What type of swine operation focuses on purchasing weanling pigs and feeding them to slaughter weight?

The focus of a swine operation that purchases weanling pigs and feeds them until they reach slaughter weight is known as a finishing operation. In this context, "finishing" refers specifically to the final stage of the production process where pigs are raised until they grow to a desirable weight for market consumption, which typically occurs between six to eight months of age, depending on the operation's standards and goals.

During this phase, the animals are provided with a specially formulated diet designed to promote optimal growth and health, ensuring that they reach market weight efficiently. This operation type is essential in the swine industry because it bridges the gap between breeding/growing phases and the market by converting weanling pigs into saleable pork products. In contrast, breeding, gestation, and nursing operations focus on different stages of pig production, such as breeding sows, managing pregnant sows, and caring for young piglets, respectively.