The genetic potential of pigs has a major influence on productivity and profitability. A combination of nutrition, health, environment, and management influences the expression of genetic potential, they cannot make up for a poor genetic foundation in the animal.

Traditionally pigs were selected based on physical appearance and traits such as backfat and growth rate. With evolving data recording methods, genetic evaluation methods and the economy, breeding goals changed. Pig breeding moved from genetic improvement through herd books towards breeding specific lines.

The swine industry strives to improve animal performance and pork product quality. At PIC, we select for commercially relevant traits that create the foundation for profitable production.

Breeding goals today focus on lifetime reproduction, robustness, and meat quality. However, feed efficiency and lean percentage still have an economic impact. The latest innovation and technology allow us to accelerate genetic gain. A finishing pig not only reaches 136 kg seventeen days faster than 10 years ago, but also requires 21 kg less feed.

Using high-quality swine genetics for profitability depends on multiple factors including, (1) the quality of genetics, (2) the fit of the genetics with the environment, and (3) the market fit. Although producers often get more than 30 pigs weaned per sow per year, during difficult financial times, it is both the number of pigs weaned per sow per year and herd efficiency that drives ROI. Producers should focus on growth rate, feed efficiency, reduced days to slaughter and wean-to-finish survival as well as efficient females. The Camborough® is PIC’s flagship parent female bred for high prolificacy with the lowest cost to produce a kilogram of pork.

On average, the Camborough® consumes 100 to 150 g less feed per year than her competitor sows. A broad sire line portfolio within PIC ensures a product for every market demand. The three leading sire lines in South Africa include the PIC®337, PIC®410 and PIC®800. The PIC®337 is the best choice for producers who want exceptional feed conversion with superior performance at heavy weights.

The PIC®337 offers producers the greatest profit potential. The PIC®800 offers Duroc traits like robustness, meat quality, and fast growth with the lowest Duroc production cost available. The PIC®410 combines robust and efficient growth with exceptional primal yield and increasing slaughter weight.

For more information contact 013-244-7024, send an e-mail to info@picrsa.co.za or visit www.picrsa.co.za.