The farrowing period — when sows give birth and nurse piglets — is the most welfare-critical phase of pig production. System design profoundly affects both sow and piglet welfare, with conventional crates restricting natural maternal behaviour severely.
Sows confined in farrowing crates cannot express nesting behaviour that is highly motivated before parturition, causing measurable frustration. The inability to turn around, groom themselves fully, or interact normally with piglets beyond nursing restricts natural maternal behaviour across weeks of confinement. Free-farrowing systems with well-designed anti-crush rails, suitable bedding, and appropriate pen dimensions can achieve comparable piglet survival while dramatically improving sow welfare. The transition requires investment in pen infrastructure and farmer training in management of loose systems. Consumer pressure through purchasing choices and advocacy for EU farrowing crate legislation is driving commercial change in this area.