A decade of research has documented the behavioral and physiological benefits of environmental enrichment for pigs, providing the evidence base for enrichment legislation and certification.
The enrichment science literature for pigs is now extensive and consistent: straw provided ad libitum reduces tail biting, reduces stereotypies, and increases time spent in natural rooting behavior. The gap between the minimum required by law (any manipulable material) and what science shows is most effective (straw in sufficient quantity) represents an ongoing welfare deficit that industry leadership could close. Consumer and regulatory pressure can close this gap.