Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Gestation Crate Phase-Out Progress

The global movement away from gestation crates represents one of the most significant welfare improvements in modern animal agriculture.

Key Facts

Gestation crates confine pregnant sows so tightly they cannot turn around
The EU banned new crate installation in 2013 and required group housing for most of gestation
Major food companies have made global phase-out commitments driven by consumer pressure
Group housing systems require good management to prevent aggression and injuries
Electronic feeding stations can manage individual nutrition in group sow housing

Welfare Considerations

Gestation crate confinement causes profound frustration, muscle weakness, and psychological suffering in highly intelligent sows. The global phase-out movement demonstrates that large-scale welfare improvement is achievable when consumer pressure, corporate commitment, and regulation align.

What You Can Do

Choose pork products from certified gestation-crate-free producers
Support organizations campaigning for gestation crate bans in remaining markets
Ask retailers about their gestation crate-free commitments and timelines