EN 
PT_BR 
Pig farming in Goiás has taken another important step towards professionalization and strengthening the production chain. This November, the Goiás Pig Farmers Association (AGS) began a new training cycle aimed at slaughterhouse employees, focusing on quality, efficiency, and animal welfare.
Approximately 80 professionals from the Caçula and Sol Nascente meat processing plants, located in Aparecida de Goiânia and Goiânia, respectively, participated in the training, which is part of the actions of the National Fund for the Development of Swine Production (FNDS).
According to Crenilda Neves, executive secretary of AGS, the objective is to promote the continuous improvement of processes within the industries. “The new AGS training program for meat processing plants aims to identify areas for improvement and, thus, suggest solutions for enhancing pig handling. Our focus is on raising product quality and optimizing costs,” she explained.
During the meetings, key topics for the successful performance of operations were addressed, such as animal welfare, pig unloading management, resting areas, as well as pre-slaughter and slaughter handling practices.
The training was conducted by veterinarian and technical director of the Brazilian Association of Swine Breeders (ABCS), Charli Ludkte, who reinforced the importance of technical training and raising awareness among professionals about the responsibility involved in each stage of the process. “This training is fundamental to ensuring that slaughterhouses adopt best practices, both from a technical and ethical standpoint. Modern swine farming needs to be aligned with consumer demands and animal welfare standards,” Charli emphasized.
According to Crenilda, the project also prepares the sector for a new initiative to promote pork in the state. “This training will support the next campaign we will launch in Goiás, 'Pork, good price, good plate', in the coming weeks. We are finalizing the training in the meat processing plants and then we will begin working with butcher shops and supermarkets,” she added.
AGS is already negotiating with other meat processing plants in the state to expand the reach of the training program. The goal is to consolidate a network of industries aligned with sustainable practices and the quality standards demanded by the market.
With this initiative, Goiás reinforces its leading role in the production and processing of pork, focusing on technical training, animal welfare, and sustainability as pillars of competitiveness and added value for the activity.
