Farm Animal Welfare

Evidence-Based Enrichment for Livestock: What Works

A growing body of research has established which enrichment approaches genuinely improve livestock welfare versus which merely create an appearance of improvement.

Key Facts

Single chains for pigs are used widely but are not effective enrichment per welfare science
Rooting material including straw and compost is the gold standard for pig enrichment
Perches that allow full extension of legs are required for meaningful hen enrichment
Brassicas and foraging materials significantly improve broiler welfare outcomes
Cattle brushes are used voluntarily by most cattle when provided and improve behavioral welfare

Welfare Considerations

Not all enrichment is created equal. Research has clearly identified the enrichment approaches that genuinely meet animal behavioral needs versus those that satisfy regulatory requirements without improving welfare. Straw beats chains for pigs; functional perches beat inadequate ledges for hens; edible foraging materials beat inert objects for cattle. Policy and certification standards must specify effective enrichment, not just any enrichment.

What You Can Do

Support standards that specify effective enrichment not just any token provision
Donate to welfare science research identifying optimal enrichment approaches
Ask food companies about the specific enrichment standards in their supply chains
Choose certified products from schemes requiring evidence-based enrichment