Livestock

Veal Welfare and Crate-Free Alternatives

Veal production has historically involved extreme confinement of calves, though welfare reforms have begun to transform the sector in many countries.

Key Facts

Traditional white veal production confined calves in individual wooden crates, preventing movement
Veal crates were banned in the EU in 2007 and in the UK in 1990
Rose veal, raised in groups with straw bedding, offers significantly improved welfare
Male dairy calves are often shot at birth in countries without veal markets
The US still allows individual calf hutches in some states beyond 8 weeks

Welfare Considerations

Modern UK and EU veal production has improved significantly since crate bans. Group-housed rose veal on straw allows natural behaviour including lying in normal postures, social interaction and limited exercise. Muscle development improves and welfare indicators are markedly better than in traditional white veal. The welfare of male dairy calves remains a critical issue in countries lacking viable veal markets.

What You Can Do

Choose rose veal from welfare-certified group-housed systems over imported white veal
Ask your butcher or supermarket about calf welfare in their veal supply chain
Support campaigns to end the shooting of male dairy calves at birth
Advocate for strong veal welfare standards in trade agreements