1. High Reproductive Rate
Pigs reproduce quickly and have a high reproductive rate, allowing farmers to quickly expand their herds. A sow can produce 10-12 piglets per litter and can farrow twice a year, meaning you can quickly expand your herd with a relatively low initial cost.
2. Efficient Feed Conversion
Pigs are one of the most efficient animals at converting feed to weight, typically requiring less feed to reach market weight than other livestock. This efficiency not only saves on feed costs, but also ensures that pigs reach maturity sooner, resulting in a quicker return on investment.
3. High Demand and a Fluctuating Market
Pork is one of the most consumed meats worldwide, making pig farming a reliable source of income. Furthermore, pigs produce a variety of marketable products in addition to meat, such as fat (lard), skin (for leather production) and other by-products, further increasing income sources.
4. Suitable for small and large-scale operations
Pig farming can be large or small, suitable for different budgets and land sizes. Small farmers can raise a few pigs for the local market, while larger farms can cater to a wider market demand, thus achieving huge profit potential.
5. Potential for value-added products
The pork industry provides scope for the creation of value-added products such as bacon, sausages, ham and packaged pork, which are usually sold at a higher price. With additional processing, farmers can capture a larger share of the market, making pig farming not just livestock, but also agricultural processing and product development.
