Welfare Science

Animal Welfare in the Food System

Animal welfare is deeply embedded in food system design, with production choices at every level of the supply chain determining welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Over 80% of the UK's animal welfare problems are in the food system, mostly on farms
Consumer choices, retailer sourcing policies, and government standards all shape welfare outcomes
Food system transformation toward sustainable diets could substantially reduce farm animal numbers
Trade policy determines whether welfare improvements at home are undermined by imports
Technology including precision fermentation and cultivated meat could transform the welfare equation

Welfare Considerations

Improving animal welfare requires systemic food system change, not just individual consumer choices. Policy, industry, and consumer action together can create a food system that dramatically reduces animal suffering.

What You Can Do

Make informed purchasing choices that support higher welfare production
Engage with food system policy through consultation responses and political advocacy
Support organisations working on food system transformation including welfare dimensions
Reduce overall animal product consumption, especially from intensive systems
Advocate for trade policies that prevent welfare dumping from lower-standard imports