Stjörnugrís says farm intrusions harmed pigs

Icelandic pig producer Stjörnugrís says two break-ins at its farm caused serious harm to animals, according to a statement reported by mbl.is.

The statement followed the publication of footage by Einar Logi Pétursson from the company’s pig farm at Brimnes on Kjalarnes. The footage showed pigs with pressure sores and dead piglets.

Stjörnugrís said Einar Logi entered its sow farm without permission on May 11 and again on September 2. The company said the first break-in caused panic among the animals, with piglets trampled, injured or killed. It also said the disturbance was followed by miscarriages and piglets being born dead or weak.

The company said the animals needed extra care and time to recover. It also said it suspected the second break-in took place because the first had not produced the footage Einar Logi wanted.

Stjörnugrís described the alleged break-ins as animal cruelty and said it would report the matter to police and submit evidence to the relevant authorities. It said the incidents should be fully investigated.

The company said it welcomed an investigation by the Food and Veterinary Authority and discussion of animal welfare. It also said a veterinary service provider visits the farm every two weeks and that the authority inspected it on October 15.