Pigs have complex behavioral needs including rooting, exploration, and social interaction that must be met to achieve adequate welfare in any production system.
Pig behavioral needs are poorly met by the barren concrete environments typical of intensive production. Rooting and exploration are not optional extras — they are fundamental behavioral drives whose frustration causes measurable psychological distress. The most effective enrichments provide manipulable, edible, or malleable materials like straw that satisfy rooting drives. Enrichment must be renewed regularly to maintain interest.