Research comparing different enrichment substrates for pigs consistently shows that materials meeting rooting and chewing needs provide far greater welfare benefits than simple hanging objects.
The gap between effective welfare enrichment for pigs and what is commonly provided in intensive systems is substantial. Research consistently demonstrates that straw and other substrate enrichments that satisfy rooting motivation are dramatically more effective than the chains and rubber rings that remain the most commonly provided enrichment. Yet substrate enrichment is less convenient in slatted floor systems. This represents a systemic welfare failure where regulatory compliance (any enrichment provided) diverges from effective welfare provision (enrichment that actually meets behavioral needs). Closing this gap requires both better regulations and industry willingness to invest in meaningful enrichment.