Timeline of the UK Pork Supply Chain Development

UK Pork Supply Chain Development

1960s–1970s

2007 - 2009

Present

Early 1900s

Crossbreeding introduced leaner, faster-growing pigs, leading to large-scale industrial farming for high-volume pork production.

Foot and mouth disease outbreak led to stricter biosecurity measures, aiming to protect the UK pork industry.

Balancing intensive and traditional methods, the industry prioritises animal welfare, quality, and eco-friendly practices.

Small, family farms raised pigs traditionally, focusing on local production with hardy breeds like Gloucestershire Old Spots.

Post-World War II

Late 20th Century

2018–2022

Future

Demand for food post-war spurred intensive farming, transitioning from traditional methods to increase pork production.

Consumer demand for welfare-focused pork grew; the UK banned sow stalls, promoting free-range, higher-welfare farming practices.

ASF concerns and COVID-19 challenges affected biosecurity, labour, and demand, prompting focus on sustainability and welfare.

The industry aims for net-zero emissions, higher welfare standards, and advanced technology to ensure sustainable pork production.

Present

• The industry balances traditional and intensive farming methods, focusing on animal welfare, quality, and sustainability.
• Sustainability practices include reducing carbon emissions, improving feed efficiency, and managing waste.
• Technology like health sensors and environmental monitoring helps improve productivity and welfare standards.

The Future

• The UK pork industry is likely to prioritise sustainable and eco-friendly practices further, aiming for net-zero emissions.
• Advances in genetics, nutrition, and farming technology will enhance animal health, welfare, and productivity.
• The demand for high-quality, ethically-produced pork is expected to grow, pushing the industry toward more outdoor and organic farming systems.
• Biosecurity will remain crucial, with ongoing research to prevent and control diseases like ASF.

1960s - 1970s

• Crossbreeding became common as farmers sought to breed pigs that grew faster and produced leaner meat.
• New breeds like the Large White and Landrace were introduced to meet consumer demand for leaner pork.
• Production became more focused on efficiency, with a rise in industrial-scale pig farming.

2018–2022

• African Swine Fever (ASF) (2018 - 2019) had outbreaks in Europe raised fears about ASF entering the UK. The industry focused on biosecurity to prevent the spread of ASF, although the UK managed to avoid a significant outbreak.
• The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the UK pork industry.
• Lockdowns and supply chain disruptions led to processing delays, causing backlogs on farms.
• Labour shortages affected both farm operations and meat processing plants, which rely on skilled workers.

1900s

• Most pig farming was done on small, family-run farms.
• Pigs were raised alongside other animals like cows and chickens.
• Farmers used 'backyard farming' methods, letting pigs roam freely or feeding them kitchen scraps.
• Traditional pig breeds such as the Gloucestershire Old Spots and British Saddleback were popular, known for their hardiness.
• Production was small-scale, primarily aimed at local markets.

2007 - 2009

• The UK pork industry faced a major challenge with an outbreak of foot and mouth disease.
• This outbreak affected many farmers and led to strict regulations and safety measures.

Late 20th Century

• Consumer preferences shifted toward leaner meat and improved animal welfare.
• The UK led welfare improvements, banning sow stalls in 1999, providing pregnant pigs more space to move.
• Demand grew for outdoor-reared pork, leading some farmers to adopt free-range systems and reintroduce traditional breeds.

Post-World War II (1940s–1950s)

• Following the war, the need for food grew, prompting a shift in farming methods.
• Intensive farming systems were introduced to increase pork production and feed the population.
• Farmers began housing pigs indoors, giving them control over the pigs' diet, health, and breeding.
• The introduction of indoor, intensive pig farming led to increased productivity.