Wasn't there also an outbreak in 2007 ?
So other than buying in expencive bagged pig feed containing soya, that is bound to go up in price, I'm stuffed.
Yup, pretty much
Unless you're licenced to mix feeds you can't even mix your own (even if you did know the mix and trace elements needed)
It does sometimes feel like 'they' are doing everything in their power to put British pig keepers out of business
Especially when you hear that 60% of pork eaten in UK is imported and a lot of it would be 'illegal'
had it been produced in the UK - it's cheaper than our higher welfare stuff though and that's what drives the import market (sorry - got sidetracked with my rant
)
Don't dispair thouugh CF
There is a breed which will reliably graze without rooting (
too much), needs only 1lb of hard feed per pig per day and will be ready by around 10 months - Kune Kunes
Lots of folks don't consider them
But the pork is fantastic and they're a joy to keep and do far less damage to your fields than other breeds. Not everybodies first choice, but for a low cost, slow grow, pleasureable little pig you can't beat 'em (IMHO)
Karen