Hankkija at Sikaseminaari 2025: Strengthening swine biosecurity and feed safety

On September 26–27, 2025, the Finnish pig industry gathered in Ikaalinen for the annual Sikaseminaari, organized by Suomen Sikayrittäjät ry – the national association representing Finnish pig producers. The organization promotes the welfare, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness of Finnish pig farming. It also serves as a vital link between producers, researchers, and authorities. Hankkija actively participated in the two-day event. The team contributed to discussions on biosecurity, African Swine Fever prevention, and feed safety in swine production.

Addressing the threat of African Swine Fever (ASF)

One of the key topics during the morning session was African Swine Fever (ASF), addressed by Susanna Pesonen from the Finnish Food Authority. Although no cases of ASF have been detected in Finland’s wild boar population to date, the situation requires constant monitoring.

Suomen Sikayrittäjät and the Finnish Food Authority are collaborating to raise awareness about the risks associated with importing wild boar products from abroad. Regular analyses of Finnish wild boar samples are conducted to ensure that the ASF virus has not entered the country.

The “Vuoden Sikateko” (Pig Act of the Year) award was presented to the ASF-team of the Finnish Food Authority. The recognition highlights their important preventive work in protecting Finland’s pig production.

Hankkija’s presentation on mycotoxin control in pig feed

In the afternoon session, Hankkija presented on the most common mycotoxins affecting swine production in Northern Europe. The presentation explored mycotoxin toxicity mechanisms and the preventive measures Hankkija applies to ensure Finnish pig farmers receive feed with minimal mycotoxin levels.

The team also discussed feed additives and ingredients that can reduce the negative impacts of mycotoxins in animals, supporting performance and resilience under practical farm conditions.

Collaboration and community in focus

Overall, the seminar provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across the pig farming community. Ensuring biosecurity requires coordinated efforts at multiple levels, and events like Sikaseminaari strengthen the industry’s preparedness.

By hosting the annual seminar, Suomen Sikayrittäjät ry continues to play a key role in connecting producers, researchers, authorities, and service providers, helping to advance the Finnish pig sector through dialogue, training, and advocacy.

The event concluded with a warm evening dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of Suomen Sikayrittäjät ry, offering participants a chance to connect and celebrate shared progress

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