The OHFÖS project to optimize husbandry and feeding in organic sow husbandry to improve piglet health was launched on 1 December. The project is funded by the BMLEH via the Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE) as part of the Federal Organic Farming Program (BÖL).

Organic pig farming allows for the expression of species-specific behaviors to a large extent and is therefore a form of husbandry with the potential for the highest possible animal welfare. The sows are not restrained at any point during farrowing, which allows the sow maximum freedom of movement and the ability to assume her comfort position during the birthing process, but poses an increased risk to piglets. The reduction of suckling piglet losses is therefore one of the greatest challenges in organic pig farming. The special benefits of organic pig farming, such as structural enrichment through straw bedding, housing systems with outdoor runs or free-range housing, and the simultaneous restriction of the use of certain medicines and disinfectants, pose further challenges for farmers in terms of animal health and hygiene. This project aims to further improve animal welfare and animal health in organic piglet rearing in order to ultimately reduce the piglet mortality rate.