Outdoor pig production systems offer significant welfare advantages over indoor intensive units, but also present specific challenges around weather, disease, and management that must be addressed.
Outdoor pig production represents a meaningful welfare improvement for breeding sows compared to confinement systems, allowing expression of natural behaviours fundamental to pig wellbeing. However, outdoor systems are not welfare-perfect - heat stress in summer, inadequate shelter provision, and poor management can create significant welfare problems. Regular welfare monitoring, adequate ark provision, wallow access in summer, and good stockpersonship are essential. Consumers choosing RSPCA Assured or equivalent certified outdoor pork support systems that meet defined welfare standards.