The evidence base for moving beyond farrowing crates in commercial pig production
Approximately 90% of commercial sows worldwide give birth in farrowing crates — small metal enclosures that prevent the sow from turning around or expressing natural nesting behavior. The crate's purpose is to reduce piglet crushing (overlaying), but it causes severe welfare harm: inability to nest, social isolation, frustration, fear, and physical discomfort from prolonged confinement on concrete-slatted floors.
Multiple free farrowing systems have been developed and validated scientifically. Key systems include:
Research from the Edinburgh Pig Unit, Wageningen University, and multiple EU research programs demonstrates that well-designed free farrowing systems achieve comparable piglet survival to crate systems when management is skilled.
The UK, EU, and many other jurisdictions are debating or implementing bans on permanent farrowing crates. The EU's 2023 revision of animal welfare legislation proposes phasing out farrowing crates by 2030. Retailers including UK supermarkets have made free farrowing commitments covering their supply chains. Transition costs are estimated at £300-600 per sow space for retrofitting existing buildings.