Free farrowing systems that allow sows to move, nest, and interact with piglets are proving commercially viable while delivering significant welfare improvements over conventional crates.
The free farrowing transition represents one of the most significant ongoing structural welfare changes in pig production. The farrowing crate was introduced to reduce piglet crushing, a genuine welfare concern, but creates severe behavioral restriction for sows unable to turn around, nest, or interact freely with piglets. Research demonstrating that well-designed free farrowing systems can match or beat crate piglet survival rates removes the primary justification for continued crate use. Progressive producers who have made the transition demonstrate it is commercially viable with appropriate management expertise.