PORK LABELLING

Confused by the different labelling on your pig products?  Well, thanks to PORKPROVENANCE.CO.UK here’s what it all means.  And remember, all Ranger Pigs are all happily free range pigs.

Free range

These pigs are born outside, in fields and they remain outside until they are sent for slaughter. They are provided with food, water and shelter and are free to roam within defined boundaries.

Free range pigs have very generous minimum space allowances, which are worked out according to the soil conditions and rotation practices of the farm. Breeding sows are also kept outside, in fields for their productive life.

Outdoor bred

These pigs are born outside, in fields where they are kept until they are weaned. Breeding sows are kept in fields for their productive lives.  Where soil types and climate might be problematic, pregnant sows can be housed for a defined and limited period in groups on deep straw bedding. They are provided with food, water and shelter with generous minimum space allowances.

Outdoor reared

These pigs are born outside in fields, where they are kept for about half their lives. Breeding sows are kept outside in fields for their productive lives. They are provided with food, water and shelter and generous minimum space allowances.

And be sure to check out this great article on the BBC website, written by Vanessa Barford and published 18th October 2012: “The bewildering labelling of pork”