Abstract: The Importance of Optimal Body Condition to Maximize Reproductive Health and Perinatal Outcomes in Pigs

Jul 22, 2022

Abstract: The importance of optimal body condition to maximize reproductive health and perinatal outcomes in pigs

Overnutrition or undernutrition during all or part of the reproductive cycle predisposes sows to metabolic consequences and poor reproductive health which contributes to a decrease in sow longevity and an increase in perinatal mortality. This represents not only an economic problem for the pig industry but also results in poor animal welfare. To maximize profitability and increase sustainability in pig production; it is pivotal to provide researchers and practitioners with synthesized information about the repercussions of maternal obesity or malnutrition on reproductive health and perinatal outcomes; and to pinpoint currently available nutritional managements to keep sows' body condition in an optimal range. Thus, the present review summarizes recent work on the consequences of maternal malnutrition and highlights new findings.

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Video: CEOs of the Industry – International Edition Michael Agerley | Partner, IQinAbox

In this CEOs of the Industry – International Edition, we sit down with Michael Agerley, Partner at IQinAbox, to explore how data is reshaping the future of pig production.

After more than 20 years as a veterinarian, Michael shares his unique perspective on the shift from hands-on animal care to data-driven decision making across the pork value chain.

We dive into:

• How better data is improving real on-farm decisions

• The biggest opportunities still untapped in pig production

• How Europe is leading (and where it’s still lagging) in tech adoption

• The role of AI and smart systems in the next 5–10 years

• Why trust, leadership, and practical application matter more than ever

This conversation bridges veterinary insight, technology, and real-world farming, offering a clear look at where the industry is headed—and what it will take to get there.