Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Farrowing Systems and Sow Welfare

The move from farrowing crates to alternative farrowing systems is underway in Europe, with significant implications for both sow welfare and piglet survival outcomes.

Key Facts

Conventional farrowing crates confine sows for 4-6 weeks during and after birth
Crate confinement prevents all natural nesting and maternal behaviors
EU is targeting 2030 for phase-out of farrowing crates in new legislation
Alternative systems have higher piglet crush mortality in early designs
Well-designed free farrowing pens can match crate piglet survival rates

Welfare Considerations

Sows in farrowing crates cannot turn around, build nests, or engage in normal maternal behavior — causing acute frustration and distress at the most motivationally intense period of their reproductive cycle. The nesting drive in late gestation is among the strongest behavioral motivations measured in farm animals. Free farrowing systems that are well-designed can meet both sow welfare and piglet survival requirements.

What You Can Do

Choose pork labeled as free-farrowing or from producers committing to crate-free systems
Support the European Farrowing Crate phase-out timeline
Ask retailers about their commitment to free farrowing supply chains
Engage with welfare organizations campaigning on farrowing crate reform
Support research into optimal free farrowing pen design and management