Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Welfare Through the Inspection System

Welfare inspection systems are the enforcement mechanism for welfare regulations, with 2026 bringing reforms to improve detection and response.

Key Facts

EU member states have varying rates of welfare inspection compliance and violation detection
Risk-based inspection targeting farms with previous violations improves system efficiency
Official veterinarians at abattoirs provide continuous welfare monitoring during slaughter
Third-party certification auditing complements statutory inspections with more frequent visits
Whistleblower protections for farmworkers reporting welfare violations were strengthened in 2026

Welfare Considerations

Welfare inspection is only as effective as the system enforcing it. Well-resourced, risk-based inspection with meaningful consequences drives compliance.

What You Can Do

Advocate for well-resourced welfare inspection systems
Support whistleblower protections for farmworkers
Engage with welfare enforcement transparency reports when published