Farm Animals

Pig Farrowing Crate Phase-Out Welfare Transition

The transition away from farrowing crates requires careful planning to maintain both sow freedom and piglet survival during the phase-out process.

Key Facts

UK government committed to phasing out farrowing crates by 2032
Alternative farrowing systems have demonstrated equivalent piglet mortality in some studies
Stockperson skill and training are critical for successful welfare in loose farrowing systems
Transition requires capital investment in new housing and training programmes
Consumer and retail support for higher welfare pork is essential for economic viability

Welfare Considerations

The farrowing crate phase-out is a significant welfare advance for sows denied natural movement during one of the most demanding phases of their lives. Success requires investment in both infrastructure and stockperson training. The welfare transition needs support from supply chains willing to pay for higher welfare pork to make investment viable.

What You Can Do

Choose pork certified as produced without farrowing crates
Support retailers committing to farrowing crate-free supply chains by 2032
Advocate for government support for farms transitioning to alternative farrowing systems