Disappointment expressed by Bertel Hestbjerg over pig welfare study in Holstebro

Bertel Hestbjerg, one of Denmark’s largest organic pig farmers near Holstebro, expressed disappointment after a study revealed that his pigs are less satisfied compared to those in conventional farms. The findings are part of a documentary titled “If Pigs Could Talk,” highlighting researchers’ breakthroughs in understanding pig communication. In nine different farms, the pigs’ grunts were recorded, with Hestbjerg’s pigs displaying notable signs of stress and discomfort.

Despite the unfavorable conclusions, Hestbjerg insists his pigs enjoy good welfare. He attributes their discontent to various factors, arguing that, like children in an outdoor nursery, pigs can experience distress even in generally positive environments. His pigs are born outside and spend the first ten weeks in fields with trees and mud before moving to spacious barns with fresh straw. They also have access to outdoor areas to roam and engage in digging.

The differences between organic and conventional pigs are significant: organic pigs are mandated to have outdoor access, with larger living spaces compared to their conventional counterparts. Organic farming conditions also allow for better enrichment and care practices. Hestbjerg maintains that understanding pig behavior requires a nuanced approach, advocating for further research using blood tests and stress hormone measurements alongside behavioral observations.

While he supports improving welfare standards, Hestbjerg cautions against hasty alterations in farming practices without comprehensive knowledge. He believes consumers need to be willing to embrace and support happy pig farming, balancing welfare improvements with market viability.