Donkey Meat Production: Hidden Welfare Concerns in a Global Trade

Donkey meat is consumed across parts of Africa, Asia, and South America, but rapid increases in demand - particularly for ejiao (donkey hide gelatin) - are driving serious welfare and conservation crises.

Key Facts

China is the world's largest consumer of ejiao, a traditional medicine product made from donkey hides
Global demand for ejiao has caused donkey populations to crash in supplying countries, often sourced unethically
Donkeys slaughtered for hides are often transported long distances under poor conditions with inadequate water and food
The global donkey population has declined from around 44 million in 1995 to under 40 million due to slaughter demand
Many donkeys enter the supply chain through theft and illegal trade, causing suffering to working animal owners
Working donkeys slaughtered commercially are often ill or injured, with welfare issues going unaddressed
Slaughter facilities in some countries lack species-appropriate stunning methods for donkeys

Welfare Considerations

Donkeys used in the ejiao trade frequently suffer during transport and slaughter, with journeys lasting days without adequate rest, food, or water. Many animals arrive at slaughter in poor condition. Unlike cattle or pigs, donkeys are not covered by dedicated welfare legislation in most supplying countries. The rapid depletion of working donkey populations also harms the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers who depend on them.

What You Can Do

Avoid purchasing products containing ejiao or donkey hide gelatin
Support the Donkey Sanctuary's campaigns against the global donkey skin trade
Raise awareness about the welfare and livelihoods impacts of ejiao production
Write to brands selling ejiao products asking them to address supply chain welfare
Advocate for international trade regulations protecting donkeys from unethical slaughter