Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
(MHS) gene in pigs to reduce stress susceptibility. However, these tests use genetic engineering
methods which are questionable for organic agriculture because the use of genetic modified
organisms is not allowed.
Conclusions
The availability of scientific literature specific to organic livestock husbandry is limited. Stand-
ards on organic animal housing should be more precisely defined in some cases and should be
controlled by well-trained people. However, keeping high standards is not enough to guaran-
tee animal welfare. Management is very important in that context. Education of farmers, con-
sultants and veterinarians about organic livestock husbandry should be extended.
Alternative housing systems often mean higher costs (e.g. more space and labour). There-
fore, farmers must either get higher prices or subsidies. Some alternative systems could lead to
specific risks for animal health or the environment. Measures to reduce these risks should be
investigated further without taking away the advantages for the animal's natural behaviour.
Organic livestock systems are very heterogeneous. Therefore, it is not easy to define
breeding goals (traits) for all purposes. Food quality, adaptability, longevity, disease resistance
or roughage conversion can be listed as traits suitable for organic or sustainable animal agri-
culture. One aim of organic agriculture is the maintenance of genetic diversity. Endangered
old breeds of domestic livestock often have the desired properties (e.g. adaptability, vitality),
which makes them well suited for organic agriculture. However, lower performances mean a
lower profitability. Therefore, farmers again must aim for higher prices or subsidies.
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