Abstract: Immunocastration in very large pens

Type and Average of Pigs on the Farm

730 sows, 30,000 weaners, and 28,500 grower-finishers.

Farming System

Intensive production system.

Description and Evaluation of the Good Practice

In October 2023, the farm began testing immunocastration to reduce fighting, mounting, and injuries among pigs in large pens (350–450 pigs, mixed sex). Employees were trained to use the product. Pigs are moved to the finisher section at ~30 kg, vaccinated first after 1–2 weeks, and again 4–6 weeks before slaughter. Three employees perform vaccinations using safety injectors and marking spray. Sows are marked with a line on the back, males with a dot on the neck. All pigs are checked twice during each vaccination round, which also helps identify sick or injured pigs. After the second vaccination, fighting and mounting ceased. Personnel prefer vaccination over surgical castration. Immunocastration is spreading in some countries but requires a male pig contract with the slaughterhouse.

Farm Context

• Pigs
  Genetics: DanBred Duroc boars and L*Y DanBred sows.
  Final weight: 115–118 kg.
  Slaughter age: ~5.5 months.
  Floor type: Partly slatted floors.
• Environmental Enrichment
  Not specifically mentioned.
• Housing and Management Characteristics
  Specific feeding: Higher protein and energy for male pigs.
  Floor type: Partly slatted floors.
• Management Practices
  Vaccination protocol: Improvac administered at ~30–40 kg and again 4–6 weeks before slaughter.
  Injection ages: 10–11 weeks and 18 weeks.
  Safety measures: Safety injector used; calm movement to avoid pushing.
  Boar taint feedback: 1% tainted carcasses reported by abattoir.
  Implemented by farmer and employees after mandatory training. Three people involved per batch.

Economic Analysis

At weaning: +0.73 € per male piglet (no castration cost, lower mortality).
From 30–115 kg: +2 € per pig including vaccination.
Vaccination cost: ~21 € for two doses.
Labor: 0.7 min per pig (45 min for small pigs, 60 min for 450 pigs by 3 people).

Environmental Analysis

GHG emissions reduced by 4.4 kg CO₂e per pig compared to surgical castration.

Replicable Benefits and Relevance for Other EU Countries

Applicable in all countries if consumers accept it.
Scalable to all farm sizes and pen sizes (10–450 pigs).
Can be implemented immediately after training.
Knowledge sharing among farmers is recommended.