The ecological livestock seeks the conjunction of animal welfare, the environment and a natural mode of production free of artificial chemicals or GMOs.
Organic animal husbandry is based on the strong bond that must exist between animals and the physical environment. This link with the earth requires that animals have access to outdoor areas and that food is organic, preferably produced on the farm itself. It is also governed by strict provisions regarding animal welfare and veterinary care.
What principles does organic livestock farming require?
· The main requirement to develop organic livestock farming is comply with the principle of complementarity between soil and animals, so production in closed stables is excluded. The fact that production is linked to the soil also implies that the animals have outdoor space and that the animal density per hectare is limited.
· Animals raised On the farm they must be raised in compliance with organic production standards.
· Breeds that best adapt to the environment should be selected. and that present greater resistance to diseases.
· As to their feeding, must be made with organic products, preferably produced on the farm itself.
· Veterinary care must prioritize prevention and if treatments are required, preference should be given to natural treatments over antibiotic treatments.
· it is prohibited the use of substances intended to stimulate growth and control reproduction.
· Some practices like cutting tails, trimming teeth and beak or dehorning They will be used only for safety, hygiene and health reasons. Keeping animals tied is prohibited and very precise rules are established on the characteristics that breeding facilities must have. Transportation must be carried out respecting animal welfare, so that stress is minimal.
In Luis Gil Our organic farming is made up of a farm of Duroc pigs, capable of adapting to our environment perfectly. They are fed by holm oak acorns and organic cereal made in-house. With this, we manage to create a range of high-quality organic products with a unique flavor.
Fuente: Government of La Rioja