Welfare science has expanded beyond measuring negative experiences to capturing positive states. Identifying positive welfare indicators in pigs allows farms to optimize for flourishing, not just absence of suffering.
Moving beyond the prevention of negative welfare to the promotion of positive states represents a mature shift in farm animal welfare science. Pigs that play, explore, root, and engage socially are experiencing positive welfare dimensions that enrich their lives. Farms that create conditions for play and exploration — through outdoor access, enrichment, and appropriate stocking density — produce animals with demonstrably positive welfare profiles.