Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Finishing Stocking Density: Space and Welfare Outcomes

Stocking density in pig finishing units directly affects welfare outcomes including aggression, lameness, and positive behaviours.

Key Facts

EU law requires minimum 0.65 m2 per pig between 50-85kg, but welfare evidence suggests more is needed
Higher space allowance reduces aggression, tail biting, and lameness in finishing pigs
Pigs with more space show more play behaviour, a positive welfare indicator
Commercial pressure toward maximum legal density compromises welfare at the threshold

Welfare Considerations

Pigs at minimum legal density experience higher rates of welfare compromise than those at higher space allowances. The legal minimum reflects commercial compromise rather than welfare science. Consumer-led higher welfare standards drive improvements beyond legislative minimums.

What You Can Do

Choose pork from higher welfare certified systems with more generous space allowances
Support campaigns for increased minimum space requirements in pig welfare legislation
Advocate for welfare outcome monitoring that flags density-related welfare problems