Livestock

Farmed Outdoor Pig Systems and Welfare

Free-range outdoor pig production offers significant welfare advantages over intensive indoor systems.

Key Facts

Outdoor pigs have access to rooting, foraging, and wallowing behaviours
UK RSPCA Assured free-range pork requires outdoor access with shelter
Outdoor systems have seasonal welfare challenges including heat and cold
Stocking density in outdoor systems affects welfare outcomes significantly

Welfare Considerations

Pigs with outdoor access can root in soil, wallow in mud to thermoregulate, and range freely — behaviours fundamental to pig welfare. Outdoor systems are not automatically high welfare: overcrowded paddocks, inadequate shelter, and poor ground management can produce welfare problems even with outdoor access. Well-managed outdoor pig production represents a genuine welfare improvement but requires careful management to realise its potential.

What You Can Do

Choose RSPCA Assured free-range pork from well-managed outdoor systems
Support outdoor pig welfare standards that specify stocking density and shelter
Visit farm open days to understand the conditions your food comes from
Advocate for outdoor access requirements in standard pork welfare specifications