Farm Animal Welfare

Farmed Pig CO2 Stunner Design 2026

New CO2 stunner designs in 2026 aim to reduce exposure time and aversion during induction - engineering solutions partially address the welfare problem.

Key Facts

Rapid entry into high CO2 concentration reduces total exposure time before unconsciousness
Argon-CO2 mixtures reduce the aversive effect compared to pure CO2
Automated gondola systems maintain consistent gas concentrations and reduce handling stress
Pre-stunning restraint stress contributes significantly to overall welfare at slaughter
The optimal engineering solution remains under active research and commercial development

Welfare Considerations

While CO2 replacement with fully aversion-free alternatives remains the ultimate welfare goal, engineering improvements to current CO2 stunners can partially reduce the welfare cost of the induction phase. Supporting both engineering improvement and alternative development serves immediate and long-term welfare.

What You Can Do

Support industry adoption of improved CO2 stunner designs as a transitional welfare improvement
Advocate for investment in CO2 alternative stunning research and commercial development
Engage with welfare organisations monitoring slaughter welfare technology progress