Research

Research

ORCA conducts research in order to assess and evaluate current situation in various areas of animal welfare and to identify possible ways of improvement.

Research on the state of animal welfare

National research on the state of animal welfare on farms in Serbia was conducted by using protocols especially designed for the purpose of this research. Trained researchers have visited 105 dairy, pig, sheep and broiler farms in total, and have collected data using welfare outcome indicators, resource and management based measures. Research was conducted by ORCA in collaboration with the experts from the University of Bristol (UK) (2011- 2012).

Research on consumers’ attitudes

Research on consumers’ attitudes about the farm animal welfare impact on food safety and quality was conducted in order to determine whether the consumers think about animal welfare when buying food products and in what way. It was a qualitative research of consumers’ attitudes implemented using focus group discussions and conjoint analysis questionnaires that have enabled identification of possible target groups of the consumers in Serbia. The research had included also a price sensitivity analysis, as well as the enquiry into readiness and motives for buying food produced in line with standards that ensure better farm animal welfare. Research was conducted by the researchers from the Faculty of economics at the University of Belgrade (2014).

Research on farmers’ attitudes

Research on farmers’ attitudes was conducted in order to determine whether farmers are aware of the importance of the animal welfare for animal productivity and product quality. Aim of the research was also to determine the farmers’ level of knowledge about the animal welfare standards and their readiness to be actively involved in the process of implementing these standards in livestock production practices. Research was conducted by the consultancy company SEEDEV (2013-2014).

Economic analysis of the implementation of ORCA farm animal welfare standards

Economic analysis of the implementation of ORCA farm animal welfare standards represents the research of the economic factors that influence the production and market placement of animal based food products in accordance to the ORCA welfare standards that are higher than minimal welfare standards imposed by legislation. The aim of this research was to determine whether there are economically viable possibilities for introducing the concept of higher welfare standards in livestock production practices in Serbia and what are the farmers’ attitudes about implementing standards on their farms. Research was conducted by the consultancy company SEEDEV (2013-2014).