Gestation crates — individual metal stalls where pregnant sows spend most of their lives — are among the most widely condemned practices in intensive farming. Their phase-out is progressing but incomplete globally.
Gestation crates represent one of the clearest welfare failures in modern animal agriculture. A sow in a gestation crate cannot turn around, lie in a natural position, root, forage, explore, or engage in any natural behavior for weeks at a time. Stereotypic behaviors — bar biting, head weaving, rooting motions against concrete — are near-universal and indicate profound frustration and psychological distress. Muscle atrophy from immobility creates physical health problems. Cardiovascular fitness declines. Yet the transition to group housing — the primary welfare alternative — has proceeded slowly despite widespread corporate commitments. Full supply chain transformation requires holding suppliers accountable, with independent auditing and clear timelines. Where it has been implemented, group housing consistently delivers welfare improvements at manageable cost.