The Welfare of Farmed Horses in Europe

Horses farmed for meat in Europe face welfare standards far below those for companion horses.

Key Facts

Approximately 1 million horses are slaughtered for meat annually in the EU
Many farmed horses are raised in group systems in France, Italy, and other EU countries
Meat horses receive far less veterinary attention than companion animals
Live horse export from Central and Eastern Europe for slaughter in Western European markets creates welfare concerns

Welfare Considerations

Horse meat production in Europe occupies an ambiguous welfare space — horses are culturally valued as companion animals in many countries, yet farmed as livestock in others. Welfare standards for farmed horses vary enormously. Some operations provide group housing with outdoor access that allows reasonable behavioral expression. Others maintain horses in intensive conditions more appropriate for pigs than horses. The transport of horses for slaughter across European borders creates welfare concerns from long journeys in conditions not well-suited to horses behavioral needs.

What You Can Do

Engage with the welfare dimension of European horse meat production
Support maximum journey time limits for horses transported to slaughter
Advocate for welfare standards for farmed horses equivalent to those for other species
Consider the full welfare picture when making food choices that may include horse products