Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Network Effects

Network effects in the food system mean that welfare improvements by one actor can catalyze change across supply chains and competitors.

Key Facts

McDonald's welfare commitments in 2012 triggered industry-wide gestation stall phase-outs in the US
Corporate pledges create competitive pressure as other companies respond to reputational risk
Retailer welfare standards set floors that all suppliers must meet, creating sector-wide uplift
Civil society campaigning creates the reputational environment that drives corporate action
Network effects mean that tipping points can occur rapidly once a critical mass commits

Welfare Considerations

Welfare improvements in the food system are not linear - network effects mean that strategic corporate or policy wins can cascade rapidly across entire supply chains. Understanding where the highest-leverage intervention points are is essential for effective advocacy.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns targeting major food companies with high leverage on supply chains
Engage food companies publicly on their welfare commitments and timelines
Celebrate welfare wins to reinforce the norm that major companies are expected to improve