Valorisation of Culled Iberian Sows Through the Montanera System: Immunocastration, Welfare and Sustainable Production

Despite their substantial contributions to herd productivity, culled sows typically receive minimal economic valorisation. This study evaluated the feasibility of finishing culled Iberian sows under free-range conditions (<i>montanera</i> finishing system) and assessed the effects of immunocastration on productivity, welfare, and meat quality. Thirty-six culled Iberian sows were assigned to two treatments: entire sows (<i>n</i> = 18) and immunocastrated sows (<i>n</i> = 18). Following a maintenance phase and a pre-finishing transition, animals were finished under <i>montanera</i> conditions with ad libitum access to acorns and pasture. Productive traits, welfare indicators, carcass traits, and meat quality parameters were evaluated. Immunocastration effectively suppressed reproductive function without compromising productive traits or meat quality in culled Iberian sows. Both groups exhibited comparable body weight evolution, carcass characteristics, and meat quality attributes consistent with Iberian standards. The results indicate a clear potential for value generation, transforming animals from minimal-value culling categories to premium <i>montanera</i> products. This integrated approach combining immunocastration with traditional extensive finishing systems provides a viable way to add value to culled sow valorisation within circular economy frameworks, addressing economic, environmental, and welfare challenges of sustainable livestock production.