Pig Gestation Crate Science Update

The scientific case against gestation crates for sows is overwhelming, with positive alternatives demonstrated at commercial scale.

Key Facts

Gestation crates confine sows individually for the 16-week gestation period, preventing all natural movement
Sows in crates cannot turn around, root, socialise or express any natural behaviour
Stereotypic behaviours including bar-biting affect the majority of crated sows
Group housing with feeding management is the main alternative with comparable or better productivity
Sweden banned gestation crates in 1994 - production has remained viable
The EU phased out gestation crates for most of pregnancy in 2013 but use is still widespread in some countries
California's Proposition 12 requires group housing for pigs sold in California regardless of production state

Welfare Considerations

The welfare case against gestation crates is among the strongest in farm animal science. The evidence for severe behavioural frustration and stress in crated sows is robust and consistent. Commercial alternatives exist and have been proven viable at scale for over 30 years in progressive producing countries. The challenge is converting scientific consensus into universal policy and practice. Consumer demand for group-housed pork provides economic incentive alongside regulatory pressure.

What You Can Do

Choose pork from producers who have eliminated gestation crates - look for group-housed welfare labels
Ask pork suppliers specifically about gestation crate use in their supply chains
Support retailers and food companies with explicit gestation crate elimination commitments
Advocate for regulatory requirements to phase out gestation crates in remaining markets