Vion wins Innovation Award for AI tackling tail biting

On 15 October, Vion received the Innovation Award during the Dutch Pork & Poultry Expo 2025. The company won with its project ‘AI for a healthy curly tail’, which has been in development for three years. The award was granted following a selection from six nominated pig farming innovations. According to Vion, the award highlights just how important innovation, animal welfare and chain-wide collaboration are for a future-proof livestock sector.

Connecting data to reduce risks

The project centres on a monitoring system designed to help pig farmers detect tail biting risks in time. By combining data from the barn and the slaughterhouse in a smart way, a unique dataset is created. This dataset is then translated—using artificial intelligence and practical expertise—into insights that farmers can immediately apply. The aim is to intervene before problems arise, so pigs stay healthy and keep their tails.

Collaboration across the entire supply chain

‘AI for a healthy curly tail’ is a joint effort between Vion, Connecting Agri & Food, Utrecht University, VetVise and Vision Partners. A group of pig farmers also contributes actively to the project. It is co-funded by the European Union. Vion extended its thanks to everyone who voted, to the expo organisers, and to the colleagues who made this possible.

During the expo on 15 and 16 October, Vion was present with a renewed stand. Topics discussed included market developments, CO₂ footprint calculation, and key themes such as animal welfare and supply chain transparency.

Vionfoodgroup.com