Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Slaughter Reform

Reforming pig slaughter methods and oversight is one of the highest-impact welfare interventions available in the food system.

Key Facts

CO2 stunning at high concentrations causes aversion and distress lasting 30-45 seconds
Low oxygen systems and inert gas stunning are less aversive alternatives
Pre-slaughter handling including mixing and transport causes significant stress
Mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses with external monitoring improves handler accountability
Religious exemptions from pre-slaughter stunning affect millions of pigs annually

Welfare Considerations

Slaughter reform addresses the final and most acute welfare moment in a pig's life. Investment in less aversive stunning methods, improved pre-slaughter handling, and meaningful oversight transforms millions of pigs' final experience.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for CO2 stunning phase-out in favor of inert gas methods
Advocate for mandatory CCTV in all pig slaughterhouses with independent monitoring
Choose pork from supply chains with transparent, independently audited slaughter welfare standards