Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Innovative CO2 Stunner Design: Welfare Engineering

Engineering advances in CO2 stunning systems aim to reduce the aversive period before unconsciousness in pigs.

Key Facts

Rapid-rise CO2 systems expose pigs to high concentrations faster than conventional gondola systems
High-CO2 (90%+) concentration with rapid rise reduces aversive phase duration
Closed-eye detection systems verify unconsciousness before the slaughter line proceeds
New systems designed with animal behaviour research show reduced escape attempts versus conventional systems

Welfare Considerations

Engineering that reduces the duration of aversive experience before unconsciousness directly reduces welfare harm in pig slaughter. Rapid-rise systems that achieve high CO2 concentration quickly represent an improvement over conventional systems while alternatives are developed. Progressive welfare engineering is achievable within current stunning technology.

What You Can Do

Support organisations campaigning for pig stunning welfare improvement including system upgrades
Advocate for welfare engineering requirements in new slaughter plant design approvals
Choose pork from processors investing in improved stunning system design