Farmed Pig Gestation Crates: The Case for Complete Phase-Out

Gestation crates — metal stalls confining pregnant sows — represent one of the most welfare-compromising practices in modern agriculture, now banned in many jurisdictions.

Key Facts

Gestation crates measure approximately 60 x 200 cm — too small for sows to turn around during their 16-week pregnancy
The EU banned gestation crates for most of pregnancy in 2013; individual stalls are still allowed for the first 4 weeks
The US has seen 10+ states ban gestation crates; major food companies have made phase-out commitments
Approximately 75% of US sows are still confined in gestation crates for most of their reproductive lives
Group housing systems for pregnant sows can work well with appropriate management and space allowances
Sows in gestation crates show higher rates of stereotypic bar-biting and abnormal repetitive behaviours

Welfare Considerations

Gestation crates cause profound and prolonged welfare harm. Pregnant sows — highly intelligent, active animals with strong motivation to root, explore, and build nests — are confined in spaces so small they cannot turn around for 16 weeks at a time, repeated pregnancy after pregnancy throughout their productive lives of 2-3 years. The chronic immobility causes muscle atrophy, bone weakness, pressure sores, and cardiovascular deterioration. Psychological frustration drives stereotypic bar-biting that indicates severe chronic stress. Scientific consensus from EFSA and welfare scientists globally holds that gestation crates cause unnecessary suffering and should be eliminated.

What You Can Do

Choose pork products from Certified Humane, Animal Welfare Approved, or group-housed certified farms
Support Humane Society campaigns for gestation crate bans at state and federal levels
Contact restaurants and retailers to request commitments to gestation-crate-free sourcing
Reduce pork consumption or choose plant-based alternatives