Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Meat Consumption Reduction

Reducing total meat consumption is one of the highest-impact individual actions for pig welfare given the scale of suffering in industrial production.

Key Facts

Global pork consumption has grown substantially alongside population and income growth
Each 10% reduction in pork consumption would spare millions of pigs from industrial conditions
Flexitarian approaches - reducing rather than eliminating meat - are more achievable for most consumers
Reducing consumption while shifting to higher welfare products has combined welfare and environmental benefits
Plant-based protein alternatives are improving rapidly in availability and quality

Welfare Considerations

Meat consumption reduction is a legitimate and impactful welfare strategy that does not require complete dietary change to be meaningful. Gradual reduction combined with higher welfare choices when consuming meat delivers both welfare and environmental benefits.

What You Can Do

Reduce pork consumption by replacing some meals with plant-based alternatives
When consuming pork, prioritize welfare-certified products
Share information about the welfare case for meat reduction with your social network