Farm Animal Welfare

Pig CO2 Stunning Welfare Debate

The ongoing welfare debate about CO2 stunning for pigs at slaughter, including animal responses and alternatives.

Key Facts

CO2 stunning is the most common pig slaughter method in the EU
Research documents that pigs experience aversive excitement during CO2 exposure
High CO2 concentrations cause distress before unconsciousness
Alternative gases including argon and nitrogen cause faster, less aversive unconsciousness
Transition costs and industry inertia are barriers to CO2 stunning phase-out

Welfare Considerations

CO2 stunning for pigs is a welfare-significant practice that causes documented distress. Research using behavioural and physiological measures shows pigs experience an aversive period of excitement and struggling before losing consciousness. Alternative gases that cause faster, less aversive unconsciousness are available but not widely adopted. Phasing out CO2 stunning is one of the most impactful near-term welfare improvements available for pig slaughter.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for CO2 stunning phase-out in pig slaughter
Ask retailers about their pig slaughter method requirements for suppliers
Advocate for government investment in transition support to accelerate CO2 phase-out