Great pork, good profits - thanks to top genetics

Growing demand for lean pork and a more muscled carcass, plus the need to run an efficient, productive operation, have put ever-greater pressure on pig farmers. Superior genetics remain the surest route to success. Lindi Botha reports on how the Benson piggery in KwaZulu-Natal has progressed in this respect.

- Lindi Botha

FAST FACTS

Good genetics can mean the difference between success or failure on a modern pig farm.

Superior genetics can increase ham and shoulder size.

Taking the sentiment out of farming, such as reviewing supplier lists, is better for a business, says Philip Benson of the Benson Group.

Rising input costs and stagnant farm gate prices forced Philip Benson, co-owner of the Benson Group in Karkloof, KwaZulu-Natal, to take a hard look at the family business and assess its viability.

A second-generation farmer, Benson took over the running of the piggery started by his father, Mike, who established a renowned stud farm, Hogan Stud, supplying high-quality genetics to both his own and other piggeries.

"My father was instrumental in bringing new genetics into the country, and was the first to bring Durocs into South Africa. But as a breeding company, we were small compared with internationally based genetic companies.

"In time, we realised that we couldn't compete, particularly in terms of the amount of money they spent on constantly improving their genetics," recalls Benson.

It was at this point, four years ago, that Benson realised they would have to set aside sentiment if the business were to move forward.

"I realised we just wouldn't reach the genetic potential [we were aiming for] unless we used one of the bigger genetic suppliers. It was a sobering moment for us. But the pig industry is challenging, and if you're not farming top genetics, you just won't make it."

The Benson Group began bringing in genetics from breeding company PIC, whose slogan is 'Never stop improving'.