PORKONOMICS: THE TRANSFORMATION FROM FORAGING OMNIVORES TO INDUSTRIAL PORK PRODUCERS

Аннотация

This paper traces the historical evolution of pigs in China, from their status as curious omnivores in ancient times to their pivotal role in modern industrial pork production. Pigs have played a significant cultural, economic, and agricultural role in Chinese society for millennia, serving as a source of food, income, and symbolic value. Over the centuries, pigs have been selectively bred, domesticated, and integrated into various agricultural systems, reflecting changes in dietary preferences, farming practices, and socio-economic dynamics. The transition from traditional small- scale pig farming to modern industrial pork production has been accompanied by technological advancements, urbanization, and shifts in consumer demand. This evolution has presented both opportunities and challenges, including concerns related to animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and food safety. By examining the historical trajectory of pigs in China, this paper sheds light on the complex interplay between culture, agriculture, and economic development, and underscores the importance of sustainable and ethical approaches to pork production in the contemporary era. KEYWORDS Pigs, China, evolution, omnivores, industrial pork production, agriculture, cultural significance, animal welfare, food safety, sustainability.