Welfare Science

Pig Welfare: Summary of Evidence and Future Priorities

A comprehensive overview of pig welfare science achievements and remaining research priorities.

Key Facts

Pig welfare science has matured substantially, with validated tools for pain, fear, and positive welfare assessment
Key welfare issues including tail biting, aggression, and gestation crate stress are well-characterised
Implementation of evidence-based welfare standards lags substantially behind the science in most countries
Priority research gaps include positive welfare indicators and effective large-scale behaviour monitoring

Welfare Considerations

Pig welfare science has produced a robust evidence base for intervention, but science alone does not improve welfare - implementation does. The priority for the next decade is closing the gap between what the science recommends and what is standard practice in commercial systems worldwide.

What You Can Do

Support welfare organisations that translate scientific evidence into practical farm guidance
Advocate for science-based minimum welfare standards to be enshrined in national legislation
Contribute to evidence-based giving that funds the most impactful pig welfare interventions