Research into alternatives to farrowing crates is advancing, with several systems demonstrating that sow welfare can be improved without unacceptable increases in piglet mortality.
Farrowing crates cause serious welfare harm to sows through prolonged confinement preventing natural movement, postural change, and maternal behaviour expression. The welfare case for phasing them out is strong. The welfare risk is that alternatives are not adequately managed, leading to increased piglet mortality. Research is demonstrating this is solvable, and the transition should be supported with proper training and management.