The phase-out of gestation crates for pregnant sows represents one of the most significant pig welfare policy reforms globally, with implementation challenges including housing alternatives and management requirements.
Gestation crates prevent sows from turning around, performing normal locomotion, or engaging in social behavior for months at a time. The resulting welfare compromise is severe with documented effects including stereotypic behavior, muscle atrophy, and cardiovascular deconditioning from immobility. Group housing restores fundamental freedoms of movement and social interaction. The EU transition demonstrated that group housing is commercially viable with appropriate management. Consumer and legislative pressure in major markets is expanding the geographic reach of crate elimination requirements. The remaining use of gestation crates in countries without regulatory requirements represents an ongoing major welfare failure that requires continued pressure.