Mink farming has been banned across much of Europe due to welfare and biosecurity concerns, but significant production continues globally under varying welfare standards.
Mink are highly active, semi-aquatic predators with large natural home ranges. Battery cage farming - the standard globally - prevents almost all natural behaviors including swimming, hunting, and exploration. The resulting stereotypic pacing behaviors indicate severe suffering. While European bans represent major welfare progress, global production has shifted to countries with weaker standards. Consumer choices and international policy advocacy remain important.