Gestation crates confine pregnant sows for months, preventing normal movement. Phase-out campaigns have achieved significant industry commitments, though implementation lags.
Gestation crate welfare science unambiguously demonstrates that individual confinement preventing turning, proper lying, and any meaningful movement causes chronic physical and psychological suffering. Sows show increased stereotypies, abnormal oral behaviors, and stress indicators in crate housing compared to group systems. Muscular atrophy and weakened bones from extended immobility cause mobility problems. The welfare case for group housing is clear — the management challenges of preventing aggression in group-housed sows are real but tractable with appropriate facilities, staff training, and grouping protocols. The gap between commitment and implementation in the US pork industry is significant, with many 2018-2022 target dates unfulfilled. Consumer, retailer, and regulatory pressure on implementation timelines is needed.