0
The Pigmeat Reflection Group was set up in 2022 to discuss the challenges facing the EU’s pigmeat sector. Their report published in January 2023 puts forward recommendations to improve the resilience of the sector. EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski has responded to the group’s recommendations.
One of the recommendations was to reduce imports of protein sources for use in pig feed and to valorize EU protein sources in order to reduce the carbon footprint of pig production. According to Commissioner Wojciechowski, the Commission will prepare an EU protein strategy within a year.
In response to the recommendations surrounding the development and implementation of systems with high animal welfare, the Commissioner assured that animal welfare legislation is under review and that "at least EUR 7 billion will be dedicated to improving animal welfare and health."
In response to the recommendation to raise awareness of organic farming and geographical indications (GIs) in the pig sector, the Commissioner commented that the Commission is promoting organic products and that informational campaigns in 2023 will inform EU and global consumers of EU quality schemes and labels such as GIs or organic products. Funding of up to €28 million to stimulate demand for organic products will be allocated. He added, "An additional €36 million will support the promotion of sustainable agriculture practices beneficial for the climate, the environment and animal welfare and the consumption of sustainably produced agri-food products."
The Pigmeat Reflection Group also called for research and innovation to address environmental and climate challenges and to improve animal welfare and health standards. Commissioner Wojciechowski stated that under Horizon Europe, "the Commission is investing about EUR 9 billion into research and innovation on 'Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resource, Agriculture and Environment'. More than one-third of this budget is allocated to promoting knowledge and innovation in agriculture."
The Commissioner explained that as part of the Horizon Europe work programme 2023-2024, there are additional funds foreseen for research projects that will improve the capacity to develop ASF pilot vaccines. He stressed that vaccination cannot be the only measure for eradication of the disease and that continued support is needed for proper biosecurity and wild boar management.
April 13, 2023/ 333 Staff with information from the EU Commission.
https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu
