Selective breeding for rapid growth in pigs has created serious welfare problems as their musculoskeletal systems struggle to support bodies growing faster than they were evolved to handle.
Fast-growing commercial pigs frequently suffer from painful musculoskeletal conditions that cause lameness, reluctance to stand, and inability to access feed and water. The suffering is often invisible within large group housing where affected animals cannot be individually monitored. Heart and respiratory disease resulting from metabolic demands outpacing physiological capacity causes distress and sudden death. The breeding direction prioritizing growth over health and welfare requires industry-level correction.