FAQ's
Your most frequent questions about pork answered.
Q. Are antibiotics or growth hormones used in New Zealand pork production?
A. Although the growth hormone porcine somatotroprin (pST) is registered in New Zealand, it is not available for purchase. Pork producers additionally complete an animal status declaration in which they state they are not using (pST). Antibiotics are used only when necessary for the health and welfare of the animal. Some antibiotics have a growth promotion effect as they allow the pig to absorb more from their feed. All registered treatments for pigs have a withholding period to ensure no residues are present.
Q. Is New Zealand pork genetically modified?
A. No, New Zealand pork has not been genetically modified.
Q. What are sow stalls and why are they used?
A. A sow stall is a stall in an insulated and climate controlled building where, during pregnancy, sows are housed individually. This is primarily for their protection from aggression and bullying from other sows and to enhance their nutrition, health, and productivity. In New Zealand a range of different systems are used for housing sows during pregnancy. These include sow stalls, indoor pens, housing outdoors or a combination of systems. The chosen system is dependent on a number of factors such as climate, soil type, rainfall, and population density.