Scientific research on pig enrichment has produced clear evidence about what works to reduce suffering and improve welfare in intensive farming systems.
The science of pig enrichment has matured considerably over the past two decades, providing farmers with an evidence base for practical welfare improvements. Research consistently shows that pigs have a strong behavioural need for exploration, manipulation, and rooting that cannot be satisfied by simple hanging chains or rubber toys. Effective enrichment provides novel stimuli regularly, engages the animal's natural foraging instincts, and preferably involves organic substrates. Industry adoption of this evidence remains partial — economic pressures and infrastructure constraints have slowed uptake of straw-based systems. Welfare regulations in many jurisdictions now mandate enrichment, but enforcement and auditing quality vary considerably.