Farm Animals

Pig Electrical Stunning at Slaughter

Electrical stunning is widely used in pig slaughter to induce unconsciousness before killing. Ensuring effective stunning is a critical welfare requirement.

Key Facts

Head-only electrical stunning induces temporary unconsciousness and must be followed immediately by killing
Cardiac arrest stunning using two-electrode systems produces insensibility and cardiac death
Stun-to-stick intervals must be minimised to prevent recovery of consciousness
Water bath systems require precise electrical parameters across pigs of different sizes
High throughput line speeds increase stunning failure risks

Welfare Considerations

Ineffective stunning allows pigs to regain consciousness before or during slaughter, causing extreme suffering. Regular verification of stunning effectiveness, maintenance of equipment, and appropriate line speed are essential welfare requirements. Cardiac arrest stunning and properly applied two-electrode stunning are preferable as they prevent recovery of consciousness.

What You Can Do

Support slaughterhouse welfare standards including stunning verification requirements
Advocate for mandatory CCTV in all slaughterhouses with independent monitoring
Choose pork from farms and processors with transparent slaughter welfare data