Veal Production and Calf Welfare Reform

Veal production has undergone significant welfare improvements in Europe but significant variation remains between systems and countries.

Key Facts

White veal from milk-fed calves confined in crates was banned in the EU in 2007
Rose veal from UK dairy bull calves raised on grass provides a welfare-positive alternative
Many UK dairy bull calves are shot at birth due to lack of market for male calves
Calf welfare from birth to slaughter depends on colostrum management, housing and nutrition
Extended mother-calf contact before weaning dramatically improves calf welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Veal calf welfare spans the entire period from birth through slaughter and involves multiple critical decision points. Calves separated immediately after birth lose the benefits of maternal bonding and natural nursing. Male dairy calves of low-value breeds are often killed at birth because raising them is considered uneconomical. Rose veal systems that allow calves to live outdoors and consume a natural diet represent a significant welfare advance over both immediate slaughter and traditional white veal systems.

What You Can Do

Choose rose veal from UK dairy systems over imported white veal or no veal at all
Support campaigns for extended mother-calf contact in dairy systems
Advocate for legislative requirements preventing routine male dairy calf culling at birth
Support market development for male dairy calves to make keeping them economically viable