Podcast: Ladies in Pigs, and outdoor sows

20-09-2022 | |
Podcast: Ladies in Pigs, and outdoor sows

In this 70th episode of the Real P3 podcast, Dr Casey Bradley speaks to mother-and-daughter team, Susannah and Molly Gimson from the UK, who raise their sows out on pasture and sell their pigs to British Quality Pork.

The Gimson pair farm 1,100 outdoor sows in Suffolk, England, proudly under Red Tractor and Freedom Foods, ensuring the pigs are bred to the highest standard and the staff are well trained.

Ladies in Pigs programme

The Ladies in Pigs organisation has been going for over 30 years, originally launched by farmers’ wives to promote British pork at supermarkets, shows – anywhere they could. The organisation has grown steadily over the years, and Susannah and Molly share that the Ladies in Pigs is visiting schools now, and has even produced a recipe cookbook, promoting local pork and educating the public on the quality and importance of supporting local producers.

Labour, Brexit, and other cost challenges

“Pig farming is not for everyone,” says Susannah, adding that it is important to love what you do. They share the importance of connections to find staff. They discuss various challenges relating to staff, trade with Germany, Brexit, and the rising costs.

Finally, the pair share their advice to women thinking about wanting to be in swine production, and those who may want their own production operation.

 

Kinsley
Natalie Kinsley Freelance journalist