Male pig castration is performed to prevent boar taint in pork, but the procedure causes significant pain and welfare organisations are pushing for humane alternatives or immunocastration.
Pig castration without pain management represents an unnecessary and avoidable welfare harm affecting millions of animals annually. The availability of effective alternatives - immunocastration, entire male production, and surgical castration with anaesthesia - means the continuation of unanesthetised castration reflects economic inertia rather than practical necessity. Consumer awareness and retailer sourcing policies are driving faster change than regulation in some markets.