Welfare Science

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Scientific Progress 2026

A review of scientific progress in pig welfare research in 2026, celebrating advances and identifying remaining knowledge gaps.

Key Facts

2026 saw publication of the first validated automated pig pain assessment tool for commercial use
Pig positive welfare indicators were validated in a multi-country study spanning 10,000 pigs
Gut microbiome research revealed welfare connections between intestinal health and emotional state
Genetic variants associated with low stress susceptibility were identified for future breeding programs
Open access publication of welfare research increased by 40% in 2026 compared to 2025

Welfare Considerations

Scientific progress in pig welfare research provides the evidence base for advocacy and improvement. Celebrating and sharing this progress builds the case for welfare investment.

What You Can Do

Share pig welfare science progress with your advocacy networks
Support open access publication of welfare research
Engage with the science-advocacy translation pathway