Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Pen Density and Welfare Research

Stocking density research in pigs has established clear welfare thresholds above which welfare deteriorates significantly.

Key Facts

EU minimum space allowances for pigs are widely regarded as insufficient for good welfare
Research shows welfare outcome improvements with space increases above legal minimum
Space allowances affect aggression, injury, lying opportunity and access to resources
AHDB space allowance guidance goes beyond legal minimums based on welfare evidence
Economic pressure consistently drives producers toward minimum legal space allowances

Welfare Considerations

Stocking density regulation sets floors below which welfare is clearly unacceptable, but welfare science shows that legal minimums are insufficient for good welfare outcomes. Above-minimum space provision is a cost-effective welfare improvement with evidence-based returns.

What You Can Do

Support welfare certification schemes requiring above-minimum space allowances for pigs
Advocate for upward revision of legal minimum space allowances based on welfare evidence
Choose pork from certified systems with documented space allowances above legal minimums