Gestation Crates and Sow Welfare

Gestation crates confine pregnant pigs in spaces barely larger than their own bodies, causing severe welfare suffering and drawing broad condemnation from animal welfare scientists.

Key Facts

Standard gestation crates are approximately 2 feet wide and 7 feet long — barely larger than the sow herself
Sows in gestation crates cannot turn around for most of their 4-month pregnancies
Over 6 million sows are confined in gestation crates in the US
The EU banned gestation crates in 2013, allowing them only in the first weeks of pregnancy
Nine US states have banned gestation crates and over 60 major food companies have made elimination commitments

Welfare Considerations

Gestation crate confinement causes profound suffering. Unable to turn around or take more than a step forward or backward, sows in gestation crates develop muscle atrophy, sores from lying on bare concrete, urinary tract infections, and psychological problems manifested as repetitive bar-biting and sham chewing. The scientific consensus that gestation crates cause severe welfare harm is unambiguous. Group housing systems allow sows to move, socialize, and express natural behaviors. The shift away from gestation crates represents one of the most significant farm animal welfare improvements achievable in the near term.

What You Can Do

Only purchase pork products from companies that have eliminated gestation crates
Support retailers and restaurants committing to gestation-crate-free supply chains
Advocate for state and federal legislation banning gestation crates
Donate to organizations conducting corporate campaigns on sow welfare
Reduce pork consumption to reduce demand while companies transition systems