Farm Animals

Pig Welfare and 2026 Annual Progress

A look back at pig welfare advances in 2026, celebrating measurable progress while identifying ongoing challenges.

Key Facts

Tail docking rates declined in several EU countries thanks to enrichment mandates
CO2 stunning alternatives reached commercial scale in three European markets
Group housing adoption for gestating sows exceeded 85% in the Netherlands
Welfare certification schemes expanded to cover 12% more farms globally
Consumer demand for higher-welfare pork rose 9% in key markets

Welfare Considerations

2026 brought genuine advances for pigs: better pain management, more enrichment, reduced docking. Progress is uneven but the trajectory is positive.

What You Can Do

Support higher-welfare pork certification labels
Advocate for continued enrichment mandates
Share welfare success stories with your network