Pig keeping - Cattle farming logo in preparation - Critique of implementation
The Brandenburg Farmers' Association criticizes the preparations on a state level for the introduction of a new nationwide livestock farming logo. By August 1st, pig farming operations must report which type of farming system they have in their stalls. However, there are delays in implementation among the states. The Farmers' Association lamented that this is "an excellent example of administrative actionism at the last minute, which comes at the expense of pig farmers and pig farmers."
In Brandenburg, pig farming is declining and has reached a record low. According to the Statistical Office, there were 517,200 pigs on the inventory date of May 3rd - the lowest number since 1990.
Pig farmers were informed on July 18, 2024, that they should report their farming system to the Ministry of Health, Social Affairs and Consumer Protection. This responsibility was then to be transferred to the State Labor, Consumer Protection and Health Office (LVAG). "A regulation is in the works that will also name the ultimately responsible authority for the enforcement of the Livestock Identification Law," a spokesperson for the Ministry said in response to an inquiry.
Time is tight for pig farmers, according to the Farmers' Association. Pig farming operations have too little time to go through the individual criteria of each farming system and collect the necessary information and documents. "Given that a year's preparation time was set aside for the implementation of the Livestock Identification Law, this incomplete administrative action is a burden for pig farmers and takes the de-bureaucratization efforts to absurd levels."
Just before the deadline, it was still unclear in many federal states which authority the reports should be submitted to. The Federal Agriculture Ministry had stated earlier that they assumed the states would fulfill their obligations and implement the law on time. The deadline ends almost twelve months after the effective date. No additional buffer time was planned.
Meat labeling sees five categories
The government coalition's August 2023 decision stipulates that as of August 2025, a labeling system for domestic products will be mandatory. It will start with pork meat in supermarkets. A system with five categories is planned, if pigs are raised for fattening.
It starts with the "Stall" farming system with the statutory minimum requirements. The "Stall+Platz" level provides 12.5% more space. "Fresh Air Stall" allows contact with outdoor climate. In addition, there are the levels "Outdoor Run/Pasture" and "Bio".
The Brandenburg Farmers' Association opposes livestock labeling. It reflects the high standards of animal husbandry in Germany and accelerates the development of animal welfare for consumers near the source.
At the same time, investments in stable renovations are likely to be rather small. "The investment readiness of pig farmers in Brandenburg, as well as in most other federal states, is extremely low," the Association said. Some pig farmers are giving up pig farming.
- The Brandenburg Farmers' Association voiced their concerns about the implementation of the new livestock farming logo at a state level, arguing that it adds unnecessary burden to pig farmers.2.amidst the declining pig farming industry in Brandenburg, the Farmers' Association criticized the last-minute preparations for the Livestock Identification Law, which requires pig farmers to report their farming systems by August 1st.
- In response to the new labeling system for domestic products, set to commence with pork meat in August 2025, the Brandenburg Farmers' Association expressed opposition, citing the minimal investment readiness of pig farmers in the region.
