Farm Animals

Pig Welfare at Slaughter Reform

Reform of pig slaughter welfare is achievable through technology investment and regulatory change, with nitrogen stunning offering a welfare improvement over CO2.

Key Facts

CO2 stunning at high concentrations causes gasping, panic and aversion before unconsciousness
Nitrogen/argon inert gas mixtures achieve unconsciousness without the aversive sensory experience
Several commercial facilities in Europe have demonstrated nitrogen stunning viability
Retrofitting CO2 systems to inert gas capability requires capital investment but is achievable
CCTV monitoring and improved auditing have increased welfare violation detection in slaughterhouses

Welfare Considerations

Pig slaughter welfare reform is technically and commercially achievable. Inert gas stunning and robust auditing are the highest-impact near-term improvements available to the industry.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns advocating for inert gas stunning replacement of CO2 in pig slaughterhouses
Advocate for mandatory independent audit of slaughterhouse welfare through CCTV and inspection
Choose pork from certified welfare chains that include slaughter welfare standards