Farm Animal Welfare

Farmed Duck Welfare Progress Europe 2026

Farmed duck welfare legislation is evolving across Europe in 2026, with water access requirements emerging as the primary policy focus.

Key Facts

Over 300 million ducks are farmed in the EU annually, mostly in France and Hungary
France has the most detailed duck welfare legislation, covering water access and space
EU animal welfare legislation review in 2024-25 proposed enhanced water access requirements
Industry adoption of nipple drinker alternatives is accelerating under retailer pressure
Welfare certification for duck products is growing in the UK and German markets

Welfare Considerations

Farmed duck welfare has historically lagged behind chicken and pig welfare in both legislation and certification. The 2026 policy environment is shifting toward mandatory water access requirements - a significant welfare improvement for hundreds of millions of birds.

What You Can Do

Choose duck products certified under higher welfare standards where available
Support organisations advocating for stronger EU duck welfare legislation
Engage with supermarkets about their duck welfare commitments and supplier standards