Plan to reinstate upper weight limit for boars postponed

The planned reinstatement of the deadweight upper limit for boars has been postponed, as some pig producers continue to experience backlogs on farms.

The deadweight upper limit of 105kg under the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) Quality Pork Charter scheme was removed during the height of the pig processing backlog as producers were unable to move animals off farm and weights soared.

It was due to be reintroduced, though at a higher limit of 110kg, but following discussions between the National Pig Association (NPA), the BMPA and processors, the derogation has been extended for at least a few more months.

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This decision was in response to concerns that some producers are still having issues with pig weights, as the average deadweight from the standard pig price sample remains above 90kg.

BMPA technical operations director David Lindars said: “The processors were happy to extend the derogation for a few more months to help farmers, especially given that some are still having issues with backlogs. At the end of the day, we will always try and help people when they need it.”

NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson welcomed the move, which she said would give some producers breathing space and prevent unfair penalties being applied.