Pig Welfare and Alternative Protein Future

The growth of plant-based and cultivated meat alternatives is beginning to affect pig production volumes, with implications for pig welfare at scale.

Key Facts

Global plant-based meat sales are growing at 5-10% annually in developed markets
Cultivated pork products are in development with commercial launch expected within 5 years
If cultivated meat achieves cost parity by 2030, pig production volumes could decline significantly
Welfare improvements per pig produced are needed now regardless of future production volume trajectory
Higher-welfare production at lower volume would be significantly better than lower-welfare production at higher volume

Welfare Considerations

Alternative proteins represent a potential long-term welfare opportunity if they reduce pig production volumes. In the short term, welfare improvement within current systems remains the priority.

What You Can Do

Support alternative protein companies developing welfare-positive food system transformation
Engage with debates about the pace and trajectory of protein transition
Advocate for welfare improvements now that reduce suffering regardless of future production scale