Free-Farrowing Systems: Welfare Science for Sows and Piglets

Key Welfare Facts

Conventional farrowing crates prevent normal maternal behaviour causing significant sow welfare compromise.
Sows cannot turn around, root, nest-build or interact normally with piglets during the most critical welfare period.
Free-farrowing systems such as PigSAFE and Combi-scope allow movement while maintaining piglet protection.
Research shows comparable or better piglet mortality rates in well-designed loose farrowing systems.
Sow welfare is demonstrably superior in loose farrowing with increased positive welfare behaviours measured.
Several EU countries have committed to phase out farrowing crates, with Denmark and Germany leading implementation.

Welfare Assessment

Free-farrowing systems are both technically feasible and welfare-superior to conventional crates for sows. Supporting consumer-driven demand for crate-free pork and legislative campaigns for phase-out timelines accelerates adoption of this important welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Choose RSPCA Assured or higher welfare certified pork from free-farrowing systems
Support legislative campaigns for farrowing crate phase-out in the UK and across Europe
Advocate for research funding into optimal free-farrowing system design for different production contexts
Engage with retailers about their crate-free pork policies and timelines for adoption