Welfare Science

Veal Production Welfare Reform

Veal calf welfare has improved dramatically following campaigns against veal crates, with UK ban since 1990 and EU ban from 2007, though welfare concerns remain in calf housing and transport.

Key Facts

White veal from calves fed iron-deficient diet was banned in EU from 2007
UK banned individual veal crates in 1990, over a decade ahead of EU
Rose veal produced from calves raised in group housing with appropriate diet has better welfare
Male dairy calves were routinely killed at birth as they could not produce milk
Schemes using male dairy calves for rose veal production now provide a welfare alternative

Welfare Considerations

Veal welfare reform demonstrates that consumer campaigns and regulatory action can successfully eliminate specific welfare practices. The shift to rose veal production provides better welfare for male dairy calves while creating economic value. Consumer choice for rose veal over white veal reinforces better welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose British rose veal over white veal to support better welfare
Advocate for veal welfare standards when purchasing European veal products
Support schemes that utilise male dairy calves through welfare-conscious production