Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Consumer Demand 2026

Consumer demand for higher-welfare pork is a powerful driver of industry change, with 2026 showing continued growth in welfare-conscious purchasing.

Key Facts

UK higher-welfare pork sales grew 12% in 2026, outperforming standard pork
Consumer willingness to pay premium for welfare certification averages 18% in UK surveys
Younger consumers show significantly higher welfare orientation in food choices
Plant-based pork alternatives grew 25% in 2026, driven partly by welfare concerns
Supermarket own-label welfare products have driven mainstream access to higher-welfare pork

Welfare Considerations

Consumer demand is one of the most powerful forces for welfare improvement. Every purchase decision signals to retailers and producers what the market values.

What You Can Do

Choose welfare-certified pork at every opportunity
Encourage supermarkets to expand higher-welfare pork ranges
Share your welfare purchasing choices with friends and family to influence social norms