Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare at Slaughter - Stunning Efficacy

Effective stunning before slaughter is the most critical welfare intervention in pig production, yet failures remain common in some facilities.

Key Facts

CO2 stunning causes aversion and distress before unconsciousness in pigs
Electrical stunning can fail to achieve unconsciousness if parameters are incorrect
Welfare monitoring at slaughter through CCTV and welfare officers improves outcomes
Post-stunning time before bleeding must be minimized to prevent recovery of consciousness
European Food Safety Authority has reviewed and updated stunning efficacy standards

Welfare Considerations

The moment of slaughter is the final welfare event in a pig's life. Effective, reliable stunning that prevents consciousness during killing is a non-negotiable welfare requirement - and one that requires continuous monitoring rather than assumption of compliance.

What You Can Do

Support abattoirs with demonstrated stunning efficacy monitoring programs
Advocate for mandatory CCTV in all pig abattoirs with welfare officer oversight
Choose pork from supply chains with transparent slaughter welfare auditing