Red Tractor seeks views on enhanced welfare module for pigs

Red Tractor has launched a six-week consultation to gather views on proposed tiered welfare standards for UK pigmeat, following industry calls for a more flexible and simplified system.

The consultation, which launched on Monday (28 April) and will run until 6 June, aims to introduce a modular approach to pig welfare, helping to reduce audit costs, simplify consumer choices, and enhance transparency within the sector.

At the heart of the proposed changes is the introduction of two voluntary welfare tiers: Enhanced Welfare and Free Range.

See also: Red Tractor pledges major reform after farmer backlash

The Enhanced Welfare tier would cover pork from outdoor-bred or outdoor-reared pigs finished indoors, offering more space and better living conditions, while Free Range would be for pigs with continuous outdoor access.

Each tier would feature its own dedicated logo, similar to the successful tiered approach introduced for poultry in 2020.

Stewart Houston, chairman of Red Tractor Pigs, highlighted the benefits of the proposed the new tiered approach

“The Red Tractor Pigs Sector Board believes the proposed labelling system would provide a clearer, simpler way for our members to communicate and differentiate their welfare standards,” he said.

“It could also enhance consumers’ ability to make informed purchasing decisions.”

The consultation also proposes adjustments to existing standards, aimed at aligning Red Tractor certification with other assurance schemes, further simplifying the process for producers.

 The board hopes that these changes will remove the need for multiple, overlapping certification systems, reducing audit complexity and costs for producers.

One key aspect of the consultation is the exploration of a potential new “Certified Standards Plus” tier, focusing on flexible farrowing systems.

This would provide a voluntary, industry-led pathway to reducing sow confinement, which is a growing priority in the sector.

“This approach could demonstrate proactive welfare improvements and potentially reduce the need for heavy-handed legislation,” Mr Houston added.

Red Tractor says its consultation is grounded in consumer research, which shows strong understanding and recognition of tiered labelling.

A 2024 study involving more than 3,000 UK shoppers found that the proposed logos could help consumers navigate choices more confidently, reducing confusion caused by competing farm assurance claims.

Industry support necessary

However, the success of these proposals hinges on support from industry stakeholders, with the Pigs Sector Board committed to engaging with farmers, processors, retailers, and vets.

“We will only introduce these changes if there is majority support from the UK pig industry,” Mr Houston stressed.

“I encourage everyone to share their views and help shape the future of UK pig farming.”

The results of the consultation will guide the development of the new system, with the launch of the Enhanced Welfare and Free Range tiers expected towards the end of 2025, pending industry feedback.