest and fabrication stages to ensure regulatory compliance and product integrity. Finished pork products — from bulk primals to retail-ready packaged cuts — are distributed through coordinated logistics networks serving domestic and export markets.