Zero-grazing systems keep dairy cattle permanently housed, feeding them cut grass brought to the barn. This system removes welfare benefits of outdoor access while offering management advantages in some contexts.
Zero-grazing removes cows' ability to express grazing behaviour that is a central element of their natural repertoire. While well-managed zero-grazing housing can achieve good welfare outcomes on many indicators, the absence of outdoor access is a welfare cost that requires management justification and ongoing monitoring. Consumer preferences for outdoor access reflect a reasonable welfare intuition.