Abstract

NUNES, J. T.. Livestock production in the “montado”: pigs. Rev. de Ciências Agrárias [online]. 2007, vol.30, n.1, pp.251-259. ISSN 0871-018X.

Livestock production in Alentejo has been very important considering both farm and general economy. It is based on natural feedstuffs resources (pastures, acorns etc.) and local breeds. In Portugal, during the first half of last century Alentejano pig breed represented almost 50% of total pigs raised in the country. Intensification on agricultural systems and on livestock management contributed to a strong decrease on extensive system pig herds and in 1986 the amount of autochthonous pigs in Portugal represented about 2%. Local breeds of pigs, sheep, goats or even cattle recently got a new opportunity. Considering high grade products they can apply for an add value, by valorisation of the originality linked to the traditional production system, under oaks or chestnuts canopy. PAC evolution and a progressive environmental concern also helped to restart, on a sustainable way, the finishing animal grazing in open spaces, pigs fattened under acorns (montanheira) or chestnuts. That means the fattening of hogs aged 14 to 18 months grazing under oaks, during autumn and winter. This late fattening, performed on a diet rich in starch, produces heavy carcasses, from 120 kg to 140 kg, with high percentage of fat and an important intermuscular infiltration of fat. To recommend a proper livestock management to optimise the carcass and meat characteristics, in farming systems using natural resources it’s necessary to know, objectively, the natural feedstuffs resources, the particular physiology of local breeds, physical and chemical characteristics and sensorial request of traditional products, as well as fresh meat parameters.

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