Literature Review on the Pre-Slaughter Welfare of Italian Heavy Pigs

Simple Summary Italian heavy pigs production differs from pig farming in other countries of the world mainly due to the high body weight and age at slaughter of the animals. This implies that peculiar animal needs may be addressed to achieve a high level of animal welfare during the pre-slaughter phases. This narrative review aims to collect the available information on welfare issues of Italian heavy pigs in the pre-slaughter phases, and to highlight recent findings and knowledge gaps. This work provides a narrative review of the available information on the welfare of Italian heavy pigs in the pre-slaughter phase (transport, lairage, and stunning). The meat from these pigs is used for specific PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) products, and the production rules for these specialties require higher body weight (160-170 kg) and age (in general more than 9 months) at slaughter than in most other countries. This may lead to specific behavioral and physiological needs of pigs. The present paper summarizes the main research findings and knowledge gaps for each of the pre-slaughter phases. Studies are presented according to the four principles of the Welfare Quality assessment protocol (good feeding, good housing, good health, and appropriate behavior). The results of the literature review indicate a lack of knowledge on several aspects. Most of studies were carried out in a single slaughterhouse, making it difficult to identify risk factors and confounding effects. Moreover, animal-based measures were assessed using different protocols, reducing the possibility of comparison across studies. These findings may serve as a basis for the development of specific research studies and policies aimed at enhancing the animal welfare level and the ethical attributes of this renowned production, also in accordance with consumers' expectations.

Automated summary

The production of Italian heavy pigs differs from pig farming in other countries due to high body weight and age at slaughter. This review highlights the welfare issues of Italian heavy pigs in pre-slaughter phases and identifies knowledge gaps. Lack of understanding and standardized assessment protocols present challenges in improving animal welfare and ethical attributes in this renowned production.