Pig Gestation Crate Phase-Out: Progress and Challenges

Gestation crates — metal stalls that confine pregnant sows for up to 16 weeks — are among the most welfare-compromising practices in industrial pig farming, and their phase-out is one of the most contested campaigns in farm animal welfare.

Key Facts

Gestation crates measure approximately 2m x 0.6m, preventing sows from turning around for months at a time
The EU banned gestation crates after 4 weeks of pregnancy in 2013; 9 US states have enacted phase-out legislation
Corporate commitments from Walmart, McDonald and other major food companies have driven significant industry transition
Transition to group housing requires farm redesign investment and management skill development for handling group-housed sows
Group-housed sows show higher levels of aggression than crate-housed sows without adequate space, feeding management, and shelter design

Welfare Considerations

Gestation crate phase-out represents one of the most significant systemic welfare reforms achieved in the food industry, yet implementation is uneven and many farms in phase-out jurisdictions have received long transition timelines. The welfare case against gestation crates is overwhelming — the inability to turn, exercise, or express any natural behaviour for months causes chronic frustration, lameness, and compromised muscle and bone health. Well-designed group housing achieves equivalent or better sow welfare and is economically viable.

What You Can Do

Choose pork products from certified farms with gestation-crate-free group housing for breeding sows
Engage food companies and supermarkets to make binding gestation-crate-free commitments with verified timelines
Support campaigns for legislative phase-out in jurisdictions that still allow gestation crates
Donate to organisations advocating for accelerated implementation timelines for gestation crate bans