Farm Animals

Pig Welfare and Welfare and Circadian Rhythms

Pig welfare is affected by circadian rhythms and light-dark cycles, with appropriate lighting management improving welfare in indoor systems.

Key Facts

Pigs have strong circadian rhythms influencing feeding, activity, and social behaviour
Continuous or insufficient lighting in indoor systems disrupts natural circadian patterns
Minimum 8-hour light periods are required by EU legislation for pig housing
Natural light access significantly improves pig welfare indicators compared to artificial light only
Automated dawn-dusk lighting cycles mimic natural photoperiod and support circadian welfare

Welfare Considerations

Circadian rhythm disruption causes chronic welfare compromise in indoor pig systems. Appropriate lighting management is a low-cost, high-impact welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Advocate for natural photoperiod lighting requirements in pig welfare regulations
Support research on optimal lighting conditions for pig welfare
Choose pork from farms with documented lighting management protocols