Yes, pigs, being mammals, do produce milk to nourish their offspring. This milk is specifically formulated by the sow’s body to meet the rapid growth and nutritional needs of her piglets. While pigs produce milk, it is not a common part of the human diet.
How Pigs Produce Milk
Sows possess multiple mammary glands arranged in two parallel rows along their underside, typically 12 to 22 glands. The development of these glands begins early in gestation, with significant growth occurring in the final third of pregnancy. During this period, the mammary tissue shifts from storing fat to developing the structures necessary for milk production, influenced by hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and relaxin.
Lactation, the process of milk production and release, depends on hormonal signals and physical stimulation from piglets. Prolactin, from the pituitary gland, stimulates milk synthesis. Oxytocin is released in response to vigorous nuzzling and suckling, causing milk ejection. Milk letdown is rapid, lasting approximately 15 seconds, and occurs frequently (every 45 to 60 minutes).
Unique Qualities of Pig Milk
Pig milk has a distinct composition tailored for fast-growing piglets. It contains a higher fat content (around 8.5%) compared to cow’s milk (3.5%). The protein content is also relatively high, while lactose levels can vary, but are generally comparable to or slightly lower than cow’s milk.
Pig milk is also more watery than cow’s milk. It also has a “gamey” flavor.
Why Pig Milk Isn’t for Human Consumption
Several factors contribute to why pig milk is not a common food source for humans. One significant challenge is the temperament of lactating sows, which can be uncooperative or even aggressive when approached for milking. Unlike docile dairy animals, pigs have not been selectively bred for ease of milking.
The physical characteristics of pigs also present practical difficulties. Sows have numerous small teats, typically 8 to 16, which are not conducive to mechanical milking. The milk letdown is very brief, making efficient milk collection challenging for multiple teats simultaneously. Furthermore, the volume of milk produced by a sow is considerably less than that of a dairy cow; a sow may produce around 13 pounds of milk per day, whereas a cow can yield approximately 65 pounds daily.
Economically, large-scale pig milk production is not viable. Unlike cows, sows cannot become pregnant while lactating, which further limits continuous milk supply. The short lactation period, typically peaking around 21 days postpartum, also makes it an inefficient dairy animal. Consequently, pig milk’s primary and most efficient use remains nourishing piglets, with any attempts at human consumption largely confined to niche research or experimental culinary endeavors.