PIG TRANSPORT SYSTEMS - A REVIEW

SUMMARY The Pig Research and Development Corporation (PRDC) assisted with the funding of a review of the literature on pig transport systems from within Australia and internationally. The literature has been reviewed to help facilitate the adoption of research and new technologies pertaining to the transportation of pigs, and to identify areas requiring further research. Transport affects animal welfare, meat quality and yield. For example, the level of animal stress and the incidence of pork quality defects such as pale, soft and exudative (PSE) and dark, firm and dry meat (DFD), are influenced by transport. Pig mortality rates during transit, condemnations and weight loss, are also affected by transport. This review identified a number of approaches that would improve animal welfare and meat quality during transport. They included improved scheduling, better management of pre- and post-transport handling, improved loading and unloading ramps, and reduced reliance upon electric prodders.