Pig farming does not affect health

Pig farming has no negative impact on the living environment of local residents. This is apparent from the report 'Livestock farming and the health of local residents (additional studies)'. To be completely sure of the matter, the Products Organization for Pig Farming (POV) will conduct additional investigations.

The updated report forms the burden of proof for the POV to continue to oppose the Livestock Dense Areas Act. State Secretary Martijn van Dam wants to introduce this law in order to be able to manage animal numbers.

Send by animal numbers
"The Livestock Dense Areas Act was initially based on the relationship between livestock farms and public health. However, the first Livestock and Health of Local Residents (VGO) study already failed to demonstrate that pig farms are harmful to the health of local residents. VGO research again does not demonstrate that relationship," said POV chairman Ingrid Jansen and vice chairman Eric Douma.

Because it has become apparent that the health risks of residents living in the vicinity of livestock farms cannot be demonstrated, the emphasis of the Livestock Dense Areas Act has shifted from health to 'quality of the living environment'. According to Jansen and Douma, this is a signal that the government wants to move towards fewer livestock and fewer livestock locations. No report has yet been able to confirm the gut feelings. RIVM has also indicated that more research is needed.

Additional research
The POV has announced that it will not wait for the results of a new RIVM report. The POV does say that it takes citizens' concerns seriously. That is why the producer organization itself will conduct an independent study into the relationship between pig farming and public health. 

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is editor-in-chief of Boerenbusiness. He also focuses on dairy, pig and meat markets. He also follows (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

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