Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Welfare and Slaughter Transport

Welfare during the final transport journey to slaughter and pre-slaughter management of pigs.

Key Facts

Transport to slaughter is a high-risk period for pig welfare
Journey time should be minimised to reduce cumulative welfare cost
Lairage conditions at abattoirs affect pre-slaughter welfare significantly
Electrical stunning renders pigs unconscious before slaughter when done correctly
CO2 stunning causes aversion response before unconsciousness and raises welfare concerns

Welfare Considerations

The journey to slaughter and slaughter itself are critical welfare moments that require specific standards and monitoring to prevent unnecessary suffering at the end of pig lives.

What You Can Do

Advocate for short transport journey requirements in pig welfare legislation
Support CCTV requirements in slaughterhouses for welfare monitoring
Choose pork from supply chains with verified slaughter welfare standards