E-ISSN: 2583-9667

Indexed Journal
Peer Reviewed Journal Received: 01-01-2024
https://multiresearchjournal.theviews.in/ Accepted: 06-02-2024

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY

Volume 2; Issue 2; 2024; Page No. 01-08

Swine production in Brazil and worldwide: A general overview

*1Carolina Fregonesi de Souza, 2Robson Carlos Antunes and 3Julio Cesar de Souza
1, 2
Federal University of Uberlandia, UFU Uberlândia, MS Brazil
3
Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul – UFMS/CPAQ, Campus de Aquidauana, MS Brazil

Corresponding Author: Carolina Fregonesi de Souza

Abstract
The production of pigs plays a crucial role in global agriculture, providing a vital source of animal protein for human consumption.
However, the expansion of pig farming poses significant environmental concerns. Thus, promoting sustainable practices in pig production is
imperative to ensure economic efficiency, environmental protection, and animal welfare. In this context, we delve into various aspects of
sustainable pig farming, ranging from waste management to water resource conservation. Our aim is to offer guidance and recommendations
for more responsible and environmentally conscious pig production.
Furthermore, we explore diverse facets related to sustainable pig production, including the significance of environmental education,
responsible agricultural practices, and their environmental impacts. Topics such as waste management, water resource conservation, animal
welfare, and community engagement are addressed. Through this review, we seek to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable pig
farming, identify challenges and opportunities, and provide actionable guidance for the adoption of responsible agricultural practices in pig
production.

Keywords: Sustainability, pig farming, livestock

Introduction According to the list of the Food and Agriculture

According to Otoni et al, 2013 [1], the domestication of pigs Organization of the United Nations there are various pig
has its roots since the Neolithic period, which began around breeds existing in the world, each with its own distinct
10,000 BC. During this period, the first evidence of characteristics. Some examples of pig breeds include the
coexistence between pigs and humans began to emerge. Large White, Duroc, Hampshire, Landrace, Pietran and
Ancient peoples quickly recognized the advantages of Yorkshire. Each breed may differ in terms of size, color,
raising pigs to obtain meat, skin, and other resources. Pig temperament, breeding abilities, and adaptation to different
domestication began over 10,000 years ago, according to environments. Selective breeding over the years has led to
archaeological evidence. Pigs have been raised by many the development of specialized breeds, some focused-on
ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and meat production, others on bacon production, and some on
Romans (Ensminger, 1990) [10]. adaptability to different climatic conditions. This diversity
The selection and breeding of specific breeds of pigs likely of pig breeds reflects a long history of interaction between
began to become more prominent during ancient times, as humans and these highly adaptable animals.
human populations expanded, and the needs of animal The world population of pigs varies over time due to various
production became more complex. Civilizations such as the factors, including market demand, animal health issues, and
Greeks and Romans showed interest and skill in the government policies. However, to provide you with a recent
selective breeding of pigs to meet various needs. Over the estimate, the global pig population in 2022 was
centuries, different regions of the world developed their own approximately 1 billion animals, according to data from the
breeds of pigs, adapted to local conditions and specific Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
production requirements (Larson et al., 2014) [22]. This has (FAO). It is important to note that this number may vary
led to the diversity of pig breeds that we see today, each across different sources and over time. According to the
with its own distinct characteristics, resulting from centuries FAO (2021), the 10 countries with the largest pig
of interaction between humans and pigs. populations (Table 1):

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Table 1: The countries with the largest pig populations on the worlds
Total Beginning Stocks 2020 2021 2022 2023 (Jan) 2024(Jan)
Brazil 37850.0 37350.0 35688.0 34250.0 32900.0
Canada 14065.0 14120.0 14170.0 13920.0 13037.0
China 310410.0 406500.0 449220.0 452560.0 423600.0
European Union 143146.0 145911.0 141681.0 134410.0 133875.0
Japan 9090.0 9290.0 8949.0 8956.0 9040.0
Korea South 11280.0 11078.0 11217.0 11124.0 11028.0
Mexico 11050.0 11500.0 11775.0 12250.0 12560.0
United Kingdom 4741.0 4828.0 5100.0 4650.0 4050.0
United States 77323.0 77022.0 74606.0 74956.0 74971.0
Others 30890.0 31730.0 31918.0 31140.0 31900.0
Total 649845.0 749329.0 784324.0 778216.0 746961.0
Source: USDA. Modified by Souza, C.F.

Rostagno, (2020) [35] affirms that the swine industry is an Animal welfare is an essential aspect of pig farming,
essential economic activity in Brazil, playing a vital role in impacting various facets of the industry. Ensuring good
food production, job creation, and economic development in welfare practices not only promotes ethical treatment of
various regions of the country. With a long tradition in pig animals but also has significant implications for
farming and extensive favorable territorial conditions for productivity, product quality, and public perception. In
this practice, Brazil has emerged as one of the world's summary, prioritizing animal welfare in pig farming is
leading producers and exporters of pork. According to the essential for enhancing productivity, ensuring product
Brazilian Swine Breeders Association (ABCS) and the quality, meeting consumer expectations, complying with
Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the regulations, and upholding ethical principles. By adopting
main Brazilian states producing pork in Brazil are: Santa welfare-focused practices, pig farmers can create a more
Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná, Minas Gerais, and São sustainable and socially responsible industry while also
Paulo. reaping economic benefits.
According to Embrapa Swine and Poultry, (2024) [9] Brazil 1. Productive Performance: Pigs subjected to stress or
has 2,067,749 matrices housed 4,983 million tons produced discomfort conditions may show inferior productive
[4th place in the world]; 5.99% increase in national performance, including reduced weight gain,
production [compared to 2021]. Production destination: compromised feed conversion rate, and increased
domestic market 78%, export 22% 1,120 million tons susceptibility to diseases. This can result in lower
exported [4th place worldwide] 1.49% drop in exports productivity and profitability for producers. By the
[compared to 2021] consumption of 18 kg of meat per way, High levels of animal welfare can lead to better
capita. productivity in pig farming. Content and comfortable
pigs are likely to exhibit healthier growth rates, lower
Practices of animal welfare in pig farming stress levels, and reduced susceptibility to diseases.
Dias et al. (2014) [14] and Mejdell & Rutherford (2019) [27] This ultimately translates to improved efficiency and
reported the importance of Animal Welfare in Animal profitability for farmers. For the producer of futures
Agriculture, Husbandry, Stewardship, and Sustainability in have expectations the use high technology and good
Animal Production. For the authors, the animal welfare welfare to the animals. This way, they will achieve high
plays is a important role in pig farming, as it affects not only productivity, quality products, minimizing animal
the health and happiness of pigs but also productivity production stress - an excellent animal welfare activity
efficiency and meat quality (Figure 1). (Roe et al., 2011) [33].
2. Meat Quality: Animal welfare can directly influence
the quality of pork products. Stressed or unhealthy pigs
may produce meat of inferior quality, with potential
implications for taste, texture, and nutritional value. By
prioritizing animal welfare, farmers can enhance the
overall quality and reputation of their products in the
market. Stress and suffering of pigs can affect meat
quality, including characteristics such as color, texture,
juiciness, and flavor. Pigs experiencing good welfare
tend to produce better-quality meat, which is more
valued by consumers.
3. Animal Health: Pig welfare is directly related to their
health and resistance to diseases. Pigs kept under stress
conditions have compromised immune systems and are
more susceptible to infections and illnesses, which can
increase veterinary treatment costs and reduce overall
herd health.
4. Industry Image: Concerns about animal welfare are
Fig 1: Piglets play with an old tire and plastic bag on the barn.
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growing among consumers, which means that properly trained in animal handling and welfare. Provide
inadequate handling and welfare practices can have a ongoing education on best practices, including how to
negative impact on the image and reputation of the pig recognize signs of distress and illness in pigs.
industry. This can lead to a loss of consumer trust and
potentially affect sales and profitability. Environmental Enrichment: Enhance the pigs' living
5. Public Perception and Consumer Demand: environment by providing enrichment items such as straw,
Consumer awareness and concern for animal welfare toys, and structures for exploration and stimulation.
are on the rise, leading to increased scrutiny of farming Enrichment encourages natural behaviors and reduces
practices. Adhering to high welfare standards not only boredom and stress.
meets regulatory requirements but also aligns with
consumer expectations. Pig farms that prioritize animal Housing Improvements: Evaluate and upgrade housing
welfare are more likely to gain consumer trust and facilities to provide adequate space, ventilation, and comfort
loyalty, ultimately driving demand for their products. for pigs. Consider options such as group housing, bedding
6. Regulatory Compliance: Many countries have materials, and temperature control systems to optimize
established regulations and standards governing animal welfare conditions.
welfare in farming operations. Compliance with these
regulations is not only a legal requirement but also Health Management: Implement rigorous health
essential for maintaining the social license to operate. management protocols to prevent and control diseases. This
Failure to meet welfare standards can result in includes vaccination programs, regular veterinary checks,
reputational damage, legal consequences, and market and prompt treatment of sick or injured animals.
exclusion.
7. Ethical Considerations: Beyond economic and Handling and Transport: Minimize stress during handling
practical considerations, ensuring good animal welfare and transport by using low stress handling techniques and
is a moral obligation for pig farmers. Treating pigs with providing appropriate facilities and equipment. Plan
respect and compassion reflects ethical values and transportation routes to minimize travel time and ensure
contributes to a more humane society. comfortable conditions for pigs during transit.

Improving animal welfare in pig farming is essential for Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly monitor and assess
ethical, social, legal, economic, and environmental reasons. the welfare of pigs on the farm. Use indicators such as body
By prioritizing the well-being of pigs, farmers can build a condition, behavior, and health status to identify areas for
more sustainable and responsible industry that benefits improvement and track progress over time.
animals, consumers, and society as a whole.
By implementing these strategies and prioritizing the Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous
welfare of pigs, you can contribute to creating a more improvement by soliciting feedback from farm staff,
humane and sustainable pig farming industry. veterinarians, and other stakeholders. Stay informed about
advancements in animal welfare science and technology,
Some procedures is important, for example and be open to adopting new practices and technologies that
▪ Adequate Environment: Providing a comfortable and enhance pig welfare.
enriched environment for pigs, with sufficient space to
move around, comfortable resting areas, access to clean Economic Importance
and fresh water, and proper temperature and ventilation Brazilian pig farming significantly contributes to the
control. national economy, generating thousands of direct and
▪ Proper Handling: Adopting careful and respectful indirect jobs in all stages of the production chain, from feed
handling practices, including gentle animal handling, production to meat processing and distribution.
safe transportation, and group management strategies Additionally, pork and its derivatives' exportation are an
that minimize stress and aggression among pigs. essential source of foreign exchange for the country,
▪ Balanced Nutrition: Offering a nutritionally balanced contributing to Brazil's positive balance of trade (IBGE,
diet tailored to the needs of pigs, ensuring they receive 2023) [20].
all essential nutrients for healthy growth and proper According to Rodrigues, (2020), Brazil has emerged as one
development. of the main producers and exporters of pork in the world.
The quality of the meat, competitiveness in production
These practices not only benefit the welfare of pigs but also costs, and logistical efficiency have contributed to the
contribute to sustainable and ethical pig farming practices, success of Brazilian pork exports to international markets.
enhancing the overall quality of the industry. Brazil is a significant player in the global pork production
landscape, boasting a thriving industry that contributes
Certifications and Animal Welfare Programs: Participate substantially to the country's economy and food security
in animal welfare certifications and adhere to good (Figure 2). With its vast landmass, favorable climate, and
production practice programs that establish standards and abundant natural resources, Brazil has emerged as one of the
guidelines to ensure the welfare of pigs throughout the world's leading pork producers. In recent years, Brazil's
entire production chain. pork production has experienced steady growth, fueled by
increasing domestic demand and expanding export markets.
Education and Training: Ensure that farm staff are According to data from the Brazilian Association of Animal

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Protein (ABPA, 2024), Brazil produced approximately X (2024a). Despite facing challenges such as fluctuating feed
million tons of pork in [latest year available], cementing its prices, disease outbreaks, and environmental concerns,
position as one of the top pork-producing countries globally Brazil's pork industry remains resilient and poised for
IBGE, (2024) [20]. Driven by technological advancements, further expansion. With a strong commitment to
efficient production practices, and a competitive advantage sustainability, animal welfare, and quality assurance,
in feed grain production, Brazil's pork industry continues to Brazilian pork producers are well-positioned to meet the
thrive. The country's pork exports have also seen significant growing global demand for high-quality pork products
growth, with Brazil exporting approximately 10 million tons (FAO, 2022).
of pork products to various international markets FAO,

Source: Embrapa Aves e suínos, (2024) [9] modified by Souza, C.F.

Fig 2: Brazilian pork production from 2013 to 2022 [Million tons]

The outlook for the swine sector in 2024 appears promising, 1.6% decline in pork meat production within the European
driven by potential increases in domestic consumption and Union for the same year. To meet both domestic and
exports coupled with anticipated reductions in production international demands for fresh and processed products,
costs compared to previous years. The Center for Advanced Cepea estimates a potential 3.3% increase in the number of
Studies on Applied Economics (CEPEA) forecasts suggest animals slaughtered from 2023 to 2024, reaching 59.1
that domestic demand for pork meat may remain robust, million animals (CEPEA, 2024) [6].
with an expected 2.8% increase in consumption compared to
2023. Furthermore, the swine industry anticipates that the Environmental impacts of pig farming
export performance achieved in 2023 will continue into the The growth of pig farming raises environmental concerns,
current year. With Brazilian exports totaling 1.1 million tons especially regarding waste management and greenhouse gas
from January to November of the previous year, there is a emissions. However, producers are adopting more
possibility of surpassing the record set in 2021, which stood sustainable practices, such as waste recycling, effluent
at 1.12 million tons. Renewed agreements between the treatment, and biogas production from waste.
Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA) and Sustainability has become a priority for modern pig farming,
ApexBrasil, extending until 2025, aim to bolster meat with a growing focus on reducing environmental impact,
exports, including pork. Despite an 11% decrease in exports conserving natural resources, animal welfare, and social
to China from 2022 to 2023, due to increased cases of responsibility. Consumers are increasingly aware of food
African Swine Fever (ASF) in Europe redirecting demand to origins and seek products produced sustainably.
Brazil, shipments to China are expected to remain steady in Sustainable livestock production systems encompass a
2024. This trend is reinforced by projections indicating a multifaceted approach aimed at ensuring the long-term

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viability and resilience of the livestock sector. Key practices in their operations. These certifications encourage
strategies include the development of livestock master plans the adoption of environmental and animal welfare standards,
to guide investments and policies, fostering improved providing consumers with assurance that pork has been
feeding systems by expanding feed resources and promoting produced responsibly (FAO/WHO, 2014, Leong, 2020) [14].
feed safety, and encouraging the adoption of animal welfare In summary, it is possible to integrate environmental
practices. Additionally, efforts are directed towards conservation into pig production systems through the
reducing antimicrobial usage, implementing animal adoption of sustainable practices that minimize
identification and traceability systems, and supporting environmental impact and promote responsible use of
value-chain development and livestock breeding programs natural resources. By adopting a holistic approach that
through farmer field schools (FAO, 2024b). considers both the economic and environmental aspects of
Livestock, climate change, and natural resource use are pork production, producers can contribute to building a
central considerations in sustainable development more sustainable and resilient sector.
initiatives. Measures include integrating livestock into
agroecosystems to enhance ecosystem services and Minimizing impacts with maximum productivity
evaluating the effectiveness of agroecological systems. Feed efficiency plays a pivotal role in the success of pig
Addressing climate change impacts on livestock, reducing production, influencing both profitability and sustainability.
the environmental footprint of livestock supply chains, and The interplay between genetics, pig nutrition, and feeding
assessing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with management significantly impacts how efficiently pigs
projects and investments are essential components of convert feed into body weight. Understanding these factors
sustainable livestock management. Through these concerted is essential for achieving sustainable and profitable
efforts, the livestock sector can contribute to environmental production practices. To maximize productivity while
sustainability while promoting economic viability and social minimizing environmental impact, it's crucial to identify and
well-being (FAO, 2024b). implement practical strategies to improve feed efficiency.
The growth of pig farming presents a series of opportunities By enhancing feed efficiency, pig producers can realize
and challenges, ranging from improving meat quality to several key benefits. Firstly, there are significant cost
mitigating environmental impacts. It is essential for savings associated with reduced feed consumption. Since
producers and the industry to work together to ensure feed represents a substantial portion of total production
sustainable and responsible growth, meeting consumer costs in pig farming, improving feed efficiency means pigs
demands for high-quality pork produced ethically and require fewer resources to reach market weight, resulting in
environmentally consciously. The future of pig farming will lower feed costs and increased profit margins. Moreover,
be characterized by innovation, efficiency, and a enhanced feed efficiency translates into increased
commitment to sustainability. productivity. Pigs that efficiently convert feed into body
Pig production systems and environmental conservation are weight grow faster and reach market weight sooner, thereby
interconnected in various ways, and it is essential to find a shortening the production cycle. This acceleration allows
balance between efficient pork production and farmers to raise and sell more pigs within a given
environmental protection. Here are some important timeframe, optimizing production capacity and overall
considerations on how pig production systems can be productivity. Additionally, improving feed efficiency
adapted to promote environmental conservation: contributes to sustainability by reducing feed wastage and
minimizing the environmental footprint of pig production.
Waste Management: One of the main environmental With fewer nutrients excreted in manure, there's a decreased
challenges associated with pig farming is proper waste risk of environmental pollution, promoting responsible
management, including manure and effluents. Strategies agricultural practices and long-term sustainability (Rooney,
such as composting, anaerobic digestion for biogas 2023) [34].
production, and waste treatment systems can help minimize Large pig farms can exert a considerable influence on water
environmental impacts by reducing soil and water pollution. resources, particularly if not adequately managed. To
mitigate potential impacts on springs, streams, and rivers
Efficient Resource Use: Pig producers can adopt practices while maximizing productivity, several measures must be
that promote efficient use of natural resources such as water considered. Firstly, effective waste management systems,
and energy. This may include implementing efficient such as composting, biodigesters, or treatment lagoon
irrigation systems, utilizing renewable energy sources such systems, are crucial for minimizing soil and water
as solar or wind power, and optimizing the use of inputs contamination from the substantial amount of waste
such as feed and fertilizers. produced by these farms. Additionally, implementing soil
conservation practices like no-till farming, vegetation cover,
Biodiversity Conservation: Pig production systems can be and terrace construction can help control erosion and protect
designed to minimize impact on local ecosystems and nearby water bodies. Proper animal nutrition management
promote biodiversity conservation. This can be achieved plays a vital role in reducing nutrient excretion, thus
through preserving natural areas, implementing sustainable minimizing water pollution; balanced feed formulation and
land management practices, and protecting natural habitats. optimizing feed conversion efficiency are essential in this
regard. Furthermore, liquid effluents from large pig farms
Environmental Certifications: Environmental certification should undergo proper treatment using systems like
programs, such as Global GAP (Good Agricultural stabilization ponds, biological filters, or constructed
Practice), can help producers implement sustainable wetlands to remove pollutants before discharge into the

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environment. Regular monitoring of water quality in nearby Moreover, certifications and programs that establish welfare
water sources is essential to promptly identify and address standards and guidelines contribute to industry transparency
any environmental concerns arising from pig farming and consumer trust. Looking ahead, the future of pig
activities. farming lies in continued innovation, sustainability, and
Factors influencing feed efficiency in pigs are multifaceted, adaptation to evolving market dynamics and consumer
encompassing genetics, nutrition, and feeding management preferences. By embracing technological advancements,
practices. Understanding and optimizing these factors are best practices in animal welfare, and environmental
essential for enhancing production practices and improving stewardship, pig producers can navigate challenges, seize
overall efficiency within the pig industry. opportunities, and contribute to a more resilient and socially
Genetics plays a pivotal role in determining feed efficiency, responsible industry. Ultimately, the success of pig farming
influencing key metrics such as feed conversion ratio (FCR) hinges on a balanced approach that prioritizes both
and lean-to-fat ratio. Selective breeding programs can economic prosperity and ethical stewardship, ensuring a
identify and propagate genetic lines with superior FCRs and sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.
leaner compositions, thereby promoting more efficient feed The outlook for the swine sector in 2024 is optimistic,
utilization. Meanwhile, nutrition significantly impacts feed driven by anticipated increases in domestic consumption
efficiency by ensuring a well-balanced diet that meets pigs' and exports, along with expected reductions in production
specific nutrient requirements at different growth stages. costs. Forecasts indicate robust domestic demand for pork
Access to clean water is also crucial for maintaining optimal meat, with a projected 2.8% consumption increase
feed intake and nutrient utilization. Feeding management compared to 2023. Additionally, the industry anticipates
practices, such as providing adequate feed space and continued export performance, potentially surpassing the
ensuring the appropriate physical form of the diet, further record set in 2021. Renewed agreements between industry
contribute to optimizing feed efficiency. Sufficient feed associations aim to bolster meat exports, including pork.
space and accessibility help prevent competition during Despite export declines to China in recent years, ongoing
feeding, ensuring all pigs have equal access to feed. cases of African Swine Fever in Europe may redirect
Additionally, pelleted or extruded diets are preferred over demand to Brazil, sustaining export levels. To meet demand,
mash diets due to their enhanced digestibility and reduced slaughter rates are estimated to increase by 3.3% from 2023
feed wastage. By addressing these factors comprehensively, to 2024. Concurrently, environmental concerns associated
pig producers can enhance feed efficiency, promote uniform with pig farming prompt sustainable practices adoption,
growth, and ultimately improve productivity within their including waste management, resource efficiency, and
operations (Rooney, 2023) [34]. biodiversity conservation. The growth of pig farming
Large pig farms have the opportunity to forge partnerships presents both opportunities and challenges, necessitating a
with governmental agencies, non-governmental balance between productivity and environmental
organizations, and local communities to safeguard water stewardship. Large pig farms can mitigate environmental
resources. Through community engagement, environmental impacts by collaborating with stakeholders and
concerns can be identified and collaborative solutions implementing sustainable practices. Effective waste
devised to mitigate negative impacts. By integrating management, erosion control measures, and proper effluent
environmentally sustainable management practices with treatment are vital to minimize pollution risks.
efforts to maximize productivity, these farms can reduce Additionally, optimizing animal nutrition, utilizing efficient
their footprint on springs, streams, and rivers, thereby resource management, and adopting environmentally
safeguarding these crucial resources for both the friendly certifications contribute to sustainability efforts. By
environment and local communities. integrating these practices, pig producers can foster a more
sustainable and resilient sector, meeting consumer demands
Conclusion for responsibly produced pork while safeguarding natural
In conclusion, the historical evolution and contemporary resources. Ultimately, the future of pig farming lies in
status of pig farming underscore its pivotal role in global innovation, efficiency, and a steadfast commitment to
agriculture and economy. From its ancient roots in human environmental sustainability, ensuring the industry's long-
civilization to its modern-day prominence, pig farming has term viability and social responsibility.
evolved into a sophisticated industry characterized by
diverse breeds, advanced production techniques, and Conflict of interests
significant economic contributions. As evidenced by the The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
data presented, countries like Brazil have emerged as key
players in pork production, leveraging their natural Funding
resources, technological innovations, and strategic This research received external funding from CAPES -
partnerships to meet domestic demand and capture Foundation Coordination for the Improvement of Higher
international markets. Furthermore, the importance of Education Personnel.
prioritizing animal welfare in pig farming cannot be
overstated. By ensuring the well-being of pigs, farmers not Competing Interests
only uphold ethical standards but also enhance productivity, The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial
product quality, and industry reputation. Practices that interests to disclose.
promote animal welfare, such as providing a comfortable
environment, proper nutrition, and humane handling, are Author Contributions
integral to sustainable and responsible pig farming. Carolina Fregonesi de Souza: write and discussion; Robson

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