Scientific research on pig enrichment has identified specific materials and activities that effectively support natural behaviors and improve welfare in farm settings.
Pig enrichment research has produced clear evidence that enrichment type matters enormously. Simple indestructible objects like chains satisfy legal enrichment requirements but fail to engage pigs meaningfully. Research shows that pigs prefer destructible, edible, or manipulable materials that allow investigation and change. Providing appropriate enrichment reduces aggression and injury significantly, benefiting both welfare and production outcomes. The gap between legislative minimum requirements and evidence-based best practice represents a continuing welfare challenge that better regulation and farmer education can address.