Welfare Science

Pig Welfare International Standards Comparison

Comparing animal welfare standards internationally reveals significant variation and identifies leading practices that can inform global improvement.

Key Facts

EU welfare standards for pigs are generally higher than USA standards for key practices
Sweden and Finland have some of the highest pig welfare standards in the world
Emerging economies in Asia are developing national welfare frameworks influenced by global standards
International trade is beginning to include welfare standards as non-tariff measures
OECD countries have generally higher standards than non-OECD countries for most species

Welfare Considerations

International welfare comparison reveals that high welfare standards are achievable without destroying farming economies - countries with the highest welfare standards are also among the most competitive pig producers. This undermines the argument that welfare improvement destroys competitiveness.

What You Can Do

Support trade policies that include animal welfare standards
Advocate for global minimum welfare standards harmonization through international bodies
Learn about international welfare standard differences to inform sustainable food choices