Farm Animal Welfare

Farmed Pig Open Air System Welfare Evidence

Open-air and outdoor pig systems offer documented welfare benefits but require specific management to fully realise their potential.

Key Facts

Outdoor pigs show lower fear responses and higher enrichment engagement than indoor counterparts
Rooting behaviour is freely expressed outdoors, fulfilling a highly motivated need
Social stability is easier to maintain in stable outdoor groups than indoor management
Parasite management requires careful attention - outdoor pigs face higher worm burdens
Mortality risk from temperature extremes requires adequate shelter provision

Welfare Considerations

Outdoor systems can deliver substantially better welfare than intensive indoor systems, but only when management provides adequate shelter, parasite control, and appropriate stocking. Evidence of welfare benefit is robust when these conditions are met.

What You Can Do

Choose outdoor-bred or free-range pork products certified under welfare assurance schemes
Support research into outdoor pig management best practice
Engage with producers about the management requirements for good outdoor pig welfare