Outdoor pig finishing systems offer improved welfare through natural behaviour expression. Understanding what good outdoor pig welfare looks like helps consumers make informed choices.
Outdoor pigs engage in rooting, exploratory behaviour and social interaction at levels impossible in indoor confinement systems. These behaviours are fundamental to pig wellbeing. However, poorly managed outdoor systems with inadequate shelter, wallowing facilities or shade create different welfare problems including heat stress, cold stress and injury. Welfare standards like RSPCA Assured specify minimum requirements for outdoor pigs including shade, wallowing, clean water and stocking density. Consumer support for certified outdoor pork provides commercial incentive for maintaining and improving outdoor standards.