Livestock

Farrowing Crate Reform: Science and Welfare

The science behind farrowing crate welfare debates and alternatives being developed globally.

Key Facts

Traditional farrowing crates severely restrict sow movement for 3-5 weeks
Sows show strong motivation to nest-build before farrowing
Free-farrowing systems allow more natural behaviour but need careful management
Several EU countries have committed to farrowing crate phase-outs

Welfare Considerations

Farrowing crates prevent sow crushing of piglets but at a significant welfare cost to the sow. Modern free-farrowing systems are being refined to protect both sow welfare and piglet survival. The transition requires investment, training, and careful design — but the science supports moving away from total confinement.

What You Can Do

Support producers transitioning to improved farrowing systems
Choose welfare-labelled pork from farms with higher standards
Advocate for legislative timelines on confinement reform