The role of extensive and semi-extensive production systems in preserving local pig breeds in Republic of Serbia

In recent years, traditional pig breeds have regained popularity in Serbia. Native breeds are once again common in rural households, enhancing the country’s biodiversity. Their revival has given rise to diverse production systems and feeding practices, ranging from fully intensive methods with commercial feed mixtures to entirely extensive systems where pigs rely solely on natural forage. The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in these systems and to assess the role of extensive and semi-extensive production in conserving local pig breeds (Mangalitsa, Moravka, and Resavka). We divided the production systems into four categories: semi-intensive systems based on commercial feed mixtures, semi-intensive systems relying on cereals, vegetables, and fruits, extensive systems where cereals, vegetables, and fruits are used as supplements, and fully extensive systems. The analysis focused on the main benefits and drawbacks of each approach, with special attention to economic aspects. Findings showed considerable differences in animal size, investment needs, and economic performance. Interestingly, farms with fully intensive systems required the lowest investments, since they often repurposed, old concrete facilities previously used for commercial breeds. In contrast, fully extensive farms faced the highest costs, largely due to land expenses. A clear link was observed between feed type and animal size: pigs fed commercial mixtures were nearly twice as large and heavy as those raised in extensive systems. Feed costs strongly influenced farmers’ choices of cereals, vegetables, and fruits in the pigs’ diets. In semi-extensive systems, animal health and welfare were notably poorer compared to fully extensive approaches. Beyond these welfare concerns, it remains unclear how different production systems influence the quality of products derived from these breeds. Moreover, it will be valuable to study how each breed adapts to the different systems, and how production methods affect the market value of the final products.