Growing scientific consensus on farm animal sentience is increasingly influencing policy and public attitudes, but a significant gap remains between knowledge and commercial practice.
The science of farm animal sentience has advanced dramatically in recent decades, establishing beyond reasonable scientific doubt that pigs, cattle, poultry, and fish are sentient beings capable of experiencing suffering and likely positive states. The policy and practice gap remains large: despite widespread public acceptance of animal sentience in principle, purchasing behavior and regulatory standards have changed slowly. Bridging this gap requires continued advocacy, clearer labeling, and stronger regulatory minimums that reflect the sentience evidence.