A healthy chain with due consideration for animals, farmers and consumers?
We are proof that it’s possible
We believe in a healthy chain. In that context, we always consider 3 aspects: the health of the animals, future prospects for the farmer, and delicious, healthy pork for consumers. Read more about exactly what that means and why farmers are eager to join.
Transparent origins
100% Dutch and 100% trusted
We are a 100% Dutch chain. By now, about 250 family farms all across the country are participating in our initiative. We visit all these farms every year to check their compliance with our strict criteria.
Full focus on the animal
Perfectly healthy pigs
We set high standards for the health of these pigs. For example, we have strict criteria for antibiotics use and focus extra attention on caring for sows and piglets. The pig farmers also receive support from the farm coaches in their efforts. The chain has three veterinarians on staff to assist the farmers.
Healthy, sustainable and responsibly raised meat
Minimal CO2 footprint
For the past 25 years, since the early days of our chain, we have been compiling data on the impact of our pork. In 2022, we commissioned the renowned and independent market research bureau Blonk Consultants to confirm our figures. The conclusion is clear: KDV pork has a favourable CO2 footprint, especially compared to alternatives. And there are great opportunities for improvement in the future, too. Our pork will become one of the most sustainable sources of protein.
Full focus on the animal
Reliable quality
Thanks to our strict criteria and large size, representing over 250 Dutch farmers, we are able to deliver consistently high quality in various labels. This makes us agile in how we serve our sales markets. We supply Better Life One Star to various supermarket chains, Patron to a select range of quality butchers, and hams with our Antibiotic-free Life Guarantee head off to Italy.
Farmers in the know opt for KDV
Smart Farming offers the best insights
Always informed
KDV farmers who join our Smart Farming initiatives receive the best information about their own company, and have the option to compare their own performance to other participating farms. Our dedicated apps give farmers real-time insight into key indicators, ensuring they are always informed about their performance.
Making the chain stronger together
Support right down to the sties
The KDV farmers are not on their own. Through the chain, we support participating farms by providing materials and coaching. Our farm coaches often know the pig farmer personally and are aware of the main challenges they’re facing. This first-hand knowledge helps them advise farmers on what works well in actual practice, and what has been less successful. As a KDV pig farmer, you don’t have to keep reinventing the wheel. Instead, you can tap into the collective knowledge shared in the chain.
Daily manure removal and monofermenting
Sty of the future
New rules and regulations keep being introduced that Dutch pig farmers are required to comply with. Over the next few years, more new rules can be expected. In the chain, we have conducted extensive research on integrated solutions – a single solution that addresses all the challenges. We believe in dealing with the situation at the source, through daily manure removal combined with monofermentation. For that reason, we have spent the past five years investing heavily in developing these ideas and techniques into practical solutions. If you would like to know more about the options for daily manure removal and monofermentation, please contact De Hoeve.
Innovation is a joint effort
The Westfort York
We want to help our pig farmers make better choices. We support them by conducting data-based research and analysis, and expressing the findings in practice. These efforts led to the introduction of our own line of boars: the Westfort York. Their genetics have been specially selected to promote healthy growth and delicious meat. If you would like to know more about the Westfort York, please contact one of the farm coaches.