One taste changed everything
AN ambitious initiative to grow the Welsh pig sector by 10% was launched at last weekend’s Royal Welsh Spring Festival.
Menter Moch Cymru (MMC) aims to develop local markets, build new product ranges and actively encourage younger farmers to set up pig units.
Four regional producer groups are being established across Wales that will reassess production methods, examine potential efficiencies and explore marketing avenues.
A programme of free training sessions has been developed to upskill both existing pig keepers and those considering entering the sector.
The first such event was held at the Spring Festival in Builth Wells, with practical demonstrations organised by MMC, Farming Connect, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society and Hybu Cig Cymru.
Demonstrating the quality and versatility of Welsh Pork at the project’s launch was Welsh chef Bryn Williams.
He said: “I always try to use as many Welsh and local ingredients as possible, and Welsh pork is such a fantastic meat.
“It is packed with flavour, it is incredibly versatile and easy to cook with, and it is fully traceable – you know you’re getting the best.”
The Welsh pork sector is still relatively small, at around 25,000 pigs, with the country’s annual pig meat production amounting to a mere 3,200 tonnes.
But with Brexit offering potential to increase domestic pork production, the RDPbacked MMC project aims to boost producer margins and build a more robust sector.
To encourage new pig producers into the industry, a competition will be launched with Wales YFC, giving its members the chance to compete for weaners, which they can grow on to finished pigs.
The prize will also include entry to a carcass competition later in the year.
MMC manager Melanie Cargill said raising consumer awareness was key to the campaign’s success.
A new range of marketing materials has been produced in partnership with red meat body Hybu Cig Cymru.
“These free recipe cards and posters have been designed to help both producers and retailers,” said Melanie.
“There is real optimism and confidence in the pig sector, and we are keen to capitalise on this enthusiasm to deliver real change.”
Initially the project will run only until March 2018, with the possibility of an extension.