Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Rooting Behaviour and Substrate Availability

Pigs are highly motivated to root and forage, and substrate deprivation is a major welfare problem in intensive systems.

Key Facts

Rooting is a species-typical behaviour pigs are highly motivated to perform
Substrate deprivation is linked to redirected behaviours like tail biting
Straw, peat, compost and soil are all effective rooting materials
EU law requires manipulable material but enforcement varies widely
Rooting satisfaction reduces aggression and stress indicators in herds

Welfare Considerations

Denying pigs rooting substrate causes significant frustration and negative welfare states. Provision of appropriate materials is one of the most cost-effective welfare improvements available to producers.

What You Can Do

Support certification schemes requiring genuine substrate provision
Choose pork products from farms using straw-based or outdoor systems
Advocate for stronger enforcement of manipulable material requirements