Our breeding program follows a clear blueprint for turning breeding goals into measurable genetic progress in pigs. It is built to optimize Delta G over time and to ensure that progress is not only achieved at nucleus level but consistently realized across generations and production environments of our customers.
Accelerating Genetic Progress
It connects data, technology, infrastructure, and breeding decisions in one integrated system. Large-scale phenotyping, advanced analytics, and global data flows work together to generate accurate breeding values and support precise, responsible selection.
Since the merger of Topigs and Norsvin in 2014, we have invested heavily in breeding infrastructure, research, and innovation with one clear goal: accelerating genetic progress in pigs to meet today’s and future demands in the pork value chain. These investments have strengthened the tools, models, and operational framework needed to increase the rate of progress while maintaining control, consistency, and long-term direction.
What matters is the outcome in practice. Every part of the program is designed to contribute to results that create value across the chain: improved efficiency and reduced environmental footprint, greater robustness and animal welfare, higher carcass value, and more predictable production performance.
The result is a breeding program where genetic progress is accelerated, controlled, and scalable across global production systems. It turns genetic potential into realized performance.
This is how we deliver on our promise: Progress in Pigs, Every Day.
Genetic progress has doubled
The rate of genetic progress has more than doubled over the past 10 years. Key drivers behind this development include continuous upgrades in breeding infrastructure, the adoption of advanced selection technologies, and major investments in Delta Norway, Delta Canada, and Innova Canada.
Designed for the long run
The blueprint has been developed over more than three decades and continuously refined to increase both the rate and reliability of genetic progress.
Today, it combines breeding populations, genomics, large-scale phenotyping, commercial validation, and specialized facilities in one unified approach — helping ensure that genetic improvement is both scientifically robust and consistently realized in practice.
Pioneering in CT-scanning
Topigs Norsvin pioneered the use of CT scanning in pig breeding to improve carcass value. Today, around 10,000 test boars are CT-scanned annually.
Machine learning models are used to automatically analyze images and predict highly precise phenotypes related to carcass composition and health traits. In addition, new traits linked to anatomy and robustness are continuously developed, supporting more sustainable and balanced breeding goals.
Delta Test Stations and Breeding Infrastructure
Accurate, large-scale, and standardized measurement is a critical component of the blueprint.
Our Delta facilities and nucleus herds provide the high-quality data foundation required for precise genetic evaluation, including:
- Individual performance testing
- Standardized measurements at testing facilities
- High-health boar production
Combined Crossbred and Purebred Selection (CCPS) extends this system by linking nucleus selection directly to crossbred performance under commercial conditions.
This ensures that genetic progress is not only measured precisely but also validated where it matters most.
Precision Phenotyping
The blueprint relies on objective, high-resolution phenotyping to capture traits that are difficult or impossible to assess at scale in commercial settings.
By combining advanced measurement technologies with standardized data collection, biological complexity is translated into actionable data for selection.
This includes:
- CT scanning for carcass composition and osteochondrosis
- Computer Assisted Semen Analyses
- Meat quality traits (IMF, pH, color, water-holding capacity)
- Structural scoring
- Feed intake and efficiency by sensor technology and Near-Infrared Spectrometry.
- Health, survival, and robustness indicators
These technologies enable balanced progress across performance, robustness, and product quality.
Advanced Genomics
Within the blueprint, genomics plays a central role in improving the accuracy and consistency of selection decisions.
Modern pig breeding requires simultaneous improvement across complex traits such as reproduction, health, feed efficiency, and meat quality; many of which are difficult or expensive to measure directly.
Our genomic platform enables:
- More accurate breeding value estimation across populations
- DNA-based pedigree verification and correction
- Selection for complex and low-heritability traits
- Identification of DNA variants linked to (un)desirable conditions
By strengthening data quality and improving the precision of genetic evaluation, genomics enables a more complete understanding of each animal’s genetic potential.
The result is faster, more reliable genetic progress in pigs, consistently translated into commercial performance.
Pigbase and Data Quality
At the core of the Topigs Norsvin breeding program is Pigbase — one of the largest and most comprehensive databases for pig breeding in the world.
Pigbase integrates data from across the entire breeding and production chain from over 50 countries. In addition to phenotypic data from nucleus herds, it includes large-scale commercial data from InGene and CCPS, as well as information from CT scanning, AI stations, packers, and research programs. This combination of controlled and real-world data makes it a unique foundation for accurate breeding value estimation and continuous genetic improvement as well as in developing feeding guidelines and management advice for our genetic solutions.
The rapid expansion of genomic technologies has further increased both the volume and value of data available. DNA information is now fully integrated into genetic evaluation, strengthening the accuracy of selection decisions across populations and traits.
On its own though, size is not enough. Data quality is essential for reliable genetic progress in pigs. Pigbase combines information from standardized protocols, trained specialists, and automated validation systems to ensure data integrity. Built-in algorithms continuously monitor incoming data, identify inconsistencies, and support corrective action where needed.