Gestation Crates for Breeding Sows

Gestation crates confine pregnant sows in individual stalls so small they cannot turn around — a practice banned in the EU but still widespread in the US and other countries.

Key Facts

Gestation crates measure approximately 2 x 0.6 metres — too small for a sow to turn around
The EU banned gestation crates in 2013, except for the first four weeks of pregnancy
In the US, around 60% of breeding sows are kept in gestation crates for most of their lives
California's Proposition 12 (2018) required gestation-crate-free pork sold in the state
Sows in gestation crates show signs of learned helplessness, aggression, and stereotypic bar-biting

Welfare Considerations

Gestation crates are widely regarded as one of the most inhumane practices in modern agriculture. Confining an animal for months at a time in a space so small it cannot turn around causes severe physical and psychological suffering. Sows develop muscle weakness, pressure sores, and exhibit stereotypic behaviours that indicate severe frustration. Group housing for pregnant sows provides far better welfare and is workable with appropriate management. The case for elimination of gestation crates globally is overwhelming.

What You Can Do

Choose pork products certified gestation-crate-free
Support campaigns like the Better Pork Campaign for gestation crate bans
Advocate for US federal legislation equivalent to the EU ban
Ask food companies and retailers about their gestation crate policies
Reduce pork consumption to lower demand for systems still using gestation crates