Objectives:
WP1 Phenotypic and genetic characterization of regional autochtonous pig populations in Europe
Lead by: Luca Fontanesi (UNIBO), Deputy: Cristina Ovilo (INIA)
- Describe the singularity of local pig breeds at phenotypic, genomic and functional level
- Evaluate the adaptation of local pig populations to agro-climatic conditions
- Develop new methodologies for the management of the local pig populations
- Develop DNA based tools for animal and meat traceability and authentication
WP2 Management and perfomance of local pig breeds in their production systems
Lead by: Marjeta Čandek-Potokar (KIS), Deputy: Rosa Nieto (CSIC)
- Evaluate productivity of different local pig breeds held in production systems with varying intensity and agro-climatic conditions
- Assess environmental sustainability of production systems of local pig breeds and impact of feeding strategies, resources and management considering animal welfare,environmental impact and economic benefits
- Determine nutritional requirements of local pig breeds to optimize the efficiency and reduce environmental impact
- Study innovative feeding and management practices in view of productivity and product quality
- Evaluate locally available feeding resources and agro-by-products in view of productivity and product quality
- Characterise gut microbiota composition in relation to feeding and management (pilot study)
WP3 Traditional and new high quality pork products with regional identity
Lead by: Bénédicte Lebret (INRA), Deputy: Carolina Pugliese (UNIFI)
- Characterize intrinsic quality, health benefits of a variety of pork products from diverse European local pig breed production systems
- To introduce innovations in traditional pork products with the aim to develop new or re- discover products of high intrinsic quality and health benefits and expand market share
- Identify links between product (typical) quality with local pig breed, feeding resources, management, processing techniques, “know- how” and cultural heritage
- Evaluate consumer acceptability of high quality and innovative traditional pork products from untapped local pig breeds in different market areas
- Implement database on carcass and meat quality traits to sustain further development of breeding programs in local breeds
WP4 Consumer preferences and market research for sustainable pork chains
Lead by: José M. Gil (CREDA), Deputy: Maria Angels Oliver (IRTA)
- Analyse costs and benefits (private and public) of production systems along the food chain based on local and untapped pig breeds.
- Evaluate consumer attitudes and preferences, motives, willingness to pay for pork products from local pig breeds
- Evaluate marketing strategies (short chains and/or direct sale channels) for stimulating the sales of local pork products
WP5 Measures to maximise impact
Lead by (from May 1, 2017): Christoph Zimmer and Astrid Heid (BESH)
- Transfer of knowledge and expertise along the chain partners, general public and policy makers
- Development of new collective trade mark
- Creation of platform for functional network within/between regions, sectors
- Communication with various public